Mathieu Pelletier, Operations Manager at LCL Excavation

Basic Introduction: Mathieu Pelletier

What is your name and job title at LCL Excavation? 

My name is Mathieu Pelletier, and I am the Operations Manager at LCL Excavation.

How long have you been with LCL? 

I’ve been with LCL since 2015, working two summers as a student doing labor work. I started my full-time employment in 2017, and I am now heading into my 10th year with the company.

What does your role involve on a daily basis?  

My role is to oversee LCL’s operations. My day-to-day work involves reviewing and finalizing pricing for tender submissions, planning and organizing our multiple construction crews (water and sewer, concrete, and asphalt crews), providing support to all our construction teams and divisions, forecasting and scheduling our current and upcoming projects, maintaining relationships with our diverse suppliers, subcontractors, and clients. I am also involved in the recruitment and hiring of employees.

Work Experience & Insights

What do you enjoy most about working at LCL Excavation?  

The trust and respect I have from all my teams, as well as the ability to make decisions and bring value to the organization. Seeing everyone’s contributions lead to great results, coupled with a company culture of openness and hardworking, drama-free individuals, makes every day enjoyable. Being a key contributor to LCL’s growth and providing great opportunities to motivated individuals is incredibly satisfying.

What is the most challenging part of your job?  

The most challenging aspect is being able to adapt and react to multiple situations simultaneously. Balancing important tasks with the time-sensitive, essential demands of the business can be quite a challenge.

What has been your most memorable project or experience at LCL?  

My most memorable experience was the 2022 construction season. That year, we added two pipe crews (by acquiring a Moncton-based contractor) and started a concrete curb and sidewalk division. The addition of these crews, while already having LCL’s established pipe crews, made for a challenging but incredibly fun season. It will remain one of the most memorable seasons of my career.

How has your role evolved since you started?  

I started off doing labor work for two summers in 2015 and 2016. In 2017, fresh out of university, I was hired as a supervisor for one of our larger projects at that time. Once the construction season ended, I transitioned into estimating construction projects and managing them. Over the years, I took on more projects simultaneously, gradually handling all of LCL’s estimating, project management, scheduling, and resource allocation. Since 2020, with the changes in the company, internal growth, acquisitions, and new divisions, my role has grown significantly, and I now oversee a much larger operation. I’ve been part of the Senior Leadership Team since 2020 and am currently responsible for the operational side of the business.

Personal Touch

What inspired you to get into this industry? 

I’ve always had a passion for working outside, working hard, and being part of a team that builds things. I’ve always enjoyed carpentry-type work, like building garages, cottages, and renovations. When I started at LCL, it became clear to me that contributing to communities by building underground infrastructure, new streets, and upgrading old infrastructure gave me purpose. Being part of a team, working alongside great people, both internal and external, and leaders solidified why I wanted to join the industry as an employee at LCL.

What’s one fun fact people might not know about you? 

I’ve always been very involved in sports. I was part of multiple sports teams (hockey, soccer, volleyball), and I also played football, tennis, badminton, and other sports with my buddies. I wasn’t always the best at sports, but I’ve always enjoyed being a leader and part of a team. My passion for winning and not giving up has always driven me.

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of work?  

Sports and quality family time remain my top interests outside of work.

Team & Culture

What’s the best part of working with your team?  

We truly value being a team. Everyone shares their opinions and ideas, and we make decisions based on what’s best for the organization, not just because someone believes it’s the best.

How would you describe the work culture at LCL?  

We have open and honest communication. Everyone is heard and respected, and we maintain a drama-free environment. Everyone is treated equally, and skill doesn’t influence decision-making when it comes to adhering to the company’s values.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in municipal infrastructure projects?  

There is a wide range of opportunities in this industry for those who are truly passionate about pursuing a career. Regardless of the position you aim for, being part of the team and gaining hands-on experience is invaluable. For those looking to move into office roles, field experience will significantly benefit and accelerate your career. For those aspiring to be operators, foremen, or supervisors, having hands-on experience first, such as doing hand-digging or connections, will help you understand the value you bring to the team and make everyone work smarter and more efficiently. This industry offers opportunities for everyone, whether it’s transitioning into other roles or becoming the best version of yourself in the same role. Working on improving skills, work ethic, and team contribution will lead to a successful career with great work/life balance, compensation, and job satisfaction.

Favorite machine or equipment?  

CAT 335 Excavator

Coffee or energy drink?  

Coffee

One word to describe LCL Excavation?

Engaging