PCL Construction has recruited a retired Canadian rear admiral to help the company capitalize on a large increase in federal defence spending in coming years.

Steven Waddell was appointed as the Edmonton-based company’s deputy national director of defence and federal government relations. Based in Ottawa, he has already assumed his new duties.

“Steven’s deep understanding of federal infrastructure planning and procurement, combined with his leadership experience, will be invaluable as we pursue opportunities that support Canada’s defence priorities,” said Paul Knowles, senior vice-president and district manager for PCL Ottawa.

Waddell served for more than 35 years in the Canadian Armed Forces. He brings exceptional operational and strategic expertise to the company, said PCL. His military roles included commanding Canada’s West Coast naval base and serving as deputy commander of the Royal Canadian Navy.

Waddell has also led global deployments in counter-terrorism, piracy disruption, and continental defence missions. He holds advanced degrees in strategic studies and national security.

Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government has pledged to spend billions more on defence-related projects in coming years as the country seeks to meet NATO requirements and respond to complaints from U.S. President Donald Trump that Canada has not spent enough compared to its southern neighbour.

Ottawa has pledged to contract with more Canadian manufacturers and suppliers instead of relying heavily on the U.S., as it has in the past.

Pictured: Steven Waddell

Photo: CNW Group/Newsbase