NAC to expand hangar.

On Sept. 14, representatives from several Northern Ontario First Nation Communities broke ground, signalling a start to construction of North American Charters' new three-storey complex at the Thunder Bay International Airport.

The successful bidder for the $3.7-million contract is Dominion Construction of Thunder Bay.

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To be built in three phases, the project will take up 28,663 square feet when completed. It will be home to NAC's head office and maintenance operations, 15,000 square feet of hangar floor space, and 10,000 square feet of operational and administrative offices.

The Nishnawbe-Aski Police Services (NAPS) plans to use the third floor for its head office.

"We are pleased that NAPS will be a part of this project," says Chief Charlie O'Keese, NAC board chair. "Their involvement benefits both parties, and serves as a role model - when First Nations organizations work together, great things can be accomplished."

At present, NAC partners with NAPS, providing air transportation for police services in 37 First Nations communities throughout Northern Ontario.

According to Roland Frayne, NAC board member, Thunder Bay came very close to losing this facility.

"The lease on our present hangar, located at the Thunder Bay Airport, expires Oct. 1 and NAC's requests for an extension were refused," says Frayne. "We could not locate another hangar at this airport, so it is necessary to re-locate our main maintenance function to Sioux Lookout while the new facility is built. Our staff will make it all work without impacting on our delivery system or safety."

Recently, the Ontario government has offered guaranteed loans to NAC to help move the project forward.

"We appreciate the province's assistance, and will be moving quickly to finalize the details," says O'Keese.

Incorporated on Sept. 18, 2000 NAC is a First Nation venture, owned jointly by the communities of Eabametoong (Fort Hope), Neskantaga (Lansdowne House), Webequie, Sachigo Lake, and Sandy Lake.

Beginning with two aircraft serving four communities, NAC has grown steadily, now operating seven aircraft connecting 15 First Nations communities to Sioux Lookout, Winnipeg and Thunder Bay.

"Our continued growth stems from the strong commitment of the First Nations communities we serve, the dedication of our staff, and the many customer service improvements NAC has made, as well as our commitment to low airfares," says Titus Tait, NAC board representative from Sachigo Lake.

"Our building will bring new employment opportunities to Thunder Bay, Northern Ontario and our First Nations communities," says Scott Jacob, board member from Webequie First Nation.

Forty new positions are planned over the next two years. Besides construction employment, many opportunities for suppliers and services will be generated within the region.

It's nice to see the money stay in the North," Jacob adds.

By allowing NAC to consolidate its workforce, the new building will give improved service to its customers and hopefully lead to other opportunities and the expansion of its network, as its service is in high demand.

"In the future, we will go to many other places, with new initiatives - partnering with Dominion Construction, and working closely with Confederation College and its aviation programs," says Tom Meilleur, NAC CEO and director of operations.

"This facility is being built with NAC's future in mind," adds Jonas Fiddler.

"Our people want NAC to do more, and they can now move in the direction our people want. In all my years working for my people. It has always been my dream to be part of establishing something that will benefit future generations."

www.nac2000.on.ca

By LORNA OLSON

For Northern Ontario Business