From the Ground Up: Our Story

Katie Thompson
Last Updated: April 6, 2023

Even as a young kid, I had an aptitude for solving complex math problems at school. In my spare time I played hundreds of games of Monopoly with my bestie because it involved my three favorite things; math; commercial real estate; and development. Of course, I did not realize it at the time.

That passion for commercial development stayed with me right through university and followed me throughout my career. I somehow found my way in mining engineering – the “close cousin” of civil engineering.

After a couple of years staying in extremely rustic “five star” motels in the middle of nowhere selling mining products, I decided that I needed to return to my roots.  I got my Professional Engineering designation in civil engineering working with a small, privately owned Edmonton roadworks contractor and a construction engineering company (who I still partner with today).  I was feeling unfulfilled and wanted to create something of my own.

That is when Bolson Engineering and Environmental Services was born.  Walking a fine line between being an employee and self-employment is complicated. To start things off simple and small, Bolson offered only Phase One Environmental Site Assessments since they could be done nights and weekends while I continued to work in the corporate world.

After months of research, networking and planning, I branched out and cemented relationships with the local construction industry, small towns and villages and the commercial real estate industry across Alberta.  Our company model is based on the civil engineer is the main contact for all projects.  We close the gap for smaller to mid-size projects where clients would prefer to speak directly to civil engineer.  Going through the chain of command at larger engineering firms is time consuming and often accountability gets lost in big corporations-a major disconnect for clients.   We simplify our processes for clients by having one main project contact with considerable technical and real-world experience.  The flow of information for all projects then cascades to technical support from one point of contact, the civil engineer.

Bolson expanded the team to include two rock star civil designers and a jack of all trades business development officer.  We expanded our services menu but still remain the top dog in our little civil engineering niche.  To get the word out about our company, we held a launch event at the Edmonton construction trade show, sponsored annual golf events and have spent considerable time growing our online presence.

Rest assured you are in the right hands.  We are passionate about development. We would love to discuss your vision.

Trent Thompson, P. Eng., Owner, and Founder

About the author

With more than 12 years in human resources, Katie brings important process management skills to the table. Her direct experience with senior management in the construction industry helps her understand your engineering project goals. Her creative forward-thinking propels Bolson toward exciting new business opportunities.

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