As a global leader in the engineering and design space, Arcadis operates to deliver some of the most transformative projects with businesses, cities and industries. With 36,000 people active in more than 30 countries, key to their strategy is the development and facilitation of Indigenous partnerships to spur economic growth and foster collaborative solutions.
As a Sustaining Partner, Business Unit Director – Canada East & India, Architecture & Urbanism, Country Director, Arcadis Canada, Scott Arbuckle shares a few insights into the current landscape of Indigenous partnerships in the AEC industry and what opportunities it may hold.
Question: From your perspective, how are Indigenous nations able to help organizations like yours strategize to meet the demands of a shifting market?
At Arcadis, as a full-service design and engineering consultancy, we see ourselves as a global transformation partner that delivers intelligent products and solutions to address the challenges of infrastructure renewal, climate adaptation, energy affordability and livability for businesses, cities and industries. Our vision of a planet positive future is one realized through sustainable design and decarbonization. On many of our projects and when in a direct-client relationship, Indigenous Nations, Organizations, and Partners are helping us to strategize the full spectrum of opportunities that become available when we move forward in the spirit of genuine collaboration and Indigenous-led solutions that safeguard land, people and the environment. A shifting market is weathered by the strength of our collective advantage, and Arcadis values its relationships with Indigenous Partners both inside and outside the organization.
Question: Given the current landscape in the AEC industry, how are the conversations/engagements evolving with respect to Indigenous partnerships in both the short and long term?
Indigenous partnerships are transforming the AEC sector in Canada, driving economic growth and fostering collaborative opportunities that benefit both Indigenous Communities and Construction Stakeholders. This year brings important developments within Arcadis, both short and long term for our Indigenous partnerships within Canada and the U.S.
Within Arcadis, we have new hires specifically focusing on our Indigenous Partnerships.
Our Primary objectives include building long-term relationships with Indigenous partners and taking a rights-based approach that focuses on a Limited Partnership Model. These mutually beneficial partnerships can bridge an incredible gap in the Indigenous economy, and it’s a model that we’ve seen working in real time. Together, we can build long-term, meaningful relationships with Indigenous Communities, but they require commitment, cultural understanding, and mutual respect. By aligning business practices with Indigenous values, supporting capacity-building, and removing barriers to participation, Arcadis is excited to contribute to economic reconciliation and foster shared prosperity for all in the long-run.
Question: What are you most looking forward to at the 8th Annual FNMPC Conference?
We look forward to spending time with like-minded colleagues who understand the benefits of Indigenous-led solutions and the value they bring to companies like Arcadis. We are dedicated to making an impact in our sustaining partnership with the FNMPC; by facilitating conversations between First Nations, industry partners and government, they’ve created a mechanism that fosters collaboration, ensures alignment between Indigenous and industry partners to deliver economic benefit for Indigenous Peoples, and all Canadians. Arcadis is a proud supporter and envisions a collective advantage found in a planet positive future for all. At Arcadis, we are resolute in our determination to lead with our Indigenous and First Nations partners in advancing a new era of collaboration and partnerships. We believe we are on the cusp of something great and are excited for the future.
Register now and join Arcadis at #FNMPC2025.