Pomerleau and Factry Join Forces to Launch the Pomerleau aXLab: A New Era in Construction Innovation

Introduction

The construction industry is on the brink of a significant transformation, fueled by technological advancements and changing societal needs. Recognizing the urgency for creativity and innovation in this evolving landscape, Pomerleau, a prominent player in the Canadian construction sector, has partnered with Factry, Canada’s pioneering training center for creative skills. Together, they are launching the Pomerleau aXLab, an innovative lab aimed at integrating technology into construction practices.

The Vision Behind the Project

Ian Kirouac, Executive Vice-President of Canadian Building Operations and Corporate Transformation at Pomerleau, articulates the project’s vision: "With this project, we want to develop new skills to usher the construction industry into the future." He emphasizes that creativity is pivotal for solving complex challenges in construction, making the partnership with Factry perfectly aligned with this goal.

Pomerleau and Factry describe the aXLab as a “one-of-a-kind lab” that will “generate concrete change in an evolving world to build tomorrow’s living environments.” This ambitious initiative underscores both organizations’ commitment to nurturing innovation and resilience in the construction sector.

Embracing Technological Revolution

As the construction industry embraces groundbreaking technological changes, Pomerleau is spearheading an initiative to lead this transformation. The company aims to accelerate the development of new technologies, equipment, and processes that can be deployed effectively across construction sites in Canada.

In a statement, Pomerleau noted, "The construction industry is undergoing a revolution driven by technological breakthroughs," highlighting the need for innovative buildings and agile infrastructures that cater to community needs, especially as Canada embarks on a path to economic recovery.

Harnessing Local Innovation

Factry’s CEO and co-founder, Marie Amiot, remarked on the potential of local businesses. "Local businesses are already brimming with solid ideas for collaborations, and having a high-tech lab at a school of creativity is a significant asset," she stated. This collaboration aims to enhance the synergy between people and technology, creating an environment where both can thrive.

Both partners recognize that true societal change is possible only when human creativity complements technological advancements. The aXLab promises to bring the best of both worlds together, fostering a rich creative ecosystem.

A Commitment to Urban Spaces

Amid the challenges posed by the pandemic, Pomerleau and Factry demonstrate their belief in revitalizing urban environments. Located in the heart of the Quartier de l’innovation, a bustling district in Montreal, the aXLab will serve as a hub for developing cutting-edge technologies. These include robotics, off-site construction methods, the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, and digital twins, all aimed at streamlining construction processes.

Exploring Efficacy Through Custom Laboratories

Eric Lessard, Vice-President of Innovation and Technology and Chief Digital Officer at Pomerleau, emphasizes the importance of the lab: "By trying out technologies in a custom laboratory, we will be able to accurately determine their efficacy and added value for our projects and the entire industry." This iterative process is designed to ensure that the technologies adopted are not just innovative but genuinely effective.

Educational Opportunities for Young Innovators

One of the standout features of the Pomerleau aXLab is its commitment to education and training. Each year, approximately 4,000 young individuals and professionals from various sectors visit Factry to hone their skills. The aXLab will provide opportunities for these visitors to engage with Pomerleau’s experts through workshops, training sessions, and events designed to spark curiosity and innovation.

Future programming will aim to cover a vast array of topics, encouraging collaboration, knowledge sharing, and creative problem-solving among participants. This commitment to education not only nurtures the next generation of construction professionals but also fosters a culture of continuous learning and innovation within the industry.

Conclusion

The partnership between Pomerleau and Factry marks a notable advancement in the integration of technology within the construction industry. The aXLab is poised to become a vibrant center for innovation, collaboration, and education, addressing the industry’s pressing need for creative skills and technological integration. As the construction landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like the aXLab underscore the importance of forward-thinking strategies in building the communities of tomorrow.