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 publisher Mark Kolke, in conversation with Ron Kurczaba

 

 

November 19, 2013

 

He wanted to be an architect . . . 
 
I first met Ron Kurzcaba of Riddell Kurczaba at a charity golf tournament about twelve years ago – we were in the same foursome. I learned that day that he was good company but he should not attempt professional golf. We’ve crossed paths often – hellos in passing at conferences and industry events but we never really got to know each other . . . so it was time to change that.
 
Ron Kurczaba got his B.Sc. in Engineering Design from the U of C – but was counseled against applying for further study as an architect, which set him on a track of interesting engineering jobs with small firms, and larger shops like Lavalin – working on diverse projects (including Calgary’s Saddledome, Canmore Nordic Centre to name a few of his early works) culminating in formation, of his current firm - joining with John Riddell to create Riddell Kurczaba which just recently celebrated 25 years in business!
 
Born and raised in Calgary – Crescent Heights High School, dad was Tax Assessor for the City. A first born, with two younger sisters. Ron’s parents told him the TV was broken and he believed them. The library became his passion and his ‘excessive use’ of U of C library privileges are apparently legendary, but he is pretty sure all the books have been returned. 
 
I sat with him recently in his Calgary office and got an intriguing education about his career, his passions and a most uncommon hobby. Among those, that he isn’t an architect. Who knew? He’s an engineer.

 
 

 

I asked Ron how he sees the marketplace for architecture and engineering services over the next quarter – what’s the marketplace like for the next 90 days?
… a little bit of softening (it is the slowest part of the year in our business). Some clients are being cautious right now – have slowed down and deferred some projects. I hear lots of predictions, particularly at conferences, about how 2014 will be a rip-roaring year. So far I don’t see evidence of that.
 
And over the next 5 years?
… as long as we (Alberta, Calgary ..) keep attracting an influx of people and businesses, a strong market will be here. In terms of the future of our profession, Calgary is on the international stage now – so we are competing with people from everywhere as the world is coming to Calgary. Architects are managing few projects than we used to as project management firms have become more prevalent. Modules built overseas, or in a factory, are going to become more common. Use of BIM, REVIT and other software tools for designing in 3-dimensions will grow in importance. As a firm, and personally, some transitioning on succession planning, wider ownership.
 
What qualities distinguish your preferred colleagues, collaborators and suppliers?
… quality, reputation, loyal, confident. I do a lot of research. I don’t look for change. Things that are well made, well constructed. I’m no afraid to pay for quality. In choosing services I look for referrals.
 
What distinguishes you that causes people choose Ron Kurczaba/Riddell Kurczaba to do business with – why are you been selected over your competitors?
… I’m very process oriented – and a lot of our clients, particularly in the case of oil & gas industry clients with complex industrial building requirements find our performance standards approach and process distinguishes us substantially. Lots of due diligence, lots of project management tools – no surprises.
 
What do you lose sleep over, what do you worry about?
… that we (the industry) need to work together more with the City of Calgary concerning how long it takes to get a project approved. The process is a straight-jacket of compliance with not as much empowerment for  ‘judgement’ as I would like to see.
 
Who or what influenced you most – that has made a difference in your life, or that was a major turning point?
… Dr. Yilmaz Fisecki – my boss on a summer job. It was a 3D (damp, dark, dangerous) job doing research in mines. He hired me because I was the only applicant who was scared. He taught me so much, especially leadership skills. A man of great wisdom, insight and perspective.  And, in 1978-9, I was at a crossroads in my career – had a chance to work for a small consultant. 
 
Who is your hero – real or mythical – who inspires you?
. . . so many. My dad – just by the way he has conducted his life. In his work he was always giving young people a chance. And Art Smith was a big influence during my time at Lavalin .. he called me ‘the kid’. I got very good at proposal writing!
 
Work life balance?
… I’ve slowed down a little. Married 34 years, 2 sons (25 & 21). I don’t do the all-nighters anymore. I’m a serous collector of ephemera – items of daily life – mostly late 1800’s to early 1900’s with some items dating much further back. Items that have survived are fascinating. My passion is paper. A book collection of many thousands. I’ve substantially renovated the house . . . . {he told me how many books but asked me not to include it … not sure if that was to avoid attracting burglars or to keep his insurance premiums low}. Working with wood. I love making things with my hands.
 
Would he do it all again the same way?
. . . Yes, but I would get the architecture degree.
 
What are you reading?
… lots. As a student I always had a bundle of books under my arm.
 
His ride?
… day to day, 2008 Mercedes 350. In storage, 2008 Nissan GTR. I like fast cars.
 

 
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