Sask. First Nation company enters into first military contract

A Saskatchewan First Nation is taking a big step into the military sector.

Pro Metal Industries is now the first completely Indigenous-owned company to become a supplier for General Dynamics Land Systems, which is one of the biggest defence contractors in Canada.

Chief Todd Peigan said he’s excited about the $1-million contract.

“This is the first step getting into the military sector by any First Nation,” said Peigan.

The company will fabricate and machine components that will be used in General Dynamics’ light armoured vehicle projects.

Peigan is hoping that if the company does well with this contract, it could lead to more.

“There is a lot of work that needs to be done in the military, may it be maintenance, may it be new weapons systems, may it be putting into the vehicles, armoured vehicles, and Pasqua First Nation wants to be a part of that through our company Pro Metal Industries,” he said.

The contract, and more possible moves into the military sector, could mean a lot to the First Nation.

“It could mean a lot of money to our First Nation to assist in programs and services that we have to do with the people we serve,” said Peigan.

Peigan praised General Dynamics Land Systems for taking the Truth and Reconciliation report and its recommendations to heart, which helped lead to the contract with Pro Metal Industries.

The Pasqua First Nation acquired Pro Metal Industries in 2015. Peigan said the First Nation bought the company so it could be a real player in partnerships it was in with companies in the area — K + S Potash and Enbridge.

Military work isn’t the only pie the First Nation has its thumb in. Peigan said it also has companies working on technology for the oil and gas industry around eliminating flaring and venting, research and development into water purification for the Qu’Appelle Valley, and some work on reducing methane from landfills.