J.D. Irving, Limited recognizes the talented engineers working in Sawmills

This National Engineering Month, J.D. Irving, Limited is recognizing the engineers who contribute to the company's success.

Eric Roy, a mechanical engineer, is Site Manager for Grand Lake Timber in Chipman, NB. and has worked for J.D. Irving, Limited for more than a decade.

He started out as a Process Improvement Lead at the Sussex sawmill and quickly proved adept in identifying and implementing projects to increase productivity, reduce costs and improve quality and safety standards.

Roy earned his engineering degree from the Université de Moncton, which he credits with providing him the skills he needs to be an effective site manager.

"The experiences I've garnered from being an engineer have given me the knowledge and tools to advance in my career and help me manage such a diverse site like Grand Lake Timber," Roy said.

Day-to-day, Roy oversees the Grand Lake Timber Site holistically, from the sawmill and the planer mill to the yard and boiler. This work includes considerations for site safety, finances and production numbers while developing plans to meet and exceed mill targets.

"Every day is something new, which keeps it interesting," Roy said. "Seeing what we can achieve gives me a sense of accomplishment."