Photo (L to R):Russell Clunie, Sr., P.Eng. receives the 2023 Mentor Award from Brett LaRoche, P.Eng.,ACEC-SK Vice Chair

The 2023 Association of Consulting Engineering Companies - Saskatchewan (ACEC-SK) Mentor Award recipient is Russell Clunie, Sr., P.Eng.

Russ embodies the essence of what it means to be a mentor. His technical abilities and deep knowledge of the industry are unparalleled. Russ consistently demonstrates his dedication to excellence and upholds an extremely high level of ethics and standards in his work. His expertise serves as a constant source of inspiration and motivation for the engineers, technicians, draftspersons, and surveyors at Clunie Consulting Engineers Ltd.

Beyond his technical competence, Russ's heart and leadership abilities set him apart as an exceptional mentor. Despite his numerous achievements and over 60 years of experience as an engineer, he remains humble and approachable, always willing to lend an ear and provide guidance. Russ's commitment to his team’s professional growth and development is evident in the support and trust he invests in each member. Under his mentorship, they are given the space, time, and resources to reach our full potential as professional engineers. Russ has always fiercely supported and defended the engineers who work under him.

Russ treats his team like family. He goes above and beyond to ensure their well-being and success, regardless of the circumstances. Russ's genuine care and concern for each individual fosters a supportive and nurturing work environment, enabling them to thrive both personally and professionally.

Russell has been an ever-present beacon of knowledge, guidance, ingenuity, and support for all of the people fortunate enough to work with him. Despite his extensive experience, he remains humble and approachable, always willing to share his wisdom and provide valuable advice.

The foundation on which Russell has built his reputation and his company is one of integrity, honesty, dependability, and a sincere concern for the people he works with, the clients he serves, and the general public. These core values have been ingrained in everything he does and serve as a shining example to those around him.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Russell's mentorship is his ability to pass along his vast engineering and construction knowledge while instilling these core values in others. His commitment to nurturing talent and fostering growth has made an immeasurable impact on the countless individuals fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him.

Russ has consistently served as a guiding hand for not only Consultants and Engineers but also for Contractors. Russ is someone who goes above and beyond to ensure that everyone he works with understands their responsibilities and can contribute effectively to the project's success. 

Russell possesses an extraordinary ability to assess and combine project requirements with client needs, project schedules, and the various challenges encountered during design and construction. His calm, effective, and sound decision-making has consistently resulted in the successful outcome of projects across western Canada. Those who have had the opportunity to work alongside him look up to him as a mentor they are eager to learn from and collaborate with.

Russ’ unwavering commitment to intellectual growth, career development, professional guidance, and advocacy is evidence of his remarkable character and exceptional leadership. His impact on the lives and careers of those he has mentored is immeasurable. 

Russ has seen many changes through his 6 decades of consulting work. He has seen vast improvements in technology and methodology and has adapted to take the most valuable lessons from the older ways and combine them with the newer methods. Russ’s door is always open and he is always open to questions or comments from anyone at the office.

Russ is a great role model for any engineer learning the ropes and trying to get a grasp on things in the industry. He leads by example as show by his immense work ethic.

Russ loves what he does and it shows. He is always friendly and welcoming when you have questions. He teaches his mentees to carry themselves professionally but still have some fun. Russ believes in hard work and he leads by example.