New First Nation partnership lays foundation for Yukon's tech future
Two years from now, a tech worker at Northwestel will be able to pull up to the office, plug in their electric car and get to work in one of many collaborative spaces designed to support hybrid teams working together from all over the North. At lunch they can head out for a quick bike ride along the riverside trail. This was the vision when Northwestel partnered with Chu Níikwän LP on its new First Nation owned Yukon headquarters.
We’re honoured to partner with Chu Níikwän LP to build our new first-Nation-owned energy-efficient office. This project is part of our long-term commitment to investing in the Yukon, growing our First Nation partnerships, and supporting our high-tech northern workforce. Together, we’re laying the building blocks to build stronger more connected communities.
About the Yukon flagship headquarters
The First Nation-owned office building will be located on Kwanlin Dün First Nation settlement land. Inspired by Kwanlin Dün artwork and traditions, the architecture will reflect this dynamic and vibrant culture throughout the space.
Chu Níikwän LP, the business arm of Kwanlin Dün First Nation, will build and own the 3-storey office building, with Northwestel leasing the top two floors for a minimum of twenty years. Together, the office building will provide long- term economic benefits for Yukon’s First Nations.
“This modern, energy efficient headquarters speaks to our long-term commitment to investing in the Yukon, to growing First Nations partnerships, and to supporting our high-tech northern workforce. We are honoured that our employees will be working in a modern space built by a First Nation partner on First Nation land for decades to come.” Curtis Shaw, President of Northwestel
The building is designed to support a co-operative work environment and provide collaborative spaces for our high-tech workforce. Along with electric car charging ports, and secure bicycle lockups, the building will be energy efficient.
"This project represents the single biggest development Chu Níikwän LP has undertaken since incorporation in 2015. I'm very pleased to be a part of the incredible team at Chu Níikwän LP that has proven time and time again that they can deliver large and complex projects like this for our valued utilities & telecommunications partners." Rick O’Brien, CEO of Chu Níikwän LP
Our commitment to reconciliation
Northwestel is proud to serve the many Indigenous people and communities in the North. The company is committed to the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action for businesses in Canada. This includes a commitment to increasing indigenous employment, providing training on indigenous history and culture for Northwestel employees, and engaging in meaningful consultation on our major investments and initiatives.
We acknowledge the Indigenous government support we have received and commit to continue moving forward in consultation and collaboration with local communities and governments.
