Tailored Recruitment Services in Canada: Empowering Contractors in the Oil & Gas Industry | Kate's Story

Kate, originally from Russia, always dreamed of living abroad, drawn by North America’s unique blend of culture and opportunity. "I was immersed in North American culture," she shares. "I always dreamt of living abroad because I wanted to experience life in a country where freedom of speech and the ability to be yourself were highly valued." Canada became that land of opportunity, thanks to Brunel's tailored recruitment services.

Kate joined Brunel after collaborating with our team on the Sakhalin-2 project, finding in us a company that values openness, collaboration, and growth. "I enjoyed interacting with colleagues who were always open to discussing various details and opportunities," Kate recalls. Soon after, she found a workplace, through Brunel, that not only valued her skills but also inspired her to grow. “I like that the company can offer projects in various fields and cities,” she notes with enthusiasm.

In her current project in Norman Wells, Kate plays a pivotal role in supporting the North American energy industry. “Our project is vital for supporting the local community,” she emphasizes. “It creates jobs for young Indigenous people and helps sustain employment opportunities.” 

Her commitment to the community reflects her sense of responsibility, which is an integral part of the work Brunel strives to deliver.

As a Maintenance Administrator, Kate navigates the complexities of remote project management “My primary task is to ensure timely payment of invoices and place urgent orders with suppliers,” she explains. “Our site is remote, without roads to the nearest major towns, so it’s critical that I prioritize urgent orders and adapt quickly to changes.”

As one of the leading recruitment agencies in Canada, Brunel plays a pivotal role in connecting skilled contractors with companies in need of reliable talent, especially in specialized industries like oil and gas. Our client-first approach ensures that contractors like Kate have the support they need to thrive, even in remote, demanding locations like Northern Canada. This commitment to contractor satisfaction is essential not only for their success but also for the efficiency and productivity of our clients’ operations.

The Brunel Difference

Kate’s experience at Brunel has been enriched by the diversity of nationalities and backgrounds among her colleagues. “I was most surprised by the diversity of nationalities,” she reflects. “People from different countries, with different native languages, working together in a cozy office in downtown Calgary—it felt like a miniature version of Canada.” The sense of belonging and camaraderie among her team made her transition to Brunel seamless and rewarding. “My colleagues welcomed me warmly and openly,” she shares, “making my first day at Brunel a memorable and positive experience.”

In addition to her professional achievements, Kate is a passionate photographer. Working in Norman Wells provides her with a stunning backdrop to pursue her hobby, capturing the landscapes, wildlife, and local events around her. “Here in Norman Wells, I have a great opportunity to photograph local nature, wildlife, and community events,” she shares. 

Her photography has become a meaningful outlet, enriching her life and her work. Recently, Kate even launched a new logo for the Norman Wells team, acting as a video editor for the presentation and crafting motivational messages that reflect team spirit.

You can view Kate’s stunning photography on her Facebook page (Ekaterina Konovalenko) or her website, www.cotopie.com. She also shares her artistic journey on Instagram at @cotopie.

Kate Konovalenko’s journey highlights the positive impact of Brunel’s recruitment services on both contractors and clients. Her dedication and drive make her a vital part of our team, embodying the values that Brunel aims to foster. As Kate continues to grow and contribute, we look forward to seeing the ways she will inspire others and create change.

In celebrating Kate, we celebrate the spirit of Brunel—embracing challenges, fostering growth, and connecting with people from all walks of life.

Our approach to tailored recruitment services in Canada focuses on the needs of both clients and contractors, ensuring that every placement is mutually beneficial. Contact us today to learn more about our specialized oil and gas recruitment solutions and how we can help build your team.