August 19, 2024
The Royal Canadian Dragoons, Canada's oldest serving armored regiment, is currently in their second year of operation in their new consolidated home at Worthington Barracks in Petawawa. These state-of-the-art facilities mark a new era for the Dragoons, providing them with a modern and efficient space to carry out their vital operations.
A CONSOLIDATED HOME
The construction of this new facility stemmed from the necessity to consolidate the Dragoons' dispersed infrastructure. With seven separate buildings accommodating different functions of the regiment, the need for a centralized space became evident, aiming to streamline operations and enhance troop cohesion. The new Worthington Barracks serves as a consolidated hub for the Regiment, housing regimental headquarters, administrative functions, three line squadrons, a large hangar bay for armored vehicles, supply warehouses, corporate spaces, and additional support areas. This consolidation not only enhances operational efficiency but also promotes a stronger sense of unity and camaraderie among the soldiers.
INTEGRATED PROJECT DELIVERY: A COLLABORATIVE APPROACH
Integral to the success of the project was the adoption of Integrated Project Delivery (IPD), an innovative contracting model that fosters collaboration among multiple stakeholders. IPD brought together the owner representatives from the Department of National Defence, PCL Constructors Ltd. (Contractors), and Architectecture49 (Architects), alongside engineering teams, and key trades, all aligning their interests and objectives to minimize risks and maximize efficiency throughout the project lifecycle.
The inclusive nature of IPD ensured that all parties had a seat at the table, allowing for upfront planning, ongoing contract management, and health and wellness checks. This collaborative approach enabled the new building to be completed five months ahead of schedule and six percent under budget, all during the COVID-19 pandemic —a remarkable achievement that speaks to the effectiveness of the IPD model and set the stage for future projects carried out in this manner.
Being part of the [project] team was an incredible experience. Having so many people around one table, all working towards the same goal, was truly remarkable. It's amazing when everyone is aligned and collaborative. We left work each day feeling empowered and supported, knowing that our collective efforts were driving success. The Royal Canadian Dragoons project stands as a testament to the effectiveness of Integrated Project Delivery (IPD), showcasing how collaboration can overcome challenges and deliver outstanding results Alan Trenholm, Project Manager, Royal Canadian Dragoons Facilities Project
In contrast to the fragmented communication and conflicting interests typical of traditional construction models, Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) fosters a culture of collaboration and shared responsibility. The success of the Royal Canadian Dragoons' facility project serves as a testament to the transformative impact of IPD, showcasing its ability to minimize risks and maximize efficiency throughout the project lifecycle. By embracing IPD, the project team demonstrated the effectiveness of aligning interests and objectives among stakeholders, resulting in efficient project delivery and enhanced operational capabilities for the regiment.
HONORING THE PAST, EMBRACING THE FUTURE
In addition to its functional benefits, the Worthington Barracks facility also pays homage to the rich history and heritage of the Royal Canadian Dragoons. The inclusion of historical artifacts, displays of regimental honors, and a ceremonial presentation of the Regimental Guidon serve as reminders of the sacrifices and achievements of those who have served before.
I'm really impressed by the attention to detail and commitment to preserving our heritage that the project team demonstrated throughout the design process. One of my favorite aspects of the new facility is the way historical artifacts and our regimental history are prominently displayed. From the lobby showcasing our heritage to each squadron's dedicated space featuring panels for hanging artifacts, it's clear that our history was a priority from the beginning. This level of care and consideration, despite no direct economic or time benefits, speaks volumes about the collaborative nature of the project and how our input truly mattered. It's a testament to the team's dedication to honoring our past and creating a space we can all be proud of. Major Brynn Bennett, Officer Commanding Headquarters squadron of the Royal Canadian Dragoons
Looking ahead, the Dragoons are poised to continue their legacy of excellence, with their new facility providing a solid foundation for future operations and endeavors. As they embark on this new chapter, they do so with confidence, knowing that they have a modern, efficient, and supportive environment in which to fulfill their mission.
A SYMBOL OF EXCELLENCE
As the Dragoons settle into their new home at Worthington Barracks, they do so with a sense of pride and gratitude for the dedicated efforts of all those involved in bringing their vision to life. The new facility not only enhances their operational capabilities but also honors the legacy of service and sacrifice that defines the regiment. Through IPD, the Dragoons have set a precedent for future projects, inspiring stakeholders to embrace collaboration and innovation in pursuit of excellence in construction.