Leadership

Phil Ho

CEO

With over 15 years of engineering and investment banking experience, Phil brings along a unique and sophisticated skill set to CEL. Entrepreneurial in nature, Phil is a proven problem solver and thrives in fast paced and ever-changing environments. Despite his technical background, at the core of his values Phil believes in putting people first – from fostering inclusivity and positive corporate culture to a commitment to long-lasting client relationships that extend beyond the boardroom – Phil believes that the success of a Company comes from the people around him.

Born and raised in Calgary, Phil is proud to call Saskatoon his new home. Prior to joining CEL, Phil spent a decade at a leading engineering consulting firm before transitioning into the Investment Banking Group at a bulge bracket bank. Currently, Phil is also a Partner at a boutique private investment firm dedicated to small and medium sized Canadian businesses. Working with clients both big and small has provided Phil with the experience to draw from best industry practices.

Outside of work, Phil enjoys anything that gets his heart pumping – from sports to the gym, to just plain out going fast. On a more relaxing day, Phil likes to surround himself with friends and family and can often be found with a big plate of food on his lap.

Willie Unger

President

In 1979, a small three-person company was created to provide basic on-farm electrical work in rural Saskatchewan. That company was CEL, and one of those founders was a young apprentice electrician named Willie Unger. Today, Willie leads the company he co-founded, and is the driving force behind its growth.

In 1983, Willie and his partners were awarded their first commercial contract: a wood crib grain elevator. With the economic downturn of the late 1980s, the company felt the pressure to diversify. Willie realized the agricultural industry was moving to larger, more complex, automated facilities – and worked hard to cement relationships with larger firms in Canada and the USA. The big break came as CEL became the key electrical consulting contractor for Inland Grain terminals – building locations across western Canada. Willie opened an office in Winnipeg in 1990 and Calgary in 1997. He even pursued industrial opportunities in the Middle East and Asia.

Today, CEL has over 150 employees located across western Canada. Under Willie’s guidance, CEL has become known for its expertise in a vast array of industrial and commercial applications. The company has recently expanded its services to include instrumentation and continues to pursue a strategic growth plan that is focused on underserved markets where there is a logical fit. CEL’s customer-focused, solution-driven, values-based culture is a direct reflection of the approach and personality of its co-founder and CEO.

Willie is a proud husband and father who loves nothing better than spoiling his 11 grandchildren. He’s an avid snowmobiler and active volunteer with LeaderImpact (an international organization committed to developing stronger leaders).

Carter Ensign

Vice President, Corporate Development & Strategy

Carter brings to CEL an extensive financial and strategic skill set coming from an investment banking and private equity background. Working at a bulge bracket investment bank in both Calgary and New York, Carter covered clients across a variety of industries including: Oil and Gas, Power, Renewables, Chemicals, and Industrials. Returning to his entrepreneurial roots, Carter is excited to bring his unique background and positive mindset to support and contribute to the success of CEL, its people, and its clients.

Outside of the office, Carter is an avid sports enthusiast, particularly hockey and MMA. Being a born and raised Calgarian, no matter where he’s moved, he’s remained a die-hard flames fan. Additionally, he loves being active and getting his heart pumping continuing to play hockey and softball, running marathons, biking, and long-boarding.

Kevin Heilman

Vice President

Kevin is the conduit for all jobs and assignments for clients across Alberta and Saskatchewan, overseeing operations in those locations. He is a Red Seal Electrical Journeyman with nearly two decades of industry experience to his credit. Kevin has served as a Service Tech, Superintendent, Service Manager, Project Manager and Operations Manager over his extensive career. This experience gives him a greater understanding of the challenges his teams face in the field, the expectations of clients, and what it takes to safely and successfully deliver results. No matter how large or complex the project, Kevin and his team are committed to completing the job to your complete satisfaction.

Kevin is a true born and raised Calgarian and it is where he has chosen to raise his family. He is active in the local community and is proud to support his kids’ passion for sports.

Ryan Haskey

Vice President

Ryan Haskey’s electrical career extends over 25 years. What is more remarkable is that it has all been with CEL. Ryan has worked his way through the company, first as an Apprentice and then as a Journeyman. His passion and abilities allowed him to excel in a variety of key roles: Superintendent, Estimator, Project Manager and General Manager. As Regional Manager for Northern Saskatchewan and British Columbia, Ryan oversees all CEL projects in these regions. Ryan draws on this wealth of experience to ensure clients receive the attentive care and reliable professional service they deserve.

Tackling challenging projects is what drives him. Ryan has worked hard to build an incredible team and takes great pride in their accomplishments. When he’s off the clock, Ryan gets his adrenaline pumping on the ski slopes and mountain bike trails, and volunteers with the Kidney Foundation of Canada.