The year 2023 marked a pivotal moment in EBC’s history with the launch of the Centre of Expertise and Major Projects. This initiative, led by vice-presidents Raymond Brais and Éric Bertrand, reflects EBC’s proactive response to the growing demand for innovative, efficient, and specialized solutions in complex construction projects.
At the core of this strategy is the creation of the Tunnelling and Underground Group in the spring of 2023.Recognizing the increasing complexity and technical demands of underground construction, EBC established this team to consolidate its specialized expertise and address the unique challenges posed by tunnelling projects. Created by industry veteran Serge Moalli and under the experienced leadership of Peter Hennig, the group serves as a centralized hub for excellence in tunnelling and underground work, delivering unmatched expertise to clients nationwide.
Why a Dedicated Tunnelling Group?
Tunnelling projects require precise engineering, advanced technology, and deep knowledge of diverse geological conditions. With the rise in infrastructure projects—such as urban transit systems, water management tunnels, and energy developments—the need for a highly specialized team became evident. By bringing together experienced project directors, managers, engineers, and superintendents under one umbrella, EBC is well equipped to streamline operations, innovate, and meet the demands of complex tunnelling projects.
This integrated approach enables EBC to:
- Leverage over 300 kilometres of tunnelling experience across diverse terrains.
- Innovate solutions for urban density, environmental constraints, and sensitive structures.
- Deliver exceptional value to clients through a seamless combination of expertise, technology, and collaboration.
Achievements That Speak Volumes
Since its early tunnelling projects in the 1990s, EBC has been at the forefront of underground innovation. Prestigious awards, including the Canadian Tunnelling Association’s Infrastructure Project of the Year (2016) for La Romaine 3 Project and Innovation of the Year (2017) for or our innovative canopy system on the Upper Lillooet Hydroelectric Project, as well as the Canadian Society for Civil Engineering’s 2023 Excellence in Innovation Award, highlight EBC’s dedication to cutting-edge solutions.
The group’s involvement in flagship projects—such as the REM tunnel to Montréal-Trudeau Airport, the revitalization of the Mount Royal Tunnel, as well as more recently, the Montreal Metro Blue Line Expansion and the Stanley Park Water Tunnel in Vancouver—demonstrates its ability to tackle some of the country’s most challenging infrastructure projects.
Expanding Expertise for the Future
From tunnel boring machines (TBM) to advanced hydraulic splitters, the Tunnel and Underground Group combines mechanized and conventional tunnelling techniques to adapt to any geological environment. Their multidisciplinary skill set extends to shaft construction, underground station development, and marine works, all delivered with a focus on safety, quality, and environmental stewardship.