Fort Simpson (Oct 25/04) - Mark Gerlock, Steven Vandell and Frank Villeneuve have spent the last 20 years working together at Enbridge Pipelines (NW) Inc (formerly Interprovincial Pipelines Ltd.)

Gerlock started out as a welder trainee and has worked his way up to area supervisor, formerly known as maintenance foreman.

Vandell, a welder, was initially hired by Esso in Norman Wells, where the pipeline originates. He worked on the line while it was being constructed over three winter seasons.

"It was a good experience," he said. "I've seen a little bit of everything."

Vandell became a welder's assistant and has gained experience through in-house training and programs at Red Deer College as well as some in Edmonton.

Villeneuve spent his early days as a plumber/pipefitter with Esso in Norman Wells.

Later he drove a fuel truck while the pipeline was being built.

In appreciation for the trio's long year's of service, the company flew them and their spouses to Edmonton for a special ceremony in June.They were put up in the high-end Westin hotel with all expenses paid.

"It was really amazing what they did for the employees," Gerlock said.

"They look after their employees pretty good. Actually, they look after them really well."

Villeneuve added, "It's a great company, good people."

Over the past 20 years, they and their co-workers have been responsible for the section of oil pipeline that runs from Wrigley to Zama, Alta., which includes two pumping stations, an injection site, a terminal and numerous valve sites.

On a rotational basis, they fly along the pipeline route by helicopter every second week, stopping to take readings and check solar panels.

Their duties fluctuate with the seasons. When they're not working on the pipeline, sometimes they're driving trucks, sometimes operating heavy equipment.

There's an emphasis on safety they said, referring to the proper gear to wear and mock oil-spill exercises conducted regularly.

Sitting on a table in the office, underscoring this push for safety, is an emergency response manual about four-inches thick.

They also keep busy by taking courses to stay current with computer technology.

"It's a challenge. It makes it interesting," Vandell said.