Strong communities run on dependable basics: clean water, reliable power, steady jobs, good infrastructure, and towns that plan ahead. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set clear targets for these essentials.
This second article in our three-part series looks at Goals 6–11 and how Epscan supports them across Northeastern B.C. We focus on the practical side, keeping plants and utilities running, training people for solid careers, and collaborating with local partners to ensure systems remain safe, efficient, and ready for the long haul.
Goal 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation: Reclaimed Water and Reliable Plant Operations
SDG 6 focuses on safe water and sanitation for everyone. In Fort St. John, the Reclaimed Water Facility treats water for non-potable use and even includes a small hydropower unit that generates clean energy as reclaimed water returns to the Peace River. It’s a smart, local solution that makes every litre go further.
Epscan supports facilities in Dawson Creek, Hudson’s Hope, Chetwynd, and Fort St. John with automation and programming that keep systems running safely and efficiently. Reliable controls ensure that pumps start when they should, alarms sound when something’s wrong, and operators have the information they need to act quickly. The result is less waste, fewer outages, and more confidence that the water system will perform day after day. The city’s facilities also feature a ‘mini’ hydropower generator that generates clean energy as it returns reclaimed water to the Peace River.
Epscan Industries is also proud to partner with fellow sustainable water management strategic companies in investments in technology that utilizes water to organically manage fungus and pest transmission and infestations in large-scale organic farming operations, leading to higher food production. Small improvements in how water is treated and managed can add up over time, cutting waste and reducing the need for harsh inputs.
Goal 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy: Training and Tools That Keep Systems Running
Our electricians and instrumentation mechanics keep power systems running the way they should. We work with all kinds of energy, making sure it’s stored, moved, heated, measured, and controlled properly. When systems run smoothly, sites are safer, bills are lower, and downtime is reduced.
Skilled trades open doors everywhere. Trade programs offer more than just training; they teach skills you can take anywhere in the world. Working with your hands is a universal language, and on-the-job learning brings that language to life. Whether it’s reading drawings, following procedures, or learning by watching and doing, communication goes beyond words. At Epscan, a positive team attitude helps break down barriers and build confidence. Through hands-on experience, teamwork, and a commitment to learning, individuals can grow into strong Industrial and Construction Electricians or Instrumentation Mechanics. The path to a reliable, long-term career is built on on-the-job learning, reading drawings, following procedures, and working as a team.
From wiring and controls to monitoring tools, these are the hands-on jobs that power safer, more efficient operations.
Epscan supports this through apprenticeships and time invested with SkilledTradesBC. We also partner with the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA) to provide employees with access to benefits and support that help keep them healthy and focused at work.
Goal 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth: Career Paths, Safe Work, Local Strength
Sustainable growth starts with decent work and fair opportunity. Epscan invests in people so communities can thrive.
- Apprenticeship and learning: We support apprentices at North Peace Secondary School and Northern Lights College, and we contribute to the BCIT Instrumentation and Control Technician Apprenticeship Program. Our work with SkilledTradesBC and harmonized Red Seal pathways helps future journeypersons earn credentials that travel across provinces.
- Pathways into work: We hire graduates from high schools and trade programs, and collaborate with WorkBC to help people re-enter the workforce. A clear path into the trades turns short-term jobs into long-term careers. Epscan has one of the highest rates of turning apprentices into journeymen in the province’s Construction Electrician and Instrumentation and Control Technician trades. We build our employees’ futures step by step and help them create careers for themselves both with Epscan and beyond. Epscan also offers trade certification in the Parts technician trade. Throughout our office, there are our administration, field support staff, management, and financial staff; there are a variety of career opportunities to explore.
- Safe, well-supported jobs: Our focus on safety has led to a continued TRIF of 0.00 (as of 2025) and strong on-the-job mentorship. Through our ICBA benefits plan, team members and their families have access to health services, prescriptions, vaccines, parental leave, and policies that support work-life balance. People do their best work when they know they’re protected and supported.
- Regional impact: Our CSO and COO both participate in BC post-secondary education boards to help direct education for future generations. By supporting utilities and infrastructure in Fort St. John, Dawson Creek, Hudson’s Hope, and Chetwynd, and by training local talent, we help keep essential systems running. That stability supports households, suppliers, and the broader local economy.
Epscan is building a better future, one job at a time.
Goal 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure. Better Tools, Stronger Systems
Epscan Industries supports the United Nations’ goal to build strong and fair infrastructure. Our company focuses on electrical and instrumentation services to help grow safe and smart industries. As experts in these fields, we understand how modern tools and systems can help businesses grow in a sustainable and lasting manner. We invest in new technologies that make work more efficient, reliable, and better for the environment. Our work helps build strong systems that support long-term progress.
Innovation is at the heart of what we do. We use smart tools like energy-saving devices, monitoring systems, and maintenance software. We partner with tech experts and researchers to create custom solutions that save energy and improve performance. These tools help our clients build smarter and greener operations, setting new standards for the industry.
We also believe in working together. Epscan partners with local governments, businesses, and communities to design projects that support fair and lasting growth. We focus on building systems that are inclusive and help create jobs, improve skills, and raise the quality of life. Through these efforts, we show our strong support for global goals and help communities grow and succeed.
Goal 10 – Reduced Inequalities: Access and Inclusion in the Work We Do
Reducing inequality means more people can benefit from essential services and steady work. Epscan designs and supports systems that are efficient and accessible, including in remote and harsh-weather areas. We also invest in training so local teams can operate and maintain systems over time.
We partner with local governments, organizations, and other groups to remove barriers to find what works best for each community. That might mean choosing equipment that’s easier to service, setting up clear procedures, or ensuring local crews have the tools and training they need. When more people can connect to reliable services and keep them running, everyone benefits.
Goal 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities: Projects That Fit Community Plans
SDG 11 focuses on communities that work well for the long term. Fort St. John’s Strategic Plan highlights smart growth, solid infrastructure, and community well-being. Epscan helps make those goals a reality in day-to-day operations.
Epscan Industries is truly leading by example when it comes to building sustainable and inclusive communities! We show our commitment to community growth and accessibility through local initiatives, such as helping remodel the Fort St. John Association for Community Living and supporting new track and field facilities at Bert Bowes Middle School. Moreover, their eco-friendly approach, ranging from thoughtful facility designs to upgrading their fleet for reduced emissions, shows a strategic focus on sustainability. By encouraging public transportation, ride-sharing, and outdoor activities like family campouts, Epscan not only minimizes its environmental footprint but also promotes a culture of environmental stewardship.
Their efforts to balance industrial success with environmental and community care make them a standout example in Northern BC
What’s Next
Goals 6–11 show how dependable utilities, strong infrastructure, and fair access improve everyday life. In the final article, we’ll explore SDGs 12–17— responsible consumption, climate action, protecting water and land, strong institutions, and partnerships. Together, they complete the picture of how communities and companies like Epscan can build a sustainable future.