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Heavy lifting’s heavy hitters: Meet Steven Willier

Ed. note: Each week, we’re highlighting one of the winners from Crane & Hoist Canada‘s 2021 Top 10 Under 40 contest. 

Ten weeks, 10 winners. Meet the final winner of our Top 10 Under 40 contest: Steven Willier, operations manager and journeyman Red Seal crane operator for ABCO Crane Services Ltd. in Nisku, Alta.

Willier was a rookie when he began his career at ABCO Crane Services back in 2008, which is why watching his journey has been so rewarding, says Pamela Crawford, president of ABCO Crane Services, in her nomination.

“[He’s] gone from a very young man with no experience operating, being around cranes or driving commercial equipment to being ABCO’s go-to operator,” she shares.

When Crawford’s husband and ABCO owner Devern Crawford suddenly passed away in early 2021, Willier, 35, stepped up to take on the role of full-time operations manager.

“Steven has jumped from our top crane operator to a management position and has done so with determination, dedication and a willingness to accept the challenges that lie ahead of him,” says Crawford.

“These attributes will serve Steven well as he continues to learn and develop his own leadership style.”

Want to recognize a future leader? Nominations for the 2022 contest are now open. Winners receive a framed certificate recognizing their achievement and are featured in an issue of Crane & Hoist Canada.