In the dynamic world of hydraulic systems, few companies have managed to build a reputation as enduring and multifaceted as Norcan Fluid Power. With a history spanning decades, Norcan has positioned itself as a leading provider of hydraulic solutions in Western Canada and beyond. Offering a wide range of services, from routine maintenance and emergency repairs to custom system design and installation, the company has established itself as a critical partner for industries reliant on hydraulic power.
Norcan’s focus on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction has made it a trusted name in an industry where precision and reliability are paramount.
At the core of Norcan’s success lies its ability to adapt and meet the specific needs of its diverse clientele. Whether it’s servicing small hydraulic components like log splitters, overhauling large equipment such as excavators and wheel loaders, or troubleshooting industrial hydraulic power units, Norcan ensures that every project receives its full attention.
“Our mission is to deliver unmatched service and innovative solutions,” says Chris Fearon, Norcan’s E-commerce Manager. “Every job, no matter how big or small, gets our full attention because we know how critical hydraulic systems are to our customers’ operations.” This commitment to excellence underscores Norcan’s philosophy: the understanding that its success is inherently tied to the success of its clients.
Norcan Fluid Power has earned its reputation by excelling across a variety of industries. From the pulp and paper sector to mining and construction, the company provides essential services that keep operations running smoothly. Industries like pulp and paper rely heavily on uninterrupted workflows, where even minor downtime can lead to significant financial losses. To address this, Norcan offers on-site services, deploying skilled technicians to customer locations to resolve hydraulic issues quickly and efficiently. This proactive approach minimizes disruptions and reflects Norcan’s dedication to delivering customer-focused solutions.
Norcan’s engineering capabilities further set it apart. The company specializes in designing and manufacturing custom hydraulic power units for industrial and OEM applications. These systems are tailored to meet specific operational needs, ensuring optimal performance even in the most demanding environments.
“Innovation is part of our DNA,” says Fearon. “We’re not just fixing problems; we’re designing systems that help our clients push boundaries and achieve more.”
A key component of Norcan’s enduring success is its talented and diverse workforce. Employing approximately 150 professionals across multiple branches, Norcan boasts one of the most comprehensive talent pools in the Canadian hydraulics industry. The team includes a Professional Engineer, Certified Engineering Technologists, Engineers in Training, and skilled tradespeople such as Millwrights, Machinists, and Red Seal-Certified Technicians. This diverse expertise ensures that Norcan can tackle projects of any scale or complexity, providing customers with the confidence that their hydraulic systems are in capable hands.
The customer service team is another standout feature of Norcan’s operations. Many of its members hold Red Seal certifications as parts technicians, equipping them with a rare depth of technical knowledge. This expertise allows them to provide valuable guidance and accurate solutions to customers. Additionally, the supply chain team, led by a professional with a supply chain management designation, ensures that inventory levels are optimized to meet client demands. Norcan’s sales team further enhances its capabilities, with professionals possessing mechanical engineering backgrounds who can offer expert insights and customized recommendations.
“Having the right people in the right roles is crucial to our success,” Fearon emphasizes. “It’s not just about technical skills; it’s about building a team that’s passionate about what they do and committed to helping our customers succeed.” This focus on teamwork and mutual respect is deeply rooted in Norcan’s history as a family-run business, a tradition that has continued even after its acquisition by Certified Power Incorporated (CPI) in 2023.
The acquisition of Norcan Fluid Power by CPI marked a new chapter for the company, but it did not alter its core values or operational independence. Now part of Summus Inc., Norcan benefits from enhanced resources while retaining its identity and dedication to service. Under the leadership of Chad Trinkner, CEO of Summus Inc., and Pepe Diligenti, the President of Norcan Fluid Power, the transition has been smooth, allowing Norcan to continue operating as an independent entity within a larger corporate framework.
“Being part of Summus has opened up new opportunities for growth while allowing us to stay true to what has always made Norcan successful,” Fearon shares. “We’re able to leverage additional resources while maintaining our commitment to customer satisfaction.” As the largest Canadian company in the Summus Inc. portfolio, Norcan’s contributions are instrumental in shaping the group’s collective success.
Norcan Fluid Power’s physical footprint spans eight branches across Western Canada, strategically located to serve a wide range of customers. Its branches in Langley, Kamloops, and Prince George in British Columbia; Leduc, Calgary, and Red Deer in Alberta; Saskatoon in Saskatchewan; and Winnipeg in Manitoba ensure accessibility for clients throughout the region.
Beyond its physical presence, Norcan’s e-commerce platform has emerged as a critical component of its operations. This digital initiative, led by Fearon, extends the company’s reach to customers not only across Canada but also in international markets, including the U.S., South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. “The goal of our e-commerce platform is to make our expertise accessible anywhere,” says Fearon. “Hydraulics is a global industry, and we’re proud to contribute to it on a worldwide scale.”
The platform has been carefully designed to prioritize user experience, streamlining the process for customers to access the products and services they need. This digital presence has allowed Norcan to maintain strong connections with its clients, even amid challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted traditional supply chains and workflows.
Certainly, the pandemic posed significant obstacles, particularly in terms of supply chain disruptions. However, Norcan’s proactive approach enabled the company to navigate these challenges effectively. By forecasting customer needs and ordering inventory well in advance, the company maintained robust stock levels and minimized delays. “Our ability to adapt quickly was key,” says Fearon. “We worked closely with suppliers and customers to navigate the challenges together.”
In addition to supply chain challenges, Norcan has faced the ongoing difficulty of talent acquisition in a highly specialized field. The company has responded by focusing on hiring individuals with strong character and work ethic, then providing the training needed to develop their technical skills. This strategy has allowed Norcan to maintain a steady pipeline of skilled professionals who uphold its standards of excellence.
Strategic partnerships have also played a crucial role in Norcan’s evolution. A pivotal moment came in 2015, when the company transitioned from Sauer Danfoss to Bosch Rexroth as its primary supplier. This move diversified Norcan’s product offerings and strengthened its position in the industrial sector. The partnership with Bosch Rexroth has enabled the development of specialized build and conversion programs, particularly for the Bosch A10 series pumps, further enhancing Norcan’s capabilities.
Another key partnership is with Hengst Filtration, a leader in industrial filtration solutions. As one of Canada’s largest inventory holders of Hengst filters, Norcan ensures that its customers have access to high-quality filtration products essential for maintaining hydraulic systems.
“Innovation is a continuous process,” Fearon notes. “Whether it’s through new partnerships or refining our existing systems, we’re always looking for ways to offer better solutions to our clients.”
As Norcan Fluid Power continues to grow, its focus remains on optimizing operations, adopting new technologies, and exploring opportunities for expansion. The company is committed to staying ahead of industry trends and maintaining its position as a leader in hydraulic solutions.
“We’re always looking to the future,” Fearon says. “Our goal is to stay ahead of the curve—not just meet industry standards but set them.” This forward-thinking approach ensures that Norcan remains a trusted partner for businesses that rely on its expertise and dedication.
Norcan Fluid Power is more than a hydraulic solutions provider; it is a trusted partner, an innovator, and a model of operational excellence. With a talented team, a global reach, and an unwavering focus on customer needs, Norcan exemplifies what can be achieved through expertise, collaboration, and vision. As the company continues to build on its legacy, it remains a driving force in shaping the hydraulics industry and supporting the businesses that depend on its indispensable services.
