Joel has 18 years of international experience developing, leading and managing comprehensive projects of all levels in the mining, utility, wastewater and heavy industrial sectors. His versatility and strong attention to detail in handling a large variety of design, engineering, and systems challenges has led to numerous project successes. Prior to founding Giffen Consulting in 2017, he worked as a Design Lead at NORAM Engineering and at Hatch, where he had the opportunity to work around the globe and forge some of his most valued relationships with clients. Valuing these relationships, Joel has grown Giffen into a boutique consultancy that continues to provide tailored solutions for its clients.
Job Title: Owner
How long have you worked at Giffen: Since 2017 – I am employee number one!
What office are you based in? Vancouver, BC
What inspired you to join the team here? I saw an opportunity in the market for a nimble, modern and technology-savvy company that would treat the clients’ projects with the attention, communication and ethic it deserves.
What do you think makes our team culture unique? The collaborative, inclusive and supporting environment that we have built.
What is the best advice you could give to a brand-new employee? Ask lots of questions – there is always lots to learn and grow.
What is one thing that you wish people knew about your job or industry? That mining makes up a significant portion of material used for our phones, cars, etc.
When did you first know that you wanted to pursue a career in this field? After my first year at Hatch. I fell in love with the engineering world and the opportunity to build some pretty cool stuff!
What do you love most about your job? The people. The team we have collectively built amazes me and makes coming to work a joy.
What piece of advice would you give to your younger self? Enjoy the process – it’s the best part. I have learned that enjoying the moments along the way is far better than achievement of the goal.
What would your perfect weekend look like? The simple things: family, food and activity. Sunday morning breakfast of pancakes, bacon and a cup of coffee with Kim and our dog, Austin. A bike ride or run along the seawall or in the trails of the North Shore mountains. And a good home cooked meal of pasta!
What do you like to do outside of work? I love to travel. I have been fortunate to travel around the world, where culture and food collide creating an education unlike anything else.
What is your favorite local spot to eat / drink? Nook! The Shipyards location in North Vancouver, BC.
What would be your dream job (that isn’t this one!)? I would be a full-time volunteer with VASS and a few other local groups.
If you could visit any place in the world, where would it be? Seychelles.
If you could pick any superpower, what would it be and why? To give the gift of time.
