SMS Engineering Recognized as Top Employer in Manitoba and Canada
- Lisa Defoort
- Apr 7
- 3 min read
For over 60 years, SMS Engineering has been shaping the engineering profession in Manitoba, and now the company’s commitment to its people has earned provincial and national recognition.
In March, SMS Engineering was named a Top Employer in Manitoba, followed shortly by the announcement that it has also been named one of Canada’s Top Small and Medium Employers, selected by MediaCorp Canada Inc.
These accolades celebrate more than policies; they recognize the culture, values, and people that make SMS a workplace where employees feel proud to be part of the team and can thrive.
“It’s an honour to be recognized at both the provincial and national level,” says Chris Hewitt, President and Senior Electrical Engineer at SMS Engineering. “These awards reflect the dedication, collaboration, and pride our team brings to SMS every day. Our people are what make this company exceptional.”
A Culture Built Around People
Over six decades, SMS has grown to a team of over 110 people while staying true to the values and principles that guided its early years. Employees are encouraged to take ownership of their careers, develop new skills, and collaborate closely with leadership.
Flexible work arrangements, summer hours, and wellness programs help staff navigate a fast-paced environment while fostering resilience, trust, and pride in the work they do.
Recognition is an important part of SMS culture. Milestones, birthdays, work anniversaries, professional achievements, and promotions are celebrated in meaningful ways.
Monthly all-staff meetings, team gatherings, and social events such as bowling, escape rooms, staff BBQs, and the annual golf tournament strengthen connections and create a sense of community beyond the office walls.
Supporting Growth, Development, and Balance
Professional development is central to the SMS experience. Mentorship, structured goal-setting, and performance conversations empower employees to chart their career paths and reach their potential.
New hires and recent graduates benefit from hands-on learning and close collaboration with experienced team members, gaining exposure to real-world challenges in a supportive environment.
Family-friendly policies, comprehensive health coverage, and paid time off further support the team, while structured office closures at year-end allow employees to recharge.
These programs reinforce the pride employees feel, knowing the company values both their contributions and their well-being.
A Commitment to Community
Giving back is part of who we are. SMS employees participate in charitable initiatives and volunteer opportunities across Winnipeg and Manitoba.
Each year, the team supports local women’s shelters, mentors students exploring engineering careers, and participates in community fundraisers for health and wellness. Staff also organize school drives and volunteer at community events, making a meaningful impact while strengthening the culture of connection and purpose.
Growing While Staying True to Our Values
SMS has grown steadily over the years, yet the company’s values and principles remain at the heart of everything it does. This balance of scale and culture allows the firm to provide a dynamic, engaging, and supportive workplace where employees can contribute meaningfully, feel recognized, and continue to grow.
Why SMS Engineering is a Top Employer
These awards recognize workplaces that balance employee well-being, engagement, professional growth, and community involvement, qualities SMS has prioritized for decades. The recognition highlights the company’s commitment to creating an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and proud of the work they do every day.
“We’re proud of the culture we’ve built, and these awards reflect the energy, expertise, and collaboration of our team,” adds Chris Ott, Principal and Senior Mechanical Engineer. “It’s a privilege to work alongside such talented people who make SMS not just a workplace, but a place where individuals can grow, contribute, and thrive.”
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