This year marks Dowco’s 51st year in business. Covid and changing market dynamics aside, for me this milestone brings to mind youthful memories of a dedicated father whose work ethic astounded everyone who knew him. I recall countless weekend office trips to pick up drawings, make blue prints, clean the office and perform occasional office renovations.
I recall his nightly home work rituals and my mother’s years as secretary, girl Friday, book-keeper et al. To this day I’m not sure how they managed to coach us soccer, drive us all over the place to various activities, and build a business.
My father taught us not just the value of hard work, but to appreciate what we have. Hugh and Susan Dobbie emigrated from Scotland in 1956 in search of a better life. It is safe to say they exemplify what a better life means: they built and exited their successful business, have friends and a growing family who love them, and the satisfaction of making a significant dent in the universe.
As I grew up, finished university and became more involved in Dowco, my respect and admiration for my parent’s achievements increased. There is no question Dowco’s success was built on the depth and strength of their relationship. (a side note, July 29th they celebrated 63 years of marriage). My mother Susan is a woman of great strength and commitment whose input and dedication to the family and Dowco was vital and never ending. My father’s prophetic business savvy and ability to predict future trends (CAD and the digitization of construction) opened many new doors to business opportunities that continue to provide the company opportunities for growth and expansion.
No longer involved in the business since 2012, Hugh and Susan now have time to relax, travel, spend time with their kids and grandkids and enjoy the harvest of their 42 years of ploughing through the often rocky fields of the steel detailing, fabrication and construction services industry. As members of the strong, and talented team Dowco has become, we are proud to carry the Dowco name and strive for success in a manner consistent with the integrity, ethics and dedication of the previous 50 years.
There is no doubt we have seen a great deal of change and growth over the past 5o years. I am confident that the years ahead will be just as remarkable.
I take this opportunity to thank Dowco staff past and present for being part of the growing Dowco family and for their efforts and contributions that have shaped us into the company we have become. I’d be remiss if I did not also extend deep appreciation to our customers (some of which have we have been working with for 50 years) for believing in us and allowing us to be of service.
To celebrate our second 50 years, we have embarked on an exercise to re-imagine our future. The first step in this process is the creation of a new logo, website and host of new service offerings. To learn more please feel free to check out our new website www.dowco.com.
