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Kelly Miller, President of RNF Ventures Ltd. in Prince Albert, has been inducted into the Saskatchewan Construction Hall of Fame. (submitted photo/SCA)
Construction Hall of Fame

Local contractor inducted into Saskatchewan Construction Hall of Fame

Apr 19, 2021 | 8:00 AM

Kelly Miller knew he wanted to be in construction ever since he picked up a hammer in Grade 9.

Now, semi-retired at the age of 65, Miller has been recognized by his peers as one of the best in the business after being inducted into the 2021 Saskatchewan Construction Hall of Fame.

“It’s a very humbling time. When you have the recognition of your peers, that’s the best payback you can get for the efforts you’ve made over the course of your career,” Miller told paNOW.

The award recognizes individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to the advancement of the construction industry in Saskatchewan. Miller’s career began with what is now RNF Ventures in 1979 as the lone journeyperson carpenter on staff. He has held almost every position and in 2004 became the general manager and CEO. Over the course of his 42 year career, Miller believed “the only way you can make a difference is if you sit at the table.” With that belief, he always ensured RNF was involved in the industry; from engagement at the board and executive levels in several associations including the local and provincial construction associations as well as the General Contractors Association of Saskatchewan, among others. He has received both the Gold Seal Project Manager and Gold Seal Champion designations. According to the Construction Association of Canada website, it means he has attained the highest standard of excellence in the industry, has proven industry experience and is held in the highest regard.

“I’m mostly proud of my company and what we’ve done for families who work for us,” Miller said. “Our motto is ‘Building with the Community’ and we’ve always acknowledged the staff and families because those are the people that are really the essential elements that make for a happy workplace and a successful business.”

As a result of that philosophy, RNF has retained long-term employees, some having over 25 years of service to the company. Miller also instituted a profit-sharing formula for a large group of RNF employees.

While it’s been a rewarding career, Miller said he has seen some regression in the industry, particularly when it comes to the effects technology has had on human interaction and communication.

“When I was a young man in the industry, people would shake hands and make a deal,” Miller said. “You didn’t need lawyers and accountants to look after the ins and outs of running a business. People trusted each other. There was a fellowship almost or a fraternity amongst contractors. I don’t see that anymore. People use their thumbs to communicate with each other. There’s nothing like a face-to-face meeting, as opposed to text…so I think we’ve regressed from that perspective and its brought a lack of trust in the industry these days.”

Having said that, Miller acknowledged some of his best friends are people who come from the industry and some of the best people he’s ever associated with are his competitors.

Miller’s induction into the Saskatchewan Construction Hall of Fame coincides with Saskatchewan Construction Week which runs April 19 to 23 with the theme #SaskBuilt.

teena.monteleone@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @MonteleoneTeena

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