Newly Certified. Prepared for Success

Gannon/Blackburn Electric Inc. has been proudly serving the construction industry in the National Capital Region for over 35 years. GBE is owned and operated by Karlyn Gannon and family, specializing in commercial electrical installations, mechanical and general contracting services. Incorporated in 1989, GBE focuses on electrical & mechanical construction and distribution, fire alarm systems, emergency power, lighting and controls and 24 hour service and maintenance. GBE is able to serve clients in both Quebec and Ontario with professional, bilingual service.

While Gannon/Blackburn Electric has had success in working with larger clients, it was a discussion with one in particular during an annual health and safety update, that led them to explore the benefits of certification as a woman-owned enterprise. Gannon had built a strong working relationship with large organizations including  BGIS Global Integrated Systems over many years, a success founded on consistent performance, reliability and a proven ability to deliver quality electrical mechanical work.  

Through their certification with WBE Canada, Gannon/Blackburn Electric has been able to expand their network and connect with organizations including BGIS that actively seek to engage diverse suppliers.  The increased visibility that comes with certification has opened doors to new opportunities and allowed Gannon to build meaningful partnerships with like-minded organizations.  As a certified diverse supplier, their WBE Canada Certification helps differentiate Gannon/Blackburn Electric when competing with other vendors.

And standing out in a very competitive field is key to winning contracts with large organizations such as BGIS.  As John Downey, Senior Director, Strategic Sourcing RPI at BGIS Global Integrated Solutions shares – “Technical qualifications, capabilities and competitive pricing are table stakes, we also want to ensure our service providers self perform the delivery of services and avoid/minimize any additional sub-contracting.  Innovative solutions that enhance our environments also stand out and help diverse suppliers win new business.”

“Working with companies like Gannon/Blackburn Electric demonstrates that women-owned businesses bring the same—and often enhanced—levels of technical expertise, professionalism, and leadership expected from any top-tier supplier. These relationships also reinforce the importance of inclusion in skilled trades, helping to broaden talent pipelines and challenge long-standing industry norms. From BGIS’s perspective, working with women-owned firms in these sectors strengthens our supplier base, supports industry evolution, and reinforces our commitment to diversity without compromising quality or performance.” — John Downey, Senior Director, Strategic Sourcing RPI, BGIS Global Integrated Solutions

The most significant benefit of WBE Canada Certification says Karlyn Gannon, has been the ability to connect and network with other WBEs….being able to learn from more experienced business, gain insights and share knowledge that supports their continued growth.   Karlyn shares a quote from WBE Canada’s President, Dr. Georgette Zinaty, “our network is our net worth”.  Being able to rapidly expand their network and build connections with like-minded professionals has been, and continues to be, incredibly valuable.

As a woman in construction, a field that has traditionally been male-dominated, Karlyn Gannon knows that her status as a diverse supplier has played a meaningful role in expanding opportunities. “Being recognized as a woman-owned business has helped open doors through supplier diversity initiatives and standing out among competitors. Our success in securing and maintaining partnerships continues to be grounded in our  performance, reliability and quality of work.  The diverse supplier designation helps get us a seat at the table, but it’s our experience and execution that allow us to build lasting relationships with organizations like BGIS and Public Works”.

As Gannon/Blackburn Electric shares their journey as a certified women-owned business, they are equally open to sharing their advice for other Canadian women entrepreneurs especially those in non-traditional fields. Karlyn explains:

• My advice is grounded in both strategy and resilience, because you’ll often be building credibility and breaking barriers at the same time. It’s also important to own your expertise with confidence especially in industries where you may be underestimated.  Surround yourself with people who are like-minded, those you can bounce off of and rely on when the time comes.  
• Leverage supplier diversity programs. Many large organizations especially in Canada, are actively working to diversity their supply chains. Getting certified can open doors to procurement opportunities, networking events and partnerships, not to mention the amount of personal development that WBE Canada provides
• Don’t shy away from visibility. Promote your work, share your wins, and position yourself as a leader in your space while empowering and crediting your team. Whether it’s speaking at events, showcasing projects, or being active to job site visits and company events, visibility helps normalize women’s presence in our industries and attracts new opportunities
• Be prepared to advocate for yourself. Whether its negotiating contracts, pricing your services appropriately, or addressing bias, you need to stand firm in your value.
• And finally, play the long game. Progress in non-traditional fields doesn’t always happen quickly, but persistence pays off. Every project you complete and every relationship you build strengthens your reputation and paves the way for others coming behind you.  You don’t need to fit the mold to succeed in our industries, you can redefine it and build yourself and your network out.

Going forward, Gannon/Blackburn Electric intends to leverage their certification to expand their customer base and position themselves for future partnerships. They plan to stay engaged, continue learning, actively participating in WBE Canada Events, programs and matchmaking opportunities. Their overall approach is to use the WBE Canada platform as a catalyst to grow their network, enhance their business development efforts and position Gannon Blackburn Electric for long term success.  

To learn more about Gannon/Blackburn Electric Inc.  www.gbeinc.ca

To learn more about BGIS Global Integrated Solutions: www.bgis.com