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    • Modernize Your Water Infrastructure

    Posted on by Rikki Kenzhebayeva

    Current Offers and Promotions

    Modernize Your Water Infrastructure Today

    Exclusive Transition Options for Canadian Municipalities.
    Whether you’re still on legacy Innovyze or haven’t adopted Autodesk water tools yet, SolidCAD can outline exclusive transition options for municipalities.

    Exclusive Transition Options for Canadian Municipalities

    Canadian municipalities face mounting water infrastructure challenges. Aging networks are driving service interruptions and escalating repair costs. Climate change brings more frequent, intense storm events and stricter CSO compliance requirements. Reliance on siloed or paper-based asset data keeps inspections reactive rather than proactive. Meanwhile, communities demand greater transparency, sustainability, and accountability. 

    Relying on legacy Innovyze licenses — or operating without a modern system — is no longer enough to keep pace. 

    Wherever you’re starting from, SolidCAD can guide your path into Autodesk Water Infrastructure Solutions (AWI) — a complete portfolio for modeling, drainage, asset management, and real-time analytics. 

     

    Why Modernize Now

    • Unplanned outages & fire-flow risks → Citizens lose trust when service is disrupted. InfoWater Pro helps you model distribution systems inside ArcGIS Pro to plan pressure, fire-flow, and resilience. 
    • Reactive maintenance & siloed records → Paper binders and disconnected data lead to slow inspections and costly fixes. InfoAsset Manager centralizes asset data, supports mobile inspections (even offline), and prioritizes work based on risk. 
    • Flooding & climate resilience → Storm intensity and CSO regulations demand advanced tools. InfoWorks ICM integrates 1D/2D catchment modeling, scenario planning, and cloud scalability. 
    • Slow drainage design & compliance challenges → Manual processes create costly delays. InfoDrainage streamlines SuDS/LID design and generates compliance-ready reports. 
    • Lack of operational foresight → Without predictive insights, municipalities are stuck in firefighting mode. Info360 Insight & Asset deliver cloud-based monitoring, predictive analytics, and defensible capital planning. 

    The Autodesk Water Infrastructure Ecosystem (AWI)

    AWI provides a complete lifecycle solution for water, wastewater, and stormwater management: 

    • InfoWater Pro — ArcGIS Pro–native hydraulic and water quality modeling to ensure reliable service, pressure, and fire-flow readiness. 
    • InfoWorks ICM — Integrated 1D/2D stormwater and wastewater modeling with scenario testing and cloud scalability. 
    • InfoAsset Manager — Centralized asset management with mobile/offline inspections and risk-based prioritization. 
    • InfoDrainage — Faster stormwater/SuDS design and automated compliance-ready reports. 

    Yesterday’s Approach vs. Today’s Solutions

    Challenge Area Yesterday’s Approach Autodesk Water Infrastructure Solutions (AWI) 
    Service Reliability  Outages, uncertain fire-flow, siloed or manual models.  InfoWater Pro delivers ArcGIS Pro–native modeling for reliable distribution and fire-flow planning. 
    Asset Management  Spreadsheets, paper inspections, reactive fixes.  InfoAsset Manager centralizes data, enables mobile inspections, and prioritizes rehabilitation by risk. 
    Flood & Compliance  Limited modeling; reactive responses to climate and CSO events.  InfoWorks ICM integrates advanced storm/wastewater modeling with scenarios and compliance reporting. 
    Drainage Design  Manual stormwater/SuDS design, slow approvals.  InfoDrainage automates design workflows and compliance reporting. 
    Operations & Monitoring  Little to no real-time insight; reactive management.  Info360 Insight & Asset provide live monitoring, predictive analytics, and cloud intelligence. 
    Supporting You Beyond The Switch

    FOCUSED USER TRAINING
    Equip your team with the skills they need to thrive. Our tailored training sessions empower users to fully leverage the enhanced features, productivity tools, and updated interface of the latest Autodesk software—reducing the learning curve and accelerating adoption.

    Learn More >>

    SOLIDASSIST TECHNICAL SUPPORT
    Gain peace of mind with ongoing, Canada-wide technical support from SolidCAD’s bilingual, Autodesk-certified experts. Whether it’s troubleshooting a software issue, resolving deployment hiccups, or answering user questions, we’re here to help—in English and French, when and where you need us.

    Learn More >>

    CAD ↔ GIS INTEGRATION SUPPORT
    Don’t let data silos hold you back. Our FME-certified integration specialists ensure your CAD and GIS systems remain connected and optimized after your upgrade—preserving automated workflows, spatial data accuracy, and interoperability between platforms.

    Learn More >>

    CAD to PLM/PDM

    CAD ↔ PDM/PLM INTEGRATION SUPPORT
    Avoid workflow disruptions during your upgrade. Our experts ensure that your CAD data remains seamlessly integrated with Vault, PLM, or ERP systems—preserving revision control, BOM accuracy, and downstream automation. Whether you’re syncing assemblies, managing lifecycle states, or automating release processes, we help keep your data flowing smoothly.

    Learn More >>

    DEDICATED PROJECT MANAGEMENT
    Every Upgrade & Empower engagement includes a dedicated SolidCAD Project Manager who oversees planning, communication, and delivery—keeping your project on track, mitigating risk, and ensuring a seamless transition from start to finish.

    Why Plan Ahead with SolidCAD?

    As Autodesk’s Platinum Partner in Canada, SolidCAD helps municipalities move from outdated or missing tools into a future-ready environment. Our team ensures your investment pays off — with implementation, integration, and training designed for real-world municipal workflows. 

    SolidCAD can outline exclusive transition options for municipalities still on legacy Innovyze or starting fresh with AWI. We’ll review your current tools, identify the gaps, and map a path that fits your priorities, timelines and budget. 
    Contact Us today >>>

    Contact Us:

    Crozier & Associates Inc. Success Story

    Posted on by Jonathan Potter
    Case Study

    Success Story: Crozier & Associates Inc.

    .

    The Rhythm of Engineering

    There is a certain music in engineering. Not measured in notes, but in the rhythm of process: workflows aligned, approvals moving forward without delay, teams working in time with one another.

    For Crozier: Consulting Engineers (Crozier), that rhythm has always mattered. The necessity and desire to embrace innovation and collaboration has been a fundamental part of their leadership ethos. That same forward-thinking mindset is also why Crozier was recently named one of Canada’s Top Growing Companies for the third year in a row, standing out against more than 400 organizations nationwide.

    Behind that recognition lies more than growth for its own sake. As Crozier’s footprint expands across Ontario and into new markets, the complexity of projects, clients, and regulatory environments continues to increase. To meet these demands without sacrificing quality or speed, the firm has made digital transformation a strategic priority. By adopting Building Information Modeling (BIM) and cloud-based collaboration through Autodesk Construction Cloud, Crozier has redefined how its teams design, coordinate, and deliver work.

    Every office, whether in Toronto, Collingwood, Milton, Bradford, or Guelph, now operates from a shared digital environment. Drawings, models, and data flow seamlessly between disciplines, enabling real-time coordination. What once required manual effort and repeated revisions is now streamlined, traceable, and transparent. This foundation has allowed Crozier to scale confidently, take on larger and more complex land development and infrastructure portfolios, and extend its reach into new regions while maintaining a harmonious consistency and precision that define its work.

    In short, Crozier’s expansion is not just supported by technology; it is powered by it. The adoption of BIM has become the quiet rhythm behind their continued growth, the pulse that keeps every project, every office, and every team moving in time.

    .

    BIM in Civil Infrastructure Frameworks: Why now?

    Building Information Modeling (BIM) has long been embraced by engineers, architects and construction firms to improve collaboration and provide one source of truth. Now civil infrastructure is adopting BIM as well, streamlining and optimizing how projects are delivered. Through their strong focus on Autodesk Civil 3D, Crozier knew it was time to expand their expertise and knowledge by learning more of other Autodesk technology such as Revit, Autodesk Construction Cloud and specifically BIM Collaborate Pro to further refine their workflows and collaboration to such a degree that they could confidently take on more projects with the same team—setting the stage for their BIM evolution.

    Crozier is a leading example of this shift. By moving to a collaborative BIM framework, the firm has given their engineers and designers across the province the ability to work in perfect synchronization. Data is no longer trapped in silos, and teams have the same version-controlled information whether they are in the office or in the field.

    “It doesn’t matter whether you are in the office or remote, you get the same performance. Everything is centralized, version-controlled, and accessible to the whole team. It is faster, more reliable, and eliminates silos.”
    – Derek Gauer, Senior Designer

    This transformation has given Crozier the ability to scale project delivery, ensuring the same resources can manage greater volume and complexity. The why is clear: stronger collaboration and the ability to expand into new markets while maintaining quality.

    The Leap: Crozier’s Attitude Toward Innovation

    Crozier didn’t wait for the industry to catch up; they led with confidence. With an attitude rooted in curiosity and efficiency, they have consistently sought out new ways of working that promote innovation and productivity.

    This mindset has also driven deeper mastery of Autodesk Civil 3D, but also looking to adopt other technology like Autodesk Revit, and ACC’s BIM Collaborate Pro which has become a launchpad for growth into new geographies and services. The firm sees BIM not only as a compliance or coordination tool, but as a competitive differentiator—one that allows them to take on more work with greater confidence.






    Business Impact of Implementation & Integration

    The measurable benefits of Crozier’s migration to BIM and ACC include:

    • Increased capacity: More projects managed without growing resource pool.
    • Efficient collaboration: Multi-office teams sharing a single source of truth.
    • Digitized delivery: Faster reviews and fewer bottlenecks.
    • Reduced risk: Automated version control, fewer conflicts, and peace of mind.
    • Time savings: Hours recovered each week by eliminating redundancies.

    “Automated version control has been one of the biggest wins. Before, we relied on people to follow procedures. Now it happens automatically, secure, backed up, and easy to trace. That gives our teams huge peace of mind.”
    – Derek Gauer, Senior Designer

    A Dual Path of Innovation: AI and Cloud Technology

    Internal R&D in AI

    Crozier’s independent AI exploration is focused on land development and water management, where predictive modeling and machine learning are reshaping how communities plan for sustainable growth.

    Partnering with SolidCAD

    For more than a decade, SolidCAD has stood beside Crozier as a trusted partner in innovation. What began with early guidance in Autodesk Civil 3D has evolved into a long-term collaboration focused on digital transformation and smarter project delivery. Through hands-on support, training, and implementation, SolidCAD has helped Crozier turn technology into an enabler of growth, ensuring that every new system adopted strengthens the firm’s rhythm of coordination and excellence.






    Looking Ahead: A Call to the Industry

    Crozier’s journey demonstrates what is possible when culture and technology align. But their success also highlights a reality: more companies in the civil engineering space need to start thinking seriously about their BIM strategy.

    Without it, firms risk inefficiency, and limited scalability—while competitors move ahead with digitized delivery, predictive analytics, and seamless collaboration.
    Crozier’s recognition as a top Canadian growth company is not just an accolade—it is proof that innovation pays. The firms that embrace integration, invest in cloud-based BIM, and explore AI are the ones best positioned to thrive.

    Read more about how SolidCAD’s solutions can support your BIM strategy →

    The Music of Process

    The story returns to its rhythm. At Crozier, the music of engineering is not only intact, it is amplified. Their willingness to adopt, experiment, and implement smarter processes has created a new harmony: faster, smarter, and more collaborative delivery.

    What once required more effort now flows more smoothly. What once relied on fragmented systems now plays in concert. Crozier and SolidCAD have shown that when technology and culture align, the result is not just efficiency, but transformation.

    And in that transformation lies the why: because in today’s industry, the firms that innovate are the ones that thrive.

    Crozier press release – Top Growing Companies 2025 (Globe and Mail ranking):
    https://www.cfcrozier.ca/crozier-named-one-of-canadas-top-growing-companies-for-third-consecutive-year/

    Autodesk – Benefits of BIM (efficiency, cost savings, collaboration):
    https://www.autodesk.com/solutions/aec/bim/benefits-of-bim/

    Revizto – Top 10 Benefits of BIM (errors, productivity, collaboration):
    https://revizto.com/en/top-benefits-of-bim/

    Desapex – How BIM Leads to Cost Savings and Increased Efficiency:
    https://www.desapex.com/blog-posts/how-bim-leads-to-cost-savings-and-increased-efficiency-in-construction

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    Plasman Success Story

    Posted on by Jonathan Potter
    Case Study

    Success Story: Plasman Windsor Tooling

    C.F Crozier
    .

    From Skilled Hands to Scalable Processes

    For years, Plasman’s CAM programming success was driven by the experience of its people. Skilled programmers relied on tribal knowledge, using workarounds, manual sketches, and years of intuition to deliver quality results. While this worked, it created real risks: processes were inconsistent, knowledge wasn’t documented, and scaling production meant scaling stress.

    As demand grew, leadership recognized the need to move from craftsmanship built on memory to repeatable excellence powered by automation. The vision was clear: eliminate repetitive tasks, reduce errors, and empower the programming team to focus on innovation rather than firefighting.

    A Collaborative Turning Point

    Plasman engaged SolidCAD to explore options for streamlining workflows. A live OptiNC demonstration became the catalyst, showing the team in real time how automation could remove repetitive bottlenecks, standardize processes, and ensure reliable, predictable outcomes.

    Phased Implementation Highlights

    • 3-Day Onboarding: Training programmers on OptiNC’s core functionalities, 2D/3D features, and live template creation.
    • 8-Week Structured Implementation: Weekly collaboration sessions addressing roadblocks, documenting progress, and tailoring automation to Plasman’s unique needs.
    • Proactive Communication: Detailed session recaps and next steps that kept both teams aligned and momentum strong.

    Measurable Business Outcomes

    Nine months later, the results speak for themselves:

    • 70% reduction in programming time through automated strategies.
    • 16 hours freed up per week for value-added work.
    • 25% increase in machine output without additional headcount.
    • Higher first-pass yield and standardized, predictable outcomes.

    What was once dependent on a handful of experts is now a scalable, repeatable process that supports Plasman’s long-term growth.

    Looking Ahead

    Plasman started with two OptiNC licenses, expanded into structured implementation, and has since grown its footprint with a third seat to support new machines.

    A Scalable Foundation for the Future

    “This change didn’t just improve our day-to-day operations. By standardizing our process and leveraging automation, we now have a system that can grow with our business.”

    A Blueprint for Manufacturers

    Plasman’s journey will feel familiar to many manufacturers balancing expertise and efficiency. The lesson is clear: scaling up is not about working harder, but working smarter. Investing in people, process, and technology builds resilience that lasts.

    Partnership and Trust

    “SolidCAD didn’t just sell us software. They became an extension of our team. They understood our challenges, guided us through every step, and made sure the solution fit our real-world process. It felt like a true partnership, not a transaction.”

    To learn more about Plasman Windsor Tooling’s success with SolidCAD and OptiNC, visit our blog on how automation and collaboration helped transform experience into repeatable excellence.

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    Built to Scale: How Greenlane Reinvented Its Operations for Sustainable Expansion

    Posted on by David Medeiros
    Case Study

    Built to Scale: How Greenlane Reinvented Its Operations for Sustainable Expansion

    An Energy Transition Leader at an Inflection Point

    As a pioneer and leading specialist in biogas desulfurization and upgrading, Greenlane Renewables has been actively contributing to the decarbonization of our planet for over 35 years with more than 355 systems supplied into 28 countries.  Their systems transform biogas generated from organic waste into high-value low-carbon grid-ready renewable natural gas (“RNG”) from a wide range of sources such as landfills, sugar mills, dairy farms, wastewater, and food waste. But as climate urgency accelerated and global demand surged, Greenlane faced a familiar challenge for high-growth innovators:

    How do you scale complex engineering operations without compromising quality, innovation, or sustainability?

    Greenlane was expanding fast, deploying biogas upgrading systems internationally. But behind the scenes, the company’s legacy Engineer-to-Order (ETO) model was slowing progress.

    “We had the technology and the market. But our internal systems hadn’t kept pace. If we wanted to scale without compromising quality, something had to change.”

    – Duran Cheung, Director of Engineering Services, Greenlane Renewables

    The Growing Pains of a Custom Engineering Model

    Greenlane’s engineering team had long been known for its adaptability and custom project delivery. However, the Engineer-to-Order (ETO) model led to duplicated efforts, documentation that was challenging to track, and siloed systems that made it difficult to scale.

    “At one point, we had 50+ copies of the same document floating around. It wasn’t just inefficient—it made it harder to innovate. We needed a better way to manage product data and eliminate unnecessary work.”
    — Duran Cheung

    Key Challenges holding them Back

    Behind Greenlane’s reputation for innovation was a set of growing operational challenges. Teams were working from disconnected systems, and critical information was often slow to communicate and required manual operations. Collaboration between engineering and procurement lacked structure, and reusing past work often meant starting from scratch.

    There was no single place to track a part’s full lifecycle—and as the company scaled, so did the complexity of its compliance and reporting needs. Better traceability was required. The opportunities for improvement were becoming impossible to ignore.

    The Shift: From Custom Chaos to Configured Clarity

    Instead of hiring more engineers, Greenlane made a strategic decision: transform their business model from ETO to Configure-to-Order (CTO). This shift would require new systems, tighter workflows, and a single digital thread from design to delivery.

    They partnered with SolidCAD to lead the transformation.

    “We weren’t just adding software. We were rethinking how we work as an organization. SolidCAD brought the knowledge and their unique support to help us do it right.”
    — Duran Cheung

    The Solution: Fusion Manage + SolidCAD Expertise

    SolidCAD helped Greenlane implement Autodesk Fusion Manage, configuring the cloud-based PLM platform to meet the company’s unique needs as a cleantech solutions provider. Workspaces were created for Engineering, Supplier Management, and Quality, standardizing everything from part creation to BOM lifecycles.

    To amplify impact, SolidCAD also integrated Fusion Manage with NetSuite ERP using the Nexus connector, ensuring seamless and instantaneous data handoffs from engineering to procurement.

    “Now, when an item is approved in PLM, it flows into ERP automatically—with part numbers, supplier, and documentation data included. That kind of automation didn’t exist before.”
    — Duran Cheung Continue reading “Built to Scale: How Greenlane Reinvented Its Operations for Sustainable Expansion”

    SolidCAD Announces Acquisition by Symetri, Part of Addnode Group

    Posted on by Daniella Delgado

    SolidCAD Announces Acquisition by Symetri, Part of Addnode Group

    A Strategic Move to Enhance Global Expertise and Service for Autodesk and Bluebeam Clients across Canada

    Toronto, ON, October 7, 2025 – SolidCAD, a leading Canadian provider and consultant of technology solutions for the architecture, engineering, construction, and manufacturing sectors, is excited to announce that it has been acquired by Symetri, a global leader in digital solutions for industries that design, build and manufacture. SolidCAD has operated in Canada as a subsidiary within the Cansel Group of Companies.  This transaction marks Symetri’s entry into the Canadian market.

    Symetri is part of Addnode Group, an internationally recognized leader in digital transformation. Through this acquisition, SolidCAD joins Symetri’s global network of over 1,000 employees in 30 offices across Europe, the United States and Brazil, serving more than 25,000 customers.

    Symetri is an Autodesk Platinum Partner and its focus on innovation and sustainability aligns perfectly with SolidCAD’s mission: to simplify technology so people can work smarter, with greater clarity and confidence.

    Strategic Alignment with Autodesk and Bluebeam

    This marks a significant moment for SolidCAD, as the organization joins forces with Symetri to strengthen its alignment with Autodesk and Bluebeam. As SolidCAD operates as Bluebeam’s only Sapphire Partner and Autodesk’s largest Platinum Partner in Canada, they can combine expertise of both companies. Clients across Canada will benefit from an expanded portfolio of solutions, deeper industry knowledge, and enhanced support tailored to the evolving needs of design, manufacturing and construction professionals.

    Expanded Solutions: Naviate, Sovelia and CQ Products & Services

    As part of this transition, SolidCAD will introduce Symetri’s renowned Naviate, Sovelia and CQ products and services to the Canadian market. Naviate and Sovelia offers advanced productivity tools for Autodesk users, while CQ delivers comprehensive licence deployment and optimisation solutions. This addition broadens the range of innovative tools available to clients, helping organizations optimize workflows and achieve new levels of efficiency.

    Commitment to Clients and Employees

    SolidCAD, Symetri, and Addnode Group are united in their commitment to ensuring a seamless transition for all clients and employees. There will be no disruptions to ongoing projects, service agreements, or day-to-day operations. Clients can expect the same high level of expert consulting and support, while employees will continue to work within a collaborative and growth-focused environment. The integration aims to create new opportunities for professional development and knowledge sharing.

    Leadership Perspectives

    Marcus Tateishi, President, SolidCAD: “Joining Symetri and Addnode Group is a tremendous step forward for SolidCAD. Our clients will benefit from an expanded set of solutions and global expertise, while our team gains new opportunities to innovate and grow. We remain dedicated to delivering the best possible service and support.”

    Martin Trudelle, CEO of Cansel Group: “This acquisition represents a positive and strategic development for SolidCAD. As SolidCAD continues to grow, we see tremendous value in them joining an organization that truly understands their business units, their partners, and the broader CAD industry. With SolidCAD’s deep involvement in this space, we are confident that their clients will benefit from even stronger and more aligned support, empowering them to thrive in an ever-evolving technological landscape.”

    Jens Kollserud, CEO, Symetri: “We are delighted to welcome SolidCAD into the Symetri and Addnode Group team. Together, we will deliver even greater value to our clients, combining local expertise with global resources. Our shared vision focuses on innovation, sustainability, and empowering our customers to achieve their goals.”

    Looking Ahead

    SolidCAD’s acquisition by Symetri opens a new chapter of growth, collaboration, and innovation. Clients and partners can look forward to enhanced support, a broader range of solutions, and ongoing dedication to their success. For further information, please contact: marketing@solidcad.ca.

    Fort Capital Partners acted as the financial advisor to Cansel and SolidCAD in this transaction

    About Symetri

    Symetri creates and provides technology solutions and services for design, engineering, construction and manufacturing businesses. We empower people to work smarter for a better future by ensuring they have access to the expertise and technology they need to improve their performance and sustainability.

    Symetri was founded in Sweden in 1989 and has grown to a team of over 1000 people with offices throughout Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, UK, Ireland, US and Brazil. Symetri is an Autodesk Platinum Partner, Autodesk Authorised Training Centre (ATC) and Autodesk Global Service Provider.

    Symetri is part of Addnode Group AB, whose B shares are listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm. Addnode Group offers business-critical IT solutions to selected markets in both the private and public sectors.

    For more information, visit: www.symetri.com.

    About Addnode Group

    Addnode Group acquires, operates, and develops cutting-edge enterprises that digitalize society. With 2,700 employees across 20 countries, Addnode Group is a leading global provider of software and services for design, construction, product data, and facility management.

    For more information, visit:  www.addnodegroup.com/

    SolidCAD Expands Portfolio with GoCanvas and SiteDocs, Delivering Safety and Compliance Innovation to Canadian Worksites

    Posted on by Daniella Delgado

    TORONTO – September 22, 2025 – SolidCAD, a leading Canadian technology consulting firm, today announced a strategic portfolio expansion through partnerships with GoCanvas and SiteDocs, bringing advanced compliance, health, and safety management solutions to organizations across Canada.

    GoCanvas, part of the renowned Nemetschek Group parent company to technology brands like Bluebeam, empowers field teams to move beyond outdated paper-based processes with digital data capture, GPS tracking, and connected workflows. As Bluebeam’s only Sapphire Partner in Canada, SolidCAD is uniquely positioned to extend these solutions to current Bluebeam clients while also expanding into the broader health and safety space. Through GoCanvas offerings such as SiteDocs, SolidCAD can also deliver dedicated compliance solutions that support safety leaders and EHS professionals in building safer, audit-ready workplaces.

    Through this partnership, SolidCAD strengthens its ability to provide connected, integrated solutions that bridge design, data, and compliance. Bluebeam users will soon be able to seamlessly connect GoCanvas workflows with Bluebeam Revu, enabling teams to assign tasks, dispatch forms, track real-time status, and link submissions back to Revu markups for streamlined documentation.

    “Most of our clients in construction, utilities, and manufacturing are still relying on pen and paper for compliance and safety management,” said Marcus Tateishi, President at SolidCAD. “With GoCanvas and SiteDocs, we are delivering modern, digital solutions that not only improve compliance and support COR certification but also protect the health and safety of every worker in the field. Combined with Bluebeam, these tools give Canadian firms the technology ecosystem they’ve been asking for, while opening the door to serve the broader health and safety sector with purpose-built compliance technology.”

    SiteDocs, part of the GoCanvas portfolio, adds specialized safety compliance management capabilities, including digital safety forms, real-time dashboards, analytics, and audit-ready reporting. Its strong alignment with Canadian workplace standards makes it a natural fit for organizations that must meet COR certification and other compliance requirements.

    SolidCAD’s expanded offering will be further showcased at Bluebeam’s Unbound event in Washington, DC from September 30 to October 2, where attendees will get an exclusive look at the connection points between Bluebeam, GoCanvas, and SiteDocs, and the transformative impact these solutions can have on project delivery, compliance programs, and worker safety.

    “There’s been a lack of innovation in the compliance and safety space,” added Jon Coley, SVP, of Sales at GoCanvas. “By partnering with GoCanvas and SiteDocs, SolidCAD is filling that gap, bringing powerful technology solutions to the Canadian market and helping businesses transition away from manual, paper-driven processes.”

    To learn more about GoCanvas or SiteDocs, visit gocanvas.com and sitedocs.com

     

    About GoCanvas

    GoCanvas is a leading mobile and cloud-based platform that replaces outdated paper processes with digital forms and connected workflows. Designed for field teams across industries such as construction, utilities, and manufacturing, GoCanvas simplifies the way organizations capture, track, and share data. With features like GPS integration, image capture, signatures, and offline functionality, the platform delivers real-time visibility into field operations while improving accuracy and efficiency. Backed by the Nemetschek Group, GoCanvas empowers businesses to reduce risk, save time, and achieve stronger compliance through digital transformation.

    About SiteDocs

    SiteDocs, part of the GoCanvas portfolio, is an award-winning safety management software built to help organizations create safer, more compliant worksites. The platform digitizes critical health and safety processes—such as inspections, hazard assessments, and incident reports—while providing real-time dashboards and analytics for decision-makers. SiteDocs also supports certification tracking and audit-ready reporting, making it easier for companies to meet COR certification and other compliance standards. By replacing manual, paper-driven workflows with a modern digital solution, SiteDocs enables safety leaders to proactively manage risk and foster a stronger culture of safety across every jobsite.

    Autodesk Canada Data Residency: What It Means for AEC and Civil Projects

    Posted on by Rikki Kenzhebayeva

    Current Offers and Promotions

    Autodesk Canada Data Residency: What It Means for AEC and Civil Projects

    Canadian-hosted Autodesk Docs and BIM Collaborate Pro empower AEC and Civil teams to improve compliance, streamline collaboration, and build project confidence.

    Autodesk Docs and BIM Collaborate Pro hosted in Canada supporting AEC and Civil teams with secure cloud collaboration and data residency compliance.

    Autodesk Expands Cloud Hosting to Canada

    Autodesk has officially expanded its regional cloud offerings to Canada, enabling AEC and Civil professionals to store project data securely within Canadian borders.

    This update includes:

    • Autodesk Docs

    • Autodesk BIM Collaborate

    • Autodesk BIM Collaborate Pro (including Collaboration for Revit and Collaboration for Civil 3D)

    By offering Canadian-hosted data, Autodesk addresses a major barrier for firms that need to meet data residency, sovereignty, and compliance requirements.

    View Autodesk’s official announcement

    Why It Matters for AEC and Civil Projects

    • Compliance and Sovereignty: Easier alignment with government procurement rules and ISO 19650 standards.

    • Performance: Reduced latency and faster access to files for distributed Canadian teams.

    • Transparency: Audit trails, version control, and document traceability for both private and public projects.

    • Client Trust: Assurance that sensitive project data remains within Canada.

    SolidCAD’s Role in Supporting Canadian AEC Firms

    As an Autodesk Platinum Partner, SolidCAD is ready to help AEC and Civil firms make the most of this regional expansion by providing:

    • Cloud Readiness Assessments – Identify barriers to adoption, from IT restrictions to workflow gaps.

    • Implementation Services – Data migration, template setups, directory structures, and ISO 19650–aligned configuration.

    • Training and Support – From one-day Autodesk Docs training to advanced BIM coordination workshops.

    • Bilingual Enablement – English and French support for government and public-sector projects.

    Explore SolidCAD’s AEC and Civil Infrastructure Consulting Services.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is Autodesk Docs hosted in Canada?

    Yes. Autodesk Docs now supports Canadian-hosted data, ensuring organizations can meet data residency and compliance requirements.

    Does BIM Collaborate Pro support Canadian data residency?

    Yes. BIM Collaborate Pro, including Collaboration for Revit and Civil 3D, is supported in Canada.

    Why is Canadian data residency important for AEC firms?

    It ensures project data stays within Canadian borders, supporting compliance with government procurement, ISO 19650 standards, and client expectations.

    How does this benefit government and public-sector clients?

    Governments can ensure transparent, auditable project records and collaborate seamlessly with consultants and contractors.

    How can SolidCAD help?

    SolidCAD provides adoption planning, implementation, training, and bilingual support to help firms securely transition to Autodesk Docs and BIM Collaborate Pro.

    Looking Ahead

    This new Canadian data region marks a major milestone for the AEC industry in Canada. Firms and agencies can now collaborate more efficiently, ensure compliance, and confidently move their projects to the cloud — supported by SolidCAD’s expertise.

    Contact SolidCAD today to learn how Autodesk Docs and BIM Collaborate Pro can transform your AEC and Civil projects.

    Contact Us:

    Northern Transformer Corporation

    Posted on by David Medeiros
    Case Study

    Northern Transformer Corporation

    Powering Canada’s Future: How Northern Transformer is Leading Grid Modernization

    For decades, Canada’s aging power grid has quietly carried the weight of an expanding, electrified society. Designed for a different era, this infrastructure—now averaging 50 to 70 years old—was never meant to handle the increase of demand we see today. 

    The shift toward renewable energy, electrification, and large-scale industrial and resource electrification has driven the need for high-performance power transformers, which are critical for ensuring the grid can meet the demands of a modern, electrified society. Utilities across North America are investing in grid modernization at an unprecedented rate, but without the right infrastructure in place, the transition to a sustainable energy future is at risk. 

    For Northern Transformer, this was a turning point. The company had long been known for its commitment to quality, precision engineering, and exceptional client relationships. But as demand surged, one question loomed: 

    Could they scale fast enough to help modernize Canada’s power grid—without compromising the reputation they had spent years building?

    “We find ourselves in the right place at the right time, but getting here required years of preparation and a commitment by our team to doing things the right way.”

    – Alexei Miecznikowski, CEO at Northern Transformer Corporation

    Scaling Smart: The Challenge of Growth 

    For years, Northern Transformer thrived on an engineer-to-order model, designing power transformers tailored to the specific needs of utilities and industrial clients. Every project was built with meticulous care, ensuring each power transformer met the highest standards of performance and reliability. 

    But as orders grew and power transformer designs became increasingly complex, traditional workflows began to strain under the pressure. 

    • Manual data handling led to inconsistencies in revisions and slowed project execution. 
    • Engineering and manufacturing teams lacked a unified system, making collaboration more difficult. 
    • Regulatory compliance, particularly in sectors like nuclear energy, required more stringent documentation and tracking. 

    “When it was just one designer and one quality person, things were simple. Now, with large design and quality teams, everything changes. You need visibility, structured processes, and a way to ensure consistency as you grow.”  – Alexei Miecznikowski, CEO 

    The company faced a stark reality—without significant transformation, they risked falling behind at a time when the industry needed them most. 

    Redefining the Future of Power Transformer Manufacturing 

    Rather than simply hiring more engineers or expanding floor space, Northern Transformer took a strategic approach to growth. Modernizing their processes was just as crucial as modernizing the product. 

    They redefined how information flowed through the company, ensuring that every step—from customer specifications to engineering to manufacturing—was seamless, efficient, and scalable. 

    “The product isn’t just the power transformer—it’s also the data that defines it. That data needs to move through the organization without gaps or inefficiencies.” – Russell Anderson, VP of Business Systems & IT 

    As part of this transformation, SolidCAD played a key role as a special resource in helping Northern Transformer refine its workflows, introducing integrated design and data management solutions that enabled better collaboration and reduced inefficiencies. With the investment into their systems and processes, Northern Transformer was able to: 

    • Streamline engineering processes, eliminating bottlenecks and unnecessary revisions. 
    • Improve real-time collaboration across departments, ensuring design accuracy. 
    • Strengthen data management and compliance, particularly for the nuclear and utility industries. 
    • Optimize the transition to design and manufacture more sophisticated power transformers, paving the way for future expansion. 

    This shift allowed them to not only increase production capacity but also pursue larger, more ambitious projects, further solidifying their leadership in the market.  

    “There’s a saying—‘Nail it, then scale it.’ The better you get things right before growth, the smoother that scaling process will be. That’s exactly what we are doing.” – Alexei Miecznikowski, CEO 

    Rising to the Challenge of Grid Modernization 

    Today, Northern Transformer is helping lead Canada’s energy transformation, ensuring that utilities and industries have the infrastructure needed to support electrification, industrial growth, and sustainability goals. 

    Their ability to scale without sacrificing quality has allowed them to take on higher-voltage power transformers, directly supporting Canada’s long-term energy goals. 

    “Every time power is generated, used, or transmitted, it passes through a power transformer. Our job is to make sure that Canada has the right infrastructure in place to power a sustainable future.”  – Alexei Miecznikowski, CEO 

    The company continues to grow at an exceptional pace—a pace made possible by deliberate investments in people, processes, and products. Nowhere is this more evident than within their design team, whose technical expertise is both a critical enabler but also a limiting factor in scaling. 

    With resources already stretched, executing large-scale strategic projects could have posed a significant challenge. However, through close collaboration with SolidCAD, Northern Transformer has been able to overcome those constraints, accelerating implementation timelines while minimizing the impact on their internal teams. 

    A Blueprint for Industry Leaders 

    Northern Transformer’s journey is one that many growing manufacturers can relate to—a crossroads where scaling up must be done without losing what made them successful in the first place. 

    Their story offers a valuable lesson for any company facing the challenge of rapid industry change: 

    • Growth isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working smarter. 
    • Investing in people, processes, and technology leads to long-term success. 
    • Adapting to industry shifts is essential for staying ahead. 

    As electrification, grid expansion, and renewable energy adoption accelerate, Northern Transformer is proving that with the right vision and strategy, even the most ambitious goals are achievable. 

    “When we started, a lot of industry veterans told us we were crazy. But our clients believe in us, they’re supporting us on this path, and now the veterans are excited to participate and help us succeed.”  – Alexei Miecznikowski, CEO 

    This is not the end of the story. As the energy landscape continues to evolve, so do the demands placed on manufacturers like Northern Transformer. Digital transformation is a continuous journey—and SolidCAD remains a committed resource, working alongside Northern Transformer to adapt, innovate, and lead the industry forward. Together, we’re building not just for today, but for the grid of the future. 

    To read more about Northern Transformer’s digital transformation with SolidCAD and the solution provided check our latest blog “From Growing Pains to Grid Leadership: Northern Transformer’s Digital Transformation.” 

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    Upgrade & Empower Your Autodesk Software and Workflows Before Windows 10 End-of-Life

    Posted on by Rikki Kenzhebayeva

    Current Offers and Promotions

    Prepare for Windows 10 End-of-Life. Migrate Autodesk Workflows with SolidCAD

    Whether you're managing infrastructure projects or manufacturing operations, outdated systems can disrupt your workflows. SolidCAD's Upgrade and Empower offering can help you transition with confidence.

    Windows 10 End-of-Life Is Coming — Is Your Autodesk Environment Ready?

    Autodesk Support for Windows 10 Is Ending in 2025

    Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Autodesk has confirmed that several of its key products will also cease support for Windows 10 systems shortly before or after this date. This includes popular desktop and cloud-connected tools used across engineering, design, simulation, and data management environments.

    What This Means for Your Business:

    If your team is still using Autodesk 2022 or earlier on Windows 10, you could soon face:

    • Software installation failures and instability
    • Security vulnerabilities from outdated OS and unsupported software
    • Broken integrations with GIS, PLM, and ERP tools
    • Delays in workflow automation and cross-functional collaboration
    • Unexpected IT spend from emergency upgrades or system crashes

    Even though Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESUs), Autodesk does not support ESUs, which means using them may not prevent software issues.

    Don’t Let Disruption Catch You Off Guard

    Whether you work in Infrastructure or Manufacturing, this transition will affect how your teams use Autodesk. SolidCAD is here to help you make the shift—strategically and smoothly.

    Introducing SolidCAD’s Upgrade & Empower Package

    A complete, done-for-you migration service tailored for Infrastructure and Manufacturing professionals across Canada. We help you prepare your Autodesk workflows for the Windows 11 environment without interruption or risk.

    This comprehensive solution goes beyond an operating system upgrade. It ensures your environment is:

    • Fully modernized
    • Optimized for peak performance
    • Aligned with current OS and Autodesk software standards

    For Infrastructure Teams

    SolidCAD helps infrastructure teams migrate from Windows 10 with minimal disruption to:

    • Design workflows (AutoCAD, Map 3D, InfraWorks)
    • CAD ⇄ GIS integrations
    • Field-to-finish project delivery systems

    What’s Included:

    License Review & Hardware Audit
    We evaluate your current Autodesk license usage and perform a comprehensive system audit alongside your IT team to verify hardware compatibility before moving to Windows 11.

    Autodesk Software Deployment
    Our experts assist with organization-wide deployment using Microsoft SCCM or your preferred method—ensuring a clean, consistent rollout across all workstations.

    Customization & Settings Modernization
    We modernize all critical configuration elements including plot styles, template paths, and custom scripts to ensure seamless operation in your upgraded environment.

    Pre-Migration Testing & Validation
    Every system is thoroughly tested and validated in a controlled environment—ensuring a bug-free, disruption-free go-live experience.

    Workflow Optimization
    We align your team’s workflows with industry best practices—from naming conventions to field-to-finish automation—boosting both consistency and efficiency across projects.

    For Manufacturing Teams

    SolidCAD supports manufacturing clients with a seamless migration that protects:

    • Engineering workflows
    • PLM and ERP integrations
    • Production and CAM processes

    What’s Included:

    License Review & Hardware Audit
    We evaluate your current Autodesk license usage and perform a comprehensive system audit alongside your IT team to verify hardware compatibility before moving to Windows 11.

    Autodesk Software Deployment
    Our team supports the deployment of key Autodesk tools such as Inventor, AutoCAD Mechanical, Fusion 360, and Vault using Microsoft SCCM or your preferred deployment method—ensuring a smooth and efficient rollout across your manufacturing environment.

    Template, iLogic & Custom Tool Updates
    We migrate and update templates, drawing standards, iLogic rules, macros, and custom add-ins to align with Windows 11 and the latest Autodesk versions—maintaining consistency and minimizing rework.

    Pre-Migration Testing & Validation
    We test your upgraded environment in a sandbox to ensure all engineering and production workflows perform reliably. This includes checking part libraries, assembly structures, Vault access, and BOM generation processes.

    Process Optimization for CAM & Automation
    We analyze your manufacturing workflows—such as CAM operations, toolpath automation, or part nesting—and align them with best practices to improve output consistency and reduce manual effort.

    Supporting You Beyond The Switch

    FOCUSED USER TRAINING
    Equip your team with the skills they need to thrive. Our tailored training sessions empower users to fully leverage the enhanced features, productivity tools, and updated interface of the latest Autodesk software—reducing the learning curve and accelerating adoption.

    Learn More >>

    SOLIDASSIST TECHNICAL SUPPORT
    Gain peace of mind with ongoing, Canada-wide technical support from SolidCAD’s bilingual, Autodesk-certified experts. Whether it’s troubleshooting a software issue, resolving deployment hiccups, or answering user questions, we’re here to help—in English and French, when and where you need us.

    Learn More >>

    CAD ↔ GIS INTEGRATION SUPPORT
    Don’t let data silos hold you back. Our FME-certified integration specialists ensure your CAD and GIS systems remain connected and optimized after your upgrade—preserving automated workflows, spatial data accuracy, and interoperability between platforms.

    Learn More >>

    CAD to PLM/PDM

    CAD ↔ PDM/PLM INTEGRATION SUPPORT
    Avoid workflow disruptions during your upgrade. Our experts ensure that your CAD data remains seamlessly integrated with Vault, PLM, or ERP systems—preserving revision control, BOM accuracy, and downstream automation. Whether you’re syncing assemblies, managing lifecycle states, or automating release processes, we help keep your data flowing smoothly.

    Learn More >>

    DEDICATED PROJECT MANAGEMENT
    Every Upgrade & Empower engagement includes a dedicated SolidCAD Project Manager who oversees planning, communication, and delivery—keeping your project on track, mitigating risk, and ensuring a seamless transition from start to finish.

    Why Plan Ahead with SolidCAD?

    Migrating from Windows 10 to 11 is more than avoiding compatibility issues—it’s about securing your Autodesk workflows, integrations, and long-term productivity.

    SolidCAD delivers more than just updates. We help you modernize, streamline, and strengthen your operations at every step of the transition.

    Ready to Start Planning?
    Avoid disruption and stay ahead of Autodesk’s evolving requirements.

    Contact Us Today >>

    Contact Us:

    SolidCAD Announces the Retirement of Founder and Long-Standing President, Michael Kugan

    Posted on by Rikki Kenzhebayeva

    June 16, 2025 – Toronto, ON — On March 31, 2025, SolidCAD officially marked the retirement of its founder and long-time President, Michael Kugan, closing a remarkable chapter in the company’s history. His retirement was honoured on June 12th with a special celebration alongside close friends, longtime colleagues, and family members who have been part of his journey throughout the years.

    Michael founded SolidCAD in May 1996, beginning with just two employees and a bold vision: to support Canadian manufacturers with cutting-edge design technology and services. Over the years, SolidCAD has grown into Canada’s largest Autodesk Platinum Partner and the country’s only Sapphire Bluebeam Partner, becoming a trusted leader in digital transformation across industries like manufacturing, architecture, engineering, and construction.

    Under Michael’s leadership, the company saw several pivotal milestones — from its 1999 merger with CADDGroup Educational Services, which expanded its reach into the AEC market, to the 2015 merger with Cansel, which set the stage for future growth. After stepping down as President in 2020 and passing the torch to Marcus Tateishi, Michael remained actively involved in an advisory role, continuing to support the company through periods of industry-wide change.

    Reflecting on his retirement, Michael shared:

    “Every happy story eventually ends, and so my direct involvement with SolidCAD has come to a close. When I started the company nearly 30 years ago, I never imagined it would become the largest Autodesk partner in Canada and such an influential player in our industry. That success has only been possible because of the incredible team — competent, motivated, and driven individuals who believed in our vision and carried it forward. I’m filled with pride and gratitude for what we’ve built together, and I know SolidCAD is in capable hands as it moves into the next chapter.”

    As SolidCAD approaches its 30th anniversary in 2026, Michael’s retirement marks the end of a foundational era — and the beginning of a bold new one. With a strong leadership team in place and a renewed focus on innovation and growth, the company is well-positioned to continue its legacy of excellence.

    We thank Michael for his years of leadership, vision, and unwavering belief in people as the heart of the company’s success. His impact will be felt for years to come.