Since 1999, Stratford Contracting has been a fixture in Fort McMurray, Alberta. Shawn Chaulk, the company’s founder and owner, has been a resident of the municipality since 1981, and he’s spent multiple decades shaping the local commercial construction landscape. In that time, the company has won a number of local industry awards for their quality and professionalism, and they have become well known locally for their philanthropy, supporting countless charities and children’s sports clubs. According to Shawn, that clear-eyed community focus has played a key role in the company’s success and longevity. From the start, Stratford Contracting has remained a locally owned and operated company, with their roots firmly planted in Fort McMurray. While opportunities have arisen elsewhere, Shawn has consciously chosen to remain local. His extensive network of clients, tradespeople, and suppliers forms the backbone of the company’s success. “When you’re in general contracting, it’s all about the relationships you have with your trades,” he explains. “You can’t just pack up your trades and go on the road. We stay local so that we can be best networked and best at what we do.” Today, Stratford Contracting focuses primarily on community-based projects for non-profits, institutions and charities. However, the company’s history demonstrates a remarkable range of experience. For years, it was a significant player in insurance rebuilds, responding to fires, floods, and other losses. Stratford Homes, a former division, constructed roughly 100 custom homes, highlighting the company’s versatility and commitment to quality. Now, in a self-described semi-retired phase, Shawn is able to handpick projects that align with his personal passions and values, including initiatives that give back to the SEPTEMBER 2025
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