For 50 years, Barchard Engineering Ltd. has specialized in supplying, servicing, repairing, calibrating meters and instrumentation for the natural gas industry by working with providers, suppliers and end-users across Canada. This family-owned and operated company is poised to continuing to excel in a shifting environment. From Alberta’s boom-and-bust cycles to internal succession, Barchard Engineering stays the course while continuing to grow and give back to the communities it serves.
Robert Barchard, general manager, explains how it all began.
“Barchard Engineering was founded by my grandfather, Frank, along with my dad, Barry. Frank had been working as a general manager at a different company and felt that customers’ needs weren’t always front and centre. He believed an independent company could serve customers better—with more flexibility, honesty and heart.”
The start was humble. The first office was in the basement of the Barchard family home and a small shop was created in the garage.
“Later,” Robert says, “The company moved into a small bay in Cornet Industrial, which gave us enough space to repair and test meters for a handful of local utilities and do some field work for oil and gas companies. In 1977, we moved into a bay at 6019 92 Street, where things really started to take shape. We branched into new ideas—fabricating tin case meters (including hand-soldering and casting metal parts), building custom medical spirometers with leather diaphragms and even designing relief valves for gas regulators.”
By 1997, the company had grown into a second bay and achieved Measurement Canada Accreditation, allowing them to test and seal meters for custody transfer.
The company Frank founded was based on, and continues to espouse, an important value – representation of their customers. Robert describes, “We focus on gas meters and pressure regulators and aim to offer multiple product options to ensure we match the best solution to each customer’s needs. Also, we put ourselves in the shoes of our clients to ensure we find the best solutions for their needs.”
Being a family-owned and operated company has also kept the foundation strong for 50 years. Barchard Engineering remains nimble, honest, customer-focused and proud of its exceptional shop culture. These values never change.
“We’re all about long-term relationships. Our model isn’t based on recurring revenue, so it’s been crucial for us to earn and keep the trust of our customers,” Robert says. “We focus on doing what’s genuinely in their best interest—being on their side, even when it’s not the easy route. That loyalty has gone both ways, and it’s a big part of what’s helped us grow.”
They know how to have fun too, as a team.
“Back when we had more open space, lunchtime floor hockey in the shipping bay was a regular thing—it was a great way to stay active and keep the mood light.”
Yet times changes and life moves on. Founder Frank passed 20 away years ago, shifting the internal gears of the company. A firm foundation saw a smooth succession, but the memorable part was the respect paid to the founder.
“People always remember him with a cigar in hand (even if it wasn’t lit) and a mug of unbelievably strong coffee,” Robert reminisces. “At his funeral, over 400 people—staff, customers, suppliers and even competitors—joined the family packed into a room meant for 100. It was an incredible show of respect and connection. That day really showed how much he meant to people and how deep those relationships ran.”
Those relationships are carefully nurtured, including the internal ones that keep Barchard Engineering strong.
“It’s been challenging to grow while keeping our culture intact,” Robert admits. “As we grow and bring new people on board, it takes real effort to pass along our values and approach. The last few years have also kept us operating at capacity, which can make it tough to maintain the level of service we’re proud of. Add in global supply shortages and two-year lead times from some manufacturers, and it’s clear to see that planning ahead has never been more critical—or more complicated.”
Despite it all, Barchard Engineering remains very committed to, “helping our employees grow and succeed. Supporting their careers and lives has been incredibly meaningful.”
Robert continues, speaking to the shop culture, “I like to call us a ‘families business’ rather than just a ‘family business.’ Yes, many of Frank’s children and grandchildren have worked here—including our current service manager, Mark Belous—but what really sets us apart is how many of our employees have brought in their own families. Twin brothers Gord and Gary brought in relatives over the years—Gary’s son Craig is our sales manager and his son joined us full-time in 2025. The Barahonas and their extended family represent six current employees. We’ve had plenty of other team members bring in friends and family, too. It creates a workplace that feels more like home.”
The family atmosphere includes some very special members. Robert explains, “The moments that touch me most are seeing employees overcome personal challenges, grow and thrive. Sometimes we take a chance on people without traditional ‘credentials,’ and it pays off immensely. Watching them put down roots, work hard and succeed is a privilege. Being part of their story changes their lives—and ours too.”
This generous spirit is seen across the community in terms of support and volunteering for a variety of non-profit organizations.
“We tend to support causes through our customers and their efforts. One of our customers raises tens of thousands annually for MS Canada. Another bikes to support the Kids with Cancer Society. We’re proud to contribute to their initiatives. Over the years, we’ve also backed various youth sports teams,” Robert says.
As he considers 50 years of business and the road ahead, Robert reflects with a smile, “We love our little industrial corner of the city. It’s full of other small suppliers and vendors, and that proximity means more face-to-face time, more collaboration and a stronger sense of community. Our customers often stop by while running supply errands around the area, which creates a bit of a small-town feel, even in the city. Our industry is tight knit. It’s not uncommon for someone to be our customer, supplier and competitor all at once—and yet, it works. There’s room for everyone to focus on what they do best and a spirit of helping each other out when it makes sense.”
“I want to express my thanks to our customers,” he adds. “We wouldn’t be here without your trust and support and beyond that, thank you for the relationships and friendships we’ve built over the years—they mean everything. We also acknowledge how the Federation of Alberta Gas Co-ops (Fedgas) has been instrumental in our journey. They’ve not only helped our customers grow but have also fostered a sense of community among the utilities and vendors in this space.”
Barchard Engineering is ready for the next 50 years – and beyond.
“Growth is on the horizon,” Robert concludes. “We’re currently working through a major renovation and expansion, and we’re looking forward to a bit more breathing room. With more space, we’ll be better equipped to take on new opportunities and continue supporting our team and customers the way we always have.”
Shop culture will also remain a focus of this family business.
“We value the ability to prioritize work/life balance, which makes us stronger as participants in our own families as well as at work and for the customers we serve.”
6019 92 ST NW Edmonton, AB T6E 3A5
Ph: 780-436-6124 | info@barchard.com
barchard.com
