HOPA Ports is reinforcing its commitment to Canadian infrastructure investment as it moves to ‘Buy Canada’ while investing in essential port infrastructure. A recent collaboration with Calgary-based Guardian Telecom Ltd. to upgrade security gate intercoms at the Port of Hamilton reflects this approach, showing how local procurement can enhance port operations and contribute to economic resilience.
The new Guardian Telecom intercoms offer improved clarity and functionality compared to the previous units,” said Peter Hammerl, Director of IT at HOPA Ports. “We’re pleased to work with a Canadian company whose products are engineered domestically, and early feedback from staff and visitors has been very positive.”
Supporting Canadian Industry
The investment in Guardian Telecom is one example of how HOPA’s capital investments are increasingly focusing on Canadian suppliers. The Buy Canada approach is designed to strengthen the broader economy by prioritizing Canadian-made solutions. This effort supports skilled trades, advanced manufacturing, and local technology firms, helping ensure that infrastructure investments benefit Canadian jobs and innovation.
In this case, the upgraded intercoms benefit port operations by improving sound quality and reliability, contributing to smoother visitor check-ins. “The enhanced system is helping create a more efficient and secure experience at our port gates,” Hammerl added.
Partnering with Canadian Manufacturer
Guardian Telecom Ltd., operating from a facility in Calgary since 1987, designs telecommunications equipment suited to challenging Canadian environments.
“At Guardian Telecom, we focus on delivering communications solutions tailored to Canadian conditions,” said Alex Rode, Technical Sales Engineer at Guardian Telecom Ltd. “Our work with HOPA Ports reflects our commitment to reliability and customer-focused innovation. As digital solutions like touchless check-ins become more common, we’re continuing to prioritize operational efficiency and a secure visitor experience.”
Looking Ahead
HOPA’s investment in Guardian Telecom Ltd. is part of a broader effort to use its capital budget to support Canadian companies and contribute to national economic resilience. HOPA invests over $30 million annually in capital improvements at its port facilities in Ontario.
