Bluegreen is preparing to establish production for its Marine Donut project in Campbell River on Vancouver Island. Site Manager Kent Skauen will be one of the people leading the work on the ground – and in October, he and his wife Anne are making Campbell River their new home.
For Kent, the move marks the beginning of both a major professional challenge and a new chapter in life.
“I’m really looking forward to it, while also feeling humbled by the task ahead. Working at home is easier – you know the people, the systems and the culture. In Campbell River, we’re building something new, and there’s a lot for us to learn along the way,” he says.
As Site Manager, Kent will be responsible for the day-to-day operations at Bluegreen’s production site, including coordinating the work, preparing for upcoming activities and maintaining a strong focus on health and safety.
Bluegreen is establishing the site as part of its Marine Donut project in British Columbia. The company is also building a local organization and plans to recruit and train local workers as activity increases.
Kent has already made several trips to Campbell River and is gradually getting to know the community.
“One thing I’ve learned is that you shouldn’t assume Canada and Norway are the same. There are similarities, of course, but the systems and ways of doing things can be very different. We have to come here ready to listen and learn.”
What has been easier to get used to is the warm welcome.
“People have been incredibly friendly and open. They stop and talk to you, and we’ve already made some good connections. That means a lot when you’re preparing to move to a new country.”
Kent is also looking forward to learning more about the First Nations of Vancouver Island and their communities.
“That is an important part of living and working here, and something we’re looking forward to understanding better.”
Kent won’t be making the move alone. His wife Anne is coming with him, and the couple will rent a house in Campbell River.
Anne will continue working part-time remotely as an accountant for her Norwegian employer, Økoråd, while also supporting Bluegreen with various tasks.
“I came over with Kent in June, so I’ve had the chance to experience Campbell River myself. It’s a beautiful place, and we’ve already met people we really enjoy spending time with. It feels good that we get to do this together,” says Anne.
Leaving Norway still comes with mixed emotions.
The couple have three children, aged 19, 24 and 25, who will remain in the Langesund area in southern Norway.
“Our children are grown up and have moved out, so in many ways the timing is right. Of course, it will be strange being so far away from them, but they’re excited for us,” Anne says.
There was, however, one condition.
“They told us we couldn’t take the dogs with us. Apparently, they’re fine with their parents moving to Canada – but not the dogs,” she laughs.
The children are already planning to visit, and the family is considering celebrating Christmas together in Canada.
For two people coming from a small coastal town in Norway, the landscape around Campbell River feels both familiar and completely different.
“The nature here is incredible. You have the ocean, the mountains, hiking, fishing and wildlife everywhere. There are so many things we want to experience,” says Kent.
That includes salmon fishing, which he has already tested.
“Last time, we caught 14 or 15 salmon in a few hours. I could definitely get used to that.”
The local wildlife will require some adjustment, though.
“There are a lot more bears here than we’re used to back home, so bear spray is going on the list. We want to explore Vancouver Island – although maybe we won’t start with sleeping out in a tent,” Kent laughs.
He is also realistic about everyday life.
“Most days will still be regular weekdays. Work, dinner and probably some Netflix. But having all of this just outside your door is pretty special.”
Provided the final work permits and formalities are completed as planned, Kent and Anne will make the move to Campbell River during October.
For Bluegreen, Kent’s relocation is part of a much bigger undertaking: establishing a local production site, building a team and bringing the company’s experience with large thermoplastic structures to British Columbia.
For Kent and Anne, it is also a chance to become part of a new community.
“It’s going to be different, and there will definitely be challenges. But we’ve felt very welcome so far. Now I’m mostly looking forward to getting here, getting to know more people and getting the work started,” says Kent.
