The Bertrams have run a company rich in family history since Jim Sr.’s father, Les, founded Les Bertram & Sons in 1939. For many years, the family operation concentrated on commercial, industrial and residential subdivision work throughout the greater Barrie area.

The company branched into the mobile crane rental business in the early 1960s and heavy equipment hauling float service in the early 1970s. In 1985, Jim Sr. purchased the crane and transportation equipment from Les and started Jim Bertram & Sons Construction Inc. Jim Sr. is president, Jim Jr. is vice president and oversees day-to-day excavation operations, while Stephen is secretary/treasurer.

Today the diversified operation includes three corporate divisions:
 

• A float service / heavy equipment hauling division which transports throughout Ontario and Quebec.
   
• A mobile crane rental division consisting of eight cranes working within about a 160km radius of Barrie.
   
• An excavating equipment division with about a dozen machines working within about a 80 km radius of Barrie.

The business has built its success on a foundation of skilled operators and quality heavy equipment.

“We classify ourselves as good housekeepers,” says Jim Jr. “Our heavy equipment operators are conscientious and responsible. If a person abuses a machine, they simply don’t work here.”

“Every piece of equipment should be treated as a new machine. It’s good operators and well-maintained equipment that makes this company money” .