Honouring Brad Brown’s 38 years of dedication at J.D. Irving, Limited
After 38 years with J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI), Brad Brown, a surveyor with Custom Fabricators & Machinists (CFM), has stepped into a well-earned retirement.
A lifelong resident of St. Martins, N.B., Brad graduated from New Brunswick Community College as a Civil Engineering Technologist, later earning his Professional Technologist designation through the New Brunswick Society of Certified Technicians and Technologists.
In 1988, at a time when steady surveying work was hard to find, Brad applied for an electrical apprenticeship. With two children at home and another on the way, he was looking for stability. Instead, he ended up on a path better than he could have imagined.
“Human Resources asked if I would rather interview for a full-time accuracy control position,” Brad recalled. “I said, ‘Yes ma’am,’ and my life changed for the better.”
That moment marked the beginning of a long and rewarding career at JDI, including with Saint John Shipbuilding, Atlantic Quality and Technical Services, Fleetway Facility Services and CFM. Over the years, Brad progressed through roles as surveyor, project manager, field services manager and survey manager, contributing to complex projects across shipbuilding, offshore operations and industrial construction.
His work supported major initiatives such as the Canadian Frigate Program, the Halifax-Class Modernization program, offshore drilling platforms and Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships. He also played a role in large-scale industrial projects across Irving operations, applying precision and expertise in high-stakes environments.
“Thirty-eight years is a long time,” Brad said. “The work is interesting and challenging, but it’s the people, co-workers and management, who make coming to work each day something I enjoyed.”
One of the most meaningful parts of his career was working alongside his son, Jamie, for more than 18 years.
“I am very proud of Jamie, both at home and in his career. He has channeled his high energy, his love of engaging with people and his experience into leading a respected and busy metrology department as CFM’s mechanical lead,” Brad said.
Mentorship became a defining aspect of his later career, with Brad sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of surveyors.
“What keeps the role interesting now is passing along what I’ve learned and helping newer team members build their skills,” he said.
Brad is especially proud of witnessing the growth and specialization of the Technical Services group since its start.
Outside of work, Brad is a devoted husband, father of five, grandfather of 14 and a municipal village councilor for Fundy-St. Martins. Family is at the centre of his life, whether making maple syrup together or hosting large Sunday dinners with 20 to 25 relatives gathered around the table.
As he looks ahead to retirement, Brad is grateful for what comes next.
“That’s a great question,” he said. “I think having time, time to focus on long-overdue home projects, attend my grandkids’ events and enjoy a relaxed life with my wife, Sue, free of deadlines.”
While stepping away from a career that has spanned four decades is not easy, Brad leaves with pride in his work and gratitude for the people who made it meaningful.
For those considering a future with CFM, his advice is simple: “Listen, watch, ask all kinds of questions and learn from the best survey department around. Most importantly, there is never nothing to do.”
Congratulations, Brad, on an outstanding career and lasting contributions to J.D. Irving, Limited.
