NextStar Energy Production Begins on New Battery Pack Line

The strategic move strengthens Canada’s position in the global battery supply chain

NextStar Energy has announced the start of production on its new battery pack manufacturing line at its facility in Windsor, Ontario. The expansion adds a third production stage to the site’s existing cell and module operations, enabling full vertical integration from battery cell to finished pack.

The investment responds to growing global demand for energy storage systems (ESS) and allows NextStar Energy to broaden its product portfolio while strengthening its position in the North American battery supply chain.

“Adding pack production means we can now take a battery from cell to module or to a finished pack, all here in Windsor,” said Danies Lee, Chief Executive Officer of NextStar Energy. “This expansion reflects our commitment to capitalizing on the rapid growth of the ESS market and is a meaningful step to strengthen Canada’s position in the global battery supply chain as well.”

NextStar Energy, now a wholly owned subsidiary of LG Energy Solution, recently celebrated its grand opening as Canada’s first and only commercial-scale battery manufacturing facility. The company began commercial cell production in November 2025 and reached the milestone of producing one million cells in February.

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Biz Bitz – SANS Institute, St. Clair College, siberX; WindsorEssex Community Foundation; Lois Fairley Nursing Award; AV Gauge & Automation

HALL OF FAME
Since 2008, the Windsor Essex Nurse of the Year has honoured one of the dedicated and compassionate nurses who make a meaningful difference every day in the lives of patients, families, colleagues, and the community. The Lois Fairley Nursing Award is presented annually by the Windsor-Essex Chapter of the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO), based on nominations submitted by members of the public. The 2026 recipient is Spenser Dionne, a nurse in the Clinical Teaching Unit (CTU) at the Ouellette Campus of Windsor Regional Hospital. In the winning nomination, Ryan Pebbles (a patient’s son) wrote about how Dionne supported his family through a major crisis, offering exceptional personal care to his mother after a stroke. Dionne went far beyond her duties — she provided a sense of home, brought in items to help stimulate his mother’s recovery, visited on her days off, and stayed connected even after longterm care. He adds that she is also a trusted mentor to student nurses, including his sister, who has witnessed Dionne’s guidance firsthand. According to Pebbles: “She is not only healing patients today; she is shaping the nurses of tomorrow. By treating my mother as a person worthy of the highest devotion and fostering a supportive environment for students, Spenser has proven herself to be a leader in the Windsor Essex healthcare community.”

Presented each year during National Nursing Week in May by the Fairley family and the RNAO Windsor-Essex chapter, the award is named after Lois Fairley, a graduate of Grace Hospital’s nursing program in 1955. She spent her career serving patients at Grace Hospital in Windsor as a nurse and head nurse until retiring in 1993. Lois passed away in 2007. Get further details on the local RNAO chapter here at the website.

In mid-May 2026, AV Gauge & Automation of Oldcastle achieved Platinum Club status with Canada’s Best Managed Companies program by retaining its Best Managed designation for seven consecutive years or more. “We are incredibly thrilled to be named one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies for the 10th consecutive year,” states Tim Campeau, President of AV Gauge & Automation. “This milestone is a proud reflection of our team’s dedication, passion, and commitment to excellence, and it reinforces the trust our customers and partners place in us every day.” The 2026 cohort of Best Managed Companies shares common themes, including fostering a people-centric culture, implementing a strategic company framework, investing in innovation and technological advancement, and maintaining financial resilience and strong corporate governance. Together, these practices strengthen the Canadian economy by promoting sustainable growth, enhancing competitiveness, and cultivating a thriving business ecosystem.

THE RUNDOWN
SANS Institute, St. Clair College, and siberX recently announced a new partnership to launch NOW // AI, an executive education program focused on AI-driven cybersecurity risk and governance. Scheduled for October 2026 in Windsor Essex, the immersive program features SANS-led simulations, cyber-range exercises, and scenario-based training designed for leaders in finance, critical infrastructure, and the public sector. “This partnership represents a significant step forward inexecutive cybersecurity education,” says Mahdi Raza, CEO and Founder, siberX. “By combining SANS’ global expertise, St. Clair College’s regional leadership in applied learning, and siberX’s innovation in immersive experiences, we are creating a program that prepares leaders for the realities of AI-driven risk.” Participants will develop practical skills in AI risk management, incident response, andgovernance while earning a SANS — siberX credential. The initiative also supports regional innovation and strengthens the region’s role in cybersecurity and applied AI education. Michael Silvaggi, President of St. Clair College, adds: “This initiative reflects our commitment to delivering industry-relevant education that prepares professionals to lead in rapidly evolving digital environments, particularly in areas as critical as AI and cybersecurity.” Learn more online.

It’s time to make your voice count. The WindsorEssex Community Foundation (WECF) invites all residents to share their views on life in Windsor Essex by taking part in the Vital Signs Survey, open online until August 7, 2026. Your Voice. Your Community. This powerful theme reflects the purpose of Vital Signs — gathering local perspectives to help foster a stronger, more connected, and vibrant Windsor Essex. This year’s survey explores 11 key areas of quality of life, including housing, belonging, safety, mental wellness, and more. Every response helps build a clearer picture of community strengths and challenges, and directly informs local decision-makers, non-profits, businesses, and government on what matters most to residents. Since 2014, the local Vital Signs program has tracked local priorities and helped align resources to create lasting, positive change. “Vital Signs gives Windsor Essex residents a chance to speak up about what matters most,” expresses Lisa Kolody, Executive Director of the WECF. “Together, our voices shape how we grow, connect, and thrive as a community.”  

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FROM THE PUBLISHER – Rodney Denis Photography Turns 35 As We Publish Issue #285

With the release of the June publication, we celebrate our 285th edition!

Since we began back in 1998, we have consistently published 10 issues a year except for the April and May 2020 issues which were forced to be combined due to the pandemic and businesses being closed with no mail delivery possible.

As you know, my family is a big part of all I do, but there are also many freelancers who I refer to as “Biz X family”.

In particular, one individual who has been with me since the magazine began, is professional photographer Rodney Denis. He’s also celebrating a milestone — 35 years in business.

With more than four decades of experience behind the camera, Denis has explored a wide range of subjects, from fashion models to vintage automobiles.

A proud graduate of Fanshawe College’s photography program, he refined his craft in bustling cities like Toronto, Halifax, and Detroit before making his way back to Windsor in 1989.

“I did not expect to be that busy,” Denis reminisces, recalling his early days upon returning to the city.

Not long after his arrival, Windsor Raceway invited him to take on the role of track photographer for their publicity department.  At the same time, he began to delve into commercial photography, collaborating with Partners Marketing to shoot for In Business Windsor magazine in the early ’90s. It was here, while I was their Assistant Editor, that our paths first crossed.

His collaboration with local photographer Tim Cornett, eventually led to the creation of DenCor Photography. However, as Cornett ventured into other pursuits, Denis took the opportunity to establish the business Rodney L. Denis Photographer in 1991, working with esteemed clients like Chrysler, Labatt Breweries, and Canadian Tire.

After I made the move to Opinion magazine to start The Business Exchange, Denis came with me. And when I went out on my own in 1998 to publish Biz X, he was right by my side again. “I was excited to be part of Deborah’s magazine as I knew she had a long-term winner,” he comments.

As the world of photography continues to shift with technological advancements, Denis holds a belief that black-and-white art photography will always have a special place, provided it remains genuine.

“Anything with a challenge has its greatest appeal,” he notes, referencing unique endeavors like capturing a Dodge Viper on the Ambassador Bridge for the Business Exchange as well as 28 creative Biz X Award covers.

“Photography has taken me to places that I never would have seen or experienced,” expresses Denis, but as for the future, he muses: “Cameras? Where we’re going, we don’t need cameras!”

As Denis gears up for the next chapter of his life, his impact on the Windsor photography scene is undeniably solidified. I’m grateful he is on our team — his photos are a part of our success, frame by frame.

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BIZ X MAGAZINE JUNE 2026 VOLUME 29 ISSUE 6

ON THE COVER — Spanning The Future (#9 “The Gordie”) — 18. The Gordie Howe International Bridge and its striking profile now reshapes the skyline on both sides of the border. It signals a new era of crossing that will fuel economic momentum for our region — and strengthen trade, support jobs, and drive long-term growth. Nicknamed “The Gordie,” the bridge honours legendary Canadian hockey icon Gordie Howe — “Mr. Hockey” — who spent most of his career wearing #9 for the Detroit Red Wings. In this special extended HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE cover story, Joe McParland digs into the bridge’s facts and history, its ambitious build, and the local companies whose work helped bring this once-in‑a-generation project to life.

LOCATION: Captured from the Canadian side of the bridge in the second week of May 2026, this image was shot using an enterprise-grade drone equipped with a 200x zoom lens, taken from roughly 1.4 km away near the Rt. Hon. Herb Gray Parkway. PHOTOGRAPHER: Mike Chase of Windsor Aerial Drone Photography, one of the few Transport Canada Advanced Licensed and fully insured Drone Operators in the region. To view videos on The Gordie, go to: WindsorAerialDronePhotography.com.

CONTENTS JUNE 2026

4 Funny Stuff
5 From The Publisher: A Double Celebration, Biz X Issue 285 & 35 Years Of Rodney L. Denis Photographer.

6 Awards Spotlight: TWEPI’s BOWE Winners. On the historic Capitol Theatre stage, Co-host of the awards ceremony Jason Toner (left), Vice President of Marketing and Communications for Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI), took the mic to guide a packed house of finalists, partners, and community leaders through the big moment — the unveiling of the 11th annual Best of Windsor Essex (BOWE) award recipients. Cheers, anticipation, and plenty of hometown pride filled the room as the winner in each category was announced, with TWEPI CEO Gordon Orr also sharing in the emcee duties. Ready to find out which businesses, attractions and activities in the local tourism and hospitality sectors earned the region’s votes? Turn to page 6! (Photo courtesy of TWEPI).
10 Front Lines
11 Newsflash
12 Biz X Was There
14 XX Files: The Doctor, The Professor, The Beauty Queen — Meet Dr. Rasna Gupta
15 Mel Knows . . . Kinda: Treasure Hunting At The Habitat For Humanity Windsor-Essex Re-Store
16 Windsor Food Spotters Feature Food Spots
26 Charity Profile: How St. John Ambulance’s Skilled Hands And Gentle Paws Are Making A Difference
27 Ask The Experts: From Ants And Rodents To Insects And Wildlife, Gray Wolf Pest Control Can Protect Your Home From Unwanted Guests.

28 The Parenting Biz: Happy Days, Cozy Stays, Confident Training & More For Your Pampered Pup Pets are more than “just pets” — they are family! Today’s pet care is all about quality and expertise. From enrichmentfilled daycare and trusted boarding to professional training and expert grooming, we introduce you to three local businesses that care for your dog as much as you, your spouse and children do. (Photo courtesy of Kounty Kennels & Kritters Inc. showcasing their brand-new facility in Harrow)
33 Milestones: Ronald McDonald House Windsor Enters Next Decade With Record-Setting $3 Million Boost

JUNE IS SENIORS’ MONTH
34 Feature Story: Supporting Seniors In Motion, The Businesses And Organizations Enriching Lives Across The Region Rackets up, spirits high. The couple shown above make their way onto the court — embodying the 2026 theme for Ontario Seniors’ Month, Let’s Get Moving. Each June, this provincial celebration recognizes the invaluable contributions older adults make across Ontario’s diverse communities and highlights the importance of advocating for and supporting a strong quality of life. Our very own senior guest writer Andrea Grimes speaks with businesses and organizations dedicated to supporting seniors’ well‑being, independence, and social engagement — work that helps foster a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future for aging in Canada. (Photo courtesy of: Pixabay.com).
38 Biz Of The Month: A Taste Of Britain In Chatham Offers A Little Bit Of Home In Every Aisle

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In Safe Hands: The Local Experts Protecting Our Workplaces

Each year, on April 28, Canadians observe the National Day of Mourning to honour workers who never returned home or whose lives were permanently altered on the job.

Along with remembrance, the day serves as a reminder of the work still needed to ensure workplace injuries and deaths become a thing of the past.

While workplace safety is important year-round, Safety and Health Week (May 4–9 this year) is an ideal time for businesses and organizations to refocus their efforts and prioritize keeping employees and worksites safe. Remember, it is better to be safe than sorry!

Keep reading as we introduce you to several of the professionals who guide and support Windsor Essex and Chatham Kent businesses and organizations in preventing injuries and promoting safe and healthy workplaces.

SafestWork Consulting Inc.
After a decade working as a labour inspector with the Ministry of Labour, Adrien LeBlanc, BA, opened SafestWork Consulting Inc. The company started as a sole proprietorship in 2016 and was registered
as a corporation in 2017.

LeBlanc worked in enforcement across the Ministry’s two main programs — industrial safety and construction safety — before becoming President of SafestWork. He now leads the operation as Principal Consultant alongside his wife, Paula LeBlanc, BFA, Vice-President, whose background in marketing, advertising, and graphic design allows their team to provide clear and concise training. SafestWork Consulting Inc. provides health and safety training for workers and supervisors, consulting services (including policy management, inspections, and incident investigations), and complex project management support, with experienced safety professionals working on-site with project managers to help ensure compliance with safety requirements.

The LeBlancs have a staff of 12, with four handling administration and eight working in the field. Each senior consultant brings more than 25 years of experience, with backgrounds in medical care, ergonomics, manufacturing, construction trades, and general health and safety. The business is a CPO-approved training provider, which means it is recognized by the Chief Prevention Officer of Ontario’s Ministry of Labour. This allows SafestWork to deliver specific health and safety training programs such as Working at Heights.

Their large classroom is well equipped with all the equipment needed to deliver hands-on, practical sessions, including access to heavy equipment for forklift and elevated work platform training.

To complement its in-person training, SafestWork is launching its online training platform this month. This added service helps reduce in-person training hours and minimizes time away from work. Training can also be delivered on-site, with trainers available to provide mobile services.

“We have gone to great lengths to make sure that our programs are aligned with the most recent standards to ensure that workers get the most accurate information available,” Adrien indicates. “Workers also get the benefit of convenient access to the in-person, hands-on practical elements that they can’t get elsewhere.”

Safety challenges are part of every business, and he points to tight budgets as the culprit for those with shortcomings.

“Often the contracts are awarded to the lowest bidder — so companies always have to find ways to cut costs, and safety programs are often a casualty of that approach,” Adrien comments.

He continues by stating: “We find that companies often think of safety protocols as an added cost. We engineer the safety precautions into the regular tasks so that they create efficiencies to either save time and money or avoid the costs and delays that safety incidents will ultimately cost the company.”

A positive trend Adrien has noticed is that companies are becoming more selective in choosing their safety partners.

“Increasing fines for non-compliance have many managers checking to make sure the training provided is actually meeting the standards,” he mentions. “We have also been re-training workers who initially got a
certificate from some other sources that didn’t meet current standards.”

Unfortunately, falls from heights are still a major cause of injury and death in the workplace.

“Proper training is proving effective in lowering injury rates, but a single death is one too many,” says Adrien. “Investigators are finding that those who are getting injured or killed often did not receive the required training.”

SafestWork Consulting Inc. encourages companies to regularly review their operations to identify opportunities to improve safety programs, procedures, and training. They also emphasize the importance of ongoing training, particularly for new workers and new Canadians, to make sure they understand their rights and how to report concerns. In addition, Adrien notes that WSIB claims must be properly managed
through a clear Return to Work program to support timely medical treatment and a safe return to regular duties: “This means that our clients who may have had penalties from the WSIB in the past are now able to apply for rebates.”

To partner with a certified safety provider, register for training, or book on-site services, visit the new location of SafestWork Consulting Inc. at 2825 Lauzon Parkway, Suite 212, Windsor.

READ MORE FROM TW SAFETY CONSULTING SERVICES INC.ERGONOW INCORPORATED, LUCIER GLOVE & SAFETY PRODUCTS INC. AND DOVER DUDS IN THE COVER STORY THAT CONTINUES ON PAGE 18 OF THE MAY EDITION BY CLICKING HERE.

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