PWL Partnership

The full-service landscape architecture and urban planning firm have a forty-year history of creating award-winning projects in Canada, and across North America and Asia.

They have been a Living Wage Employer since 2017, committing to pay their 42 staff and contracted workers a Living Wage.

Founded on the belief that collaboration is key to the success of every project, PWL strives to engage all participants in the design process. This inclusive approach has led to the construction of some of North America’s most celebrated and iconic landscapes, including numerous projects that have won awards for design excellence in environmental and social sustainability.

At PWL, we have a deep commitment to equity, inclusion and social justice within our office and the communities where we live and work. We believe in supporting initiatives, like the Living Wage Campaign, to improve social equity and enhance employee engagement. We believe that a Living Wage can improve the standard of living for families and communities. Katya Yushmanova, Principal, PWL

PWL provides their employees with mentorship and support for professional learning and growth. Since becoming a Living Wage Employer and a JUST registered company they have been inspired to take additional steps and establish an internal team to lead social initiatives with transparency. Becoming a Living Wage Employer has brought many benefits for PWL, including:

• More thinking into who they work with, who they work for and which venders they use for supplies
• Increased transparency and trust building
• Increased awareness around overtime and improving work/life balance for staff
• A network of other Living Wage Employers to support
• An ability to advocate on behalf of those who may not be able to advocate for themselves, beyond their industry and direct clients.

“Paying a living wage isn't just a nice thing to do, it’s the right thing to do both for the employee and the community in which that person lives, it can have a positive impact on morale and dignity for employees. The larger the network of understanding, the more normal the conversation will become” Jim Moore, IT Manager, PWL

Sustainability is one of the core values at PWL Partnership. For PWL, sustainability is composed of three pillars: economic, environmental, and social and as a business they know they need to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.

“As landscape architects, our profession plays a vital role in local responses to global environmental issues, such as climate change. It is our responsibility, as individuals and as a business, to make mindful decisions that will protect our planet and our communities for future generations. Therefore, supporting organizations like the Living Wage Campaign, is incredibly important to us.” Grant Brumpton, Principal, PWL