Calgary-based Aveda Transportation cuts 51 jobs as service sector pains continue

CALGARY – Calgary-based Aveda Transportation and Energy Services Inc. says it cut 51 jobs in the third quarter as low oil prices continue to hit the energy services sector.

Aveda, which provides oilfield hauling services and equipment rentals, says the cuts were to administrative and field staff and included corporate positions in both Calgary and Houston.

The company said it is taking aggressive cost-cutting measures as it expects the downturn to be prolonged and it continues to be underbid on contracts at prices it describes as unprofitable.

In addition to the job cuts, the company closed one of its branches in Texas and merged its two Oklahoma branches and said it is working to reduce overtime hours and looking at more wage cuts.

Aveda plans to consolidate most of its Houston-based U.S. corporate operations at its Calgary head office.

The company said that as a result of the office move its president and chief executive, Kevin Roycraft, has stepped down and David Werklund, executive chairman, has stepped into the role until a permanent replacement is found.