Metalfab is entering an exciting new chapter with the appointment of its new President, TJ Harvey. TJ is stepping into the role is an experienced leader with a diverse background in business, politics, and community engagement.
His journey to Metalfab is anything but conventional, and his commitment to the company’s values and future growth makes him a perfect fit for the role.
Versatility And Leadership
The incoming President’s career has spanned many industries, demonstrating his entrepreneurial drive and adaptability. He began his farming career by working alongside his father in Glassville, where they had a big farm operation. During this time, he and his brother co-owned a heavy civil construction equipment business and a transportation company.
After selling his business assets in 2011, he changed his career path and moved into plant and production management. However, his love for leadership quickly pushed him into politics, where he served as a Member of Parliament from 2015 to 2019. Following his time in federal politics, he returned to the private sector, providing advisory services to businesses in the Saint John River Valley before ultimately joining Metalfab.
His professional background makes it clear that he has a thorough understanding of business operations and leadership as well as the importance of community-driven growth. These qualities will benefit him as he leads Metalfab into its next phase.
Why Metalfab?
Metalfab’s strong community roots and reputation for excellence made this opportunity particularly appealing to TJ. Throughout his political and consulting career, he built relationships with local business leaders, including his now co-owners, Miguel Gagnon and Jean-Louis Thériault.
Their common objective of sustaining and expanding enterprises in New Brunswick led them to Metalfab, which has been a staple of Centreville and the surrounding region for nearly 60 years. Recognizing its importance to the local economy, they were determined to keep the enterprise in the Saint John River Valley.
“When businesses transition ownership, they often shift away from their original communities,” he explained. “We wanted to avoid that. Our goal is to keep Metalfab here and build upon its strong foundation.”
A People-First Approach
From his first days at Metalfab, one thing really stood out to him: the company culture.
“The pride employees take in their work is incredible,” he shared. “Metalfab builds fire trucks, which are more than just vehicles. They represent a major investment for communities and become a source of local pride. That same pride is reflected in the craftsmanship of every truck that leaves our facility.”
This dedication to quality and attention to detail is consistent with his leadership philosophy. He sees his role as a partnership, not just with his co-owners but with all Metalfab team members.
His priorities are to ensure a smooth transition and maintain the company’s favourable work environment.
Vision For Growth
While maintaining Metalfab’s core values, TJ also has his eyes set on future growth. The company is looking to expand its operations strategically, with a focus on increasing productivity and matching sales growth.
“In the short term, we’re working on improving efficiency and ensuring we meet our production goals,” he explained. “Supply chain challenges during COVID slowed things down, but we now have better access to parts and chassis. Our focus is ramping back up and delivering top-tier fire trucks to our customers.”
A Leader Grounded In Family And Community
Outside of work, TJ lives a simple and pleasant life. With four children, he spends a lot of his free time supporting their interests, whether on sports fields, arenas, or enjoying the outdoors. He promotes balance, knowing that strong leadership comes not only from professional expertise but also from maintaining connections with family and community.
As we’ve shared in this article, TJ wants to keep building on the company’s strengths, support its dedicated team members, and drive strategic growth while preserving the company’s legacy.
“We have an incredible team, and I’m excited about the opportunities ahead,” he said. “Together, we’ll continue to build some of the best fire trucks in North America while ensuring Metalfab remains a proud part of the Saint John River Valley.”
With a strong foundation, a people-first mindset, and a clear vision for the future, Metalfab’s new President is ready to lead the company into its next era of success.
