Two faces, two great milestones

When you stay with a company for a long time, it means you really like it here. Chances are the people around you really like having you here, too.

Lagois team members Sophie Villenueve and Jeff Hurdis are deeply appreciated, admired and loved by their colleagues.

Recently Sophie, Lagois Project Manager, celebrated 20 years with the company. Jeff, Lagois Lead Designer, celebrated 14 years.

“Together, that's 34 years of commitment, craftsmanship, leadership, and care invested into helping homeowners and our team perfect the art of living,” said Lagois President Jacob Kirst.

He added: “But when I think about what those years represent, I don't just think about the projects completed, the clients served, or the milestones achieved. I think about the people behind them.

“I've had the privilege of watching Sophie and Jeff grow professionally and personally alongside Lagois. Over the years, we've celebrated successes together, navigated challenges together, and witnessed life unfold. We've seen careers develop, families grow, children arrive, milestones reached, adventures taken, and memories created. In many ways, their stories have become woven into the story of this company.

“Sophie has been part of Lagois for two decades. Her leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment have helped shape who we are today.

“On a personal level, I had the unique opportunity to work under Sophie's leadership before becoming owner of the company. That experience gave me a deep appreciation not only for what she accomplished, but for the character, professionalism, and care she brought to the people around her every day.

“Jeff's 14 years have left an equally meaningful mark. As our Lead Designer, his creativity, vision, and commitment to thoughtful design have shaped countless homes and experiences for our clients. His influence can be seen in the quality of our work, but just as importantly, in the culture of collaboration and excellence he brings to our team.”

Sophie’s and Jeff’s other teammates were also quick to congratulate them. Here are some of the things they had to say.

About Sophie

“Sophie,” said Tom Felts, Site Supervisor, “gives her best in everything she does, and she does it with a smile and positivity. She is one of the people who has shaped Lagois to become what it is today.” Tom also praised Sophie for her “dependability, unrelenting standards, vision, and wonderful way with customers.”

Shahrzad Khezri, Construction Estimator, called Sophie “strong, determined, always showing up when needed.” She added “She’s a real woman in construction who gets things done the right way.”

Jason Simons, Site Supervisor, enjoyed talking about Sophie, too. “She’s a great teacher and leader who is never afraid to get her hands dirty,” he said. Despite any unforeseen challenges, Sophie “just keeps right on working.”

Lagois founder, Herb Lagois, remembered all the awards Sophie has won, including the Ottawa Board of Trade’s 40 Under 40.

“Sophie is an overall fantastic human being,” said Emma Kwan, Interior Design Specialist and Director of Marketing. “She’s a very hard worker, super-efficient, great with detail and you can always count on her. She also gives the best hugs!”

Kelly Goodenough, Bookkeeper, praised Sophie for being hardworking and tough but at the same time kind and caring. “Sophie is the kind of person everyone loves to be around,” she said. “I truly admire all she has done both professionally and personally. She is a true powerhouse.”

Darren Vander Meer, Production Manager, said Sophie “not only supports her clients but also lifts up the teammates around her.” He added he respects her commitment to Lagois “while constantly juggling the delicate balance of growing her family.”

Lindsey O’Donnell, Studio Coordinator, called Sophie “full of light… with a strong work ethic…hardworking and dedicated”.

About Jeff

“Everything that we have constructed over the past 15 years starts with Jeff,” said Tom Felts. “He has a great ability to figure out complicated designs that fulfil client needs while making everything look pretty cool. He has a great ability to design spaces that function well and is up to date on the latest building technologies. Mostly he has the ability to seamlessly integrate an addition or renovation into/onto an existing house without it standing out as such.”

Shahrzad Khezri called Jeff “calm and funny, reminds me of Chandler from the TV series Friends. He’s creative, positive, and always fun to be around.”

“He is very knowledgeable and always seems to be one step ahead of industry standards,“ said Jason Simons. “He is always available to resolve any engineering questions or issues whenever I call.”

Emma Kwan said Jeff is “funny and intelligent and is always super helpful!”

Kelly Goodenough praised Jeff as a great human being. “From a student to successful career man, to husband and father, Jeff is always quietly getting the job done,” she said. “I respect him as a colleague and as a family man.”

“Jeff's day-to-day passion anchors the development of our strong envelope designs,” said Darren Vander Meer. “His support allows our projects to execute at their current level.  Behind every great site accomplishment is a well-thought-out design that starts with Jeff.”

For Lindsey O’Donnell, Jeff “always knows the best solution and always cracks good one-liners!”

About Sophie and Jeff

Herb Lagois praised Sophie and Jeff for their families: “Amazing spouses and children!” he said.

“They are true leaders in our industry,” Jason Simons said. “I especially commend their involvement with GOHBA, their work promoting women in the trades, and all the other extra-curricular work they do.”

“What I admire most about both Sophie and Jeff,” said Jacob Kirst, “is not simply the length of their service, but the consistency of their contribution. Year after year, they have shown up, cared deeply, supported others, and helped make Lagois better.

“People often say that companies are built by people, and milestones like these are a reminder of just how true that is. Lagois is stronger because of Sophie and Jeff. Their contributions have made a difference not only to this company, but to the colleagues they've worked alongside, the clients they've served, and the lives they've touched along the way.

“On behalf of everyone at Lagois, thank you, Sophie and Jeff. Thank you for your dedication, your leadership, your friendship, and the countless ways you've helped shape this company over the years.”