Liana Frenette, CEO of TBT Engineering, has been instrumental in shaping one of Northwestern Ontario’s leading multi-disciplinary firms. Since taking the helm alongside her husband, Rob, in 1995, Liana has helped transform what began as a small materials testing lab into a major player in engineering and infrastructure development, employing over 140 people with seasonal peaks of up to 200.
Under Liana’s leadership, TBT Engineering has grown through a blend of strategic acquisitions, regional expansion, and a people-first approach. From the beginning, she prioritized creating a supportive workplace culture—one that values work-life balance, invests in employee development, and recognizes the importance of community.
That philosophy is reflected in the company’s ongoing commitment to training and mentorship. Whether through tuition support, paid internships, or apprenticeship pathways, Liana has championed growth from within, ensuring that staff are equipped to thrive and lead.
A major factor in TBT’s success has been its meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities. These collaborations have opened the door to joint ventures on transformative projects like Watay Power and the East-West Tie, while also creating pathways for local employment and training in underrepresented regions.
As TBT looks toward a future filled with large-scale infrastructure opportunities across Northern Ontario, Liana remains focused on building capacity, fostering inclusion, and ensuring the company continues to grow with purpose.
Her work reflects more than business leadership—it’s a vision rooted in community, opportunity, and shared success.
