Metrolinx adopts QBS for hiring engineers for first time

Consulting Engineers of Ontario is rejoicing after Metrolinx adopted qualifications-based selection as its method for selecting an engineer. The decision to use QBS for a multi-level parking structure at the Rutherford GO Station is a pilot project that is “the first of its kind for Ontario.”  The Request for proposals for the project was issued on November 6.

Qualifications based selection of consultants means that the client takes account of the firm’s experience and skills when awarding the project, rather than simply basing its decision on who will do the work for the lowest price.

CEO issued a statement approving the Rutherford GO Station approach. CEO chief executive office Barry Steinberg said: “This is very exciting news for us. We congratulate Metrolinx for its commitment to recognizing the best practice of consultant selection when it comes to infrastructure design and delivery. We are very confident that the merits of the QBS process will provide significant benefits for the people of Ontario and an excellent return on investment for Metrolinx, and are looking forward to many more QBS projects being offered in the future.”

John Gamble, president and chief executive officer of the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies-Canada (ACEC/AFIC) was also pleased and sees it as an important step: “This is a major win for the industry in Ontario and across Canada,” he said in a statement. “I can’t understate the importance of this for our collective efforts to promote QBS across the country.”