The Pacific Western Group of Companies is proud to welcome Sparksman Transportation to our family. With a strong history of service, commitment to safety, and deep community involvement, Sparksman Transportation is a perfect fit for our organization. They also share our passion for providing reliable, customer-focused transportation solutions.
A Legacy of Service and Growth
Established in 1997, Sparksman Transportation has been a trusted transportation provider in the Wood Buffalo region, serving Fort McMurray, Fort McKay, Anzac, and Janvier. More recently, Sparksman expanded its operations into the Town of Athabasca in 2018, offering service to Athabasca, Boyle, Grassland, Thorhild, Smith, Smoky Lake, and Slave Lake. What began as a small student transportation provider with fewer than two dozen buses has grown into a fleet of over 125 units, operating just over 100 daily school bus routes, with a staff of 150 employees.
This impressive growth reflects Sparksman Transportation’s unwavering dedication to delivering safe, efficient, and cost-effective transportation services. Their team of staff and trainers collectively brings over half a century of experience, ensuring students and community members receive the highest level of service.
A Commitment to the Communities They Serve
Sparksman Transportation plays an essential role in providing daily school bus service for seven school authorities. Operating 61 routes from Fort McMurray and 42 routes from Athabasca, they ensure that students arrive at school safely and on time. Their commitment to public service extends beyond school transportation, with two rural transit routes connecting Fort McKay, Anzac, Janvier, and Conklin to Fort McMurray.
Driver Training School
Sparksman Transportation also operates a Driver Training School and provides class 2 training to over 100 students annually, the vast majority of which are private paying students who want to obtain their license to work elsewhere. By leveraging the income provided by these paying customers, we save on the cost to train our own drivers.
Emergency Response and Disaster Relief
One of the defining characteristics of Sparksman Transportation is their unwavering commitment to community support during emergencies. In 2016, they played a critical role in evacuating students during the full city-wide evacuation of Fort McMurray. Again in 2020, they provided transportation for people displaced by flooding. Most recently, Sparksman swiftly executed the evacuation of all schools in Fort McMurray during the May 2024 wildfire threat.
In addition to evacuations, Sparksman has provided transportation services to restoration crews working in disaster-affected areas. They supported firefighters and employees from multiple restoration companies by transporting them from Edmonton to Fort McMurray and ensuring daily transportation to and from work sites. Their involvement in recovery efforts extended to communities like Chipewyan Lake, John D’Or, and Fox Lake following devastating wildfires. These efforts reflect the company’s deep sense of responsibility and dedication to the people they serve.
Leadership and Industry Expertise
At the helm of Sparksman Transportation is President Mark Critch, a highly respected leader in the transportation industry.
Mark not only oversees the company’s operations but also serves as the President of the Alberta School Bus Contractors’ Association (ASBCA) and sits on the Alberta Student Transportation Advisory Council (ASTAC). His leadership ensures Sparksman maintains its high standards of service, safety, and customer care.
Mark is the contact person for designated contractual matters and a the direct liaison to the RMWB. He has the full authority to bind the company and provide direction and policy for Sparksman Transportation.
General Manager and Company Safety Officer Tim O’Hara brings extensive experience in transportation, public education, and leadership. With a background in transportation management for school divisions and a strong advocacy for public education, Tim has been instrumental in Sparksman’s growth and success. He also serves as a Trustee for the Fort McMurray Public School Division and holds leadership roles in provincial education organizations. His expertise in safety, training, and operations ensures Sparksman continues to deliver top-tier service.
In 2020, Tim was recognized alongside his wife, by Your McMurray Magazine as one of the recipients of 2020’s Top 50 Under 50. He oversees the Operations, Human Resources, Safety, Finance and Training Departments, serves as the company’s Safety Officer and Internal COR Auditor. Tim is also an Alberta Transportation licensed driving instructor for Class 2 driver training and for the School Bus Driver Improvement Program.
A Bright Future Ahead
With Sparksman Transportation now part of the Pacific Western Group of Companies, we are poised for even greater success. Sparksman’s strong foundation, dedicated leadership, and experienced team make them a natural fit within our organization. Please welcome them aboard!
