Sparwood Communications first opened its doors in 1975 as a consumer electronics repair shop, with a focus on colour TV repair. By the late 1980s televisions were becoming a disposable electronics item, so owner Karl Ehler shifted focus to his first area of expertise: radio communications. By 1990 the business had moved to the industrial side, providing radio sales and service to the mining and forestry industries.

These days, Sparwood Communications continues to grow and change with the technology. Karl and his 17 employees now sell and service industrial electronics equipment, including industrial computers and wireless infrastructure, in addition to two-way radio equipment. Karl was born and raised in Sparwood and is passionate about the Elk Valley. He’s been Assistant Fire Chief for the last 23 years, and is active with the flying club and the local airport. Karl believes that the excellent infrastructure throughout the region, combined with reasonable real estate prices and property taxes give Sparwood businesses a competitive edge.

Karl adds that the recreational opportunities right outside the back door make life in Sparwood even better. “People from Calgary come here every weekend to hunt, fish, quad and snowmobile. But we don’t have to go anywhere.”