In 1988 original founders Earl Godwin and Dave Ostapin started E&D Manufacturing, just outside of Qualicum Beach, in the community of Whiskey Creek on Vancouver Island BC. Together with a vision that would revolutionize the boat building industry, Earl and Dave saw the demand, to create a company building aluminum boats. In 2003 Earl’s son Larry Godwin became the general manager of E&D Manufacturing and eventually started working under the trade name of Whiskey Creek Marine.
With Larry’s retirement at the end of 2023, Paul Barnes took on the role of General Manager. Long-time employee, Lead Welder/Fabricator, Gary Wiltse has taken on the role of Shop Foreman, and Ben Francis will continue his role as Welder/Fabricator. Together, this cohesive team will take Whiskey Creek Marine into the future.
Owner & General Manager
Paul brings a wealth of experience to the helm of this welding, aluminum fabrication, and boat building company, drawing upon a successful 25-year career as a self-employed business owner and manager. His extensive background spans diverse industries, including landscaping and civil construction, with projects undertaken across British Columbia, Alberta, and even Mexico. This breadth of experience has provided him with a deep understanding of business operations, project management, and the importance of client satisfaction.
Paul is now applying his proven leadership skills and entrepreneurial spirit to the specialized world of metal fabrication and boat building, bringing a fresh perspective and a commitment to quality craftsmanship. Paul is eager to leverage his established network and build new relationships within the marine and fabrication industries, driving the company's growth and establishing it as a leader in the field.
Lead Welder/Fabricator & Shop Foreman
Gary is a highly skilled welder fabricator whose wealth of knowledge and proven track record of exceptional customer care make him a cornerstone of the WCM team. His dedication to providing top-quality workmanship is evident in every project he undertakes, from intricate custom fabrications to robust structural welds.
Gary’s commitment to precision and detail, coupled with his ability to understand and exceed customer expectations, is the reason clients consistently return to WCM for their welding and fabrication needs. He’s a true craftsman who takes pride in his work, ensuring each piece meets the highest standards of quality and durability.
Welder/Fabricator
Ben brings a solid foundation of welding and fabrication expertise to the WCM team, honed through nine years of hands-on experience in the field. His journey began immediately after high school, demonstrating a dedicated commitment to the trade from the start. This extensive practical experience is complemented by his completion of the welding program at Vancouver Island University (VIU), further enhancing his skillset. Ben’s combination of real-world experience and formal training makes him a valuable asset, ready to tackle a wide range of welding and fabrication projects.
Junior Shop Assistant
Aiden is a motivated and enthusiastic Shop Helper joining our team specializing in boat building and custom welding fabrications. For Aiden, this is an excellent opportunity as a recent high school graduate, eager to learn the trade and gain hands-on experience in our dynamic shop environment. As a Shop Helper, Aiden helps assist our skilled welders and fabricators with a variety of tasks, playing a key role in the efficient and high-quality production of our projects.
We believe that good company values help build the foundation of a thriving and successful company. We use our values to guide our actions, shape our culture, and define who we are as a company. They provide a shared sense of purpose for our employees, build trust with our customers, and ensure that every decision we make aligns with our core principles as a business.
Unwavering integrity and transparency guide us through our triumphs, and challenges.
We demonstrate commitment and dedication to the everyone’s success.
Valuing and appreciating colleagues, clients, and all stakeholders.
We strive for truthful and transparent communication in all our interactions.
We enthusiastically pursue our goals and striving for excellence with professionalism.
Fulfilling obligations and taking initiative to address challenges.
