JANUARY 2026
When Rick and his family bought their acreage in Sturgeon County, they didn’t plan on starting a business. They just needed a new septic system. Working alongside a neighbour who was a licensed installer, Rick rolled up his sleeves and got to work. His strong work ethic caught his neighbour’s attention, who encouraged him to get his private sewage licence. At the same time, the oilfield sector was slowing down, and the timing felt right for a new direction. Rick travelled to BC for training through the Alberta Onsite Wastewater Management Association, earned his licence, and RT Septic and Water Systems Inc. was born. What started as a practical solution for their own home has grown into a trusted local business that many Sturgeon County residents now rely on, especially when things go wrong at the worst possible time.
Service that Shows Up, Even on Christmas Day
RT Septic and Water Systems has built its reputation on one simple promise: be there when people need you most. Septic and water system failures don’t follow business hours. Calls come in at -40°C temps, on holidays and on weekends. Because RT is based in the community, they can respond quickly and reduce downtime for homeowners. That responsiveness builds trust, generates word-of-mouth referrals, and keeps the business top-of-mind when emergencies happen.They’ve also leaned into community and are involved in supporting hockey teams, playground builds, 4H and local events. For a service-based business, this reinforces their brand as dependable neighbours, not just contractors.
From Septic Systems to Bus Lines
One of the most unique parts of RT Septic and Water Systems’ story is how they’ve diversified over time. In addition to septic and water services, they’re also a bus contractor for a local school division. What began with one school bus and rented equipment has grown into eight school buses plus a spare and a heavy-duty mechanic shop to do their servicing. That mechanic shop is now also open to the community for heavy-duty mechanical work, adding yet another way the business supports local residents and other businesses.Their growth hasn’t come from overnight success or a master plan. It’s a story many local entrepreneurs can relate to staying flexible, working hard, and saying yes to opportunities as they arise.
Rooted in Sturgeon County
For RT Septic and Water Systems, location matters, and Sturgeon County is exactly where they want to be. Their acreage is central in the County, which makes it easier to respond quickly to customer needs across the area. “Being part of Sturgeon County isn’t just good for business – it’s personal. For us, it’s about neighbours helping neighbours, building community, and making sure residents can rely on someone local when they need help the most.” – Tammy, RT Septic and Water Systems Inc.
RT Septic and Water Systems Inc. is a great example of how a simple need, paired with hard work and community spirit, can grow into a thriving local business. Their story is a reminder to other entrepreneurs that opportunities can be found close to home and that showing up for your community is one of the most powerful business strategies there is.
| Your wastewater experts for full-service septic solutions, book an appointment now: Ph: 780-884-2192 Email: info@rtsepticsys.ca Website: https://www.rtsepticsys.ca/  |
