Welcome

Big Lake Manufacturing LTD is a welding and fabrication manufacturer based in Sarnia, Ontario. Big Lake fulfills the dream of its founder, Derek Hoogland, to venture into business ownership.

In 2018 Derek left a decade-long career in marketing and executive leadership in the non-profit sector in order to pursue a hands-on education in manufacturing and metal fabrication with the intention of turning a welding hobby into a business. Before starting Big Lake he gained experience in structural steel fabrication and installation, batch manufacturing, aluminum sign fabrication and industrial painting.

Big Lake was originally established in East Hamilton as a sole-proprietorship. In 2020 the business incorporated and relocated to Sarnia, Ontario.

Big Lake specializes in aluminum fabrication with a depth of experience producing backer frames for the sign industry and takes on steel fabrication projects as well. Big Lake serves sign companies, builders, landscapers, greenhouses, manufacturers and homeowners.

Derek and his wife live in Sarnia with their two children.

“Derek is responsive, a creative problem solver and always delivers on time.”

— John DeGroot, DeGroot’s Nurseries

“Derek is an absolute professional fabricator, knowledgeable, courteous and reasonably priced for custom fabrication work.”

— Guy Langevin, Huron Signs

“It was a pleasure to collaborate with Big Lake on our custom steel fabrication project.”

— Isaac Leestma, Symbol LLC

“Excellent quality, great service; has proven to be a valuable partnership.”

— Adam, Premier Recycling

“Derek has made many custom brackets for us. He always understands my needs, suggests design changes and then exceeds my expectations with the fabrication work.”

— David Price, Repeat Customer