Author: Russell Hixson

Karen Power, Vice President of Human Resources at Peterson, shares insights into the evolving landscape of talent acquisition and retention in the real estate and development sector. In this Q&A, she discusses the hiring challenges brought on by economic shifts, changing employee expectations, and generational differences in workplace values.

Power also highlights the strategies Peterson has implemented to attract and retain top talent, from fostering a strong company culture to offering flexible benefits, mentorship programs, and professional development opportunities.

SiteNews: What are some of the biggest hiring challenges Peterson and others in the real estate/development sector have faced in recent years?

Power: like many of our peers in real estate, has faced a range of hiring challenges in recent years. The post-COVID job market presented initial difficulties with a shortage of candidates as economic uncertainty made many hesitant to switch roles. Although candidate availability has since improved, competition remains fierce, especially for experienced senior-level positions. Rising construction costs, inflation, and high interest rates have led to project delays, frustrating younger workers and complicating workforce planning. Furthermore, balancing remote work expectations with the industry’s on-site requirements has added another layer of complexity. Finally, rising union pay rates, especially in hotel operations, have significantly increased our operational costs.

What are you hearing from employees and candidates about what they want from a job?

Both current employees and candidates are looking for roles that offer autonomy and the opportunity to share their ideas while working on diverse and interesting projects. They also value a balanced total rewards package that includes benefits like RRSP, HSA, and other perks. Additionally, opportunities for growth are highly important, whether through mentorship, skill-building programs, or collaboration with colleagues. Understanding these wants, Peterson also recognizes the importance of supporting employees’ long-term financial security, which is why we prioritize retirement planning assistance services and matching RSP contributions.

Have you seen a difference in how various generations value a workplace and an employer?

Different generations value workplace and employer attributes in distinct ways. Young professionals often prioritize flexibility, hybrid or remote work options, and rapid career growth. They seek projects that offer autonomy and opportunities for quick recognition. On the other hand, seasoned professionals tend to focus more on company culture, team dynamics, and the organization’s focus areas. Given current market uncertainties, they are more cautious about changing jobs and gravitate toward stable, reputable companies with a long-standing presence, which helps our recruitment efforts.

What sort of adaptations has Peterson made to attract and retain workers?

Peterson has made several adaptations to attract and retain workers by focusing on creating an overall positive employee experience. We bring in talented employees that align with our overall values, we treat them with respect, and we give them the tools and space to grow and learn. We put a lot of effort into creating a strong culture and engagement through this process. To meet diverse individual and family needs, Peterson offers flexible benefits packages, including health spending and lifestyle accounts. Additional perks include tuition reimbursement, a scholarship program for employee’s children, and retirement programs that recognize tenure. At Peterson, we also celebrate significant milestones with meaningful gifts and events, and we take time to volunteer in the community together, fostering a strong culture of appreciation and engagement.

What strategies have you found to be most effective?

Most importantly, we ask for feedback and we listen to our people. We ensure our leaders have an open-door policy that encourages employees to provide feedback, share ideas, and challenge norms. This fosters a culture of openness and innovation. We also run a mentorship program, with 28 mentees in the latest cohort, offering six-month sessions that provide both guidance and skill development. To further enhance growth, we implement cross-training projects that help younger employees expand their skill sets. Peterson Academy also plays a key role by allowing employees to apply their creativity to tackle current problems and explore emerging trends.

How do you make your company stand out from the others in the space and even from other industries?

Peterson sets itself apart by fostering a culture of innovation and enjoyment. Programs like Peterson Academy empower employees to find creative solutions to business challenges, while efforts are made to create an office environment where people truly enjoy coming to work. We also ensure that Peterson’s care for individuals extends to their families with a scholarship program to award children of employees for academic achievement, community involvement and leadership in school/work, and we offer maternity/parental Top Up benefits to support parents. We also welcome partners and children at select events and even dogs are allowed in the office, emphasizing a strong sense of community and balance.

How do you manage/track employee satisfaction?

Employee satisfaction is managed and tracked at Peterson through a mix of formal and informal methods. Stay interviews provide a casual way to understand individual experiences, while the Engagement Committee conducts pulse checks to gauge overall morale. Additionally, we use formal engagement surveys to collect detailed feedback, ensuring a well-rounded approach to monitoring and improving employee satisfaction.

What are some of the main reasons your longest-serving employees have stuck around?

Peterson manages and tracks employee satisfaction by fostering growth, collaboration, and engagement. Employees are given opportunities to take on diverse projects, allowing them to expand their responsibilities and advance their careers. We are always growing and evolving the spectrum of what we do; there is always challenging work and room to grow and employees are faced with stimulating work. Ultimately, Peterson spends time with its employees. Peterson prioritizes a people-first culture, where respect, fairness, and genuine care are foundational. The company promotes collaboration, supports employees in overcoming challenges, and provides various ways for team members to connect and build strong relationships.

Happy Women in Construction Week! We wanted to celebrate some of the incredible women who make our industry great. They are breaking barriers, leading innovative projects, and shaping the future of the sector. From pioneering entrepreneurs to influential engineers, architects, and safety advocates, these women are redefining what leadership looks like in a traditionally male-dominated field. Their contributions extend beyond job sites and boardrooms. Thanks for all you do! Here are some female construction leaders to watch:

Montana Wilson

Wilson is an entrepreneur and engineer who founded GRIT Engineering Inc. in Stratford, Ontario, in 2021. With over 17 years of experience in civil, environmental, and geotechnical engineering, she has built a successful consulting firm that prioritizes community, family, and client service. Under her leadership, GRIT Engineering has grown rapidly and received notable awards, including the Ontario Home Builders’ Association’s Service Professional of the Year Award in 2023.

Tania Bortolotto

Bortolotto is an award-winning Canadian architect and interior designer with over two decades of experience. She is the founder and president of Bortolotto Design Architect, established in 1999, a firm recognized for its innovative and functional designs across various sectors. Before founding her practice, Tania honed her skills at esteemed firms such as Diamond and Schmitt Architects, Teeple Architects, and Kohn Shnier Architects. Her firm was also recently named one of the “Top 15 architects in Toronto.” She was also recently the recipient of Ryerson’s Alumni Achievement Award, a distinction given to graduates who have made a significant contribution to their profession, community and country.

Donna Grant

Grant is the President of BC 1 Call, appointed to the role on October 29, 2024. With a strong background in the construction industry, Grant previously served as the President of the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA). Her career includes experience as a marketing and proposal manager for Scott Construction Group, covering B.C., Alberta, and Ontario. Known for her collaborative leadership style and commitment to safety, Grant brings strategic thinking and the ability to implement operational, marketing, and training initiatives to her role at BC 1 Call. As President, she leads the organization’s efforts in damage prevention and safety related to British Columbia’s underground infrastructure.

Hilda Letemplier

Letemplier is an accomplished Inuk entrepreneur from Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador. She is the President and Chief Financial Officer of Pressure Pipe Steel Fabrication Ltd. (PPSF), a 100% Inuit/Indigenous-owned company that provides steel fabrication and welding services for major resource development projects. In recognition of her contributions, Hilda received the Indigenous Business Lifetime Achievement Award from the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business in 2024.

Agnes Wietrzynski

Wietrzynski is the President and CEO of QM Environmental, one of Canada’s leading environmental and industrial services companies, a role she assumed on May 9, 2022. With over 13 years of experience in the environmental industry, Wietrzynski brings a strong background in business operations, major infrastructure projects, emergency response, industrial services, and business development. Prior to joining QM Environmental, she served as District Manager at GFL Environmental Inc. Under her leadership, QM Environmental has experienced significant growth and transformation, with Wietrzynski championing a strong culture of diversity, collaboration, and innovation. 

Rory Richards

Richards, a Coast Salish woman of Shíshálh descent, is the founder and CEO of NUQO Modular, an Indigenous-owned, female-led modular construction company based in Vancouver, B.C. With over two decades of experience in founding and leading successful Canadian businesses, Rory combines her community-first, values-led approach with innovative modular construction methods to address critical challenges such as affordable and Indigenous housing.

Marilyne Vallières

Vallières is the President of Signalisation de Ville and Signalisation STP, two successful construction companies specializing in road signage. A CPA by training, Vallières co-founded Signalisation de Ville with her partner Jimmy Girard nearly a decade ago. She has since grown the company to employ 250 people as of January 2024. Known for her hands-on leadership style, Vallières has fostered a company culture that prioritizes employee safety and well-being while maintaining high productivity. Her commitment to transparency and personal engagement with staff has been key to the company’s success. In January 2024, Vallières oversaw the relocation of the company to a new $15 million headquarters in Terrebonne, a move expected to create 45 new jobs by 2027.

Tannis Liviniuk

Liviniuk is a trailblazer in the construction industry with over 24 years of experience, currently serving as the Digital Advancement Executive at Zachry Group. She began her career on job sites, spending over a decade gaining hands-on expertise in project planning, construction execution, and technology implementation. Tannis later founded and led Trillium Advisory Group, a successful consulting firm focused on digitizing construction workflows, which she eventually sold. A passionate advocate for industry innovation and advancing opportunities for women in construction, she frequently speaks at global conferences and lectures at institutions.

Juliane Kniebel-Huebner

Kniebel-Huebner is on the front line of fighting climate change as the Chief Operating Officer of Carbon Upcycling Technologies, a leading decarbonization and carbon capture & utilization technology provider. She joined the company in September 2024, bringing over 20 years of leadership experience in the energy and infrastructure sectors. Prior to her role at Carbon Upcycling, Kniebel-Huebner served as Director of Western Canada Development at Capstone Infrastructure Corporation and Chief Operating Officer at Genalta Power Inc. Her experience also includes working as a Strategic Advisor and Managing Director at Ventotec, a subsidiary of enercity AG, where she led a major restructuring project. 

Constanza Maas, Tessa Ferzli, Samara Sampson

This trio co-founded Women on Site, a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing loneliness and retaining women in the skilled trades. Constanza Maass is an Environmental Technician with experience in environmental site assessments and remediation. Tessa Ferzli, a Red Seal brick and stone mason specializing in heritage masonry, became Canada’s youngest female Red Seal mason at 21 and now manages operations for a masonry company. Samara Sampson is a Red Seal Sheet Metal worker. They created Women on Site to address the challenges faced by women in male-dominated trades, hosting events, monthly meetups, and maintaining a supportive online community to share experiences, advice, and job opportunities.

Tamara Pongracz

For over 20 years Pongracz has been the Department Head of the BCIT Trades Access Department. The Trades Access Department includes Trades Discovery Programs that have helped thousands of people find their trade career match. Tamara received a BCIT Teaching Excellence Award in 2005 , an Employee Excellence Award (Inclusivity) in 2019, and was recognized by the Vancouver Regional Construction Association as Outstanding Woman in Construction 2007.

Catherine Karakatsanis

Karakatsanis, P.Eng., is the Chief Operating Officer of Stantec (formerly Morrison Hershfield), a global multi-disciplinary consulting engineering firm. With over three decades of experience, she has risen through the ranks from structural engineer to her current executive role, where she oversees operations for more than 1,000 professionals across Canada, the United States, and India. Karakatsanis has made history as the first woman president of the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC) in its 110-year history.

Regina Marklund

Marklund is a seasoned construction professional with 18 years of experience at Turner Construction Company. Currently serving as Construction Manager at Turner Canada, Marklund has held various roles within the company, including estimating, project management, superintendence, and business development. In February 2025, Marklund made history by becoming the second female Chair of the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) in its 95-year history.

Nour Hachem

Hachem is a seasoned workforce advisor, mentor, and influencer with over 13 years of experience. She is the founder and president of Build a Dream, a national non-profit organization established in 2014 in Windsor, Ontario, dedicated to empowering young women to explore careers in skilled trades, STEM, emergency response, and entrepreneurship. Under her leadership, the organization has raised over $15 million in funding, and continues to expand globally.

Kim Connell

Connell is a fearless leader with an impressive track record in the construction industry, dedicated to breaking barriers and promoting diversity. As Senior Vice President of Development and Strategy at Clark Builders, she drives strategic positioning, marketing, brand management, external engagement, revenue management, growth initiatives, and preconstruction services. Passionate about fostering teamwork, Connell nurtures individual excellence and camaraderie among colleagues.

Angela Clayton

Clayton is the Interim President and CEO of Infrastructure Ontario (IO), appointed in December 2024. With over 20 years of experience in the infrastructure sector, she has worked in both public and private roles, specializing in strategic planning, risk management, and program management. Prior to her current role, she served as IO’s President of Project Delivery, where she led transformative initiatives, including the development of new project delivery models for large-scale infrastructure projects. Angela has also held senior positions at Plenary Group, overseeing design, construction, and operations across North America, and at Brookfield LePage Johnson Controls in property and asset management.

Alicia Cornford

Cornford is the Director of Brand & Engagement at Clark Builders. With over a decade of experience in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries, Cornford brings a wealth of knowledge to her role. Prior to her current position, she served as Manager of Corporate Development at Clark Builders from February 2021 to January 2024. In her role, Cornford is responsible for identifying and researching new business opportunities, facilitating regional market plans, and supporting the development and execution of corporate growth strategies. Cornford is also actively involved in industry associations, serving as the President of the Canadian Society for Marketing Professional Services (CSMPS).

The city of Toronto, in partnership with Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), has unveiled plans to transform BMO Field (Toronto Stadium) into a state-of-the-art venue ready to host the FIFA World Cup 26 and with upgrades that will benefit stadium-goers well beyond the tournament.  

The upgrades, backed by a $123 million investment from the city and a $23 million investment from MLSE, will enhance stadium infrastructure, technology and overall appeal. Officials state that beyond the tournament’s economic, cultural and community benefits, these renovations will create a lasting legacy. 

“Sport brings us together, as Torontonians and Canadians,” said Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow. “As we prepare to host FIFA World Cup 26, we’re investing in infrastructure for Toronto’s future. We are supporting Team Canada while investing in the next generation of great Canadian athletes.” 

FIFA World Cup 26 enhancements: 

• Capacity will be increased to 45,000 with 10,000 temporary seats added on the north grandstand and 7,000 temporary seats added on the south grandstand. 
• Player spaces and locker rooms will be enhanced to accommodate international teams for the six World Cup matches.  
• The stadium’s broadcast infrastructure will be upgraded to support the international television coverage required for the tournament. 

Key stadium enhancements: 

• Four new LED videoboards will be added to the stadium’s corner columns to enhance fan engagement and visibility. New LED sports lighting and an upgraded audio system will elevate the overall matchday experience. 
• Self-serve technology, including generative AI and computer vision at select concession stands, will improve check-out lines so fans can spend more time enjoying the action.  
• The stadium’s Wi-Fi will be upgraded to accommodate the stadium’s increased fan capacity. 
• A state-of-the-art kitchen on the west side will serve fans quickly and efficiently, complemented by additional concession stands across the venue. 
• The field will undergo a comprehensive upgrade to meet world-class standards and new team dugouts will be added to accommodate future international events. 
• A new centre-field lounge will be added on the stadium’s west side to complement renovations to the existing West Suites as well as the addition of new North Suites. 
• After FIFA World Cup 26™ a ticketed rooftop patio with a 1,000-person capacity will be added. 

The transformation of Toronto Stadium will occur in two phases: 

• Phase 1 began in December 2024 during the off-seasons of Toronto FC and the Toronto Argonauts, with construction continuing through to August 2025.   
• Phase 2 will take place from December 2025 to March 2026, ensuring that all enhancements are completed in time for the FIFA World Cup 26™.  

As renovations take place, BMO Field will remain open at capacity for all scheduled events. During portions of the 2025 TFC and Argonauts seasons, fans will be directed to use the southern gates for entry and exit as work on the north grandstands take place. Additionally, a temporary videoboard will be in place on the north side until early spring. During the construction period, fans are encouraged to allow more time for entry and to consult their email communications or the website to plan their visit. 

In December 2024, FIFA released an economic impact assessment, prepared by Deloitte Canada, estimating that FIFA World Cup 26 could generate up to $940 million in positive economic output for the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). This includes a projected $520 million in GDP growth, $340 million in labor income and $25 million in government revenue. The tournament is also expected to create over 6,600 jobs between June 2023 and August 2026, providing a substantial boost to the region’s economy. 

Toronto will host six FIFA World Cup 26 matches, kicking off on June 12, 2026, with the first-ever men’s FIFA World Cup match on Canadian soil, featuring Canada’s Men’s National Team. Toronto is also hosting a round of 32 match on July 2, 2026.  

Key Takeaways:

• The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) has provided a $100 million loan to the Enoch Cree Nation to support infrastructure for a 256-acre mixed-use development, including essential utilities, roads, and facilities such as a cultural center, medical center, and elders facility.
• The project aims to diversify the Enoch Cree Nation’s economy, creating a self-sustaining future for over 2,800 community members while generating up to 800 jobs for both local and surrounding area residents.
• Nation officials emphasize the historic significance of this investment in closing long-standing infrastructure gaps faced by many Indigenous communities, highlighting the financial accessibility provided by the CIB’s Indigenous Community Infrastructure Initiative.

The Whole Story:

The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) has reached financial close on a $100 million loan to help the Enoch Cree Nation develop its reserve near Edmonton, Alberta. The agreement enables a future elders facility, a cultural centre and medical centre and more than $1 billion in commercial and residential development.

The enabling infrastructure includes construction of water and wastewater mains, roads and installation of underground utilities at the 256-acre mixed-use development.

Officials say the development will diversify the First Nation’s economy and create a self-sustaining future for more than 2,800 community members.

The project will also support up to 800 jobs for community members and individuals living in the surrounding areas. Enoch Civil Construction LP, the First Nation’s heavy civil construction company, will hold the primary contract for the project as the general contractor. Construction is expected to be completed in 2027.

The investment follows a $15-million CIB loan in August 2023 towards upgrades to the main transportation artery within the reserve, including pedestrian crossings and a new multi-use pedestrian trail.

“Our second investment with the Enoch Cree Nation supports its ongoing work to develop their reserve and create a self-sustaining future for community members,” said Ehren Cory, CEO, Canada Infrastructure Bank. “The enabling infrastructure will create jobs and needed road, water and wastewater infrastructure. The end result will be a new mixed-use development with office and retail space and community resources.

Nation officials noted that the announcement is historic and begins to help address infrastructure issues that many other Indigenous groups face.

“Like many First Nation communities in Canada, we have struggled to address many infrastructure gaps that hinder our Nation from moving forward,” said Enoch Cree Nation Chief Cody Thomas. “The CIB’s Indigenous Community Infrastructure Initiative has allowed our Nation to borrow the necessary capital to address some of the infrastructure gaps that we are currently experiencing at terms that are financially suitable.”

Canada is embroiled in a bitter trade war with the U.S., putting immense pressure on countless businesses. The U.S. is now imposing 25% tariffs on all goods imported from Canada, with a 10% tariff on energy and critical minerals. Canada has responded with its own tariffs in retaliation.

If you are looking to support Canadian construction businesses during the crisis, check out our list of producers. They make everything from steel girders to steel-toe boots. And if there is a made-in-Canada company that you think should be featured, let us know at hello@readsitenews.com.

Steel

Algoma Steel was forged in 1901 with two small blast furnaces, a 60-ton Bessemer furnace, a 23- inch bloom rolling mill and rail mill. It has since grown into a fully integrated steel producer based in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. The company manufactures and sells hot and cold rolled steel products including sheet and plate.

Canam Steel Works Inc. was founded in St. Gédéon de Beauce, Que. in 1960. Despite a series of devastating fires, the company persisted. The company says it has been involved in more than 300,000 Construction projects in North America.

Solid Rock is a classic immigrant success story. Berend Steunenberg learned the metal fabricating trade while growing up in Holland and and took his skills to Vancouver in the 1950s. Now the company is helping tackle large, complex projects like The Butterfly, the Surrey Central Library and Microsoft’s Vancouver headquarters.

Stelco is a long-standing integrated steel producer in Canada, primarily focusing on flat-rolled steel products. They produce hot-rolled and cold-rolled steel as well as coated products, serving industries such as automotive, construction, and energy.

AltaSteel, located in Edmonton, Alberta, specializes in producing high-quality steel products for industries such as construction and energy. The company plays a vital role in Western Canada’s steel industry by supporting local businesses and infrastructure projects.

Supreme Steel is headquartered in Acheson, Alberta, near Edmonton. It is the largest privately owned steel fabricator in Canada and provides services such as engineering, fabrication, and installation for industrial and commercial projects. Supreme Steel has contributed to iconic projects like the Port Mann Bridge and Anthony Henday bridges.

George Third & Son is a prominent steel fabrication company based in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada. Founded in 1910, the company has over a century of experience in the steel industry.

Wood

Interfor Corporation, founded in 1963 and based in Vancouver, is one of the largest lumber providers globally, with 21 mills across North America. Interfor’s operations span British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and the U.S. South, producing a wide array of wood products, including softwood lumber and engineered wood.

West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd., founded in 1955 in B.C., has grown to become one of the largest lumber producers in the world. The company operates over 60 mills across Canada, the U.S., and Europe, producing a wide range of wood products, including softwood lumber, plywood, OSB, and engineered wood.

Nordic Structures, based in Montreal, has worked on many projects in the U.S. and Canada, including Canadian Nuclear Labratories, Plate 15, Paul Mercier Library and more. Since 1961, Nordic has been using trees to make construction materials at its industrial complex in Chibougamau.

Canfor Corporation is a forest products company headquartered in Vancouver, B.C. Founded in 1938, Canfor specializes in producing lumber, pulp, and paper products, serving markets across North America, Asia, and Europe. The company operates numerous sawmills and pulp mills, with a strong presence in B.C., Alberta, and the U.S. South. In 2019, the Jim Pattison Group, one of Canada’s largest private companies, became Canfor’s majority owner, ensuring it remains Canadian-owned.

Tolko Industries Ltd., established in 1956 and based in Vernon, B.C., is a family-owned company that has grown into a significant player in the North American wood products industry.

Western Forest Products specializes in high-value, specialty lumber from the coastal forests of British Columbia. They serves niche markets like marine applications, custom homebuilding, and furniture manufacturing.

Stella-Jones, based in Montreal, Quebec, specializes in producing pressure-treated wood products, particularly utility poles and railway ties. They also manufacture lumber for residential construction. In 2025, Stella-Jones reported revenue of $2.5 billion.

Heavy equipment

Tigercat is a privately owned, vertically integrated Canadian corporation with deep expertise in engineering, fabrication, manufacturing, and the support of machinery suited to severe duty applications. The off-road industrial product line includes land clearing, silviculture and site preparation equipment as well as other specialized severe duty carriers used in a variety of industries including utilities, oil and gas and construction.

MacLean Engineering, based in Ontario, manufactures a range of underground mining machinery, which is also used in construction projects, particularly in tunnel construction and underground operations. Their machinery includes mobile mining equipment, bolters, scissor lifts, and other safety-focused tools.

Foremost is a Canadian company that manufactures heavy-duty construction and industrial equipment. Located in Calgary, Alberta, their product range includes drilling rigs, vacuum trucks, and specialized equipment for construction and mining applications.

Cement/Concrete

Béton Provincial Ltée, a Quebec-based family-owned company established in 1960, stands out in Eastern Canada for its diverse, high-quality concrete and paving products. They focus on a personalized customer approach and boast a wide distribution network, supplying construction projects across the region. In recent news, Béton Provincial made headlines by acquiring assets from CRH Canada, further solidifying their position in the market.

Federal White Cement, based in Woodstock, Ontario, specializes in white Portland and masonry cement for the construction industry. This family-owned company prioritizes innovation, offering traditional and eco-friendly white Portland cement options alongside white masonry cement.

Miller Cement supplies bulk Portland cement and specialty cementing materials. The Ontario-based company emphasizes sustainable practices and control their delivery process across the province.

Ciment Québec, boasting one of the most modern cement plants in North America, is a key player in Quebec’s construction industry. Their offerings include cement, concrete, construction materials, and aggregates. 

BM Group, based in B.C., has more than 40 years of history supplying Canada with concrete. It boasts expansive ready mix facilities and a constantly growing fleet. Alongside concrete supply is its precast manufacturing operation which offers a vast catalogue of precast concrete products.

Tools/gear

Gray Tools focuses on manufacturing hand tools for accomplished tradespeople. Founded by Alex Gray in 1912, the company offers over 6,000 hand tools designed for the specific work and needs of the professional user under two brands: Gray and Dynamic Tools. They are Canada’s only broad line manufacturer of hand tools.

Task Tools is a Canadian company founded in 1968, based in Delta, British Columbia. It is a family-owned and operated business that specializes in developing high-performing, quality tools for construction professionals. Task Tools offers three brands: TASK Signature, TASK, and Tuf-E-Nuf.

JessEm Tools manufactures precision woodworking tools. They are Canadian-owned and produce their tools in New Brunswick.

Rolgear Manufacturing produces a patented toothless ratchet system used in hand tools such as screwdrivers and socket wrenches. They are located in Ashcroft, B.C.

Tiger Torch manufactures propane and natural gas blow torches near High River, Alberta.

Veritas Tools produces high-quality woodworking hand tools, including planes, sharpening tools, joinery saws, marking and measuring tools, chisels, and carving tools. The Ontario company boasts 1250 products and more than 100 patents.

RAD Torque Systems is a Canadian manufacturer of pneumatic, battery powered, and electronic pistol grip torque wrenches which are marketed under the RAD trademark. RAD products are used in oil & gas, petrochemical, mining, aerospace, power generation and manufacturing.

Busy Bee Tools, a proudly Canadian-owned and operated company, has been specializing in woodworking, metalworking, and industrial tools since 1976. Headquartered in Concord, Ontario, the company has expanded nationwide with locations in Ottawa, Mississauga, London, Dartmouth, Pickering, Barrie, and more.

Perma Pouch Inc. specializes in designing and manufacturing leather tool belts and pouches. The Burnaby, B.C. company’s products are 100% Canadian-made, focusing on durability and functionality for tradespeople. Perma Pouch is known for its commitment to local production and high-quality craftsmanship.

Impact Poly Hammers is a Saskatoon-based company that produces professional-grade soft-faced dead-blow hammers. Their hammers feature increased steel frame construction and fully welded heads. They offer a variety of sizes and are known for their durability, with some users reporting their hammers lasting for 15 years without significant wear.

Akribis Leather designs and manufactures rugged, high-quality tool belts specifically for tradespeople. Founded by Luke Riemer, the Summerland, B.C. company started with custom-made belts tested in the harsh conditions of the Okanagan Valley. 

Personal protective equipment

Canada West is a 47-year old boot manufacturer that has a variety of styles for steel toe work boots. Based in Winnipeg, Canada West states that making Goodyear welted footwear may not be the easiest way to make a boot or shoe, but they still believe it is the best way. Especially for heavy-duty work boots and western boots used throughout Canada.

Big Bill is a fourth-generation family business and a brand of Codet Inc., dedicated to producing high-quality workwear for over 75 years. Founded by Charles E. Audet in Coaticook, Quebec, the company has grown into a North American leader with four specialized divisions: workwear, outdoor clothing, flame-resistant apparel, and safety footwear.

Superior Glove is a Canadian company specializing in hand protection. Based in Acton, Ontario, they manufacture a wide range of gloves for industrial applications, including cut-resistant and heat-resistant options. They are one of the largest glove manufacturers in North America with a strong focus on local production.

Dynamic Safety produces above-the-neck PPE for industrial applications. The Quebec company manufactures hard hats, ear muffs, and other safety equipment designed for workers in construction, manufacturing, and other industrial sectors. Dynamic Safety continues to operate its manufacturing plant in Laval, focusing on North American production.

Covergalls is a Sudbury, Ontario manufacturer of industrial PPE and workwear designed specifically for women. Founded by Alicia Woods in 2013, the company has grown significantly and now produces a wide range of PPE products tailored to women’s needs in various industries.

Tatra is a 100% Canadian-made work boot manufacturer based in Dunnville, Ontario. They produce high-quality, hand-crafted CSA work boots and emphasize their commitment to supporting fellow Canadians by providing quality work boots and jobs. As of February 28, 2025, Tatra continues to manufacture their boots entirely in Canada.

Mellow Walk, located in Toronto, Ontario, produces safety footwear including work boots and shoes. They offer a range of styles, from steel-toe work boots to composite toe athletic work shoes, all manufactured in Canada.

Royer, based in Lac-Drolet, Quebec, has been manufacturing work boots since 1934. They offer a “Made in Canada” line that guarantees the product was made in their Lac-Drolet factory from top to bottom.

Hardware

Leland Industries is one of Canada’s leading manufacturers of fasteners, including nails, bolts, nuts, and screws. The B.C. company specializes in providing high-quality steel fasteners for a variety of industries, including construction, automotive, and industrial applications.

Can-Eng Manufacturing specializes in cold-heading and forging processes to produce nuts, bolts, screws, and other metal products. Their fasteners are used in industries such as construction, automotive, and energy.

Pacific Bolt is the largest bolt manufacturer in Western Canada. They produce construction fasteners and anchors using domestic steel.

Canadian Stainless Fasteners Inc., based in Pitt Meadows, BC, has been supplying and distributing fasteners since 1995. While primarily a distributor, they also offer custom design services for fasteners.

UTILE, a finalist in this year’s CMHC Housing Supply Challenge, questioned why, despite offering significant advantages, multi-residential modular construction only accounts for a very small share of the residential market in Canada. So in 2024, the Montreal-based non-profit kicked off its first modular construction project, a 155-unit midrise complex in Rimouski, Que., to see how modular construction could work more effectively. What UTILE learned might surprise you, but thankfully its key findings can be successfully replicated for any type of modular housing development in Canada.

“In the past seven years, construction costs in Canada have increased by more than 50%. It is simply impossible to overcome the affordability crisis without tackling the rising costs of construction. In that regard, modular construction has enormous potential,” says Gabriel Fournier Filion, UTILE’s CEO.

Modular construction enables project owners to shorten development cycles by approximately half and therefore build twice as many housing units per year, yet remains significantly underexploited. While faster than traditional construction methods, UTILE found that it can be costlier than traditional projects and is perceived as riskier by construction stakeholders. So, the question that begs an answer is why isn’t modular construction cheaper?

Three factors making modular construction expensive 

UTILE identified three reasons why modular costs more than traditional construction. The first reason is that subsequent projects rarely proceed because modular-building manufacturers currently focus on single-family housing which has higher margins but lower volumes. From UTILE’s experience, this creates two new issues.

• Modular-building manufacturers won’t invest in their production capacity and efficiency if there is no pipeline of guaranteed deals. 
• The experience acquired throughout the production chain during a modular project is not taken advantage of, so opportunities to reduce the costs of subsequent projects are lost. 

The second reason is that standard construction contracts are poorly adapted to modular construction since there are multiple parties involved, including those doing part of the assembly work in the factory and those working on site. UTILE found that as a result, manufacturers, general contractors, and subcontractors will increase their bids to cover their risks in case of warranty claims.

Canada’s construction industry’s lack of experience with modular presents the third challenge and increases costs. Here’s why. The assembly details of a prefabricated project are different from a conventional project and are unknown to professionals, general contractors, and subcontractors, leaving them to guess. Also, the scope of work on-site is not fully understood by the stakeholders involved. This leads to them substantially increasing the safety margins in their bids because they cannot accurately estimate the time and materials required.

Success found with consortium model 

Based on its findings, UTILE has brought together a consortium of stakeholders – including a prefabricator, general contractor, architects, and engineers – to collaborate on and repeat several consecutive projects. This new consortium model from UTILE focuses on building industry partnerships as a way to create more market certainty and improve efficiency with every project completed. 

UTILE has also committed to producing at least one large-scale, multi-residential project (70 to 310 housing units) per year for the next five years. By committing to building several hundred modular housing units, UTILE is encouraging the prefabricator to invest in its plant to increase its efficiency and production capacity, which the non-profit sees as a benefit for the broader industry. 

UTILE is also developing new contracts specifically for modular construction to clarify the legal responsibilities of each stakeholder involved – from the factory to the construction site. Stakeholders will then better understand their legal requirements so they do not needlessly inflate their bid to compensate for risks that, in reality, are either mitigatable or assumed by another stakeholder. 

UTILE is also aiming to cut the costs of modular construction by 10 to 15 percent compared to traditional means. The non-profit will carefully document the costs of all stakeholders in the value chain to target measures and reduce prefabrication costs. Very importantly, this documentation implies that all of the involved players will be transparent about their costs. 

Educating subcontractors who are bidding on modular projects so they can understand the exact scope of work to be done is another UTILE priority. The non-profit is developing plans and specifications – including an explanatory video via BIM modelling – so it can predict the cost of each subcontractor to the nearest dollar. 

“As a non-profit with a high development volume, UTILE is uniquely positioned to finetune a model that makes modular construction highly scalable and to disseminate it among the industry,” adds Fournier Filion.

UTILE to open source its key learnings

To help other developers in Canada more effectively adopt modular construction, UTILE’s modular pilot project will be the subject of a white paper that will be written by two external firms (MNP and Macogep). It will be available in Fall 2025 and be widely distributed.

To ensure you don’t miss out, you can signup to receive a free copy of UTILE’s white paper featuring its key findings on modular construction, by contacting: modular@utile.org

SiteNews is dropping the puck on our next event: the Industry Icebreaker at Rogers Place in Edmonton.

The innagural Icebreaker will focus on priortizing wellness for peak performance. SiteNews, in partnership with ICBA Alberta, will host an intimate fireside chat and Q&A with Trevor Muir, one of the founders and former CEO of Surepoint Group, an entrepreneur, and published author.

Held in the prestigious Edmonton Oilers Hall of Fame, the Industry Icebreaker will see Muir will go behind the scenes of building and scaling Surepoint into a $100-million company. He’ll discuss navigating the complexities of private equity investment, forbearance, the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the implementation of an employee ownership model. Muir will also open up about the challenges he faced outside the office which are familiar to many high-performing executives.

“I was a business owner and leader, and a human being, living with human problems,” said Muir. “I kept my struggles and pain to myself for many years, before it got to be too much, and I thankfully reached out for help.”

Following the the chat with Muir, attendees can continue the conversation at the Sky Lounge Club and private Sky Lounge Loft at Rogers place for some exclusive networking while watching the Oilers face off against the LA Kings.

Get your tickets today at industryicebreaker.com.

After weeks and weeks of threats, delays and changes, U.S. President Donald Trump has launched his trade war against Canada. Here’s what you need to know.

What is impacted: The U.S. is now imposing 25% tariffs on all goods imported from Canada, with a 10% tariff on energy and critical minerals. This includes a plethora of products but let’s focus on two of the big ones.

• Wood – In 2020, 67% of Canada’s softwood lumber production was exported, with 84% of these exports destined for the U.S. In 2024, the United States imported wood and articles of wood, including wood charcoal, from Canada totaling approximately $11.59 billion.
• Steel – In 2024, the U.S. imported approximately $7.69 billion worth of iron and steel products from Canada, making us its largest supplier. However, Steel is facing a double whammy. In addition to the current tariffs, Trump plans to implement 25% more tariffs starting later this month, meaning Canadian imports would have a 50% tariff placed on them.

Both ways: Canada has fired back with immediate matching tariffs on $30 billion worth of American goods. For construction, this includes:

• Sands for concrete
• A variety of plastics used in building products
• Floor coverings
• Engineered wood products
• Construction equipment tires
• Hand tools
• Power tools
• Lighting fixtures
  

After a review period of 21 days, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has promised to raise this retaliation to impact $155 billion worth of American goods.

What you can expect to see:

• Business closures – Communities with large dependence on industries that mainly export to the U.S. are in trouble. This is especially true for eastern steel/aluminum producers who are facing double the tariffs. Steel orders were already slowing and at least one plant making electrical cables has shut its doors.
• Job losses – A report by the Washington-based Brookings Institution predicts the tariffs could kill 510,000 Canadian jobs. Canadians are much more pessmistic. Quebec says it could lose up to 100,000 jobs if the tariffs remain in place for six months and up to 160,000 if they last a year. Ontario believes 500,000 jobs are at risk in Ontario alone.
• ‘Buy Canadian’ movements – We have already seen multiple provinces float policies that would ban U.S. procurement. Ontario has shredded a $100M contract with StarLink and economists have encouraged builders to get goods from Canadian producers as much as possible.
• Higher construction costs – Countervailing tariffs could cause increases in construction costs say home building groups. Canada imports some $3.5B in glass and glass products, $3.1B in major appliances, $2.2B in hardware, and about $1B in ceramic tile and products. Our second phase of tariffs, slated to come into place after 21 days, currently includes steel and aluminum. Canada imports some $17B of steel and aluminum. 
• Increased public sector work – With a federal election on the horizon, some economics experts believe candidates will have little choice but to make up for economic hit from tariffs with government spending, including large public infrastructure projects. This could provide opportunity for builders to have steady work and create jobs.
• Recession – Yep, that dreaded word. Economists say if these tariffs contine, the nation will likely be plunged into a full-blown recession this year.

In the days leading up to the tariffs showed a consistent decline in the Canadian stock market, with a notable dip following the tariffs and counter tariffs.

The response from the construction sector has been swift, with many warning that retaliating with our own tariffs could be catestrophic. Here’s what industry leaders are saying:

While Canada’s retaliatory tariffs are understandable, all considerations regarding the industry and housing supply and affordability should be considered, with an emphasis on avoiding tariffs on construction products and materials, unless other domestic or import solutions can be easily found for comparable prices. Governments can also help offset the impact that countervailing tariffs will inevitably have on housing affordability by removing the GST (and PST/HST) on new construction, as well as lowering development taxes at the municipal level, particularly in those municipalities with extremely high development taxes.

Canadian Home Builders’ Association CEO Kevin Lee

These tariffs present a significant risk for the construction industry. This likely means increased costs for homebuilding and trade-enabling infrastructure, impacts to our supply chains and trading relationships, and a weakening of our economic development and productivity. While the federal government is right to respond in kind, CCA reiterates its call for all governments to consider economic measures to support Canadian businesses and stimulate our economy, in consultation with industry. 

The Canadian Construction Association

Canadian retaliation, while understandable in the circumstances, will magnify the blow to our economy by raising costs/prices for consumer goods and business inputs. This is particularly true given that the U.S. is the number one source of Canadian and B.C. imports.

Jock Finlayson, Senior Economist, Independent Contractors and Businesses Association

And so it begins. A trade war with no winners. Critical that we stay calm, calulated, respond thoughtfully and lets not overreact. Hard to know the impact, with such policy volatility, but I suspect potentially less than some fear. In the end moves like this, that make so little sense, are unlikely to last. 

Jon Love, Founder, KingSett Capital

Breaking internal barriers: There have also been calls to make provincial trade easier by cutting inter-provincial red tape. Last week, officials told the provinces and territories Friday that Ottawa will remove more than half of federal internal trade barriers in an effort to make the nation less reliant on the U.S. Statistics Canada data shows that the most commonly reported obstacle to interprovincial trade was the cost of transportation for both businesses purchasing (27.4%) and selling (23.2%) goods or services.

Deja vu: In 2018, the Trump administration imposed significant tariffs on Canadian steel (25%) and aluminum (10%) imports, citing national security concerns under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act. Canada retaliated by imposing tariffs on $12.6 billion worth of U.S. goods, including steel, aluminum, and various consumer products. This trade conflict resulted in economic disruptions for both countries, with Canadian exports of steel to the US dropping by nearly 40% in the first month of implementation, while economists estimated at least 75,000 job losses across the U.S. manufacturing industry by mid-2019.

The Canadian Homebuilders’ Association (CHBA) has released its 2024 Municipal Benchmarking Study that examines how local development processes, approvals, and charges impact housing affordability and housing supply in major housing markets across the country.

The study benchmarks municipalities based on three key development features:

• Municipal fees charged on new residential development
• Length of time for residential development applications to move through the development application process
• Features in place to help applicants navigate the development application process.

The previous edition of the study was conducted in 2022. This edition of the study provides further detail on how a municipality’s performance on these measures influences housing outcomes, including affordability and availability of housing for young families, and the total cost implications of these municipal processes and policies. The study also includes the indirect costs to the construction process that accumulate on a development as its application goes through the application process.

“Development charges, delays, and inefficient processes at the municipal level directly impact the price of homes and how many are built,” said CHBA CEO Kevin Lee. “The purpose of this study is to facilitate dialogue with all levels of government, but particularly with municipal governments, on the effects of longer timelines, higher fees, and the level of efficiency of processes on housing affordability and outcomes. This report also offers insight into best practices that municipalities can adopt to help improve their housing affordability and supply. It also points to ways that the provincial and federal governments can continue to drive and support change at the municipal level,”

The report’s key findings include:

• The cities of Edmonton, Halifax, and London rank highest overall.
• When looking at the municipalities ranked in the bottom ten, seven are in Ontario, and two are British Columbia’s largest municipalities that were studied.
• Municipal fees charged on new residential developments went up by an average of $27,500 for a low-rise home since the 2022 study, raising the new average in Canada for municipal fees in these cities to $82,600 (ranges from $8,700 to $195,000) at the time of the 2024 study.
• Municipal fees charged on new residential developments went up by an average of
  $3,000 for a high-rise home since the 2022 study, raising the new average in Canada at the time of the 2024 study to $35,000 (ranges from roughly $1,600 to $134,400).
• The 2022-2031 period is on track to be the decade with the fewest homes built per new persons added to the Canadian population since at least 1972.
• A combination of a challenging economic backdrop and costly application processes are leading to fewer application submissions.
• Application submissions have fallen significantly since peaking in 2021, in both Ontario and British Columbia. The decline has been driven by site-plan and/or development permit applications.
• In contrast, more affordable markets, such as Alberta, have experienced an increase in application submissions.
• Approval timelines improved marginally from the previous study but remain high, and in some cases the improvement is likely simply because of fewer applications being submitted.

“More needs to be done to address the housing crisis in Canada. The CHBA Benchmarking Study points out the barriers to getting more homes built and ways in which these barriers contribute to the cost of a new home,” stated Lee.

For more information on CHBA’s Municipal Benchmarking Study, visit chba.ca/municipal-benchmarking/.

Key Takeaways:

• The merger between Graham Group and XL Industries (XLI) strengthens Graham’s U.S. presence and expands both companies’ capacity in key growth sectors. This immediately boosts Graham’s annual revenue, backed by a $1.4 billion project backlog.
• Both companies emphasize innovation, quality, and reliability while maintaining a strong commitment to local communities, workforce development, and sustainable building practices.
• The merger allows both companies to leverage technological advancements, broaden service offerings, and enhance workforce capabilities to meet the evolving demands of the construction industry.

The Whole Story:

Graham Group has completed a merger with XL Industries (XLI), a northern California-based construction company, expanding both companies’ delivery capacity in key growth sectors and strengthening Graham’s U.S. footprint. The merger will result in an immediate boost in Graham’s annual revenues supported by more than $1.4 billion (USD) in project backlog. 

Headquartered in Milpitas, California, with additional offices in Oakland and Sacramento, XLI encompasses a diverse family of companies: XL Construction, Bradley Concrete, Elevated Construction Services, TimberQuest, and Arrow Rental & Supply.

“This merger is an exciting step forward for both companies,” said Andy Trewick, CEO of Graham. “By joining forces, we’re growing our market presence and bringing even more innovation to the industry. XL Industries is known for its reliability and commitment to quality, just like us, making this partnership a great fit for both teams. There is no question that our combined strength, talent and innovation will grow our leadership in the industry.” 

Beyond the business advantages, both Graham and XLI stated they share a deep-rooted commitment to the communities where they operate. The companies have long supported local initiatives, workforce development, and sustainable building practices that contribute to the long-term success of the regions they serve. 

“We’re excited to take this next step with Graham,” said Richard Walker, President and CEO of XL Industries and now Graham’s EVP, US Buildings division. “This next phase for our business gives us the opportunity to grow, reach new markets, and continue delivering high-quality projects while staying true to our values. Most importantly, it strengthens our ability to make a lasting impact in the communities where we live and work.”

The merger will enable both companies to capitalize on technological advancements, expand service offerings, and build workforce capabilities to meet the evolving demands of the construction industry.

Founded in 1992, XL Industries (XLI) is a leading construction services provider committed to its purpose of “building to improve lives.” There will be no immediate changes to XLI’s brand or leadership. XLI will join Graham’s U.S. Buildings group, comprised of Milender White, a full-service real estate company with offices in Southern California and Colorado that joined Graham in 2021, and Graham’s Seattle operations.

Together, these companies specialize in serving clients across the education, life sciences, advanced technology, commercial, civic, and healthcare sectors, creating spaces that enhance and enrich communities. Known for excellence, XLI has been consistently ranked among Silicon Valley’s “Best Places to Work.”

B.C.

• Work progressing at Cedar Hill Middle School replacement
• Major construction starts on Surrey Langley SkyTrain
• Foundation proposes major expansion of Vancouver General Hospital
• Big upgrades coming to Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal

Ontario

• Ring of Fire access roads may not be complete until 2040
• Hard Rock Hotel in London eyes spring completion 

Alberta

• Bridge construction to ramp up in Edmonton

Quebec

• Quebec border crossing to receive $100M makeover

Maritimes/Atlantic

• Grieg Seafood pausing construction on Marystown expansion

Key Takeaways:

• Alberta’s government, the City of Edmonton, and OEGSE are partnering to develop an event park, enhance public spaces, and support new housing in downtown Edmonton, with a total project cost of $408.2 million.
• The project aims to build 2,500 diverse housing units, improve safety, and strengthen Edmonton’s economy by generating $70 million in GDP and up to 1,400 construction jobs.
• Budget 2025 allocates funding for the initiative, with discussions ongoing. The City of Edmonton is also exploring extending the Capital City Downtown Community Revitalization Levy to fund key infrastructure projects.

The Whole Story:

Alberta’s government announced that it is partnering with the City of Edmonton and OEG Sports & Entertainment (OEGSE) to support downtown revitalization and economic prosperity.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) involves developing an event park and public realm space fully connected to Rogers Place in Edmonton’s ICE District, unlocking more housing in the downtown core, and supporting site servicing for the Village at ICE District and demolition of the old Coliseum at Exhibition Lands.

Discussions between the Government of Alberta, City of Edmonton, and OEGSE are ongoing as further details are worked out. The province’s Budget 2025 allocates funding for this project, should a final agreement be struck among all three partners.

“This investment will boost our economy and solidify Edmonton’s status as a global events hub,” said Amarjeet Sohi, Edmonton Mayor. “I’m pleased the Government of Alberta is investing in our city. Municipalities need provincial support to manage record growth, and this funding will support diverse housing projects, including needed affordable housing.”

These priority projects will support housing development, provide residents and visitors with year-round access to sports, culture and entertainment activities, as well as improve safety and build 2,500 new units of diverse housing types. The total cost for all projects is $408.2 million, which will be shared among all three partners.

As part of this ongoing work, the City of Edmonton has released a report that outlines options to extend the end date for the Capital City Downtown Community Revitalization Levy (CRL) beyond 2034. This report contains new catalyst projects including public infrastructure site servicing for the Village at ICE District housing development and a proposed event park that would be funded through the CRL. The event park is estimated to add over $70 million to the local gross domestic product (GDP) and up to 1,400 jobs throughout the construction phase.

Alberta’s government, the City of Edmonton and OEGSE will make a more formal announcement in the days to come.

Key Takeaways:

• The Surrey Langley SkyTrain project has moved into significant construction, with guideway columns now visible and major work on foundations, stations, and a pre-cast concrete facility planned for 2025.
• The project aims to improve transit options across Metro Vancouver, offering faster, more affordable travel while supporting job creation, housing access, and regional growth.
• As the first rapid-transit expansion south of the Fraser in 30 years, the SkyTrain will cut travel time between Langley and downtown Vancouver to 65 minutes, with ridership expected to reach 80,000 by 2050.

The Whole Story:

Significant construction is underway along the Surrey Langley SkyTrain alignment and at future station sites, bringing people a major step closer to safe, affordable and convenient travel across the Metro Vancouver region.

“The Surrey Langley SkyTrain project is going to transform the transportation experience for people across the region,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit. “From job creation to housing and improved access to services and amenities, the new SkyTrain line will make getting around faster and more affordable for hundreds of thousands of people.”

Early works, including site preparation and utility relocation, began in spring 2024. Major construction activities followed in November 2024. Construction is progressing with guideway columns starting to be visible at multiple station sites.

“With significant progress in construction for the Surrey Langley SkyTrain, we’re taking a major step toward reshaping transit in the region,” said Randeep Sarai, MP for Surrey Centre. “This project will improve connectivity, support the growing transportation needs of our communities, and provide accessible, sustainable and efficient options for people across Metro Vancouver.”

Construction in 2025 is focused on foundations for roughly 200 guideway piers and columns. The development of the pre-cast concrete facility in Surrey’s Campbell Heights and starting construction of Green Timbers and Langley City Centre stations is also planned in 2025.

“As one of Canada’s fastest-growing regions, the need for high-quality public transportation south of the Fraser River is critical,” said Jagrup Brar, MLA for Surrey Fleetwood. “Expanding access to convenient public transit will help current and future residents access new jobs, find affordable housing and stay connected.”

As the project progresses into spring, column and pier construction will advance, and crews will begin casting more than 4,400 concrete segments that form the guideway. Four gantry launchers, which are purpose-built cranes to build the guideway, will be assembled to lift and put the segments in place this summer. The launchers will be located at 152 Street, Bakerview-166 Street and Hillcrest-184 Street stations.

The first rapid-transit project south of the Fraser in 30 years, the Surrey Langley SkyTrain will allow travel between Langley City Centre and King George SkyTrain station in approximately 22 minutes, and in just 65 minutes between Langley City Centre and Waterfront station in downtown Vancouver. The project is expected to serve a daily weekday ridership of 56,000 in the opening year, increasing to 80,000 by 2050.

Northcrest has announced a major executive shuffle. Loren Shore is now EVP of Investments & Asset Management, Kristy Shortall is now EVP of Development, and Catherine Barnes has been promoted to VP of Strategy and Operations.

Scott MacLeod will be joining Team Viking as their new Director of Business Development. As a veteran Director of Business Development & Indigenous Relations, MacLeod has overseen the business excellence and strategic direction of leading industrial companies that service the oil/gas/chemical industries in Canada, with more than 20 years of experience.

Jennifer Podmore Russell is taking on the role of Chief Development Officer at Nch’ḵay̓. She has served as Executive Vice President of Real Estate & Development since December 2023, and, prior to that, served a short term on our Board of Directors.

Jason Campbell is CarbonCure‘s new North America Commercial Director. He has 26 years of dedicated experience within the ready mix concrete industry. Before CarbonCure, Campbell oversaw sales operations for Sysdyne Technologies and sold dispatch, batch automation and trucking software.

Maddison Sharples is now Vice President, Communications and Marketing, at Fengate Asset Management. Previously, Sharples was Senior Manager, Marketing and Communications, North America, at Acciona.

Chris Sempson has joined Gillam as a Project Superintendent. He has 43 years of experience in the industry and brings a wealth of knowledge in planning, scheduling and communication.

Angus English has been promoted to Project Director, North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant, at AECOM. He has 40 years of experience in infrastructure revitalization, replacement and upgrading for public and private sector clients in Western Canada, South America, and Asia.

Antonio Muñoz Garrido is now North America Managing Director for Acciona Construction. He has been with the company for more than 20 years. 

Efrain Rodriguez has started a new position as Vice President, Business Development, for Acciona’s Water Division. 

Neil Martin is now Head of Retail Investments at Astria Properties.

Philip Ristevski has joined Amazon as its Senior Development Manager, Global Strategic Properties. 

Dick Cousineau and Michael Atkins have been inducted into the mining supply hall of fame. Atkins founded Laurentian Publishing, which produced Northern Ontario Business. Cousineau is Co-Owner at OCP Construction Supplies and Cousineau Concrete Pumping.

Sean Wilcock has joined Stream-Flo Industries as President of Operations. He will focus on North American manufacturing and service operations to support the needs of the western hemisphere.

Alexandre L’Heureux, CEO of WSP, has been named Canada’s Outstanding CEO of the Year for 2024. He joined WSP in July 2010 as Chief Financial Officer and held this position until he was promoted to President and CEO in October 2016. Since he joined, WSP has completed more than 90 acquisitions and increased its workforce to over 73,000 globally.

John Tagle has been appointed Executive Vice President, Sales and Business Development, for ZS2 Technologies. He joined the company in 2022.

Byron Conroy, owner of Yeti Refrigeration; Randy Callaghan, formerly of PCL Construction; and Ruairi Spillane, Founder and CEO of Outpost Recruitment, have joined the Construction Foundation of BC as board members. 

Brett Rutledge, a Co-Founder of SiteNews, is now the publication’s Chief Product & Marketing Officer. 

SitePartners saw several big new hires and promotions, including: 

• Laura Boyer is now Vice President of Client Success at the industrial-focused marketing firm as part of its acquisition of BlackBean. 
• Trevor Wales has been promoted to Director, Communications and Engagement.
• Michelle Hughes was promoted to Director of Digital Marketing. 
• Andrew Grant was promoted to Vice President, Strategy

Jeremy Mielke is the new program manager for the Calgary Construction Association’s “Tailgate Toolkit” Recovery Resource Program. With both educational and lived experience in addiction and recovery, Mielke has spent years working with individuals in high-risk sectors, helping them navigate challenges, reduce stigma, and access the support they need.

Alisha Wong is now Vice President, Finance, for Intracorp Homes in Vancouver. She will oversee Canada’s financial management, reporting, strategic planning, insurance and IT functions.

Aiden Callison, Ali Kenyon, and Darin Harding have joined HCMA’s partnership group as principals. 

Adrian Vugts is now Project Superintendent at Gillam. He brings 25 years of experience to the role. 

Janice Chuang has been promoted to Senior Director, Finance, Technical Services at Ledcor. She has been with the company for more than 10 years. 

Daniel Chauvin is joining North American Construction as its Vice President of Operations. He brings over 20 years of industry experience.

Roman Loehnert has been promoted to Director of Operations for Modern Niagara. 

Shawn D’Souza has begun a new role as HR Business Partner at Ledcor. 

Paul Wright is now Director of Construction at unitii corp. 

Ali Salman announced plans to leave Northgate Modular where he worked as its Indigenous Partnerships lead. Salman says he will announce his next career move soon. 

Chris Jakul is now Vice President, Prairies, at Stormtec Water Management. 

Dan Malinsky is now Chief Operating Officer at Colony Construction.

Jacqueline Lotzkar has been named President and CEO of the Canadian Association of Recycling Industries. For the last four years, she has been Vice President with Pacific Metals Recycling International, Vancouver, B.C. while recently supporting the corporate sale process and ownership transition following their 112-year family-owned business.

Becca Nagorsky has joined HDR as its Transit Planning Leader.  Nagorsky will collaborate across HDR’s global rail and transit markets to develop a vision and goals that will align HDR’s resources with the needs of its clients and the communities they serve. Her work will span all transit modes, including paratransit, fixed-route bus, express bus, bus rapid transit, light rail, subway, commuter rail, intercity passenger rail and more.

Ian Baird has been promoted to Vice President of Construction, and Zack Staples is now Vice President of Development and CFO at Caliber. 

Rob Gregg has been named Partner at MCW Group of Companies. He has been with them for more than 13 years.

Morganne Campbell is now Director, Marketing and Communications at Ramudden Global North America.

Jay Harding has been promoted to Vice President, Preconstruction at Clark Builders. 

Meeghan Paterson has been promoted to the position of Manager, Corporate Planning at Western Archrib.

Dean Gagne, GSC NCSO has been promoted to Regional Manager, Manitoba, in Ledcor’s Prairie Division. He joined Ledcor in 2023 as a Project Director, bringing over 35 years of industry experience with him. In his new role, Dean will leverage his vast knowledge and strong leadership skills to mentor and grow our teams, and will continue to build solid, long-standing relationships with our clients and business partners.

In 2008, Justin Bontkes was on top of the world. Raised in a life steeped in construction, he was on track for the career of his dreams. As a child, he loved playing in the sandbox and building forts. As he grew older, his summers were spent on the job site, learning the ins and outs of multiple trades.

By 21, he had earned a degree in construction management, was newly married, and was working as a project manager on a major six-storey wood-frame housing project in Surrey, B.C. His career was soaring, and he couldn’t have been happier.

“I was loving it and on top of the world. I had this feeling of invincibility around me. Life was good,” he said.

But just days before Christmas, everything came crashing down. A global financial crisis had gripped the market, and his boss laid him off. Not long after, tragedy struck. He lost one of his brothers, shaking his foundations to the core. In the aftermath, Bontkes began reflecting deeply on life and what truly mattered. He poured himself into his community, volunteering at a kids’ camp and his church. He also earned a master’s degree in psychology and clinical counselling.

It was during this time that Bontkes realized he had a second passion besides construction: Building people. He came to see that, over time, he could merge both passions. With that in mind, he started Caliber Projects and began steady work on custom builds and renovations.

However, Justin soon moved on to larger-scale projects, landing a major contract to lead the construction of Latimer Village, the centrepiece of Latimer Heights—a 75-acre master-planned community with over 2,000 homes. As Caliber grew, Bontkes refined his approach to construction, focusing not only on building projects but also on Building People and Building Process. From 2019 to today, the company scaled from 10 employees to nearly 100.

“We are a well-managed, well-oiled machine now,” said Bontkes. “And we have been able to define who we are and what we do.”

This vision extends far beyond the job site. Bontkes sees Caliber as an opportunity to build into communities and create generational change.

“The vision for us is infinite,” he explained. “This business that we are in, this game we are playing is only for a time. But, as time goes on, others will play it and we want to be able to influence them for good and to really impact communities.”

For Bontkes, this means helping the team become the best version of themselves. This often involves challenging people’s assumptions, beliefs, and actions.

“We don’t just want to give young people jobs,” said Bontkes. “We want to give them careers. Help them understand their purpose in life. Come up with some goals and strategic plans for them to reach.”

At Caliber, this includes encouraging employees to lead healthy lives—through healthy bodies, healthy diets, and strong, healthy relationships. It’s a holistic view of both life and business.

“I see a world where people are inspired, where people are healthy – physically, mentally, and spiritually. And they have lifestyles which are conducive to growth. Where healthy families have strong relationships,” said Bontkes. “I could see Statistics Canada doing a study on all the different neighbourhoods throughout Canada and the influence that we have. Success for me would be them noticing that there’s something different about the community that we’re operating in: Stronger marriages, the kids are doing better in school, there’s fewer homeless people, there’s just a sentiment of general well-being, elevated within these communities.”

He’s not alone in this vision. Over the years, Bontkes has seen a new generation of builders who share the same ambition to create a company culture that elevates the lives of workers and the communities they serve.

“If we want to have an engaged workforce, we need to do these things,” he said. “We need to build into our people. We can’t think of people just simply as a resource anymore. I believe Caliber is part of that movement,” he said.

Key Takeaways:

• The Prairie Economic Gateway agreement is expected to generate over $7 billion in economic activity and create more than 30,000 jobs in the Calgary region over the next decade, addressing the city’s rapid growth and increasing job demands.
• By leveraging the existing Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) rail network, the initiative aims to improve supply chain efficiency, expand trade access, and reduce reliance on seaports, strengthening the region’s economic resilience.
• The partnership between Calgary and Rocky View County highlights the power of municipal collaboration in driving infrastructure investment, market expansion, and economic diversification, with plans to secure further government and private sector funding.

The Whole Story:

The City of Calgary and Rocky View County have approved the Prairie Economic Gateway agreement, a historic partnership projected to generate over $7 billion in economic activity and create more than 30,000 jobs across the region over the next 10 to 12 years.

Strategically located adjacent to Calgary’s eastern limits, the proposed inland port will leverage the region’s existing Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) rail network to enable greater interprovincial trade and access to global markets while unlocking new opportunities in manufacturing, logistics, processing and distribution. Officials say that improving supply chain efficiency and reducing reliance on seaports, the Prairie Economic Gateway will enhance trade resilience in the region and mitigate economic disruptions.

The Prairie Economic Gateway is a leading example of what can be achieved when municipalities work together to unlock the industry’s potential to create jobs and generate prosperity.

Rocky View County Reeve Crystal Kissel

“Three years ago, I envisioned a bold new future for Calgary, where our city could be home to the strongest inland port in North America,” said Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “Today, I am proud to say we are turning that vision into reality. Prairie Economic Gateway is not just a project. It is a promise of prosperity, productivity and opportunity that will transform our region for future generations.”

The agreement formalizes almost two years of collaboration between the municipalities. Recognizing that Calgary is Canada’s fastest-growing metropolitan area and will need more than 110,000 new jobs in the next five years, officials stated that the Prairie Economic Gateway highlights the critical importance of investing in essential infrastructure.

“The Prairie Economic Gateway is a leading example of what can be achieved when municipalities work together to unlock the industry’s potential to create jobs and generate prosperity,” says Rocky View County Reeve Crystal Kissel. “In collaboration with the City of Calgary, this partnership focuses on removing impediments to growth by coordinating infrastructure development, expanding markets and diversifying the regional economy.”

This approval enables The City of Calgary and Rocky View County to take the next steps in securing funding from other orders of government and private sector partners.

“The Prairie Economic Gateway is a great example of the amazing work that can be done when municipalities work together,” said Ric McIver, Minister of Municipal Affiars. “The collaboration between the City of Calgary and Rocky View County will create jobs, drive investment and spur economic growth in the region. This shared vision between the two councils will create stronger and more resilient communities now and well into the future.”

Canada’s construction sector is seeing major shifts this month, from high-profile acquisitions and strategic partnerships to groundbreaking sustainability initiatives. Quikrete’s $11.5 billion purchase of Summit Holdings signals a major consolidation in the building materials market, while WSP and Microsoft’s $1 billion collaboration aims to modernize the industry with AI-driven solutions. From corporate expansions to renewable energy investments, these developments highlight the industry’s ongoing transformation and commitment to innovation. Here’s what you need to know:

Northstar Clean Technologies expands

Northstar Clean Technologies has taken a major step in scaling its asphalt shingle reprocessing operations by signing a non-binding letter of intent with YORK1 Environmental Waste Solutions. The agreement sets the stage for a strategic alliance that will supply Northstar’s planned Empower Hamilton Facility in southwestern Ontario with up to 10,000 tonnes of waste shingles annually, with potential for increased volumes over time. The collaboration not only strengthens Northstar’s position in sustainable construction materials but also aligns with YORK1’s commitment to environmental innovation. A definitive agreement is expected by mid-2025.

Quikrete completes $11.5 Billion acquisition

Quikrete Holdings, Inc., a leading North American building materials company, has finalized its $11.5 billion acquisition of Summit Holdings, Inc., a top producer of aggregates and cement. The transaction, which includes debt, marks a major expansion of Quikrete’s infrastructure and commercial market footprint across the U.S. and Canada. To finance the deal, Quikrete secured $3.95 billion in term loans, a $1.5 billion revolving credit facility, and a $5.45 billion bond issuance, with legal counsel provided by Troutman Pepper Locke.

Assembly buys Swedish robotic manufacturing line

Assembly Corp., a Canadian mass timber construction company, is accelerating its operations by acquiring a robotic manufacturing line from Swedish company Lindbäcks Group, which produces factory-built housing and components. The machinery, currently stored in Sweden, will be shipped to a new Toronto-area factory slated for 2026, where it will enable the pre-fabrication of panels and other components for midrise wooden buildings.

Through off-site construction in a state-of-the art factory with detailed control of quality and security, Lindbäcks is able to deliver beautiful buildings that drastically reduce development schedules, costs, and environmental footprint, on a scale that is unmatched globally. We are very excited to bring both this equipment and expertise to Canada.

Geoff Cape, CEO, Assembly Corp

Lafarge Canada expands partnership with Lithium Universe

Lafarge Canada has signed a memorandum of understanding with Lithium Universe to further their collaboration on sustainable cement production. Under the agreement, Lithium Universe will supply Aluminosilicate Secondary Product (ASCR) from its Bécancour Lithium Refinery, a material that enhances cement strength while reducing costs. The companies plan to finalize a definitive supply and purchase agreement, reinforcing Lafarge’s commitment to greener construction materials. With Canada’s cement and concrete industry reaching $12.3 billion in revenue in 2025, this partnership aims to strengthen local supply chains and advance circular economy initiatives in Québec’s

Indigenous-owned hemp block plant launches

A groundbreaking new manufacturing facility in Elk Point, Alberta, is set to revolutionize sustainable construction with lightweight, fire- and mould-resistant building blocks made from hemp and other fibres. The company, Asinikahtamwak—meaning “works with rock” in Cree—is a joint venture with Frog Lake First Nations (51% ownership), Natural Fibre Technologies (39%), and the Town of Elk Point (10%). The plant, which opened in 2024, currently produces 250 blocks per day, with plans to scale up to 1,000. Already constructing a prototype home for Frog Lake First Nations, Asinikahtamwak is also exploring applications for greenhouses and cabins.

WSP and Microsoft sign $1B Partnership

WSP Global Inc. and Microsoft Corp. have announced a groundbreaking seven-year strategic partnership, exceeding $1 billion in combined investment, to accelerate digital transformation in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. WSP will designate Microsoft as its preferred partner for AI and digital services, expanding Microsoft 365 Copilot globally, while Microsoft will turn to WSP for engineering and science consultancy. The collaboration aims to leverage AI, data, and digital tools to modernize asset lifecycles, speed up mission-critical infrastructure projects, and unlock new design paradigms—positioning both companies at the forefront of industry innovation.

This collaboration will allow us to push the boundaries of what’s possible, ensuring we stay at the forefront of technological advancements and consistently provide exceptional value to our people and clients.

Alexandre L’Heureux, President and CEO, WSP

SitePartners acquires Kelowna-based marketing firm

SitePartners has acquired BlackBean Marketing, an industrial marketing firm based in Kelowna, enhancing its capabilities and expanding its service offerings. This acquisition strengthens SitePartners’ commitment to delivering results-driven marketing solutions tailored to industrial businesses. BlackBean’s expertise in content strategy, SEO, lead generation, web design, and tactical marketing complements SitePartners’ specialized knowledge in the industrial and B2B sectors. With a new office in Kelowna, the company is now better equipped to serve clients across the B.C. Interior and beyond.

We are excited to welcome new talent to our team, expand our service offerings, and strengthen our market reach with a new office in Kelowna. The expertise and industry knowledge that the BlackBean team brings will allow us to create even more value for our clients in the industrial sector.

Andrew Hansen, CEO of Site

Willow Lake Métis Group and Earth & Iron forge partnership

Willow Lake Métis Group (WLMG) has entered a strategic partnership with Earth & Iron Inc. to enhance construction readiness and economic development in the Métis community. Focused on site preparation, pad work, and infrastructure projects, the collaboration strengthens WLMG’s ability to manage projects from inception to completion. While initially targeting oil and gas, the partnership also extends to forestry and road clearing. Additionally, WLMG is pursuing renewable energy investments and an Indigenous ESG framework, supported by a $480,000 federal grant. The initiative aligns with the Nation’s long-term strategy to drive sustainability and prosperity.

This alliance will enable us to undertake larger projects, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the prosperity of our community

Andy Harnett, CEO, Willow Lake Métis Group

Cooper Equipment Rentals expands national presence

Cooper Equipment Rentals has expanded its presence in Canada with the acquisitions of Rent All Centre (RAC), Skyhigh Platforms in Ontario, and Big Stick Rentals in Alberta. These additions strengthen Cooper’s position as the country’s only truly national independent rental provider, enhancing coverage in both Eastern and Western Canada. RAC and Skyhigh, established in 1973, add six full-service rental locations and an aerial specialty branch, expanding service in Peterborough and the 401 corridor. Big Stick Rentals, a key player in Grande Prairie since 2013, extends Cooper’s reach in Northern Alberta.

 At Cooper, we don’t just grow for the sake of growth – we expand with purpose. Bringing these respected businesses into the Cooper family means we’re strengthening our service, growing our footprint, and staying true to what matters most: delivering the best rental experience in the industry.

Doug Dougherty, CEO, Cooper

Northstar buys Ontario-based Altitude Equipment

Northstar Access has acquired Altitude Equipment, a prominent swing stage rental, sales, and service provider in Southern Ontario. This acquisition strengthens Northstar’s swing stage capabilities, increasing its Toronto inventory to over 225 units, including Tractel/Tirak hoists and Winsafe stages. It also marks Northstar’s second major recent expansion, following its integration of Access Rigging in Ottawa earlier this year. CEO Paul Zvonar welcomed Altitude’s team, emphasizing their shared commitment to excellence, while Altitude Co-Founder Mike Van Volsen highlighted the partnership’s potential to expand services and enhance customer offerings.

Brookfield buys U.S. renewables business for $1.7B

Britain’s National Grid has agreed to sell its U.S. onshore renewables business to Canada’s Brookfield Asset Management for $1.74 billion, including debt, as part of its strategy to refocus on energy networks. The deal, expected to close by March 2026 pending regulatory approval, includes National Grid Renewables’ 1.8 GW of operational capacity and 1.3 GW under construction.

ATACO launches Viva Homes with Calgary project

ATCO is launching Viva Homes, a new residential development initiative aimed at addressing Canada’s housing crisis through modular construction. Leveraging decades of experience in modular structures, ATCO says it has developed a quick-to-market model where homes are built indoors, then transported and placed as fully serviced, permanent residences. This approach allows for faster delivery of homes without sacrificing quality, with the first prototype completed in just eight weeks. Viva Homes is designed for urban settings, with plans to build 1,000 units over the next five years, starting with a large project in Calgary.

Novarc partners with Miller Electric on welding tech

Miller Electric and Novarc Technologies have announced a strategic partnership to revolutionize the welding industry with AI-powered automation. Their collaboration will drive advancements in adaptive welding solutions through the Miller Copilot line, addressing skilled labor shortages and enhancing welding precision for industries like shipbuilding, construction, and heavy equipment manufacturing. By integrating AI with automation, the partnership aims to improve productivity, quality, and accessibility of robotic welding, enabling the automation of previously unfeasible tasks.

Munro president creates durable glass solution

Colleen Munro, President of The Munro Group of companies, faced the ongoing challenge of escalating costs and lost resources due to broken glass from intrusions and vandalism. To solve this, she partnered with ClearSecure to create Rockglass, a glass product offering enhanced security and noise mitigation. Rockglass is a nearly invisible, durable solution that can be installed on new or existing windows, reducing the need for frequent repairs and insurance claims. As demand grows, ClearSecure has expanded its manufacturing capacity.

GFL set to repurchase own shares following $6.2B sale

Following the $6.2-billion sale of its environmental services division, GFL is preparing to resume its aggressive acquisition strategy after an 18-month focus on debt reduction. CFO Luke Pelosi stated that the company now has the financial flexibility to pursue mergers and acquisitions without significantly impacting leverage, as it plans to fund deals through annual cash flows. GFL is also using $2.25 billion from the sale for share buybacks, including purchases from long-term investors like BC Partners and Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, the latter of which has stepped down from the board as its stake declines. CEO Patrick Dovigi also acknowledged the company is exploring a potential U.S. redomiciling but remains focused on maintaining its Canadian presence, particularly as it nears eligibility for the S&P/TSX 60 index.

Innergex to be acquired by CDPQ

Innergex Renewable Energy Inc. (TSX: INE) has entered into a definitive agreement for CDPQ to acquire all outstanding common and preferred shares of the company, excluding those held by certain executives, for $13.75 and $25.00 per share in cash, respectively. The transaction, subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals, will transition Innergex from a publicly traded to a privately held company under CDPQ’s ownership. CDPQ plans to syndicate up to 20% of its investment to like-minded investors. Innergex leadership views the move as a strategic opportunity to enhance long-term growth, stability, and its commitment to renewable energy and partnerships with Indigenous and local communities.

Hydron Energy recieves bridge funding support from Modern Niagara

Hydron Energy Inc. has secured additional bridge financing from its strategic partner, Modern Niagara Group Inc., to support its manufacturing needs ahead of a Series A investment. Hydron’s INTRUPTor technology, a gas separation and upgrading platform, enables cost-effective renewable natural gas (RNG) production from waste sources while reducing capital and operating costs by up to 50% and cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 85%. Modern Niagara sees further potential for the technology in on-site oxygen production for hospitals and other industrial applications, highlighting its broader impact beyond RNG.

GFL environmental adds support for soil reuse app

Phil, a free excess soil reuse marketplace and load-tracking app, is now supported at GFL Environmental receiving sites in Ontario. Phil Co-Founder Bryan Kerr explained that users can find the appropriate contact information on each GFL listing, or simply chat or call to get started. He added that this means Phil is giving companies an absolutely free method to comply with soil regulations and track their material to the largest permitted site operator. GFL is the only major diversified environmental services company in North America offering services in solid waste management, liquid waste management, and soil remediation.

Key Takeaways:

• Promise Robotics is launching a 60,000-square-foot factory in Calgary to produce up to 1,000,000 square feet of housing annually, using AI and robotic automation to address housing shortages in Canada and the U.S.
• The company’s “Homebuilding Factory-as-a-Service (FaaS)” platform allows homebuilders to scale production with fewer resources, eliminating complex processes and reducing labor shortages by leveraging local materials, supply chains, and labor.
• With future expansion plans targeting major U.S. cities, Promise Robotics aims to make factory-based home construction more accessible by removing financial and technical barriers, helping builders adopt automation at scale.

The Whole Story:

Promise Robotics,  The AI company turning off-the-shelf industrial robots into autonomous production systems for home construction, announced its plans to expand deployment of its production lines at a new 60,000-square-foot existing warehouse located in Calgary.

The facility will be able to produce up to 1,000,000 square feet of housing annually. Promise stated that the expansion represents the latest advancements in automation and robotics in the homebuilding industry, harnessing Promise Robotics’ AI brain and robotic tooling to address housing shortages in Canada and the United States.

With a future eye on cities like Houston, Dallas, Phoenix, Atlanta, Charlotte, Austin, and Nashville, the launch represents another step in the company’s plans to expand its homebuilding partnerships with home builders and suppliers across the U.S. and Canada. 

Promise Robotics says it is enabling the homebuilding industry with its “Homebuilding Factory-as-a-Service (FaaS)” platform to boost production capacity and deliver homes faster with significantly fewer resources. 

The new state-of-the-art robotics factory in Calgary builds on the success of Promise Robotics’ Factory-as-a-Service facility in Edmonton with a unique approach to offsite construction. They argued that the factory solution eliminates complex processes for home builders. Promise Robotics stressed that its factories are built in the regions they are used – using local materials,  supply chains, and labor- to ensure communities are supported at the point of construction, with the added benefit of reducing skilled labor shortages.

“This new factory marks a major technological and business milestone, strengthening our ability to support our expanding network of homebuilding partners across Canada and the U.S.,” said Ramtin Attar, CEO and co-founder of Promise Robotics. “The high cost and complexity of automation have long kept homebuilders from investing in factories, but Promise Robotics changes that. Our solution removes capital and expertise barriers, enabling builders to adopt automation and scale production confidently.” 

The new facility in Calgary will officially start production in Summer 2025.

A preferred proponent has been selected for major work to build an acute care tower at Richmond Hospital: Graham Design Builders LP and HDR Architecture Associates, Inc.

With the completion of the RFP process, the team will begin an alliance-development process for phase two of the Richmond Hospital redevelopment project.

It is anticipated this the alliance-development work will take one year. Phase two construction of the new Yurkovich Family Pavilion is expected to start in 2026 and be completed by 2029.

The redevelopment will add 113 hospital beds and expand medical-care spaces across the facility. Three additional operating rooms will bring the total to 11, while emergency-department spaces will increase from 62 to 86. In addition, the project will incorporate three new CT scanners, add another MRI (bringing the total to two), and include an extra interventional-radiology room in future enhancements.

The total four phase Richmond Hospital Redevelopment project cost is estimated to be $1.96 billion, with contributions from the provincial government ($1.89 billion), Vancouver Coastal Health ($30 million), and the Richmond Hospital Foundation ($40 million).

Since opening in 1966, Richmond Hospital has served the residents of Richmond, South Vancouver, and Delta, as well as travelers using Vancouver International Airport and BC Ferries facilities.