The Quartier Cinq4 project in Prévost, Quebec, is the first known residential development in the province to be entirely led and executed onsite by an all-female team, setting a powerful precedent in a male-dominated industry.
Women such as Roxane Gaudreau-Parent, Anne-Philippe Lemaire, Joanie Paquette, Sophie Ouellet, and Érika Provost are leading roles in the project, exemplifying how women can successfully occupy and excel in supervisory and operational roles traditionally held by men.
While the number of women in Canada’s construction industry has grown—with up to 7% representation in onsite trades in provinces like Alberta—the overall female presence in onsite construction remains low, highlighting the significance and rarity of initiatives like Quartier Cinq4.
The Whole Story:
A residential developent in Quebec is making history with its all-female leadership team.
Équipe Laurence has designed a residential development whose site work in key roles is entirely executed and managed by women, starting with site supervisor Roxane Gaudreau-Parent of Équipe Laurence working on behalf of project promoter Anne-Philippe Lemaire and DUO General Contractor, owned by Joanie Paquette.
“For the first time in the modern history of Quebec’s construction industry, at least, we’re seeing a site run entirely by women. And yet, that’s exactly what’s happening here, with complete efficiency,” said Équipe Laurence’s CEO, Alexandre Latour.
He added that he was greatly impressed and inspired to see a 100% female team playing key roles to perfection in the realization of the Quartier Cinq4 project, in the municipality of Prévost in the Laurentians.
Cinq4 project players Sophie Ouellet (forewoman), Joannie Paquette (general contractor), site supervisor Roxane Gaudreau-Parent from Équipe Laurence, promoter Anne-Philippe Lemaire and Érika Provost (site machine operator) are the only women to manage such a project in Quebec. (CNW Group/Équipe Laurence)
Sophie Ouellet of Sophie Ouellet Excavation and Érika Provost are foremen and shovel operators.
“The proof is in the pudding that a traditionally male profession can be skilfully occupied by women who, in their own original way, have shattered the glass ceiling,” commented Cinq4 project promoters Anne-Philippe Lemaire and Joanie Paquette of DUO Entrepreneur général.
Nestled in Prévost, in the heart of the Laurentians, Le Quartier Cinq4 is an exclusive community of 18 semi-detached homes on Rue du Manse, offering a mix of nature and modernity.
“This women’s project is a testament to the excellence of these young women, who have not only opened up but blazed a new trail in a field still too often perceived as the exclusive preserve of men,” added Équipe Laurence’s president.
In 2023, approximately 217,700 women were employed in Canada’s construction industry. About 29% of these women worked directly in onsite construction roles. However, women still represented only about 5% of the total onsite trades workforce of 1.21 million tradespeople.
By 2024, the number of women employed in construction increased further, with notable growth in onsite participation. For example, in Alberta, 32% of the approximately 39,140 women employed worked onsite, and women made up 7% of the total workforce in 2024.
Other provinces also show varying onsite participation rates for women: Manitoba (49% onsite, 7% of onsite workforce), Saskatchewan (44% onsite, 5% of tradespeople), Quebec (24% onsite, 5% of tradespeople).
Canada’s remote resource and infrastructure projects—whether in the mountains of B.C., the oil sands of Alberta, or the coasts of Newfoundland—depend on reliable, comfortable, and scalable workforce accommodations. A range of specialized companies have emerged to meet this demand, offering everything from floating hotels and modular lodges to full-service catering and facilities management. These providers play a crucial behind-the-scenes role in enabling major developments to proceed in hard-to-reach locations, often under challenging conditions. Below is a look at some of the key players shaping Canada’s workforce camp landscape.
Bridgemans Services Group
Bridgemans, headquartered in North Vancouver, specializes in marine-based workforce accommodations, offering floatel (floating hotel) solutions for remote and coastal projects. Their notable work includes providing accommodation vessels for LNG Canada and other industrial developments along the British Columbia coast. Bridgemans’ approach is often used when land-based camps are not feasible or when proximity to marine job sites is critical. After providing one floatel for Woodfibre LNG, the project is now asking for permission to do another as work ramps up.
ATCO Structures & Logistics
Based in Calgary, Alberta, ATCO has been a long-standing provider of modular buildings and workforce housing in Canada’s remote and industrial sectors. The company has supported major projects such as the Site C Dam, various oil sands developments, and mining operations across the north. ATCO offers end-to-end services including construction, operations, and maintenance of camps, drawing on decades of northern project experience.
Dexterra Group / Horizon North Logistics
Dexterra Group, headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, owns Horizon North Logistics, a leading provider of turnkey workforce accommodation and modular infrastructure. Horizon North has supported large projects such as LNG Canada, Coastal GasLink, and the Site C Dam. Their services include camp design, catering, housekeeping, and facilities management, and they maintain significant fabrication capacity across Western Canada.
Black Diamond Group
Operating out of Calgary, Alberta, Black Diamond Group delivers modular space solutions and remote lodging for energy, mining, and infrastructure sectors. The company has been involved in supporting the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion, LNG Canada, and numerous oil sands developments. Through its BOXX Modular division, Black Diamond also supplies temporary structures and offices in both industrial and urban settings.
Morris Group of Companies
The Morris Group, based in Newfoundland and Labrador, is a regional provider of modular housing and workforce accommodations, particularly focused on Atlantic Canada’s resource and construction sectors. They’ve contributed to offshore oil and gas projects as well as mining and hydro developments in Newfoundland. Their operations span camp management, catering, and housing construction, often with a focus on local labour engagement.
Civeo Corporation
With Canadian operations based out of Calgary, Alberta, and a global headquarters in Houston, Civeo is one of North America’s largest workforce accommodation providers. It operates large lodges across Alberta and British Columbia and has played a key role in projects like LNG Canada, Fort Hills, and the Kearl Oil Sands. Civeo offers integrated services ranging from modular housing to catering and facility maintenance.
LandSea
LandSea Camp Services, based in Squamish, B.C., provides workforce accommodation and catering services across Western Canada, including modular and floating camps. The company has supported major infrastructure and resource projects, such as Woodfibre LNG and FortisBC, and partnered with Indigenous communities on initiatives like the Sqémél Lá:lém housing complex in Hope.
Royal Camp Services
Royal Camp Services Ltd., headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta, provides workforce accommodation and catering services primarily to the energy, mining, and construction sectors. With decades of experience in remote camp operations, Royal Camp has supported major industrial projects across Western Canada, including oil sands developments in northern Alberta and infrastructure builds in remote regions of British Columbia. The company is known for delivering turnkey camp solutions ranging from temporary lodges to long-term accommodations, often in challenging environments.
Bird Construction / Stack Modular
Stack Modular delivers high-quality workforce accommodations using steel-frame modular construction, ideal for remote or challenging environments. With over 750,000 square feet of global manufacturing space, they’ve completed major projects like the 4,500-person Cedar Valley Lodge for LNG Canada and the Aqsarniit Hotel in Nunavut. Their end-to-end process—from design to installation—minimizes on-site labor and accelerates timelines. Through a strategic partnership with Bird Construction, Stack offers scalable, durable housing for sectors such as energy, mining, and infrastructure.
Freeport Industries
Freeport Industries, based in West Kelowna, delivers tailored modular solutions for workforce accommodations across Western Canada. With over 20 years of experience, they specialize in rapid-deployment housing built in a controlled environment to ensure consistency, quality, and shorter timelines—ideal for remote or resource-driven industries. Their modular units are designed for durability, energy efficiency, and comfort, supporting sectors like mining, construction, and energy. Freeport’s flexibility in design and commitment to client needs make them a trusted provider of scalable workforce housing in challenging or high-demand regions.
Key Takeaways:
Woodfibre LNG plans to add a second floatel to its project site near Squamish, B.C., creating over 900 new skilled trades jobs and accelerating the construction timeline for what will be the world’s first net zero LNG export facility.
The second floatel, like the existing MV Isabelle X, will house non-local workers on-site to reduce strain on local housing, traffic, and services, and will undergo a full regulatory review, including approvals from the provincial government and Squamish Nation.
Vancouver-based Bridgemans Services Group, which provided the first floatel, will also retrofit and operate the second one, ensuring alignment with the project’s net zero goals and commitments made through extensive community and environmental consultation.
The Whole Story:
Woodfibre LNG announced it will submit an application to regulatory agencies to add a second workplace accommodation floatel at the Woodfibre LNG project site. The application will seek regulatory approval to moor a second floatel adjacent to the current floatel, the MV Isabelle X, to add approximately 900 skilled trades jobs to the construction project. Once complete, the Woodfibre LNG facility will produce approximately 2.1 million tonnes of LNG per year during operations.
“It is clear that Canada is looking to diversify its energy markets, and when complete, Woodfibre LNG will do exactly that by making more Canadian LNG available to Asian markets,” said Luke Schauerte, CEO of Woodfibre LNG, “If approved, the addition of a second floatel creates more than 900 new jobs and allows Woodfibre LNG to answer the call to advance and diversify Canadian energy exports, provide more employment opportunities sooner and accelerate construction of the world’s first net zero LNG export facility.”
The MV Isabelle X is moored at the Woodfibre LNG project site located 7 kilometres outside of the community of Squamish.
The requirement to house the project’s non-local construction workforce on the floatel was established through an amendment to the project’s Environmental Assessment Certificate approved by the provincial government on November 1, 2023. Subsequently, on December 4, 2023, Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) approved an amendment to the Squamish Nation Environmental Assessment Agreement to support the floatel. This second floatel will now undergo the same regulatory review process through multiple levels of regulatory oversight.
The MV Isabelle X has been providing purpose-built live-work accommodation on-site outside of Squamish, minimizing any potential impact to the local housing market, local traffic or additional pressure on civic or health care services.
Woodfibre LNG says it will ensure the equivalent levels of excellence will be met if the second floatel is approved by entering into a contract with the same Canadian company, Bridgemans Services Group, who procured and retrofit the MV Isabelle X.
Vancouver-based Bridgemans has committed that the second floatel will align with the project’s Net Zero mandate and meet a variety of key commitments that the project has made through the years long consultative process, including the need to minimize environmental and community impacts.
“Bridgemans is proud to undertake the retrofit, delivery and operation of a second floatel to the same high standards set by the MV Isabelle X,” said Brian Grange, President of Bridgemans. “As a Vancouver-based Canadian company, it’s an honour to contribute to a project that strengthens Canada’s role in global energy. The MV Isabelle X showcases Canadian innovation and sets a new benchmark for workforce accommodation on the water.”
In 1975, dozens of independent contractors convened on Terra Nova Motor Inn in Trail, B.C.
Despite some protestors who had gathered outside, the attendees were on a mission: to give a voice to free enterprise and have a fair shot at government tendered work—a near impossibility at the time for non-union businesses – no special deals or favors, just an opportunity to bid on projects.
“This is the start of one of the most powerful organizations ever to be organized in the province of British Columbia,” said Phil Gaglardi, a former Minister of Highways and the gathering’s keynote speaker, to those assembled.
His words proved to be visionary.
Last month, nearly 50 years to the day later, the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA) gathered once again. This time, it was at JW Marriott Parq in downtown Vancouver. This time there were more than 1,000 people gathered to reflect on the past and hear from not one, but two NFL players with Super Bowl rings.
And on ICBA’s board of directors now sits Josh Gaglardi, the founder of Orion Construction, one of Canada’s fastest growing companies of any kind – the grandson of Flyin’ Phil, who made that bold prediction about ICBA 50 years ago.
ICBA recaps 50 years.
“In our name, we take the word ‘independent’ very seriously. Not once in our 50-year history has ICBA ever gone to any level of government and asked for money,” said ICBA’s current (and only the third) CEO and President, Chris Gardner, addressing the crowd to a wave of applause. “Every ICBA program, every ICBA service, is self-funded, because we take seriously the values of our founders and our members: self-reliance, independence, ingenuity, and good old-fashioned hard work.”
That same night, ICBA was informed it had been named North American Trade Association of the year for a record fourth time. But beyond the bright lights, celebrities and accolades, the group has never forgotten the values borne out of that Trail meeting. And that’s made all the difference.
They have rallied the business community in B.C. and expanded into Alberta. ICBA is the voice of open shop contractors who make up 85% of the construction sector, and boasts more than 4,500 member and client companies making it the largest construction association in Canada.
Why has it worked so well? For Gardner, the answer is simple. In everything it does, ICBA seeks relevancy and acts with purpose.
“If we are not relevant, our membership will not grow,” said Gradner. “If we don’t act with purpose and provide real value, our membership will not grow.”
To achieve this, ICBA focuses its member service and programing in three areas:
A group health, dental and retirement benefits business that serves more than 300,000 people across Canada.
Training and workforce development programs that assist more than 6,000 people each year.
Award winning public policy advocacy work and campaigns that are unlike anything else in the industry, due to ICBA’s willingness to voice the concerns of its members in a more pointed and assertive fashion than its peers or other business associations.
ICBA is constantly adapting to maintain relevancy and purpose. For example, during the COVID-19 global pandemic, when it began to see a rise in mental health related claims and heard stories of member companies suffering mental-health related tragedies in their workforces, they acted. The result was a comprehensive, award-winning wellness plan to care for workers and normalize mental health conversations.
The vast majority of members are small or medium-sized businesses with 25 employees or less. The group gears much of its services towards them and works to keep membership fees low.
“We are their voice,” said Gardner. “They are focused on building their business, on winning work and training people – it’s our job to take up their cause with government regulators, at City Hall, provincially, federally and with regulatory entities.”
There is a simple reason the ICBA still has many ties to the same companies and families that gathered at the Terra Nova in 1975 – ICBA remains grounded in the values of its founders.
“The purpose, vision and values of our founders are still embedded in everything we do. And the search for relevance, based on that purpose, is why we continue to grow,” he said.
Gardner believes that the ICBA’s approach is needed now more than ever. The past decade has seen unprecedented demand for construction, yet the shortage of people, the enormous amount of red tape and regulation, and the painfully slow project approval and permitting processes have put pressure on profit margins like never before.
“Contractors and businesses are working harder, but making less,” said Gardner, who noted that Canada’s anti-business policies are making it difficult to address what he believes is one of the central challenges of our time: building more—housing, infrastructure, hospitals, schools—building faster and building in a way that is affordable.
It hasn’t been a straight line. Looking back over the past 50 years, Gardner said it can seem like it was all a matter of fact, a natural course, and an expected outcome that was easy.
“There were many times it could have turned out differently, were it not for the fundamental belief in our mission,” he said. “Losing sight of your vision and the values that underpin it is a recipe for failure.”
Looking to the future, the group has plans to continue growing in B.C. and Alberta. But this will never come at the cost of its values.
“We are committed to growing in a way that would make our founders proud – with purpose and conviction and staying relevant to the skilled men and women in construction, the innovators, the entrepreneurs, and the contractors,” said Gardner.
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Mohamed Adel is starting a new chapter as Director, Construction Innovation at Bird Construction. He has been with the company for five years, previously service as Digital Construction Director of Buildings.
I dedicate this milestone, along with my entire career, to my late father, Adel Ameen who passed away last month. His guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support shaped me into the person I am today. He continues to inspire me every day.
Mohamed Adel, Director, Construction Innovation, Bird
Matt Alliston is now President at Kema Coatings after taking ownership of the company with Corina Alliston. He began his career in 1999, working alongside his family at Specialty Polymer Coatings Inc., where he learned all aspects of the business from manufacturing, technical service, sales and operational management.
Dan Foulkes has been appointed Vice President, Shared Services at Hall. Foulkes has spent 20 years with the company and has amassed a wealth of experience across multiple departments.
Ali Kenyon is now Principal at HCMA Architecture + Design. She is an architect, urbanist, and mother. With Dutch and Italian ancestry, and raised in the Treaty Four lands of Regina, Ali is interested in the relationship between cities, buildings, and landscapes, their cultural context, and the systems that connect them.
The təməsew̓txʷ, Canada’s first completed Zero Carbon–certified aquatic center, cuts back on its carbon emissions while building community engagement. – HCMA
Connie Ellis is EllisDon’s first Director of Mental Health. With a background in Industrial and Organizational Psychology studying leadership and its impact on mental health in the workplace, she will lead the strategy to enhance psychological health and safety.
Sean Boyer is now Vice President, Pre-construction, Buildings, for Pomerleau.
Ron Egan, Senior Workforce Manager at Clark Builders, has been awarded the prestigious Community Inclusion Award by Inclusion Alberta. The award recognizes individuals and organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to building inclusive communities for people with intellectual disabilities.
Gary Lewis has started a new position as Senior Advisor at Ledcor.
Ali Salman has been named Partner and CEO at WorkSpace Modular Structures. Salman has over 15 years of experience in modular construction, real estate development, Indigenous partnerships, and strategic investments across Canada
I’m not just stepping into the role of Partner & CEO — I’m stepping into a mission: To redefine how we design, manufacture, and deliver modular solutions that are faster, smarter, and more aligned with the real needs of communities and industries.
Ali Salman, Partner and CEO, WorkSpace Modular Structures
Matt Travers has been promoted to Executive Vice-President of Water for Stantec’s North American operations. He succeeds Ryan Roberts, who is taking on a global position as Chief Practice Officer.
PCL has promoted three leaders to vice president and district manager roles to help guide its strategic U.S. expansion. Tyler Kautz will oversee Seattle operations. Trent Johnson will continue to support growth in Minneapolis and across the Midwest. In Denver, Mauricio Ramos will drive strategy and performance across the Rocky Mountains.
Markus Kritzler is now Chief Revenue Officer at Carbon Upcycling. With over 20 years of strategy and executive experience, Kritzler joins Carbon Upcycling at a pivotal time as the company advances toward its flagship commercial-scale project at one of Canada’s largest cement plants.
Adam Hill is now Chief Financial Officer at Metric Civil Contractors. Hill is a CPA with over a decade of finance leadership across construction, manufacturing, and insurance.
Metric Civil’s crew in Anmore, B.C. – Metric Civil
Mario Baker has joined the Americas Economic Data team at Bloomberg News as Economic Data Editor. Previously, Baker spent four years at the Canadian Construction Association as its Senior Analyst, Economics and Policy.
Gabrielle Saine and Shlomo Benarroch have joined Avison Young as Principals. Both bring 17 years of dedicated commercial real estate experience and complementary expertise deeply rooted in the Montréal market.
Brian Maksymetz, Lead Consultant and Owner of Better Projects, has been appointed to the National Advisory Council for Civil Infrastructure by the Canadian Construction Association.
Tania Johnston, CEO of the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada, is being recognized for her 25 years of service to the industry. She is respected leader in mechanical contracting, known for championing member support, education, inclusivity, and international collaboration.
Her hard work, humility and commitment to excellence is driving the growth and success of MCA Canada, and we are fortunate to have her leading the association. On behalf of MCAC, we look forward to many more years of excellence together.
Brad Mason, MCAC President and Chair
Mike Love is now Senior Superintendent at PCL. He has been with the company for more than 13 years, starting as an assistant superintendent.
Wil Foster has been promoted to Operations Manager at Chandos Construction. He has been with the company for nearly 4 years. He’s played an important role in shaping the Ottawa district, helping build a strong team and guiding 13 projects along the way.
Mike Alexander has joined the ETRO Team on contract as Vice-President of Construction for Vancouver Island and Shaun St-Amour has joined ETRO as Manager of ETRO Revive.
See what’s on the agenda for one of construction’s biggest events of 2025.
Speakers and panels have been released for SiteSummit, a two-day conference designed to equip high-level construction leaders with the knowledge they need to own the moment. Some of SiteSummit’s featured speakers include Turner Construction VP and General Manager Amit Patel, Conwest Developments Partner and COO Ben Taddei, Senior Vice President of Marketing for EllisDon Paul Trudel, EllisDon Chief Information Officer Brandon Milner, Stack Modular President Jim Dunn, BC Builds, Kindred Construction President Bryan Reid, Executive Lead Lisa Helps and many others. Even more industry titans and event features will be announced soon.
Here just a few of the panels planned for the two-day event:
Beyond the hype: Using AI + technology to drive jobsite success
Innovation is moving so fast it’s hard to keep up. These experts can help you sort through it all and find the signal through the noise. Because if technology isn’t improving efficiency and safety on the jobsite, it’s just hype. We’ll show you how AI can deliver real, measurable results in a time we need it the most.
Meet the client: What owners want from builders in 2025
It’s everything you wanted to know, but were afraid to ask. Building more projects faster is one of the greatest challenges of our time and developers are the the front lines. With massive investments on the way, learn what developers are looking for, how they plan their projects and their biggest concerns.
C-Suite Roundtable: What lays ahead
Hear from some of the construction sector’s most accomplished leaders about how they are steering their organization through unprecedented times. And If you have any burning questions about how a large, sophisticated company approaches construction, the Q&A portion is the opportunity to ask.
Housing: Conquering Canada’s biggest crisis
It’s an issue that is impacting entire generations of workers and families and a top priority of government. Let’s chat with some of the country’s most innovative thinkers about what we face and how to approach it. How big of a challenge are we facing? How do we actually start to work to solve this problem. What do builders need to do?
The event will take place May 26-27 at North Vancouver’s iconic Polygon Gallery. Designed by renowned local architects Patkau Architects, the 25,000 square foot building features a modern, open-concept design with a focus on sustainability and natural light.
Why are we doing SiteSummit? SiteNews’ team aims to breathe new life into the typical industry event format with a scenic venue, creative networking opportunities and targeting panel sessions. In addition to carefully curated learning opportunities, SiteSummit will feature dynamic networking, including a Beer Crawl that explores the local breweries along Metro Vancouver’s North Shore.
Space is limited, so get your tickets to SiteSummit here before it sells out.
B.C. is honouring builders who go above and beyond to cultivate a positive culture for the industry. As part of Construction and Skilled Trades Month, the BC Construction Association has announced its Builders Code 2025 Champion Award Winners, recognized for making a positive difference in advancing the culture of BC’s construction industry.
Officially proclaimed by the BC provincial government and now in its 8th year, Construction Month is a time when British Columbia’s construction industry celebrates the hard work and commitment of the 28,000+ businesses and 250,000+ British Columbians who work in the sector.
“We want to extend a special thank you to all the hard-working individuals who make BC’s construction industry the powerhouse it is,” said Chris Atchison, President of the British Columbia Construction Association (BCCA). “This month, and every month, we celebrate the incredible efforts of the businesses and builders who make the development and growth of our province possible.”
Here are the BCCA Builders Code 2025 Champion Award Winners and Honorable Mentions:
For more information about Construction & Skilled Trades Month, visit constructionmonth.ca
SiteNews is proud to announce the annual awards program, Construction’s Most Influential People, is back to honour outstanding individuals who are impacting the construction sector.
The annual program was created to shine a spotlight on Canadians having a massive positive impact on the built environment and the construction process. They are thought leaders, innovators, wizened veterans, young disruptors, politicians, legal masters, inventors, trades advocates and more.
The criteria and process are simple. Winners will be those in any industry, position or discipline whose efforts are generating a positive impact on the construction sector. SiteNews will be soliciting nominations from the industry and winners will be chosen by a panel of SiteNews staff.
This includes SiteNews co-founders Andrew Hansen and Brett Rutledge, and SiteNews Editor Hixson, who have spent their careers saturated in the construction sector in a wide range of roles. Not sure what it takes to win? Check out who made the list last year. It included:
Green building CEOs
Association presidents
Safety advocates
Trades educators
Female entrepreneurs
Government officials
Technology experts
Architects
Homebuilders
Workforce developers
And many more!
“Some competitions limit by age, sector or other criteria,” said Hixson. “Ours is only limited by impact. What are you doing to make the industry better? These are the kinds of people we think should be celebrated and that’s what we are going to continue to do with this year’s program.”
Caring is a competitive advantage.
It’s easy to say, but as attendees to our first ever Industry Icebreaker learned, it’s much more difficult in practice when a $100-million company is on the line as well as hundreds of jobs.
SiteNews, in partnership with the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA), hosted Surepoint Group co-founder and former CEO Trevor Muir for an evening of high-level lessons and high-level hockey at the Oilers Hall of Fame in Rogers Place.
After he and the other Surepoint Owners sold a majority stake in the company to a private equity firm, they were flush with cash the future looked bright. Despite this, something felt wrong.
“I had everything everybody believed they wanted to make them happy,” said Muir. “A wife, kids, friends, family. I had a fancy acreage. Lots of money. I even had a sports car in the garage. But my life started to spiral out of control. When I had the most of everything, I felt the absolute worst.”
After growing up on a farm in rural Alberta near Grand Prairie, Muir was on a rocketship of success, but he found himself fighting an immense mental health battle that had him contemplating suicide.
Muir is not alone in his struggles.
During the discussion, Mike Martens, President of ICBA Alberta, noted that as a benefits provider for more than 300,000 construction industry workers, they have seen claims for mental health related services rise. In response, the group has funded a Wellness Program to provide a variety of mental health supports and hired NHL star Corey Hirsch to be a mental health advocate for the industry.
After he sought help and began to work on his mental health challenges, Muir was tasked with saving Surepoint Group when financial struggles, an eroded corporate culture and multiple global crises threatened to bring it all crashing down.
He spoke honestly with workers, vendors, customers and anyone else involved in the business about the challenges it faced and the sacrifices that needed to be made to save it. The leadership team took substantial pay cuts to avoid layoffs, asked for patience from its partners and was able to make it through.
“I wanted to prove that caring is a competitive advantage—in life, in business and certainly in our industry,” said Muir. “And when we started to grow, I was told you can’t have the same culture. I think that’s a lazy answer. It’s harder, and it’s not exactly the same, but you can build an amazing culture and I wanted to prove that.”
Following Muir’s stirring words about normalizing mental health conversations and transparent, honest leadership, the crowd headed to the Sky Lounge at Rogers Place to watch the Oilers take on the Los Angeles Kings. While the Oilers were beaten back to a 5-0 loss, attendees lingered right to the end, discussing Muir’s insights and enjoying refreshments.
“We feel this event was a rousing success,” said SiteNews editor Russell Hixson. “The Industry Icebreaker aims to be the perfect balance of professional development, networking and fun. What an exceptional night and thank you to Trevor for making the time to chat with us.”
If you missed this Icebreaker, don’t worry.
Because the event sold out in weeks, SiteNews is announcing that the Industry Icebreaker will continue as an annual event featuring a different Canadian NHL teams. To be part of the next SiteNews event, secure your spot at SiteSummit, taking place in North Vancouver this summer.
Bringing together decades of experience in specialized construction fields, the Matcon Group and Knappett Industries have officially merged, effective April 2, 2025. This combination creates a more diversified and strategically positioned construction entity poised to serve Western Canada more broadly, according to a joint announcement from the firms.
The companies stated that clients and partners can expect a degree of continuity, as both Matcon and Knappett will keep operating under their well-established names. Matcon, based in Coquitlam, brings over two decades of experience, while Nanaimo-headquartered Knappett has been active for more than thirty years. The companies emphasized that customers will continue working with the same teams.
The merger unites distinct but complementary specializations. Matcon focuses on services like excavation and shoring, civil infrastructure to demolition, and environmental and rock stabilization. Knappett, an employee-owned general contractor with offices across Vancouver Island and Northern B.C., concentrates on civil infrastructure such as road building, paving and maintenance, utility installation (electrical, water, sewer), site development, and pipeline work.
According to their announcement, this blend of expertise is intended to translate directly into increased capacity and broader resources for projects of varying scale and complexity. A key outcome highlighted is an expanded geographic footprint, enabling the combined operation to serve the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, and Northern B.C. more comprehensively, alongside their existing operational areas.
In their message to stakeholders, the newly joined entities expressed gratitude for ongoing trust and signaled their readiness to tackle future projects together.
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Andrew Moles has been promoted to Vice President and General Manager for PCL’s Solar Division. Moles is entrusted with the overall operational leadership of all solar energy projects undertaken by PCL across Canada, the U.S. and Australia. With over 18 years of experience at PCL and more than 15 years in the solar industry, Andrew has played a pivotal role in the delivery of solar and battery energy storage system (BESS) projects, totaling over $8.3 billion.
I’m honored to be leading this talented team of industry experts that make up our Solar Division. Each project we build represents a commitment to our clients and to the communities where we live and work. Our team of professionals optimizes every design to ensure cost effectiveness and maximum energy output for the end user, but we also engage with local residents and charitable organizations to uplift and enrich the lives of those in the community. I’m excited moving forward as we continue building a better future, together.
Andrew Moles, VP and General Manager, PCL Solar
Kyle Bryan is now Vice President of Operations, Ontario Buildings at Bird Construction. He has been with the company for more than 17 years.
Farzan Farzaneh has been promoted from Salse Manager and PMO to Vice President, Sales, Engineering, and PMO at Marcon Metalfab. They will lead teams across Canada and the U.S.
Peter Weiss has been promoted to Vice President and District Manager of Ottawa at Chandos. Weiss joined the company in 2020 and has played a vital role in several key projects, significantly enhancing Chandos’ operations and client relationships in the region.
Tomas Minka has been promoted to Vice President of Construction at Naikoon. Minka has over 20 years of construction project management experience both in Canada and internationally. The company also announced Hart Levine will be its new CFO.
Diego Mandelbaum has joined Corix as Chief Development Officer (CDO). In this role, Mandelbaum will spearhead Corix’s growth initiatives, focusing on enhancing sustainable energy infrastructure and fostering strategic partnerships to drive expansion across the continent.
Diego’s deep understanding of thermal energy development and his proven ability to drive growth align seamlessly with Corix’s mission to cultivate enduring energy systems for communities to thrive
Lisa Sparrow, President and Chief Executive Officer of Corix
Jeff Hagerty has rejoined Westridge Construction as Construction Manager after pursuing other ventures for 8 years. He will be based out of the company’s Saskatoon office.
Dexter Kirby is now Construction Lead at Paragon Living. His previous role at the company was Pre-Development Manager.
Terry Jensen is now President of Kinsmen Consulting. Previously he spent more than 9 years at Surface Rock Technologies as its President.
Trevor Muir is now Director Global Business Development at Surepoint Group. He has been with the company for more than 22 years and is a longtime veteran of the oil and gas industry.
Zoë Knowles is now Vice President of Government Relations at EllisDon. Before this role she worked as Director of Communications and Forward Planning for Ontario’s Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.
It is a privilege to become part of the country’s second largest and most ambitious construction company to make that dream a reality. I am honoured to support over 8,000 workers and a world-class executive team in working across governments, Indigenous communities, organized labour and with our industry partners to create a brighter, bigger tomorrow.
Zoë Knowles, Vice President of Government Relations, EllisDon
Nicola Casciato has been elected to the College of Fellows of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada. Casciato, a Design Principal at WZMH Architects, is known for his ability to shape Canada’s architectural environment with projects such as the Edward Drake Building, Parliament Street Data Centre and Abbotsford Courthouse.
Marie Bednash is now Vice President at Naikoon. brings over 14 years of invaluable experience in British Columbia’s AEC community to Naikoon. Naikoon says Bednash will be instrumental in driving its strategic growth, building relationships, and advancing its work.
Keerit Jutla has joined ICBA as its new Provincial Director, based on Vancouver Island. Jutla brings a wealth of experience from his time as President of the Association for Mineral Exploration (AME), where he elevated the profile of B.C.’s mining sector and built strong connections across industries and government.
ICBA President Chris Gardner (left) and ICBA Provincial Director Keerit Jutla.
Teresa Shada has been promoted at Kiewit to Senior Manager, Media & Public Relations. She has been with the company for more than 14 years, working the previous five as Manager, Corporate Communication.
John Leonardo has joined REMCAN as a Senior Advisor to the President, with a focus on business development for ETC delivery and the Greater Toronto area. Jacob Alexander has joined REMCAN’s US Operations team as the Director of US Track Operations. In this role, Jacob will oversee both REMCAN LLC and TIMINY Rail track operations
Brittany Robertson is now Director of Development at Crozier. An expert in transportation, structural, and land development engineering, she joined the team in 2013 as a Civil and Transportation EIT.
Pegah Jazaeri has joined Clark Builders as Manager of Project Development. Prior to this role, Jazaeri spent more than three years at Cairo Development.
Justin Chu has started a new position as Group Lead, Canada Water Business, Building Mechanical, Buildings & Infrastructure, at Jacobs.
In a time of growth (and uncertainty) I am eager to lead this experienced group in driving and delivering impactful projects nationwide. I am thrilled to contribute to Jacobs‘ expansion and growth, and together we aim to challenge today and reinvent tomorrow.
Justin Chu, Group Lead, Canada Water Business, Building Mechanical, Buildings & Infrastructure, Jacobs
Kelly Sherman is now President of EmitIQ MRV. Sherman has over two decades of experience in carbon markets, forestry, agriculture, and sustainability leadership.
Dylan Antunes has started a new role with KGS Group as its Head of Geotechnical in Saskatchewan. Antunes has more than 15 years of experience in geotechnical engineering.
James Scott is now Principal, Senior Project Director at Stantec. Scott stated he is excited and energized to re-join the Stantec team after 10 years on the owner’s side of the industry.
Phillip Stagg-Tanner is stepping into the role of President at Acres Enterprises. As well, Jeremy Buchner will be taking on the role as Vice President of Operations and Mike Broadway will be the company’s new Vice President of Technology and Innovation.
Michael Pond, Principal with RJC, has been given membership with the Canadian Association of Heritage Professionals. The rare distinction signals specialized knowledge in heritage conservation as vetted by peers.
Joe Brake has started at Axiom Builders as Senior Superintendent. Brake has worked for some of Canada’s largest, most sophisticated builders, including Scott Construction Group, Chandos, EllisDon and Peak Construction Group.
David Peters, CEO of ConstructionClock, has been awarded the Most Promising Founder Award by the Manitoba Technology Accelerator and North Forge.
Robbin R.R. Sinclaire has been named Chair of the Ntityix Development Corporation by the Westbank First Nation. Sinclaire has more than 25 years of experience in financial management, governance and accountability.
Andrew Ross, CEO of Clark Builders, has been awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal, a national honour that recognizes Canadians who have made significant contributions to their communities, province, or country. He was nominated by Alberta’s Minister of Infrastructure.
Andrew Ross, CEO, Clark Builders (right).
Andrew’s recognition is a proud moment for all of us at Clark Builders—a testament to his passion, integrity, and leadership, which fuel our purpose as an organization: to enrich the lives of the people who work with us and the communities we help build.
Steve Lenarduzzi, President, Clark Builders
Niall MacLean has started a new position as Project Director at EBC. His previous role at the company was Director of Field Operations, Buildings – Ontario.
Trevor Haddow is now Construction Manager at PME Inc. He previously held a similar position at North Star Contracting.
Chelsea Montgomery is now Founder and CEO of Pixel BIM. Previously she worked as Orion Construction’s BIM manager and has also held similar roles at Ventana Construction and Lark Group.
Don’t miss out! Secure your spot at SiteSummit with exclusive early bird pricing – end April 5th! Grab your tickets here
After years building out the foundational of in-person event capabilities, SiteNews is announcing its most ambitous networking and professional development opportunity yet: SiteSummit.
The two-day conference aims to breathe new life into the typical industry event format with a scenic venue, creative networking opportunities and targeting panel sessions.
The event will take place May 26-27 at North Vancouver’s Polygon Gallery. It stands as a striking architectural landmark at the foot of Lonsdale Avenue, bridging the city’s industrial past with its cultural future. Designed by renowned local architects Patkau Architects, the 25,000 square foot building features a modern, open-concept design with a focus on sustainability and natural light.
In addition to carefully curated learning opportunities, SiteSummit will feature dynamic networking, including a Beer Crawl that explores the local breweries along Metro Vancouver’s North Shore.
SiteNews staff noted that over the past five years, a community of cutting-edge leaders have emerged from its various competitions: 40 Under 40, Construction’s Most Influential and Top 25 Innovators. They stated that SiteSummit is one more way to further connect these networks of construction professionals.
We have all been to countless industry events and have become familiar with the usual venues, predictable topics and lack of time to make connections. We want to rethinking the typical construction event, ensuring that your time isn’t wasted and can extract as much value as possible.
Russell Hixson, SiteNews Editor
This event wouldn’t be possible without our sponsors, including:
Presented by Northbridge Insurance, the Canadian Construction Association’s (CCA) National Awards ceremony was held this month during the Annual Conference in Québec City.
“This year’s award recipients demonstrate the best of the best of our industry. Congratulations to everyone for the recognition of their great achievements,” said Rodrigue Gilbert, President of CCA.
An advocate for the Canadian construction industry for over 40 years, Geza’s commitment to legal reform, mentorship, and the advancement of industry best practices, promotes collaboration and efficiency in project execution, and helps the industry navigate challenges in an evolving legal landscape..
Recognizing PCL Construction for their Fairmont Royal York Decarbonization Project which is a landmark achievement in sustainable construction — proving that even heritage buildings can evolve to meet modern environmental goals.
Through a deep commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility, the Construction Association of Nova Scotia (CANS) is shaping a workforce that truly represents the communities it serves.
The Calgary Construction Association is more than an industry leader—it’s a driving force for change. Affectionately known as “Little CCA,” the association is reshaping the industry by prioritizing services and focus areas that members need, such as dedicated public and media relations, advocacy and workforce strategies, as well as new membership engagement events and activities.
Westcor is a general contracting and construction management services company that aims to build a better world for clients, community and employees. Reflected by its people-first culture, Westcor empowers its people to reach their full potential and promotes Gold Seal certification as a recognized standard of excellence.
Anthony Devito, GSC, is a passionate advocate for the construction industry, and has spearheaded multiple initiatives to address skilled labour shortages. His community spirit is equally inspiring, and in his just-over-a-decade long career, he has earned the respect of colleagues and industry peers alike.
For AGF and the Gendron family, community involvement and a culture of philanthropy are an integral part of corporate life. With over $4.5 million donated to causes across Canada and more than 750 employee-led fundraising events since its Foundation’s inception, AGF unites its workforce, strengthens communities, and demonstrates that collective action can create lasting impact.
Enviro-Ex Contracting’s Highway 97 Cottonwood Hill Phase Two Slide project overcame extraordinary geotechnical challenges, setting new standards for efficiency, safety, and environmental responsibility, and stands as a testament to the potential of advanced technological integration in heavy civil construction
At PCL Construction, safety isn’t just a priority — it’s a core value. Every worker, every shift, every site. This unwavering commitment has led to zero fatalities in the past three years and an extraordinary 16.7 million hours worked without a lost-time incident.
Key Takeaways:
The Canadian Construction Safety Council is introducing new safety measures, such as Type II helmets with chin straps, stricter fall protection at six feet, and ANSI level 4 cut-resistant gloves to reduce workplace injuries.
Leading general contractors have united to share best practices, aiming to improve safety protocols, reduce serious injuries, and enhance the construction industry’s safety culture.
Beyond physical safety, the Council prioritizes mental health awareness, offering resources to support workers’ overall well-being while advocating for a safer industry.
The Whole Story:
Canada’s leading general contractors have united to form the Canadian Construction Safety Council (CCSC), with a mission to elevate safety performance and establish innovative new industry benchmarks to protect construction workers nationwide.
The Council’s founding members include Aecon, AtkinsRéalis, Bird Construction Inc., Dragados Canada Inc., EllisDon Corporation, EBC, Graham Construction Inc., Kiewit Corporation, Ledcor Industries Inc., PCL Construction, Pennecon, and Pomerleau.
Among CCSC’s inaugural initiatives are the adoption of Type II safety helmets, with integrated chin straps, which offer superior head protection compared to traditional hard hats. Additionally, the Council is adopting a new fall protection standard, requiring safety measures such as harnesses and guardrails at six feet—lowering the current standard from 10 feet—to reduce falls, a leading cause of injury in the industry. The CCSC will also promote the adoption of ANSI level 4 cut-resistant gloves to help reduce the significant number of hand injuries sustained by nearly half a million Canadian workers each year.
Driving industry change to proactively protect, engage, and support workers is the foundation of CCSC’s mission. By sharing best practices and insights, the Council aims to build a safer and stronger construction industry across Canada. The goal is to collaborate, educate, and advocate for every worker’s safe return home every day.
Here are some of the council’s strategic objectives:
Reduce Serious Injuries and Fatalities: Decrease the number of serious and fatal injuries in the construction industry through improved safety practices and protocols.
Champion Industry Safety Improvements: Develop, adopt and implement best safety practices.
Enhance Safety Image and Relationships: Improve the construction industry’s safety reputation and foster stronger relationships with public and private clients, as well as regulatory bodies.
Networking and Education: Provide opportunities for members to share knowledge, access safety resources, and learn from one another.
Leverage Industry Resources: Utilize the creativity, innovation, and the industry’s collective expertise to establish and maintain higher safety standards.
Mental Health Awareness: Promote resources and education to support the mental health and overall well-being of workers within the construction industry.
In conjunction with the initiatives outlined, CCSC has launched a new website detailing its vision, mission, and key focus areas for members and the wider community.
For more information about the Canadian Construction Safety Council, please visit its website here.
Growing up in Alberta, Abigail Franson always looked up to tradespeople.
“I was drawn to that blue-collar lifestyle,” she said. “They inspired me. I was always seeing them go to work early to care for their families. I wanted to be like that.”
After moving to B.C. with her family as a teen, she got her opportunity.
As an Indigenous person, she found her way to Aboriginal Community Career Employment Services Society (ACCESS), one of the most comprehensive Indigenous training providers in Canada. Their goal is to provide a variety of employment and training programs and services to urban Indigenous peoples in Vancouver.
“They were my mentor and provided guidance during my five-year electrical apprenticeship,” said Franson. “They took care of a lot of the organization and scheduling. It was great for me. I just had to show up and I was never on my own.
ACCESS’ all-Indigenous team supports clients by meeting them where they are, helping them with complete educational requirements, partnering with various organizations and corporations for training cohorts and employment opportunities, and ensuring that Indigenous cultural components are incorporated into their training and support experience.
As an Indigenous woman, Franson is a rarity on the jobsite. Women make up only 5% of Canada’s construction trade workforce, and Indigenous women represent an even smaller percentage. Women have long faced discrimination in the trades and Indigenous people have also faced many barriers. Despite this, Franson believes the industry has improved.
“Every day is getting better,” she said. “The culture is changing in construction. Five years ago, you’d get people who made jokes about you being Indigenous and stuff, but it has changed so much and you don’t get that much anymore. For being a woman, it’s just about as hard as being a woman anywhere. That is our culture, but construction specifically has become more accepting.”
Lynn White, President and CEO of ACCESS, has been with the organization for nearly 20 years. She explained that there are roughly 70,000 Indigenous people in the Metro Vancouver Area living away from their home or who aren’t connected to their home. Trades jobs are one of their biggest areas of focus. Her goal is to remove all barriers to these high-paying careers.
“It can be as simple as bus passes and all the way to living allowances or emergency needs,” said White. “One thing that makes this so successful is we provide a job coach who is attached to a cohort to touch base with them, encourage them, all the way through to Red Seal.”
To help aspiring electricians like Franson, ACCESS partnered with the Electrical Joint Training Committee and SkillPlan to create a program for students to up their credentials so they can begin trades training.
Since its development, the pathway has provided training for 140 individuals. 46 have completed level 4 and 27 have their Red Seals. 25% are women.
Companies have begun to take notice, including Seaspan and Houle electric who regularly hire graduates of the programs.
White explained that for many Indigenous people, obtaining a career and financial freedom is a profound experience.
“A lot of our Indigenous people are at the poverty line or below,” she said. “We are in a cycle and can’t move forward. This affects their whole life.”
At one of ACCESS’ recent graduation ceremonies, a student who had just completed their foundation level, spoke about being able to take his family to the grocery store and and told them to put whatever they wanted in the cart.
“He paid cash and he was so proud to be able to do that,” said White. “It’s lifechanging. It gives people opportunity and hope.”
Key Takeaways:
The federal government, industry leaders, and unions will collaborate to assess construction labour needs and develop pathways to attract and retain skilled workers.
A new pathway will allow undocumented construction workers already in Canada to gain legal status.
A temporary measure removes the need for a study permit for foreign apprentices, allowing them to complete their training faster and join the workforce more quickly.
The Whole Story:
Ottawa has announced new measures to address construction labour shortages.
They include the convening of a tripartite advisory council to assess needs in the industry and advise on new pathways to bring in skilled workers, a regularization pathway for out-of-status construction workers, and support for foreign apprentices.
“Canada’s construction industry is vital to support and sustain our country’s growth, and we need to bring in workers to meet the urgent need for skilled labour,” said Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. “The measures announced today will ensure critical infrastructure projects are completed on time, support economic development and tackle labour shortages.”
Canada will immediately convene a tripartite advisory council comprised of federal government and union representatives, and industry leaders. This advisory council will work to identify on‑the‑ground labour needs and advise on the parameters for potential pathways that would bring in and retain the construction workers we need for the long term, with robust protections against abuse and a strong wage threshold.
In an effort to build on the success of initiatives such as the out-of-status construction workers in the Greater Toronto Area pilot, IRCC intends to create a pathway that would offer opportunities for undocumented migrants in the construction sector. These undocumented migrants are already living and working in Canada, and are contributing to the sector, and this pathway will keep them here legally so that they can continue to build the homes our economy and communities need with the proper protections.
More information about these pathways will be shared in the near future as the new advisory council meets to develop policies.
Finally, to support foreign apprentices in construction programs and to address the current labour market needs in the construction sector, Canada is also introducing a temporary measure to allow foreign apprentices to complete their studies without a study permit, effective now. Officials stated that by removing this administrative barrier, apprentices will be able to gain the valuable skills they need to contribute to infrastructure projects more quickly.
When it comes to Canada’s residential construction sector, immigrants play a key role, accounting for 23% of all general contractors and residential builders. As of November 2024, approximately 1,365 permanent residents (including principal applicants and their dependants) have been admitted through the out-of-status construction workers pathway.
Key Takeaways:
Bird Construction secured five major contracts totaling approximately $470 million, spanning infrastructure, industrial maintenance, and building projects across Canada.
The company is strengthening its expertise in Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) and sustainability, with projects like its first IPD contract in Atlantic Canada and a zero-carbon facility powered by solar energy.
Bird continues to expand its relationships with Indigenous partners, government agencies, and major industrial clients, reinforcing its presence in nuclear, transportation, and maintenance sectors while securing long-term agreements.
The Whole Story:
Bird Construction announced it has been awarded a total of five projects with a combined value of approximately $470 million. These projects include Bird’s first project to be delivered through an Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) model in Atlantic Canada, two new buildings that support Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) nuclear program, civil infrastructure work with the Government of B.C., two significant multi-year agreements in the industrial maintenance sector, and a recreation centre redevelopment project in B.C.
Bird, as part of a joint venture, was awarded its first IPD contract model in Atlantic Canada. Through a shared-risk framework, transparent communication, and an integrated approach to decision-making, the IPD team will collaborate to deliver a 100,000 sq. ft. combined office and maintenance depot. Designed to achieve Zero Carbon, the approximately $70 million facility will be partially powered by a 260KW solar array, with plans for expansion to 600KW.
Bird, through an Indigenous-led joint venture, Makhos Bird Joint Venture (MBJV), was awarded contracts for the design and construction of two buildings for OPG that support ongoing nuclear operations and refurbishment activities. These projects, totaling approximately $120 million in aggregate, underscore the strength of Bird and MBJV’s relationship with OPG and Bird’s Indigenous partners to address the province’s growing electrification needs.
Bird’s recently acquired subsidiary, Jacob Bros Construction, has been awarded the Highway 1 Bus-On-Shoulder Lanes project by the Government of B.C. This $55 million project will widen nearly four kilometres of Highway 1 between the McKenzie and Colwood interchanges, adding continuous bus-on-shoulder lanes to enhance rapid transit services and reduce congestion. The project also includes a new pedestrian and cyclist bridge, ecological restoration works, and upgraded bus stops.
Bird’s industrial maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) team has secured two significant contract awards totalling approximately $100 million, reinforcing its position as a leader in the industrial maintenance sector. The first award is a five-year MSA renewal with a long-term client, expanding Bird’s multi-discipline self-perform general contracting services to additional assets within the client’s portfolio. The second award is a multi-year, multi-discipline agreement with a blue-chip client in Eastern Canada. These awards align with Bird’s strategic plan for MRO, focusing on organic growth with existing clients and expanding into new strategic regions and markets across the country.
Bird has completed the validation stage on an IPD project to deliver the redevelopment of a major recreational centre in Kelowna, B.C. The completed facility will substantially increase athletic and aquatic space, offer three times as many programs, and include a dedicated childcare space. The redevelopment is part of a larger Building a Stronger Kelowna initiative, and Bird’s portion of the project is expected to approximate $125 million.
Parkinson Recreation Centre. – City of Kelowna
“Bird continues to win work across our industrial, buildings and infrastructure businesses in key strategic market sectors that remain economically resilient, building on the Company’s strong client relationships and forging new ones,” stated Teri McKibbon, President & CEO of Bird. “These awards highlight the scope of Bird’s capabilities, adding to the Company’s combined backlog of nuclear, healthcare, horizontal infrastructure and industrial maintenance work, while expanding Bird’s expertise in collaborative contracts.”
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).
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.
