Build a Dream is a national non-profit organization founded by workforce advisor, mentor, and influencer Nour Hachem. It advances diversity and inclusion initiatives for skilled trades and STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) careers.
Since getting its start in 2014 in Windsor, Ont., Build a Dream has delivered programs to inspire young women to pursue work in historically male-dominated fields. We spoke with Hachem about how the industry can attract more women and what barriers they face in the construction sector.
SiteNews: Tell me about the work Build a Dream does and what motivated you to start it.
Nour Hachem: Build a Dream is committed to empowering women and underrepresented groups to explore diverse career paths, particularly in skilled trades, Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics (STEAM), Entrepreneurship, and Emergency Response fields. Through comprehensive mentorship programs, immersive career expos, and hands-on workshops, we strive to dismantle barriers and provide youth with the confidence and skills necessary for successful futures in these industries.
My journey into the skilled trades industry was deeply influenced by my mother’s determination to excel in a male-dominated field. Witnessing her perseverance ignited my passion for challenging societal norms and advocating for gender equality. Through my extensive career in workforce development and as a woman from a racialized community, I realized the urgent need to address the barriers preventing women from pursuing rewarding careers in skilled trades, STEAM, Entrepreneurship, and Emergency Response fields. This realization fueled my commitment to founding Build a Dream and we are thrilled to be celebrating our 10th anniversary on April 27th at Caesars Windsor. It’ll be a time to highlight the meaningful work we have accomplished over the last ten years with our community, partners, and supporters. Tickets are still available for purchase on our website.
SiteNews: What do you think are some of the root causes of women not choosing skilled trades, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics careers?
Hachem: There are several factors, including limited access to training programs, deeply ingrained societal stereotypes, and pervasive biases within educational and workplace environments. To effectively address these challenges, it’s essential to advocate for comprehensive STEAM education from an early age, promote hands-on learning experiences that spark interest and confidence in young women, and establish robust support networks offering mentorship and guidance tailored to their unique needs.
We were thrilled to see an investment in our young people in Ontario’s 2024 budget. We welcome these measures that support skills development and apprenticeships for Ontario’s youth, such as expanding access to skilled trades training centers and investing in programs like the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program. By prioritizing access to mentorship and skills training programs for equity-deserving groups, including women, we can take significant strides towards building a workforce that reflects Canada’s rich diversity.
SiteNews: Why don’t we see more women in leadership roles in these fields?
Hachem: The underrepresentation of women in leadership roles is rooted in systemic barriers such as pervasive gender biases, limited accessible pathways for advancement, and a lack of representation at decision-making levels. To address this disparity, proactive measures such as implementing robust diversity and inclusion policies, fostering more mentorship opportunities for aspiring female leaders, and amplifying the success stories of women in these fields are crucial. We need to dismantle these barriers so that we can pave the way for more equitable representation.
Heike Delmore Photography
Our Union Training and Innovation Program (UTIP), funded by a grant from ESDC (Employment and Social Development Canada), aims to boost women’s leadership through initiatives like the Apprenticeship Incubator, which uses virtual reality simulators for skills development, and the #PowerUP Skills program, which provides hands-on experiences. Additionally, our You’re Hired Road Show will facilitate connections between jobseekers and employers, particularly benefiting those without preexisting connections in the industry.
SiteNews: What sort of impact did your mother have on your attitudes/thinking towards women in the workplace?
Hachem: My mother’s resilience and achievements in a male-dominated field deeply influenced my attitudes towards gender equality in the workplace. Witnessing her determination to succeed played a pivotal role in shaping my commitment to empowering women and creating opportunities for their representation in traditionally male-dominated industries, culminating in the establishment of Build a Dream—a platform dedicated to fostering gender diversity and equity.
SiteNews: As a working mom, tell me about some of the challenges female leaders face when they are starting a family.
Hachem: Female leaders encounter numerous challenges when starting a family, primarily centered around balancing work and family responsibilities. Juggling demanding professional roles with childcare duties can often lead to feelings of guilt and stress. Supportive policies such as flexible work arrangements, comprehensive childcare assistance, and extended parental leave are crucial in easing this burden. That’s why, Build a Dream is urging both the provincial and federal governments to provide subsidies and incentives for businesses to establish on-site childcare facilities, recognizing the vital role affordable childcare plays in supporting women’s participation in the workforce. This aligns with the recently launched provincial budget’s focus on building, expanding, and renewing schools and childcare spaces, demonstrating a commitment to supporting working parents. Additionally, the federal government also recently announced measures from the upcoming Budget 2024 to build more affordable childcare spaces. This is another significant step toward addressing the childcare needs of tradespeople and supporting their continued participation in the industry.
SiteNews: What has your experiences as a workforce advisor, mentor and influencer taught you about motivating women to choose trades and STEM careers?
Hachem: I’ve learned that motivating women to pursue careers in trades and STEAM fields requires more than just encouragement—it demands tangible support, hands-on learning opportunities, and targeted mentorship programs. Our WAGE program addresses this need by offering a comprehensive mentorship program where participants are matched with experienced mentors who provide valuable insights tailored to their goals and challenges. Through networking opportunities and skill-building workshops, mentees gain the confidence and connections needed to feel empowered to explore their interests. Additionally, highlighting the real-world impact and opportunities for growth within these industries can inspire women to pursue rewarding careers in trades and STEAM.
SiteNews: What things are companies and leaders doing right when it comes to recruiting and retaining female workers in trades/STEM careers?
Hachem: Companies are making great strides in recruiting and retaining female workers in trades and STEAM careers by recognizing the importance of early outreach and education programs. Additionally, we have seen that offering more apprenticeship and training opportunities that are tailored to women’s needs, promoting inclusive policies that create supportive work environments, and providing ongoing mentorship, all contribute to attracting and retaining more female talent. However, there’s more to be done.
Our industry case studies, a cornerstone of our Women in Skilled Trades (WIST) project, offer a unique opportunity for forward-thinking companies. With limited spots available, fifteen organizations across Canada will have a chance to showcase their commitment to gender equity and workplace inclusivity. We want to highlight inclusive hiring practices, supportive workplace cultures, and leadership development initiatives. These organizations are the ones leading the conversation and by showcasing their success stories, we aim to inspire other companies to adopt similar approaches, ultimately increasing the presence of women in Red Seal trades and reshaping the skilled trades landscape.
SiteNews: How can men support women who choose to enter predominantly male fields like construction?
Hachem: Male allies can play a pivotal role by actively advocating for inclusivity and challenging gender biases within their workplaces. Beyond that, providing tangible support such as mentorship to female colleagues, fostering a culture of respect and equality, and actively creating opportunities for women to highlight their skills and leadership capabilities are crucial steps in breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive industry landscape.
From precarious circumstances to the helm of one of Canada’s largest and most innovative general contractors, Tim Coldwell’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Now, he’s done something even more surprising—he’s reinvented himself once again.
“Over my years at Chandos, I have reinvented myself several times,” he wrote in a farewell message months ago. “Having the courage to do so has been an important part of my story. But this time, the reinvention could only happen outside of Chandos, the company that has given me so much. Having accomplished my goals at Chandos, it is time to reinvent myself once again. And so, I depart Chandos to write my next chapter.”
During his tenure, Coldwell was a driving force propelling the company to the forefront of progressive contract models such as IPD. His legacy includes working with the team to take the company national and more than doubling enterprise value all while pioneering social procurement and spearheading Chandos’ achievement as the largest B-Corp certified national technical builder in the world.
What prompted the urge to reinvent himself? Coldwell explained that as a 41-year-old man reconnecting with his Indigenous roots, he found his worldview beginning to change. He wanted to have an impact on the world that went beyond his seat in a corporate boardroom.
Indigenous Roots
Coldwell didn’t know about his Indigenous heritage growing up.
“It wasn’t something we talked about,” he said. “In 1985, Bill C-31 was passed to abolish enfranchisement and restore status to those who had lost status through enfranchisement. As a result, I gained status as a member of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte. It was my aunt who told me stories about my ancestors. I am a direct descendant of several prominent Mohawk leaders who shaped Canada”
Coldwell explained that his family and many of my friends wanted him to follow in the steps of his father, uncle and grandfather to become a member of the clergy.
“I’ve always had an appreciation for people who dedicate their lives in service to others,” he said. “But the clergy wasn’t for me. I wondered if I could be of service in other ways. Most importantly, I wanted to be true to myself.”
After finding work at a lumber mill, it was the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte that gave him his first big break: a scholarship to attend engineering at the University of Alberta which he used to launch his career at Chandos. But that disconnection from his Indigenous roots lingered from his childhood.
“It’s like gravity. There is this pull that makes me want to learn the culture that I had been separated from,” said Coldwell. “Many Indigenous people have a spiritual connection to the land. I remember fly fishing in the Grand River for the first time and standing on Forester’s Island in Tyendinaga where my grandparents once lived. There is a powerful sense of connection to ‘this place’ that comes over me. It’s hard to explain.”
He explained that the folks at the First Nations Technical Institute in Tyendinaga treated him like a long lost family member.
“They introduced me to Chief Don Maracle who signed the letter that changed my life by telling me the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte would support my education,” said Coldwell. “I took my family to their first Pow Wow at Six Nations. I met cousins that I never knew I had. There is no question that I would not be where I am today if it weren’t for help from the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte. I’ve got to pay that forward the best I know how.”
Coldwell is now on a journey to learn Indigenous values and ways of being.
“A colonial worldview is rooted in the idea of ownership – ‘that’s mine’,” says Coldwell. “An Indigenous worldview says these things are shared – it’s ours. Colonialism measures status and prestige by what you own and what you accumulate. For traditional Indigenous people, status and prestige is about what you give away to your community. Think about that. I’m starting to get my head around it.”
He explained that unlike Western society, which believes each child is born with rights, the Mohawk believe that each person is born with a number of responsibilities.
“To themselves, to their families, to their Nation and to the natural and spiritual worlds around them,” said Coldwell. “You don’t have any rights until you have fulfilled your responsibilities. A colonial worldview is ‘me first’ while an Indigenous perspective is ‘others first’.”
Make What Matters
When thinking about his reinvention, Coldwell had lots of options. But he knew he wanted to continue his mission to use business as a force for good. The answer came after meeting legendary businessman and “Dragon’s Den” investor Wes Hall who Coldwell got to know after being named a Canadian Entrepreneur of the Year in 2021.
“Wes’ story is amazing,” said Coldwell. Hall grew up in a tin shack in Jamaica. Every day, he went to school barefoot because his family couldn’t afford to buy him shoes. After moving to Toronto as a teenager, Hall got a job in the mailroom of a prominent law firm and went on to found Kingsdale Advisors and many other businesses. Beyond his business success, Hall has used his connections and influence to combat systemic racism.
“I knew I would learn a lot from Wes, so I sought him out and we started chatting about the idea of a real estate advisory business that would use the power of real estate supply chains to build a more inclusive society, a society where nobody is left behind,” said Coldwell. “What if we could reduce development costs for our clients and address Canada’s skilled trade shortage by using supply chains to bring hope and opportunity to thousands of youth? What if we did that?”
The result is Énska Advisors, a new venture the pair are launching this week. The word Énska means “one” in Mohawk and has layered meaning. He explained that a fundamental Mohawk value is being of “one mind” when making decisions, the idea of having one life to live, the realization that we are all one. “We chose this name because one person, project, or company can start a movement and because we recognize that we can’t do it alone,” said Coldwell. “True systemic change only occurs when we do it together, as one.”
Building a Legacy
Coldwell explains that the value proposition of the firm is simple. Énska reduces development costs while simultaneously delivering third-party verified social and environmental outcomes at zero premium cost. This allows the firm’s clients to confidently report project benefits. “Doing the right thing often comes with a price tag,” says Coldwell. “Énska plans and governs the project so there is no premium.” Énska Advisors has three primary service offerings:
Real Estate Advisory – Site selection, project business case development, obtaining funding and developing supply chain strategies to reduce costs and maximize impact.
Project Governance – Assembling high-performing teams and governing projects with visionary leaders who have executive presence and industry knowledge.
Indigenous Capital – Accelerating economic self-determination by advising First Nations entering the real estate, construction or clean energy businesses.
The firm has also adopted what they call the “Fifty by 50” initiative to address Canada’s skilled trades shortage. Coldwell and Hall’s goal is to start a movement that provides 50,000 youth by 2050 with the same life-changing opportunities they received. Coldwell believes that he isn’t just trying to build a company. He is trying to build a legacy that will be making a difference long after he is gone in keeping with Indigenous teachings.
“There is a concept called the Seven Generation Principle,” says Coldwell. “It’s this idea that the decisions you make today should benefit your descendants seven generations in the future. “I’m a big fan of the musical Hamilton. There’s this line at the end, ‘And when my time is up, have I done enough? Will they tell my story?’ I’m interested in asking, ‘what must we do today so people living seven generations from now will tell our story in a good way?’”
Coldwell wants to measure his life by impact.
“This idea of impacting 50,000 youth by 2050 is the kind of life goal I can get behind,” he said. “I’d like my tombstone to say, ‘loving husband, father and business leader who proved that you can be wildly successful by using business as a force for good.’ Too many people get trapped in either/or thinking. Purpose or profit. There is a way to have both. Purpose and profit. We only have one life to live. Let’s make it matter.”
When you’re trying to navigate the municipal requirements, zoning, setbacks and consultant requirements, the nuances can be overwhelming.
You can get tied up in bureaucracy and red tape. It seems to get more complicated every year, and things don’t seem to be getting any easier.
“It used to be a lot simpler when I started, but the times have changed and we have to adapt to the new environment,” explained Dave Krahn, president and CEO of Krahn Group. “The number of consultants that are required for development permits and building permit applications—and the number of applications and submissions that need to be made, for something as simple as an industrial warehouse—have increased significantly. This is a combination of more governing bodies, increased regulations and the complexity of the sites and projects that we now work on.”
Vast experience
Dave knows this better than most. After founding Krahn engineering in 1984, he spent decades working as a structural engineer and saw how his projects would be held up by permit wait times and all the upfront consulting and coordination work that needed to be done.
“If we started to provide these other consulting services and have more of them in-house we could at least make this consulting work be as fast and efficient as possible, making the process simple for our clients, while also helping build our relationships with the cities and governing bodies,” said Krahn.
Over the years, Krahn started to add different disciplines to form the Krahn Group, which now encompasses Architecture (with KP Architecture Ltd), Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Landscape and Building Performance. They are a multi-disciplinary consulting company providing services to the development and construction industry across Canada. They have decades of experience in industrial, self-storage, commercial, multifamily and institutional projects.
Dave Krahn, president and CEO of Krahn Group
“I wanted to provide a truly simple process for developers and contractors,” said Krahn. “They already have such a demanding and difficult job, we wanted to make the design, engineering and consulting process as easy and simple for them as possible, give them solutions and not headaches.”
Currently, Krahn has offices in B.C., Alberta, Ontario for Canada and an office in Arizona for the U.S. Why expand across Canada and now into the States? Their clients operate in different regions and countries and want to leverage Krahn’s experience and services.
“We are able to service the entire west coast and the prairies out of our B.C. and Alberta offices, with the east coast being handled out of Ontario. We also opened our Phoenix, Arizona office to expand and service the clients there. We simply went where our clients were going and doing work and continued to pick up new ones in the different markets we entered,” Krahn noted.
Understanding the industry
“We also understand that although we can provide fully integrated services, we don’t always need to, nor do our clients always want us to,” said Krahn.
Many contractors and developers might already have their preferred team of consultants or individuals that they work with on certain projects. They may have worked with these groups for many years and have strong relationships with them.
“That is why I set up our disciplines to be their own individual companies.,” said Krahn. “For example, a client may have an architect already and now needs us just to do the structural, electrical and mechanical engineering. We can do this no problem and allows us to work with all different types of consultants, instead of just our own internal team, which helps our teams better understand the construction market and different techniques for design and engineering.”
This openness and collaboration within the industry has allowed Krahn to work with other great architects and engineers on a varying array of projects, building their knowledge and relationships along the way.
“I sometimes think that since we do this, our clients don’t even know the full scope of services and value that we provide,” Krahn explained. “They will have worked with our engineering department on many projects and will be telling us that they love working with us but are now doing a project that their current architect does not have the expertise in, we say, we can do the architectural work. really, they say. you guys do that as well?”
Krahn Group focuses on providing these services for small to medium-sized projects. There are extremely large engineering firms with tens of thousands of employees, but these are focused on extremely large institutional and infrastructure projects.
“There was no real multi-disciplinary firm that was doing this for small to mid-sized projects, say for a townhouse, six storey apartment or warehouse project,” Said Krahn.” I wanted our clients to have this simplicity, but also have the services of a smaller firm, where they were dealing directly with the engineer of the project and there weren’t layers of bureaucracy. I always said that if we ever started to act like a ‘big’ organization, I would quit, and we could shut everything down.”
Service, Service, Service
This attitude emanates through the Krahn group and can be seen in their company culture and how they approach their work and clients.
“I have always said to our team, the three most important things that you can provide as a consultant are ‘Service, Service, Service,’” Krahn noted. “Even if it’s texting your client on the weekend with an update, our team wants to go above and beyond to ensure that we are providing real value and service to our clients.”
This attitude also leads into their collaborative solutions they provide on their projects.
“We understand that the contractor/developer usually knows the best way to build things and the cost implications, so asking them what they would want to do and what the implications of this are. We are just here to verify and make sure we can design/engineer what they want,” clarified Krahn.
This has led the Krahn Group to become a trusted client partner in the projects they work on.
“We want to be the ones the clients know that they can turn to” Krahn explained. “They know we have the experience and expertise to deliver on their projects. We let our people, projects and work for itself. It’s worked for me for 40 years and is why we have such great relationships in the industry.”
If you’re looking for design and engineering consultants for your next project, explore all the services Krahn Group offers today. They’re your partner in navigating the architecture and engineering sector.
B.C.’s 7th annual Construction and Skilled Trades Month has begun. It will serve as an opportunity to recognize excellence across the industry in two areas of priority: culture change and leadership.
This year’s celebration highlights the importance of the industry’s mentors in shaping the new generation of construction workers, and marks five years of Builders Code culture training, policies and commitments, making construction a more welcoming and inclusive career choice.
“Construction Month allows us to shine a bright light on the impact our industry has on the lives of British Columbians,” said Chris Atchison, president of the BC Construction Association (BCCA). “92% of construction owners are small businesses who employ fewer than 20 employees. Day after day, they deliver the important housing, institutional, commercial, industrial and infrastructure projects our province needs. They work hard, and they get the job done. We welcome this opportunity to give them the recognition and respect they deserve.”
According to the latest data from Statistics Canada, in 2021, there were 215,800 workers in B.C. employed in construction, representing 8.1% of provincial employment. Within the subsectors 121,300 workers were employed in trade contracting, 67,300 workers in construction of buildings, and 27,300 in heavy and civil engineering construction.
Construction Month is a celebration of the collective success of BC’s construction industry, as well as an opportunity to celebrate the outstanding leadership of those companies who inspire by example. The following companies are being recognized this year:
Awards for construction industry culture
The Builders Code Champion Awards recognize four employers who are leading the way in advancing the culture of BC’s industrial, commercial, institutional and multi-unit residential housing construction industry. Recruiting and retaining a diverse range of talent is critical to alleviating BC’s construction workforce shortage. By exemplifying Builders Code principles in their workplace culture, these BC companies have positioned themselves as employers of choice.
The 2024 Builders Code Champions are: • Turner Construction Company (Vancouver) – Workplace Culture Champion • Houle Electric (Victoria) – Recruiting, Hiring and Retention Champion • CGI Constructors (Victoria/Vancouver) – Recruiting, Hiring and Retention Champion • EllisDon (Vancouver) – Community Champion
For more information about Builders Code Champion Award winners, visit builderscode.ca.
Awards for leadership
The Leadership Awards are an annual acknowledgement of outstanding contributions by BC construction companies, highlighting the important legacy from which future generations can benefit. This year’s recipients were selected in partnership with BC’s Regional Construction Associations: the Northern Regional Construction Association (NRCA), the Southern Interior Construction Association (SICA), the Vancouver Island Construction Association (VICA) and the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA).
The 2024 Leadership Award winners are: • Westcana Electric Ltd. (Prince George) • Acres Enterprises (Kamloops) • Heritage Masonry (Victoria) • Pitt Meadows Plumbing & Mechanical Systems Ltd. (Maple Ridge)
The BC Construction Association is also celebrating Construction Month with 50 grants of $250 and 50 grants of $500 each for companies to buy their workers lunch as part of the #LunchBoxChallenge. Currently, all grants have been claimed.
Even without a grant, the association is encouraging companies to still treat a crew to lunch this month and challenge other construction employers to do the same. Be sure to tag #lunchboxchallenge.
The Leadership Awards are sponsored by LNG Canada, BCCA, and the National Construction Council, as Title and Platinum Sponsors of Construction Month 2024.
For more information about Leadership Award winners, visit constructionmonth.ca.
Ruth Legg has joined Concert Properties as vice president, environment, social & governance. Legg has spent a decade in financial services, most recently as Americas head of supply chain sustainability and diversity at HSBC.
Jerome Julier has been appointed executive vice president and chief financial officer for Aecon. Julier brings two decades of leadership experience in finance, strategy, and capital markets with a significant focus on industrial businesses in the construction, engineering, and transportation sectors.
Elliott Altberg has been appointed executive vice president, eastern Canada, at Beedie. He joins Beedie with almost 20 years of experience in real estate in capital markets, private equity/pension fund investments, property brokerage, and corporate mergers and acquisitions at some of the most pre-eminent real estate and investment banking firms in North America.
Jennifer Mallard has been selected as principal for Henriquez Partners Architects’ new Toronto studio. Previously a partner at Diamond Schmitt, Mallard developed extensive knowledge of the Toronto market, with over 30 years of experience leading the design and delivery of civic, residential, educational and institutional projects.
Jennifer Mallard, principal, Toronto and Gregory Henriquez, managing principal. – Henriquez Partners Architects
Mike Keane has been hired as a senior project manager at Roc Modular. Keane has nearly a decade of experience in the modular construction industry, successfully managing a variety of large-scale modular multi-unit housing and commercial projects.
Josh White has been chosen as the City of Vancouver’s next general manager, planning, urban design and sustainability (PDS) following an extensive recruitment process. His most recent role was director, city and regional planning and co-chief planner at the City of Calgary.
I received an incredibly warm welcome from an almost overwhelming number of people that reached out from Vancouver today. I look forward to collaborating in confronting the challenges of housing affordability and continuing to make Vancouver even more liveable and sustainable!
Josh White, general manager, planning, urban design and sustainability, City of Vancouver
Francis Roy has been appointed chair of the Canadian Construction Association’s board of directors. A 30-year veteran of the industry, Roy is president and CEO of Groupe Humaco companies.
Shirin Oshidari has joined Salus as its chief revenue officer. Oshidari has overseen sales and services for innovative construction tech companies like Primavera, Autodesk, StreetLight Data and OpenSpace. She will spearhead Salus’ expansion into the U.S. market.
Dante Gamboa has been promoted to business development representative at 505-Junk.
Troy MacBeth Ambromaitis is leaving Bucci Developments after 11 years. Ambromaitis stated that his time at Bucci was filled with invaluable experiences, growth opportunities, and cherished memories spanning over a decade.
Ryan Pfeiffer is now a partner at Rain City Industrial where he will assume a pivotal role in leading its refrigeration division forward into a new era of innovation and excellence.
Thomas Grell has joined Graham as its executive vice president, services. Grell has nearly three decades of progressive leadership experience and a proven track record of success across diverse industries. He will lead Graham’s Services division with a focus on exceptional safety results, repeat business with key clients, and sustained growth.
Chris Colbeck, president of Townline, has announced his retirement. Colbeck launched his real estate career in 1990. His successor will be Daryl Simpson, who is known for his work with the Urban Development Institute, the Hecht Foundation and the Canuck Place Children’s Hospice.
Chris Colbeck speaks at the groundbreaking of BAND, Townline’s landmark 45-storey tower in West Coquitlam. – Townline
Mission Group has restructured its senior leadership team. Randy Shier, co-founder and president is now chief product officer. Luke Turri will shift from executive vice president to president. Steve Abel will move from vice president of finance to chief financial officer.
Lindsay Brand has been appointed chief investment officer of Concert Properties. Brand will lead Concert’s national team responsible for the income-producing property portfolio, including acquisitions, dispositions, asset and fund management, leasing and property management. She will also oversee Concert Income Properties, an open-ended, limited partnership Canadian fund.
Shane McKernan is now director of preconstruction at Axiom Builders. McKernan began his career as a Red Seal carpenter and went on to high level roles at Keltic Development and Chard Development before joining Axiom.
David Woolley is starting a new position as director of business development, western Canada, at T-RAIL Products. Woolley has more than six years of engineering design experience in the specialized railroad trackwork industry for both light rail and class one railroad agencies.
Both Paul and Davide have held increasingly senior positions within Surerus Murphy and are recognized within the industry for their expertise in early contractor engagement, engineering, design, and construction, as well as their exceptional people leadership and “can do” attitudes.
Surerus Murphy
Dave Filipchuk, PCL president and CEO, has been recognized by the Canadian Construction Association as this year’s Pinnacle Leader. recognizes leaders who apply the highest standards and principles of the construction industry and business community.
I accept this recognition humbly, knowing the credit is shared with an incredibly talented leadership team that I’m part of, and that our 5,000 plus contingent of dedicated construction professionals have made this possible.
Dave Filipchuk, PCL president and CEO
Martin Jepil has been named chief information officer at Avison Young where he will be tasked with overseeing the firm’s information technology platform and overall architecture. Jepil first joined the firm in April 2021 as Principal, Global Vice President Enterprise Architecture, responsible for delivering world-class technology solutions and products to facilitate client success.
John M. Beck, founder and chairman of Aecon, will receive the title Honorary Doctor of Laws from Assumption University. The Doctor of Laws is presented upon recommendation of Assumption University’s Senate and conferred by the Chancellor, Bishop Ronald Fabbro.
Orlene King is celebrating 15 years at Graham where she works as its senior director of communications.
Some might say that’s a long time to spend with one organization. Hasn’t always been easy but when your values align and you work with talented people, loyalty comes easy.
Orlene King, senior director, communications, Graham Group
Zachary McLeod has been promoted to operations manager at Graham. He has spent 13 years at the company, originally starting as a project coordinator.
Rabih Zahnan is Wesgroup Properties‘ new senior vice president and managing director, construction. He brings over 20 years of experience in construction, commercial real estate development and operations throughout North America and overseas. He most recently held the role of president and chief operating officer at Sorensen Gross Construction Company
Angela Sahi has been appointed as Morguard’s new president and chief operating officer. In this new role, Sahi will oversee the company’s operations and drive strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing Morguard’s market position and delivering value to its stakeholders.
I am deeply honoured and excited to take on the role of President and COO at Morguard. I am grateful for the trust and support of the Board of Directors, and I am committed to leading Morguard toward continued growth and success. Together with our talented team, I look forward to capitalizing on new opportunities and delivering reliable performance to our investors, tenants, and partners.
Angela Sahi, Morguard president and COO
This month’s SiteViews features many smiling faces, a big catch, grand openings and more. If you want your photos to be featured, let us know by reaching out to hello@readsitenews.com
A Few Good Lads
A Few Good Lads celebrates its team’s diversity on the job site.
Year two of the Tahltan Heavy Equipment Operator Program is in full swing, with the new Level 1 participants wrapping up their first week at the Newmont Red Chris Mine in B.C.
Axiom Builders
Axiom Builders’ crews are hard at work at The Amazing Brentwood, Neighbourhood Two. Now that excavation and shoring is complete, totalling over 182,000 cubic meters of soil, the team is focusing on constructing the underground concrete structure and working their way up towards their next milestone, reaching the ground level.
Ventana Construction
Ventana‘s crews stay positive on a job site in B.C.
Sierra Construction
The Sierra General Contracting team has been busy work on plant expansion in Woodstock, Ont. Working with Tresman Steel Industries Ltd., they have begun the commencement of steel erection with the ongoing installation of open web steel joists.
Metrolinx
This is the view crews get from the other side of the yellow retention towers at Queen-Spadina while doing work on the Ontario Line. Behind the walls, demolition is 90% complete.
Ledcor
Ledcor’s Edmonton construction team hosted their second annual ice fishing event in celebration of International Women’s Day. The event brought together over 30 women from Ledcor, client partners, volunteers, Alberta Conservation, and Alberta Fish and Wildlife to cheer on and support one another.
Calgary Municipal Land Corporation
Crews celebrate the substantial completion of the BMO Centre Expansion project in Calgary.
S & J Construction‘s team executes a pile cap pour in sunny downtown Winnipeg.
The Canadian Construction Association (CCA) is once again celebrating the industry’s best and brightest. The association has announced the winners of its National Awards.
The official ceremony was held on March 14, 2024 in conjunction with the annual CCA Conference in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. From innovation and environmental achievement to community leadership, world-class safety and workforce excellence, the recipients represent the industry’s best and brightest.
CCA 2023 Community Leader Award – sponsored by Marsh Canada Limited
Ledcor has been named one of two recipients of CCA’s Community Leader Award. The collective mission shared by Ledcor’s employees is encapsulated in the phrase “Ledcor Cares,” a testament to their commitment to community well-being and making a positive impact.
CCA 2023 Community Leader Award – sponsored by Marsh Canada Limited
Emerging as a central force addressing substance use and overdose deaths with a groundbreaking toolkit, VICA has been named one of two recipients of CCA’s Community Leader Award.
CCA 2023 Environmental Achievement Award – sponsored by Victaulic
Giatec was recognized for their innovative approach to sustainability. SmartMix is an AI platform that empowers ready-mix concrete producers to analyze data points across their operations efficiently, optimizing mixes for cost, cement usage, and CO2 emissions.
CCA 2023 Excellence in Innovation Award – sponsored by Intact Surety
For their Canadian adaption of new methodology for steep slope pipeline installation, Ledcor Pipeline Ltd. was honoured with the 2023 Excellence in Innovation Award.
This recognition speaks volumes about the typical dedication and ingenuity of the outstanding Ledcor team members. Our approach to innovation not only sets new standards but also demonstrates our commitment to pushing boundaries and driving positive change in our industry.
Quentin Huillery, Chief Operations Officer, Civil, Mining, and Infrastructure
CCA 2023 Gold Seal Award – sponsored by Travelers Canada
For their ongoing commitment to excellence and education, Kinetic was recognized with the CCA 2023 Gold Seal Award. A staunch supporter of Gold Seal since its inception, Kinetic has celebrated countless employees’ journeys to certification.
CCA 2023 National Safety Award – sponsored by Vipond Inc.
The 2023 CCA National Safety Award recognized the Graham Group for their outstanding overall approach to and success in the areas of health and safety. Actively Caring is one such example of a Graham program designed to cultivate a culture where people are actively looking out for others with courage and compassion.
We’re thrilled to receive the CCA National Safety Award this year! Safety is our top priority. Our actively caring culture underpins every project to ensure the health and safety of our people, communities and the environment.
Construction Association of Nova Scotia (CANS) is the 2023 recipient of CCA’s Partner Association Award. CANS continues to focus on building a resilient, skilled and innovative future for the construction industry in Nova Scotia through education, advocacy and industry collaboration.
CANS members have been pivotal in shaping the work we do and services we offer. Winning this award presents an extraordinary opportunity to nationally showcase the accomplishments and impactful work we’ve undertaken on behalf of our hard-working members and our industry.
CCA 2023 Pinnacle Leader Award – sponsored by PCL Construction
The CCA 2023 Pinnacle Leader Award recognized Dave Filipchuk. His achievements are reflected not only in his firm’s success and growth, but also in his leadership, dedication to excellence, and community contributions, which position him as an exceptional leader, partner and example to all.
I reflect on my 40-years with PCL with immense gratitude for the opportunities that have come my way. The journey has been incredibly diverse, with experience in Canada, the U.S. and Australia, and across our operations in the Buildings, Civil, Infrastructure, and Heavy Industrial sectors. Every step has been a learning experience for me. I accept this recognition humbly, knowing the credit is shared with an incredibly talented leadership team that I’m part of, and that our 5,000 plus contingent of dedicated construction professionals have made this possible.
CCA 2023 Workforce Excellence Award – sponsored by RAISE
Underwriting for their ongoing efforts to continuously improve upon their employees’ experiences, and their commitment to a diverse and equitable workplace, Ledcor was presented with the CCA 2023 Workforce Excellence Award. Ledcor uses the phrase “True Blue” to describe its values-driven approach.
CCA 2023 Young Leader Award – sponsored by McMillan LLP
Through his impressive portfolio, his dedication to continuing education and his community spirit, Ryan Davis stands as an exemplary leader in his field and was recognized with the CCA 2023 Young Leader Award. Davis is a senior project manager at Marco Group.
Key Takeaways:
B.C. is proposing fines as high as as $100,000, as well as imprisonment up to 18 months for trucks that impact infrastructure.
There have been 35 crashes that have occurred since late 2021 by over-height commercial vehicles.
The BC Trucking Association has been consulted and supports the proposed increase in maximum penalties.
The Whole Story:
Drivers of commercial trucks involved in infrastructure crashes could face higher penalties after a series of overpass impacts have prompted B.C. officials to take action.
The proposed changes to the Commercial Transport Act (CTA) will enable the courts to impose fines for as much as $100,000, as well as imprisonment up to 18 months upon conviction for violations. Provincial officials stated that infrastructure crashes pose a significant safety risk, having caused millions of dollars in provincial highway repairs, as well as lengthy highway closures and supply chain disruptions that impact all British Columbians.
“With these new penalties, we are taking the strongest action possible to keep our roads safe and to keep people, goods and services moving,” said Rob Fleming, minister of transportation and Infrastructure. “This also sends a message to commercial truck drivers that they are responsible for the safe transportation of goods and services on our roads, and a lax attitude toward safety will not be tolerated.”
The legislative changes are in response to 35 crashes that have occurred since late 2021 by over-height commercial vehicles. Laws surrounding highway infrastructure crashes have not changed since the 1970s. Officials stressed that the overwhelming majority of responsible truck drivers and the trucking industry have urged tougher action on the small number of irresponsible operators that have caused these crashes.
The proposed maximum penalty for commercial transport violations is far above other Canadian provinces and territories, and falls in line with the maximum penalties applied to rail and dangerous-goods safety. The province noted that the BC Trucking Association has been consulted and supports the proposed increase in maximum penalties.
“The BC Trucking Association welcomes the legislative change by the Province to hold carriers accountable,” said Dave Earle, president and CEO, BC Trucking Association. “Imposing stricter penalties for carriers supports road safety and helps protect infrastructure, and ultimately enhances safety for everyone on our roads.”
This change represents the latest in a series of steps the ministry has taken recently to address the issue, including formalizing a progressive-enforcement framework and carrier-suspension policy that provides escalating consequences for carriers who commit repeat offences, including the possible loss of safety certificates, prohibiting their operation.
Fines were recently raised to the highest amount allowed under the current law for over-height vehicles, from $100 to the maximum allowable penalty of $500. A new requirement was also put in place (effective June 1, 2024) for in-cab warning devices to alert dump-style vehicle operators when the dump box is raised. Speed-limiter devices were also mandated, preventing heavy commercial vehicles from travelling more than 105 km/h on B.C. highways.
The province has taken up this issue with federal, provincial and territorial counterparts through the Council of Ministers Responsible for Transportation and Highway Safety. The council is now working to address loopholes where carriers with problematic safety records prohibited in one jurisdiction may continue operating in a neighbouring jurisdiction.
To support the commercial transport industry through this change, the ministry is developing training material that provides commercial drivers guidance on the proper measurement of vehicles and loads. The proper measurement of vehicle/load height is a component of the Mandatory Entry Level Training (MELT) program for Class 1 drivers.
President and CEO – Toronto, Ont. – Canadian Institute of Steel Construction
This recognition from the Order of Canada is not mine alone. It reflects the collaborative spirit and exceptional talents of my students, past and current, and colleagues I’ve worked with — in academia and the industry, in Canada and globally.
Osama Moselhi
Mark Heffernan has been named principal at O’M Engineering. Heffernan has over 16 years of experience in the industry and began his career as a qualified electrician.
Paul Verhesen, former president and CEO of Clark Builders, has been hired as a strategic advisor for KV Capital. Verhesen brings over 30 years of construction industry leadership to his new role spearheading the expansion of the private equity group into building products acquisitions.
Brent Payne is Marcon’s new vice president of construction. He has 30 years of global experience in civil engineering, transportation, construction management, project and program management.
Being the first female executive director of the Manitoba Building Trades, I hope to bring a diverse perspective towards building upon our history and helping us write the next chapter,” said Palson. “A negative stigma still exists around skilled trades work, and we are facing the largest labour shortages our industry has ever experienced. It’s important to continue and expand our efforts with our community partners, and governments to open the door to the trades for so many Manitobans.
Tanya Palson, executive director, Manitoba Building Trades
Tanya Palson
Dave Pooley has been named chief financial officer of Bridgit. Pooley will oversee Bridgit’s financial strategy and efficiency across the organization.
Josh Teller, also of Orion Construction, has been promoted from site superintendent to general superintendent.
Since Orion’s inception, Josh [Teller] has exemplified excellence. With over 23 years of experience in site supervision, his leadership has been invaluable.
Orion Construction
Jason Davidson is celebrating 20 years at PCL. The HSE manager for the company’s Ottawa district left his career as a paramedic to join the construction sector. He has worked on landmark projects, including the Vancouver Convention Centre Expansion and the BC Place Roof Phase II project.
Jatinder Heer is NorLand’s new chief financial officer. He brings over 20 years of progressive experience in business leadership and corporate governance.
Kristal Kaye has been brought on as chief financial officer for CarbonCure. Kaye brings 25 years of finance expertise across a variety of industries, including mining, energy and retail pharmacy. She is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) who most recently served as CFO for Arctic Canadian Diamond Company.
Kristal’s expertise in financial management and strategic planning will undoubtedly be assets to CarbonCure and our mission, helping us achieve our goals, operate with efficiency at scale and generate even more value for our customers.
Esther Rivard-Sirois has been promoted to principal at Kasian. She has been with the firm for 16 years, starting as an intern architect.
Norm Streu has been hired as associate counsel for Harper Grey LLP. Streu has an extensive history in the construction sector, previously serving as president of Con-Force Structures, executive vice president of NCM development at Nexii and president of LMS Reinforcing Steel Group.
Cameron McPhaden is starting a new position as a senior design manager at EllisDon. As part of the team delivering the New Surrey Hospital and BC Cancer Center project, he has recently been confirmed as the Design-Builder’s Design Manager, a contractual Key Individual.
Under John’s visionary leadership, Keller Construction Ltd. has left an indelible mark on the western Canadian landscape since the 1980s. From intricate visitor centers to major housing developments, his commitment to excellence and innovation has shaped the success of our company.
Keller Construction
Andrew Tashiro, senior principal of properties and buildings at WSP in Canada, is celebrating 34 years at the company.
Andy Tam has been appointed senior vice president of development at Nonni Property Group. Tam has more than 28 years of experience in the sector. He will oversee all development and construction activities.
Ralph Ward has officially retired from Scott Builders. The company said Ward founded the modern version of Scott when he purchased the company in the mid 1980s. He led it for many years as president and CEO. More recently, he worked on the company’s board.
Tanya Justason has been promoted to project accountant at Westridge Construction. Justason initially joined Westridge in October 2023 as the accounting administrator, but the company says her dedication and adaptability led to a swift promotion.
Josh Gallipeau, also of Westridge Construction, is celebrating 10 years at the company. He serves as a journeyperson carpenter and is currently leading the way as the concrete superintendent on the Redbear Avenue Pumping Station & Reservoirs project.
Paul Forgues has been awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Edmonton Construction Association. Starting his career as a draftsman, Forgues worked his way up to become project director at Bird Construction.
Drew Monnier has started a new role as operations manager, infrastructure, in Graham’s Manitoba District.
Alicia Cornford has been promoted to director, brand & engagement at Clark Builders. She has more than 17 years of experience in the AEC industry and serves as the acting board president for the Canadian Society for Marketing Professional Services.
Helen van ter Meij, PCL’s treasury supervisor, is celebrating 40 years with the company.
Derron Bain now holds the title of CEO of Concert Infrastructure. The company stated that the change reflects and aligns with the leadership and practice in the Canadian infrastructure sector. It also reflects the growing scale and scope of the Concert Infrastructure business and team.
Tara Rogers has joined Flatiron as director of preconstruction Canada. Prior to the role, she worked at Deloitte leading capital projects practice in B.C. Tara has almost 25 years of experience in the infrastructure development market and is part of the steering committee for Women in Infrastructure Network (WIN).
Trevor Doucette has joined Synergy Group of Companies as its new senior director of operations. Doucette will work closely with Synergy’s management team to ensure the success of the projects it undertakes and help them continue to grow their footprint across Alberta and Canada.
Kathryn Kennedy has been appointed chief growth officer at online heavy equipment rental company DOZR. Kennedy has held senior leadership positions at large online companies, including Wayfair, Zulily, Amazon, and Expedia.
I am excited to join DOZR at such a pivotal moment in its growth trajectory. The company has already established itself as a leader in the heavy equipment rental space, and I look forward to working with the talented team to unlock new opportunities and drive sustainable growth. Together, we will leverage data-driven strategies and innovative approaches to further enhance the customer experience and solidify DOZR’s position as the preferred choice for heavy equipment rentals.
Kathryn Kennedy, chief growth officer, DOZR
Dave Turnbull is Lark Group‘s new construction safety officer. Turnbull brings over 35 years of experience in the construction industry and he spent more than a decade focused on safety as a CSO/OFA (Level 2).
Simon Green has hired as vice president, major projects west, at Aecon.
Ilana Danzig and Will Watson are the newest principals to join ASPECT Structural Engineers. The firm stated that that Danzig and Watson embody ASPECT’s core values of quality, accountability, drive, diversity, and collaboration, and will act as ambassadors of the firm as it continues to grow.
Jason Nelson has joined Edge Consultants as their new chief executive officer, bringing two decades of experience in the building consulting industry across North America.
Our collaboration with Jason symbolizes a new era for Edge Consultants. Together, we’re committed to enhancing our impact in creating healthier, smarter, and more sustainable buildings.
Eoghan Hayes, principal at Edge Sustainability Consulting
Key Takeaways:
The collapse investigation has concluded and a report has been submitted to the BC Prosecution Service (BCPS) for charge assessment for criminal negligence causing death.
The 2021 collapse killed five people, including four workers at the construction site and one office worker in a nearby building.
The Kelowna RCMP added that it is unable to provide additional details with respect to the investigation or findings.
The Whole Story:
The Kelowna RCMP has wrapped its investigation into a deadly 2021 crane collapse, recommending criminal charges.
Kelowna RCMP announced that its Serious Crime Unit has completed its comprehensive investigation into the collapse and a report has been submitted to the BC Prosecution Service (BCPS) for charge assessment for criminal negligence causing death.
They did not indicate who the charges could be for.
On the morning of July 12, 2021, a crane collapsed in the downtown core of Kelowna, resulting in the deaths of four people on site and one office worker in a nearby building. The crane was being dismantled at the Brooklyn tower portion of the Bernard Block development.
The RCMP stated that the extremely complex investigation needed to be done methodically and thoroughly in order to protect its integrity. They added that they will be working closely with the BCPS to ensure prosecutors are best equipped on the facts of the case to make an informed decision on charges.
The crane collapsed while it was being worked on by crews. – Kelowna RCMP
“This investigation included dozens of police officers and countless hours of evidence gathering and analysis,” said Kelowna Superintendent Kara Triance. “The gravity of this incident and the associated work to understand what happened has been tremendous. We will work to support our partners and our community through the next steps.”
The Kelowna RCMP added that it is unable to provide additional details with respect to the investigation or findings.
It isn’t the only legal trouble to stem from the incident. The spouse of a man killed by a crane collapse in Kelowna has filed a lawsuit alleging negligence caused her husband’s death.
According to a notice of claim filed in the Supreme Court of B.C., Helen Furuya is suing Stemmer Construction and other unnamed companies and individuals for the death of her husband, Brad Zawislak. The senior technologist was working in a Kelowna office building when a catastrophic failure caused the construction crane to fall.
Key Takeaways:
Started in 2021 with two people, the SPO unit has grown to more than 20
Officials say the “business within a business” requires an entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to adapt to the local market needs.
The unit does carpentry, demolition, concrete, equipment rentals and more.
The Whole Story:
After seven years of growth in Canada, Turner’s business unit in Vancouver decided it wanted to look at creating its own self-performing operations (SPO) unit like other large general contractors.
Essentially, this entailed developing a business within a business led by someone with a passion for entrepreneurship. When they put out a call to current employees, Yasir Ali leapt at the opportunity.
Starting small
“The reason I put my name in the hat to start SPO was because it was the perfect blend of entrepreneurship, creativity and being able to build a business from the ground up that has allowed me to positively impact the Vancouver construction community,” said Ali.
In 2021, Ali partnered with Preston Boomars, a veteran superintendent at Turner, to shape what the new SPO department would look like.
“Part of this is looking at it from an intrapreneurial lens in terms of how we set it up with processes and systems and policies, and how we set something up that is not just profitable one year, but sustainable year after year with that trajectory in mind,” said Ali.
They decided to start by focusing on rough carpentry and site protection. Ali says this work got the business up and running, generated data and allowed the team to go into 2022 with a refined strategy.
“2021 was a very good formative year. It kind of also changed the change culture,” said Ali. “When you’re starting something new, you are having to train up both internally and externally.”
Based on their experiences in 2021 and feedback, in 2022 the SPO took off running. Rough carpentry got more established, the team got a truck, warehouse space was leased, Turner assets were used to start an equipment rental business and more staff were added.
Workforce development
These staff included an experienced Red Seal carpenter which triggered a whole new opportunity: workforce development.
“We realized if we have this experienced carpenter, we should also tap into high schools and look at what carpentry apprenticeship looks like,” said Ali.
Working with Turner’s Vancouver Business Unit, they connected with several schools and have now created two active partnerships with schools. Every quarter, there are week-long job shadow opportunities for students to get basic construction training and experience on a variety of job sites.
“If it is something they are interested in, we will bring them on board and then we support their entire journey through their technical acumen as well as setting them up in the industry to eventually be a carpenter Journeyman,” said Ali.
Adding new kinds of work
In 2022 another opportunity arose. One of Turner’s trade partners was no longer interested in performing demolition work. Turner brought on some of their key folks and added demolition to its SPO services.
“We kick started last year going out doing demolition, purely clean demolition, anything that doesn’t contain hazardous materials,” said Ali. “One of the other things we started doing on the back end of both 2022 and 2023 was we started tapping into external projects. These were key strategic projects that made sense for us, either they were too small for a special projects division or they were opportunities for us to Maybe do 50% of the work in-house by self-performing. So it just made more sense for us to tackle and that also created a benefit on the back end where we had a more Streamlined course of events.”
The SPO aslo looked at partnering with Turner’s virtual design and construction department. A robotic total station allowed them to tap into laser scanning and registration. This meant they could get in on an early construction capacity and help clients figure out what the existing conditions look like to avoid change order.
Towards the tail end of 2023 the SPO realized their team was doing a great deal of rock carpentry and decided to expand into drywal. They kick started their very first small drywall project and are looking at adding that as part of their regular services.
What started out as a two-person department had grown into 22 employees. Amit Patel, vice president & general manager at Turner Construction’s Vancouver business unit, explained that this growth has been directed to the Lower Mainland business’s specific needs.
“Trade partners are our lifeblood so we don’t want to undercut our trade partners at all,” he said. “We want to work with them. We’re trying to do scopes that trades don’t generally want to pick up or the size and scope is generally not available to them, so that we can still do that for our clients.”
Sustainable growth
As for the future growth of Turner’s SPO department, Ali said the team is trying to be very targeted and mindful about how they grow. One thing they are looking into is cross-training so SPO workers can do multiple kinds of jobs.
When it comes to starting business inside a business, Patel stressed that it takes a great deal of passion to develop it.
“It’s about that entrepreneurial Spirit,” said Patel. “To start a business, it’s not just being operational minded. There’s a lot of thankless hours and a lot of long hours. You gotta want to do it for just the love of growing a business and Yasir had that so he was perfect for it.”
Turner’s SPO team now has more than 20 employees. – Turner Construction
We have Snow angels, cold concrete pours, buildings on boats and more in the very first SiteViews of the new year.
Ventana Construction
That’s one way to instantly increase your amount of workers. Ventana crews took a break from their B.C. job sites to make snow angels.
Metrolinx
Crews check out the Toronto skyline from Exhibition Station, where one day the Ontario Line subway will share a concourse with GoTransit. Until then, teams are putting the finishing touches on the pedestrian bridge.
Surerus Murphy Joint Venture
On January 20, Surerus Murphy Joint Venture reached 9,005 total completed welds on the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, concluding their welding program with a project-leading repair rate of 3.18%.
Canam
Canam’s massive steel girders roll through Toronto before getting installed at the eight-story podium area at 141 Bay at CIBC Square.
Jacob Bros
This project will be thrilling adventure seekers for years to come. ThunderVolt is beginning to take shape at the PNE in Vancouver. The new coaster will have a fully themed entrance plaza, waiting area, illuminated launch tunnel and landscaping, with footpaths for visitors.
Turner Construction
Turner’s self perform team works on concrete topping at The Post in downtown Vancouver.
Kiewit
A Craft Voice in Safety (CVIS) team member helps maintain safety on site. Every Kiewit job requires a CVIS team to empower craft workers to take ownership of their safety and the safety of those on the project.
CIP Modular
How do you deliver a building to an island? You float it of course. CIP’s first install of the year was a new campground office for Regional District of Nanaimo at Descanso Bay Park.
Syncra Construction
Syncra crews pour the final slab-on-grade at its Kits Block project site. The first section of P1 exterior walls were shot, and the P1 suspended slab reinforcing and electrical rough-ins also took place.
MGI Construction Corp.
MGI conducts demolition operations during a cold Ontario winter.
Seaspan
Seaspan Victoria Shipyards hosted Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Wonder for a quick visit before it set sail for Australia and New Zealand.
The shot of the month goes to …
The Quorum Group
With the crisp winter sky, rolling mountains dotted with trees and crews working on the roof, it almost looks like a painting. The team is working on a two-storey, 12-classroom addition to Dr. Knox Middle School in Kelowna, B.C. The budget for the project is $22.3 million.
Key Takeaways:
The over $40 billion Apartment Construction Loan Program is providing low-cost financing to build more than 101,000 new rental homes across Canada by 2031-32.
Ottawa announced plans to expand the program to include housing for students.
The announcement comes just days after Otrtawa revealed plans to set an intake cap on international student permit applications to stabilize new growth for a period of two year
The Whole Story:
The federal government has turned its attention to the construction of student housing in its ongoing efforts to address the nation’s affordable housing crisis.
The Government of Canada will be offering low-cost loans to build more student housing on- and off-campus. They stated that by reforming the Apartment Construction Loan Program, the country will be able to help more students find housing they can afford close to where they study, and help ensure that there are more homes available for families who live in those same communities year-round.
The over $40 billion Apartment Construction Loan Program, formerly known as the Rental Construction Financing Initiative, is providing low-cost financing to build more than 101,000 new rental homes across Canada by 2031-32.
Reforms to the Apartment Construction Loan Program will permit post-secondary institutions to access low-cost loans for student housing construction. The application process is expected to be open in 2024.
The 2023 Fall Economic Statement announced an additional $15 billion in low-cost loans for the Apartment Construction Loan Program and an additional $1 billion in new funding for the Affordable Housing Fund.
“By allowing post-secondary institutions to access low-cost loans in order to build more student housing, we will help more students find affordable places to live close to where they study, and help ensure there are more homes available for families and folks who live in the community nearby,” said Housing Minister Sean Fraser.
The announcement comes just days after Otrtawa revealed plans to set an intake cap on international student permit applications to stabilize new growth for a period of two years. For 2024, the cap is expected to result in approximately 360,000 approved study permits, a decrease of 35% from 2023.
Individual provincial and territorial caps have been established, weighted by population, which will result in much more significant decreases in provinces where the international student population has seen the most unsustainable growth, officials said. Study permit renewals will not be impacted. Those pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees, and elementary and secondary education are not included in the cap. Current study permit holders will not be affected.
Soon after the federal announcement, some provinces also introduced new measures to curb international student numbers. Ontario announced a moratorium on new public-private college partnerships. Officials also said they plan to require all colleges and universities to “guarantee that housing options are available for incoming students,” and reinforce oversight of programs with high numbers of international students. B.C. promised to ban new post-secondary institutions from applying to enrol international students for the next two years, as the province roots out “exploitive practices”.
Daryl Heppner, operations manager for Polycrete Restorations, is celebrating 30 years with BM Group. Balraj Mann, CEO of Polycrete and BM Group chairman, said that “it is not an understatement to say Polycrete nor the BM Group would not be where it is today” without Heppner.
Steve Van Hoffen has been appointed chief financial officer of Maple Reinders after serving the company in increasingly senior finance roles for over 17 years. Van Hoffen stated that he looks forward to supporting the business units to excel, contributing to the company’s strategic growth, and continuing his career at a company that aligns with his values.
Mark Wessel, is celebrating 20 years at Beedie where he works as director of IT.
Working at Beedie has been an amazing experience, mainly due to the opportunity to work with so many talented people, forming great friendships, and, best of all, falling in love and marrying a coworker over 14 years ago. Beedie has proven to be more than just a career for me; it has provided the foundation for a family, complete with a loving wife and kids!
– Wessel
Carla Parsons has been named director of business development – B.C. & Alberta at FINEX INC. Parsons stated that FINEX is a Canadian based, high-density fiber cement that’s about to change the dynamic in Western Canada. Prior to the role, she worked as director of communications for Canadian Construction Women (CCW).
Frano Cavar will be expanding his role at the Calgary Construction Association to director of public affairs and external relations. He has spent more than two years at the association as director of government relations.
Grant Grenier is starting a new position as construction & asphalt manager at Lafarge Canada. Prior to this, Grenier spent more than 20 years at Graham as a construction superintendent and a business development manager.
For those of you that know me, I previously worked at Stuart Olson in the Vancouver office and it was one of my favourite jobs based on the type of projects we built, the fantastic people and the office culture, so I’m thrilled to be working with the merged Bird and Stuart Olson team and getting to connect with former colleagues and new ones.
Pomerleau reached a major milestone this month. The company, along with its subsidiaries Borea Construction and ITC Construction, announced it now employs 5,000 people across the country.
Shawn Gray has joined The Net Effect team as its newest digital advisor and project manager. Recognized as one of Canada’s Top-40-under-40 in construction, Shawn brings over 15 years of cross-market experience in engineering, construction, and technology leadership, having successfully delivered construction projects exceeding $5 billion in value.
Christian Dover has been appointed president of Limen. Dover has more than 20 years of experience in the Canadian and U.S. construction industry.
I am excited and honoured to join the executive team at Limen and for the opportunity to continue to build on Limen’s reputation of delivering safe and successful projects to their strong, growing and loyal customer base. I look forward to working with the existing Limen management team to meet our growth and diversification goals.
– Dover
Emma Grimsrud of Saskatoon has won PCL Construction’s National Student Scholarship. Grimsrud was selected from 670 other students. She will receive a $5,000.
Matthew Rinfret has been appointed Inflector Environmental Services‘ new chief operating officer. His extensive background includes a 17-year tenure with a PCL where he oversaw operations and large-scale projects in the Ottawa and Montreal regions.
As I join Inflector, I am excited for the opportunity to contribute to Inflector’s continued growth and future success. Together with the existing dedicated team, I look forward to continuing to raise the bar on operational excellence and delivering high quality results for all of our trusted clients and partners.
Tanzila Rubayat has joined Infrastructure BC as a senior associate. Rubayat brings over ten years of infrastructure experience in a range of services such as capital municipal project management, planning, engineering design and construction management.
Anton Pojasok is PCL‘s new sustainability director. With more than 27 years experience, Pojasok will drive PCL’s strategic sustainability plan and road map including goal tracking, value added expertise and a range of services provided to clients and project teams related to sustainable design and construction. Prior to joining PCL, Pojasok was vice president of environmental management at Ontario Realty Corporation – Infrastructure Ontario.
‘Less is more’ is the essence of sustainability, from early planning through construction and building operations, there are cost-effective ways to reduce a structure’s impact on the environment with enhanced returns on investment.
– Pojasok
Dallas Hesse is celebrating 15 years with Westridge Construction where he works as a superintendent. He is currently managing the Moosomin Dam Spillway Improvements project in Saskatchewan.
Westridge crews work on the Moosomin Dam Spillway. – Westridge
Steve Schmalz is celebrating 25 years with PCL construction where he works as an operations manager in Ottawa. Following in his father’s footsteps, he first joined PCL’s Winnipeg office in 1999 as a field engineer. PCL’s team stated that Schmalz is a patient mentor with a wealth of knowledge.
Arsalan Zargar has been promoted to executive vice president of project delivery at Infrastructure Ontario. Officials noted that over the course of the past 4 years working as senior vice president, rail delivery, Arsalan has demonstrated exceptional leadership, extensive experience and formed strong partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, making him an invaluable asset to the organization.
RJC Engineers has announced five new principals and and eight new associates. They stated that with these new additions, RJC is poised to strengthen its position as an industry leader, capable of complex and challenging projects. The enhanced leadership team will further enable the firm to offer comprehensive engineering services, meeting the evolving needs of clients in various sectors.
Some of the new faces joining RJC Engineers. – RJC
Mike Woodroff has joined Kerkhoff as its new vice president of construction. Woodroff has nearly 40 years of experience in the industry and has successfully overseen a multitude of projects, differing in scale and complexity.
Tim Laronde has been appointed to Kindred Works‘ board of directors. Laronde serves as Chandos Construction’s director of Indigenous strategies. Prior to joining Chandos Construction, Tim spent over 15 years in the financial services industry where he led business development and capacity building through meaningful and respectful relationships with Indigenous communities.
I’m a big advocate of housing and am inspired by the Kindred Works approach to creating much needed rental housing across the country. I believe there’s a strong values alignment, with their social and environmental impact objectives.
– Laronde
Colleen Federchuk and Eithar Naman have been promoted to vice president of people and culture, and vice president of digital construction at Fitzrovia, respectively.
Andrew Clarke is celebrating 30 years with Beedie development. He first joined the company as an apprentice carpenter. He currently works as its senior director of construction operations.
There are so many great people that I have worked with over my career that make the projects memorable. I might not remember how we put together something on the project, but I remember the people who were involved and the good times that we had along the way.
Being Métis, the opportunity to work with an Indigenous business is very meaningful, and I am honoured to be joining TNDC. I have followed TNDC’s progress with admiration in recent years and am excited to apply my experience to growing TNDC’s reputation as a Tier 1 mining service provider, Indigenous Partner of Choice, and Employer of Choice.
Derick Fluker, senior vice president of acquisitions and asset management at Wesgroup properties, has been appointed to the NAIOP Vancouver’s 2024 board of directors.
Joshua Gaglardi, president of Orion Construction, has also joined NAIOP Vancouver’s 2024 board of directors.
Nathan Levinson is the president and founder of Royal York, a massive property management company based in Toronto. They manage tens of thousands of units and more than $10 billion in assets. We caught up with Levinson to chat housing predictions, technology and what his sector can do to address the country’s affordable housing crisis.
SiteNews: With 22,000 properties under management and $10.1 billion in assets, what sort of trends are you and Royal York seeing right now in the Canadian housing market?
Nathan Levinson: Managing over 22,000 properties and $10.1 billion in assets at Royal York Property Management, we’re observing a critical trend: growing tenants struggling to pay rent due to economic pressures. This, coupled with rising mortgage rates, is creating a challenging scenario for landlords. We’re bracing for what I call a ‘real estate bloodbath,’ where both sides of the rental equation are under immense pressure. It’s a situation that demands innovative solutions and proactive management, which is where Royal York steps in.
Can property management firms like Royal York play a role in addressing Canada’s affordable housing crisis?
Property management firms like Royal York Property Management have a vital role in this climate of financial strain. We’re not just managing properties; we’re also navigating complex situations where tenants can’t afford rent, and property owners are facing increased mortgage rates. Our role extends to advocating for sustainable solutions and providing practical support to tenants and property owners in these trying times.
What helps create a stable and reliable housing market?
The current market’s volatility highlights the need for stability and reliability. This is achieved through empathetic tenant management, proactive property maintenance, and strategic financial planning for property owners. Our approach at Royal York is centered around understanding and mitigating the challenges tenants and landlords face.
What role do technology and data play in Royal York’ Property Management’s operations?
Technology and data are the lifeblood of Royal York. In this rapidly changing market, they are more crucial than ever. We employ advanced AI and machine learning algorithms for tenant screening, ensuring a low default rate. Our use of AI for tenant screening and market analysis helps us anticipate and navigate the challenges ahead. Our proprietary software allows for efficient property management, from maintenance to legal services. We’re not just a property management firm but a tech company revolutionizing the real estate sector.
Is there any technology that is currently on your radar or that has you excited?
Our upcoming platform, Mateem.io, is what excites us the most. Envisioned as the Airbnb of long-term rentals, it’s set to revolutionize the property rental market. Amidst these challenges, Mateem.io is a beacon of innovation designed to streamline the rental process, making it seamless for property owners and tenants. This platform will be pivotal in managing the current crisis, offering seamless, efficient solutions in a more turbulent market than ever, and providing critical support to tenants and landlords.
What are some of the biggest challenges the property management industry faces today?
The industry is currently facing unprecedented challenges. The impending ‘bloodbath’ due to non-payment of rent and rising mortgage rates is a prime concern. Our challenge is not just in managing properties but in navigating these financial complexities and providing viable solutions to both tenants and landlords.
What are your predictions for the 2024 housing market?
Heading into 2024, I’m calling it as I see it – we’re on the cusp of a major shift in the Canadian housing market, GTA included. We’re already feeling the squeeze from climbing mortgage rates and the economic climate. This isn’t just a Toronto story; it’s unfolding across Canada.
We’re likely to see a readjustment in various regions’ property values. Sure, areas with high demand might stand their ground, but many others will see a dip in property prices. It’s not just a simple downturn; it’s a recalibration of the market.
Tell me about dropping out of University to running Canada’s largest property management company with 10.1 billions assets under management. What have been some of your keys to success?
Starting Royal York Property Management from the backseat of my car after dropping out of university was a leap of faith, driven by a vision to reform the inefficiencies in the rental market and the mistreatment of tenants by landlords. My early years working with my high school principal, handling maintenance, rent collection, advertising, and property showings, were eye-opening. They highlighted the critical need for positive landlord-tenant relationships and revealed the significant gaps in the market. This experience was the cornerstone of Royal York, a name inspired by a street sign sighting during a cold call, symbolizing our humble beginnings.
The keys to our success at Royal York have been multifaceted. Embracing technology and innovation, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowed us not only to survive but to thrive and expand, improving our services for both tenants and landlords. Our approach was not just to offer rental guarantees for landlords, but to create a balanced ecosystem benefiting all parties. This philosophy, stemming from my personal experiences as a mistreated tenant, led to the cultivation of an extensive database of over 200,000 pre-qualified tenant contacts, enabling efficient property rentals. The journey has taught me the importance of resilience, a structured approach, and the power of a vision shared with a growing network. These elements have been instrumental in transforming Royal York into the industry leader it is today.
Key Takeaways:
Construction roles represented a one-quarter of all job vacancies (30,500) in the city in Q3 of 2023.
The shortage spans a spectrum of positions, including skilled trades, project management, and various specialized roles crucial to construction projects of all sizes.
The Calgary Construction Association stated that addressing the shortage of workers requires a coordinated effort from government stakeholders, the K-12 education system, post-secondary institutions, industry and broader society.
The Whole Story:
According to data analyzed by Alberta Jobs, Economy and Trade, there were 7,560 construction trades and management job vacancies in the Calgary economic region in Q3 2023, representing a one-quarter of all job vacancies (30,500) in the city.
The Calgary Construction Association stated that the data, compiled by Statistics Canada, underscores a critical challenge faced by the construction industry, which plays a pivotal role in fueling economic growth, infrastructure development, and job creation within Calgary.
“The construction industry is the backbone of Calgary’s development, and the current job vacancies present a significant impediment to the projects that drive our city forward,” said Bill Black, President and COO of the Calgary Construction Association.
The shortage spans a spectrum of positions, including skilled trades, project management, and various specialized roles crucial to construction projects of all sizes.
“This shortage not only impacts the pace of ongoing projects but also poses a potential threat to the timely construction of new infrastructure on the horizon. It’s a multifaceted challenge that requires immediate attention and collaborative solutions,” said Black. “What happens when you struggle to find the workers needed to build the housing and civic infrastructure required for a growing City? Costs increase, projects are delayed, and affordability tanks.”
The Calgary Construction Association is calling on stakeholders, including government bodies, educational institutions, and industry partners, to work together in addressing the root causes of the labour shortage.
“Addressing this labour shortage is not just the responsibility of the construction industry. It requires a coordinated effort from government stakeholders, the K-12 education system, post-secondary institutions, industry and broader society to ensure a sustainable and skilled workforce for the future,” stated Black.
The CCA remains committed to fostering dialogue and collaboration to find effective, long-term solutions that will strengthen Calgary’s construction industry and support constructing the Calgary of the future.
A growing group of construction professionals has been hitting the trails every week in Metro Vancouver.
Organizers say it has been a great way to encourage non-traditional networking.
It also encourages healthy ways to destress after work and get advice from other professionals.
The Whole Story:
Every Sunday morning, a group gathers in North Vancouver, B.C. to trek through the mountains, discuss the industry’s biggest topics and connect with others in the construction sector. The group is growing fast, now with more than 120 active members that form a rotating crew of 15-20 hikers each weekend.
The origins go back 20 years when engineering school pals Jesse Unke and Shervin Teymouri began doing the Grouse Grind on Wednesday nights or Sunday mornings.
“It was just me and Shervin and it got me into doing the Grouse Grind. We had been doing that consistently for years,” said Unke.
A lot has changed since then. Shervin went into the mining sector and is now president and CEO of Red Paramount Iron as well as the founder and principal mining engineer for Mineit Consulting. Unke has lent his talents to the construction sector, working at several major firms before becoming the president and CEO of Maven Consulting.
Unke also recently added the role of “father” to his list of responsibilities, which has changed his schedule and priorities. Rather than being able to go out for a beer in the evenings to network with colleagues and clients, Unke began inviting people to join him on the trails.
Hike Club members brave the snow on some B.C. trails. – Jesse Unke
“Now that I have a baby at home, things have changed,” said Unke. “I want to be home for dinner time, story time, bath time, so I started saying ‘come get a workout with me’. People started joining me and we made a LinkedIn group.”
The hikes start with a group photo at the bottom as well as a topic of discussion for the journey up.
“It’s a great way to build your network. At the bottom we go around so people can say what organization they are with, how they got tied to the hike club, and then we have a topic of discussion that is figured out ahead of time. It can be how to deal with risk management, your approach to retaining staff,” said Unke.
The group then can chat about the topic on the way up and share ideas.
“It has been great because it has allowed me to stay in touch with folks, meet new people and get a workout at the same time,” said Unke. “I have nothing against getting a beer, but with a young baby, I want to be home in the evenings.”
Unke noted that regular exercise has been a critical part of maintaining his physical and mental health in a stressful industry.
“It’s just as much physical as it is mental. You get some fresh air, clear your head. I do some of my best thinking while hiking and since it’s a Sunday, I am thinking about the coming week. It’s an energizing way to end one week and begin another,” said Unke. “It’s an outlet to get rid of stress, clear the head, challenge myself to reach certain milestones in fitness as well as with pursuing a project or client in my professional goals.”
Unke added that the social distancing required during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic showed him how important face-to-face networking is.
“Trying to network over Teams and Zoom was awkward and painful,” he said. “When doing in person, this can be more informal, you read body language, things are more organic. Networking in engineering and construction is important because the construction is about relationships. You want to work with people you can trust and rely on.”
Unke stressed that while the group is mostly made up of construction and engineering professionals, all are welcome and encouraged to join the LinkedIn group.
