Category: People

SiteNews has wrapped up its inaugural SiteSummit, a two-day conference designed to equip construction leaders with knowledge and tools to conquer the nation’s biggest challenges. After attending countless industry events in the past, our team set out rethink what a construction conference could be.

With more than 320 registered attendees, 10 panels and presentations, and dozens of speakers, it was by far SiteNews’ biggest event ever.

Beyond the venue

The day before the official program began, attendees joined MNP Partner Jesse Unke for a brisk networking hike up Quarry Rock near Deep Cove. Not only did the crew and several eager dogs get to enjoy some epic views, the pre-event hike helped raise funds for Working Gear, a local charity that equips workers for construction careers. 

Attendees also toured some of North Vancouver’s finest breweries and distilleries. One of the highlights was a private gin tasting experience at the award-winning Copperpenny distillery.

Day one

All of SiteSummit’s programming revolved around one theme: Own the moment.

With Canada getting hit from all sides with immense economic and societal challenges, leaders are looking to the construction sector to rise to the occasion and help get things done.

The conference kicked off at the Polygon Gallery with a panel titled “Owning talent: The Future of work” which dove into construction’s recruitment crisis and how to retain talent. 

Paul Trudel, Chief People Officer & Senior Vice President, Marketing at EllisDon, emphasized that succession planning starts almost as soon as a senior executive begins a new role. The other panelists all noted that culture plays a huge role in attracting and retaining talent. Other points included empowering your team with the right tools, doing cool projects and using cool tools that people want to be involved with and make time to celebrate your workers.

Next, the crowd heard from AI and technology experts about how high-tech advancements are transforming how we build. Andrew Viola, Partner for Capital Projects & Infrastructure Advisory at ForwardPath AI, stressed that technology will change how we work but it will always be important to keep a human being in the loop. The panelists also noted that technology and AI should be about solving specific problems and pain points, rather that being implemented for their own sake.

Safety was also top of mind. The “Owning safety: The next frontier” panel did not hold back, educating leaders about how easy it is to unintentionally communicate to workers that you want them to throw caution to the wind, cut corners and ignore safety to get tasks done. 

Steve Howe, Vice President, Health and Safety, Emil Anderson Group, broke down his “what’s in it for me?” approach to building safety culture. He stressed that reminding workers of the wives, husbands and children they have at home is key.  

Next, SiteSummit heard from owners and what they want from builders in 2025. They expressed cautious optimism about the months ahead and stressed the importance of enabling the private sector. One of their biggest points was this: Developers, builders and other private sector businesses in construction need to make their voice heard in government and organizations like the VRCA or the ICBA are particularly effective.

The keynote message was delivered by best-selling author and leadership expert Eric Termuende. Rather than trying to tell the future, he advised the room to take actions right now that will set them up for success no matter what happens. One of his key points was encouraging companies to decide what their culture is and then “plant their flag” to attract the right kind of workers rather than trying to be all things for all people.

Next, Mass Timber experts spoke about how much advancement has been made in the sector even in the past few years. They also spoke about how mass timber gets a great deal of press coverage but remains a small segment of buildings. They would like to see mass timber become more accepted as a building material and method right next to concrete, steel and wood frame work. 

Day two

Day two started off with two C-Suite Roundtable discussions where high-level leaders revealed their strategies around acquisitions, succession planning, expansion, transparent leadership, diversification, cashflow and more. 

During his roundtable, Darryl Cooper, President of Cooper Equipment Rentals, summed up his approach to sales this way: “Nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care.”

ETRO founder Mike Maierle and Caliber Projects founder Justin Bontkes both noted that a critical part of scaling up your business is to have a decent appetite for risk and a willingness to build trust on smaller jobs to get your foot in the door for larger ones down the line. They also noted that they believe the coming months could be economically challenging, and dove into their strategies to stay competitive.

Next, tech experts from large contractors as well as emerging startups, gave their thoughts on Canada’s declining construction productivity and how it can be improved. They argued that the future of construction lies in offsite construction and repeatable designs. They also strongly encouraged to seek ideas from new employees and workers in the field by hosting “hack-a-thon” events.

Finally, the conference wrapped up with a deep conversation around how the public and private sector must work together to conquer Canada’s housing crisis. The panelists agreed that often government programs take an “everything bagel” approach that has so many bells and whistles that succesful applicants are few and far between. They argued that we should focus on the most successfull housing programs and approaches, and double down on them instead.

Embracing art

Instead of a stuffing hotel ballroom, SiteNews chose to do something a little bit different. We booked the Polygon Gallery in North Vancouver, a striking architectural work of art just as stunning as the art exhibits that are held within it. To keep with this theme, we invited visual artist Healther Willems to do a live graphical record of the sessions as they happened. SiteSummit also hosted veteran electrician, business owner and photographer Carly Steiman, who showcased a series of photographs she shot highlighting women in the trades.

SiteSummit is heading east

In his closing remarks, SiteGroup founder and CEO Andrew Hansen announced that SiteSummit would not be a one-off. The conference will return next year with its presenting sponsor, EllisDon. If you missed this year’s conference but want to stay up to speed on all our upcoming events, be sure to subscribe to our industry-leading newsletter. From the entire SiteNews team, thank you so much for attending. We will see you next year!

More photos from SiteSummit:

In an era marked by global uncertainty, economic volatility, and shifting trade dynamics, Canadian businesses are rethinking their strategies for resilience and growth.

Doug Dougherty, CEO of Cooper Equipment Rentals, has a path forward: double down on Canadian roots, invest locally, and build partnerships that last. In this exclusive Q&A, Dougherty shares his thoughts on the impact of tariffs, the role of equipment rental in Canada’s infrastructure boom, and why supporting Canadian businesses is not just patriotic — it’s strategic.

SiteNews: After the industry worked through the COVID-19 pandemic and major supply chain disruptions during the past few years, what was your reaction when you learned that tariffs could throw another major challenge in front of the sector?

Dougherty: Tariffs are the latest reminder that we can’t afford to take stability for granted. If it wasn’t a priority before, it’s hard to deny now just how important it is to invest in Canadian businesses and supply chains. This isn’t about drawing lines or pointing fingers. It’s about making smart, strategic choices that strengthen our economy and our communities.

At Cooper, we’ve made a deliberate shift to invest locally – choosing Canadian-owned suppliers wherever we can and building partnerships that last. Because when we support each other, we build something stronger than any single challenge. That’s the kind of country we want to be part of.

As the uncertainty of the ongoing trade war with the U.S. continues, tell us a bit about Cooper’s Canadian roots and the importance of supporting local businesses.

Supporting Canadian businesses isn’t just good for the economy. It’s a smart, strategic choice for long-term strength.

Cooper has been 100% Canadian owned and operated since we opened our doors in 1972. Today, we have more than 85 branches in 6 provinces and employ more than 1,300 people. We’ve been around since the Trans-Canada was two lanes west of Regina – and through it all, we’ve made a conscious choice: To grow here, to stay here, and to keep our focus on serving Canadian customers.

That decision matters more than ever. In a world of shifting trade relationships and rising uncertainty, there’s real value in knowing who you’re buying from, where your dollars go, and how those choices shape the economy around you. That’s why we’re taking a closer look at our own supply chain—shifting spend to Canadian vendors where we can and continuing to invest in the communities we call home. Not because it’s easy, but because it’s the right move for the long haul.

That decision matters more than ever. In a world of shifting trade relationships and rising uncertainty, there’s real value in knowing who you’re buying from, where your dollars go, and how those choices shape the economy around you.

Dougherty

To say we believe in the power of Canadian businesses is an understatement. I won’t pretend there aren’t challenges ahead – we’re cautious about the future as we shift from U.S. owned to Canadian owned vendors and partners where possible. But we also know this is a great opportunity to go further and build bigger.

What does it mean to you to be a Canadian company?

Being a Canadian company isn’t just about where we’re headquartered – it’s about what we stand for.

It means showing up with Canadian values: hard work, humility, fairness, and the belief that when one of us succeeds, we all move forward.

We’ve chosen to grow here, not because it’s easy, but because it reflects who we are. We’re focused on Canadian industries, Canadian jobs, and keeping more of our dollars in-country.

It might not make headlines. But it matters. We’re not just renting equipment. We’re helping build Canada, one project, one partnership at a time.

What sort of contributions does the Canadian construction industry make to the nation as a whole?

It’s a pillar of our economy. The Canadian construction industry contributes more than $150 billion annually to the GDP. There are more than 370,000 construction businesses coast to coast, employing over 1.6 million Canadians. And they show up on the frostbitten mornings when even the sun can’t be bothered. In December 2024, investment in building construction rose by 1.9% to $21.8 billion. The construction industry is actively building Canada.

What role do equipment providers like Cooper have to play as Canada looks to bolster its economy?

We play a bigger role than most people think. We don’t just support the work; we enable it. Infrastructure, energy, housing – none of it moves without the right equipment, in the right place, at the right time.

Ask any contractor and they’ll tell you competition is steep. We help them scale up or down without the cost of ownership. We bring more than machines. GPS tracking, performance data, electric equipment and fuel monitoring help our customers work smarter and reduce emissions. We train operators, help keep jobsites safe, deliver 24/7, and show up in emergencies.

Building Canada requires more than equipment. It requires committed partners – like Cooper.

What sort of impact has the trade war had on the equipment rental sector?

The construction industry depends heavily on cross-border trade with the U.S. – especially for key building materials like steel, lumber and aluminum. Trade tensions and tariffs have added pressure across the board, straining supply chains, inflating costs, and delaying projects.

In the equipment rental sector, specialized machinery and replacement parts sourced from the U.S. have become more expensive, and in some cases harder to access – leading to delays and increased operating costs. The uncertainty has made businesses more cautious about large capital investments.

Don’t wait for certainty – build it. Global pressures aren’t going away, and hoping for stability isn’t a strategy. Get clear on your values and make decisions that reflect them.

Dougherty

But that’s exactly where rental comes in. In times of volatility, companies often tighten spending, and rental becomes the smarter, more flexible option. Our sector remains stable and responsive, ready to support the builders and industries Canada depends on.

With discussions about infrastructure investment on the rise in Canada, is Cooper
preparing to support these demands?

Yes, we are. With high infrastructure spending on the way for 2025, we predict specialized equipment sectors are only going to grow. At Cooper we’ve invested heavily in our Pump & Power, Trench Safety, and Climate Control divisions to support this. We’ve also invested in our fleet over the last several years. In fact, Cooper has the lowest fleet age out of all the rental providers in the market.

When we consider all the infrastructure projects projected for the future, I can’t help but wonder who is going to do all this work. Labour shortage challenges aren’t just a flashy headline – finding and retaining labour in the construction industry is a real issue. We may not be able to supply customers with workers, but we can provide the right equipment exactly when and where it’s needed.

What advice would you give to other Canadian businesses trying to stay resilient amid global economic pressures?

Don’t wait for certainty – build it. Global pressures aren’t going away, and hoping for stability isn’t a strategy. Get clear on your values and make decisions that reflect them. For Cooper, that means choosing to invest domestically, not just because it feels good, but because it makes sense.

Know where your dollars are going. Ask tougher questions of your suppliers. Look for opportunities to shorten your supply chain and strengthen partnerships at home. This is why we’re not only choosing supply chain partners that are Canadian owned, but also reaching out across the world to find partners that share our values.

And remember: The long game matters. Growth is important – but so is staying grounded in who you are and the kind of economy you want to be part of building.

Behind every project are the workers, businesses and local construction associations (LCAs) that turn plans into reality.

LCAs have been standing behind Canadian builders for decades. They support businesses and their teams with tools, connections, guidance and experience. Today, that support matters more than ever to keep Canadian construction strong in the face of change and uncertainty.

A network that has your back in good and bad times

People in the industry depend on each other to adapt and grow. Today’s construction landscape is more complex than ever. Businesses are navigating labour shortages, rising material costs, shifting policies, and the effects of economic changes at every level. Many construction businesses have to do more with less and make decisions faster in a continuously changing environment.

That’s where a strong network comes in.

Having access to reliable information, shared experience and trusted advice helps business owners and teams feel more prepared. Whether it’s understanding regulations, finding referrals or exchanging best practices with someone who’s been there, being part of a connected community makes the work more effective and manageable.

Joining an LCA means becoming a part of a network of more than 18,000 member firms across the country through an integrated system of local, provincial and national associations working together to support the businesses that keep Canada building.

“I decided to start my own venture in construction, leveraging the network provided by my LCA,” says Ontario Constructor Services owner Ryan Kneisz. “The confidence I gained from being part of this network, which recognized my skillset, was instrumental. My skills were honed through experiences and the unique insights gained from my involvement with the LCA—offering access to information beyond books or the internet.”

As part of the membership, businesses can access standardized contracts and CCDC documents, industry best practices, business tools and more. Members can also access tailored training to keep their teams sharp and help them adapt to new regulations and expectations.

Knowledge that helps you plan ahead

Construction is a fast-paced industry. Access to the right information can make a meaningful difference. LCAs keep their members updated on policy changes, regulatory development, the latest safety standards and emerging industry trends. By helping members cut through the noise and focus on what’s relevant, partner associations support better decision-making that aligns with the evolving industry.

Stronger advocacy that benefits your business and the industry

Membership with an LCA ensures members’ voices are heard both locally and nationally alongside the Canadian Construction Association (CCA). Partner associations advocate for policies and programs that support their members’ businesses and the industry, from labour and procurement to infrastructure investment and workforce development.

Why membership matters more than ever

The construction industry is evolving—and so are the challenges that directly impact construction businesses. It is essential to grow the impact and influence of construction businesses to strengthen the industry. Together with LCAs, businesses can adapt to today’s challenges and feel confident to pursue tomorrow’s opportunities while continuing to build a better Canada.

For more information on the benefits of membership or to join your local construction association, visit jointhenetwork.ca.

Key Takeaways:

• Nominations are now open for people to submit themselves or their peers for the awards.
• Top 40 Under 40 in Canadian Construction, now in its 6th year, recognizes young construction leaders and their industry accomplishments.
• Nominations must be submitted by June 16. Winners will then be chosen by a diverse panel of industry experts.

The Whole Story:

Now in its 6th year, Top 40 Under 40 in Canadian Construction is back and ready to once again recognize up-and-coming leaders in the construction sector. Nominations are officially open and can be submitted right now using this link.

The program’s organizers, On-Site Magazine and SitePartners, are looking for top young professionals from all corners the construction industry. Previous years have featured individuals who have made an impact on the industry, rising through the ranks of their companies throughout their 20s or 30s.

Honourees have included: Architects, contractors, designers, engineers, equipment operators, estimators, executives, occupational health & safety managers, project managers, quantity surveyors, site supervisors, superintendents, tradespersons, and many more in the consulting, law, finance, and technology communities that support the industry.

How to nominate

All eligible nominees—construction professionals who are 39 years or younger, a resident of Canada and currently working in Canada—must have their name and details submitted through the official Top 40 Under 40 in Canadian Construction form. This form must be completed in full. It may take up to 15 minutes or longer to complete. You may preview the list of the nomination questions that you will be required to fill out here, but only nominations that have been submitted through the official online form will be eligible.

You may choose to either nominate yourself or someone else. If you choose to nominate yourself, you must attach an endorsed Letter of Support from a current or former supervisor, colleague, client, or vendor. You may submit nominations for more than one person, but those submitting on behalf of companies or organizations are asked to limit their nominations to five individuals.

If you have won in the past, you can’t win again. But those who were nominated last year but did not win are encouraged to reapply. Nominations must be submitted by 11:59pm PST on Tuesday, June 18th, 2024.

Choosing the winners

In considering each candidate, a panel of judges will refer to the following weighted system:

• 50% – Professional Achievement
  Significant business or project accomplishments.
  Track record of outstanding work in the office or field.
  Professional designations, memberships, or licences.
  Educational development and qualifications.
• 40% – Innovation, Leadership, and Influence
  Professional innovation and industry disruption.
  Team leadership.
  Roles in key decision making.
• 10% – Business / Community Involvement
  Participation in professional mentorship programs.
  Participation in charitable or volunteer initiatives.

Make sure to Nominate someone today for Top 40 Under 40 in Canadian Construction before the deadline runs out. And be sure to check out all the construction professionals who won last year.

Key Takeaways:

• 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. 

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.

“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.

Martha Tinoco is now Director of Development at Shepard Development Corporation. 

Mario Potvin, a superintendent at PCL, is celebrating 25 years with the company. He started as a surveyor in Ottawa in 2000.  

Murray Demchuk is now Senior Director, Preconstruction and Estimating at Ledcor Construction. 

Amanda Fediuc has started a new position as Managing Director at Colliers. 

Daniel Eggert announced that he is now Senior Vice President Real Estate at Hokanson Capital Inc. 

Heather Yount is continuing her AEC journey as Media Relations and Content Strategy Manager for Stanley Consultants. 

Scott Fletcher is now Operations Director at Graham. 

Bob Fairbank is now Vice President, PDI West, at Priestly Demolition. 

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. 

Chad Ekdahl is now President and Chief Operating Officer at A&H Steel. 

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.

Lisa Gibson has begun a new role as Principal at Colliers. 

Greg Epp has joined Crimson Group of Companies as Director of Operations. 

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.

Cory Kohut is now Manager, Climate Solutions, at Battlefield Equipment Rentals. 

Warren Bradley has been promoted to Director of Construction at MAKE Projects. 

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.

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.

Owen Moore is now General Manager at Steel Wings Industrial Limited. 

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. 

Ritu Ahuja is now Director of Lean Integration at Kinetic.

Brandon Deeves is starting a new position as Regional Manager, Roadside Safety at Barricades and Signs.

Angela Clayton, interim president and CEO of Infrastructure was named Outstanding Leader and Holynde Smiechowski, project manager, PCL Construction was the recipient of the Emerging Leader award by the Women’s Infrastructure Network.

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 8^th 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:

BCCA Builders Code Champion Award Winners:

• ETRO Construction Ltd. — Workplace Culture Champion (Large company) — Burnaby
• Green Island Builders — Workplace Culture Champion (Small-medium size company — Victoria
• Emil Anderson Group — Recruitment, Hiring, Retention Champion (Large company) — Kelowna
• 4C Services Inc. — Recruitment, Hiring, Retention Champion (Small-medium size company) — Vancouver
• Axiom Builders — Community Champion (Large company) — Vancouver
• KJ Controls Ltd. — Community Champion (Small-medium size company) — Nanaimo
• Northern Legendary Construction Ltd. — Initiate of the Year — Fort St. John

BCCA Builders Code Champion Award – Honourable Mentions:

• EllisDon Corporation — Vancouver
• CGI Constructors — Victoria

Winners will be recognized throughout the month at various regional construction month events. For more details visit builderscode.ca/recognition/2025-champion-winners/

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. 

To nominate yourself or one of your peers, take a few minutes to fill out this online form.

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

Anthony Minniti, President of CGI, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Canadian Construction Association – Association canadienne de la construction (CCA). In this role, Minniti will bring his leadership and industry expertise to help guide CCA’s efforts in advancing and strengthening the construction sector across Canada.

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.

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. 

Susanna Zammataro will assume the role of CEO at the International Federation of Consulting Engineers starting this May. Zammataro has spent the past 18 years working at the International Road Federation.

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’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:

Presenting sponsor – EllisDon

Pinnacle sponsor – Timescapes

Base camp sponsors – Base Camp Sponsors – Orion Construction, GardaWorld Security Systems, Bluebelt, Faber, Nucor, Concrete Reflections, JML, Edge Consultants, Sage, The Net Effect, Rayner Construction Services, SitePartners, Kindred Construction, BMG Group, Peak Disposal Services, ICBA, Caliber, Nuframe Group, Ford Modular, naturally:wood, WoodWorks, MNP, Northstar Access, The Answer Company, ETRO Construction, Haney Builders Supplies, GB Group, ForwardPath, Euroline Windows, Zeemac, Construction Links Network

To secure your spot, visit sitesummit.com.

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.  

Geza Banfai, CCA 2024 Pinnacle Leader Award – sponsored by PCL

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..  

PCL Construction, CCA 2024 Environmental Achievement Award – sponsored by CHUBB Insurance Company of Canada

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.  

Construction Association of Nova Scotia, CCA 2024 Workforce Excellence Award – sponsored by RAISE Underwriting

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.  

Calgary Construction Association, CCA 2024 Partner Association Award – sponsored by Bockstael Construction 

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 Construction Ltd., CCA 2024 Gold Seal Award – sponsored by Travelers Canada 

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, CCA 2024 Young Leader Award – sponsored by McMillan LLP 

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. 

Groupe AGF, CCA 2024 Community Leader Award – sponsored by Marsh Canada Limited

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 Ltd., CCA 2024 Excellence in Innovation Award – sponsored by Intact Surety 

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 

PCL Construction, CCA 2024 National Safety Award – sponsored by Vipond Inc.

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.”