Canada’s Express Entry system is now tailored to provide a streamlined pathway for individuals with expertise in critical fields, including construction.
Federal officials stated that by prioritizing the invitation of skilled newcomers with experience in the trades, Canada aims to meet the increasing demand for talent and fill key positions that contribute to the nation’s economic growth and advancement.
On May 31, the Sean Fraser, the previous minister of immigration, refugees and citizenship, announced changes to Express Entry through category-based selection. Fraser noted that these changes help address labour shortages that support an identified economic goal by inviting candidates with specific work experience or French language ability to apply for permanent residence.
Today, current Minister of Immigration Marc Miller announced the first trades round for category-based selection will open this week. Miller said that the focus on candidates with trades expertise—including carpentry, plumbing, and welding—will help Canada’s construction sector attract the skilled talent it needs across the country.
These category-based selection rounds will continue throughout the year, alongside general invitation rounds, and more details will be announced in the coming weeks.
“It’s absolutely critical to address the shortage of skilled trades workers in our country, and part of the solution is helping the construction sector find and maintain the workers it needs,” said Miller. “This round of category-based selection recognizes these skilled trades workers as essential, and I look forward to welcoming more of these talented individuals to Canada.”
Philippe Adam will be Pomerleau’s new CEO starting this August. Pierre and Francis Pomerleau will gradually withdraw from their operational roles. In addition to remaining the company’s principal shareholders, they will continue to play an active role on the Board, with Pierre serving as Executive Chairman and Francis as Executive Vice-Chairman. Philippe Adam joined Pomerleau in 2021 as executive vice-president and chief financial officer.
From left to right : Philippe Adam, Francis Pomerleau and Pierre Pomerleau. – Pomerleau
Chris Erbus has joined Graham‘s Winnipeg office as operations manager. Erbus’ project experience includes museums, galleries, historical buildings high rise towers, renovation and hospital/healthcare. He also has a background in carpentry.
Jesse Unke has been named president and CEO of Maven Consulting Limited. Unke will succeed co-founder Trevor St Germain who will continue to act as a member of the board. Unke is an engineering and construction executive with over 20 years of experience.
“I am excited to take Maven to the next level by driving our strategy, strengthening and developing our corporate culture, and further building on Maven’s profile in our industry as a leader in engineering, project management, and construction services for power utilities and municipal infrastructure.”
– Unke
Russ Wlad will be Allnorth‘s chief growth and strategy officer. Wlad has than 35 years of experience in public and private sector consulting. He was key to leading Stantec’s canadian operations, working strategically with business partners to achieve growth in new sectors, markets and geographies. Allnorth stated that he will play a pivotal role in enhancing Allnorth’s organic and acquisition growth.
Fiona Blondin has been appointed director of High Frequency Rail‘s board of director. She currently serves as vice president, Indigenous strategy at Cormorant Utility Services. High Frequency Rail is the largest transportation infrastructure project that Canada has seen in decades, and would be the biggest investment in Canadian passenger rail in a generation.
Steve Saddleback has been hired at the senior advisor for external affairs at the First Nations Major Projects Coalition. Saddleback is from Samson Cree Nation, where he has played an instrumental role in fostering economic growth and empowering Indigenous communities. He also a partner at Opimoyaso Group, a 100% owned Indigenous Firm.
Andrew Hall has joined Wildstone Construction Group‘s Whitehorse office as vice president of Yukon and business development. Hall said he will be focusing on growing Wildstone’s business in the energy, renewables and infrastructure markets.
Clarissa Wong is starting a new role as Graham‘s vice president of finance (industrial) and financial services. Wong is a financial professional with global accounting, finance and leadership experience including financial planning and analysis, reporting and forecasting, controllership, internal controls and audits, merger integrations, public filings, system conversions, implementation and integration of shared services teams.
Joe Williams is retiring from Lafarge Canada after 47 years of service. Williams is a millwright worker at Lafarge’s Bath Cement Plant. Williams said he’ll definitely miss daily interactions with colleagues from various teams and the tight-knit community at the plant. Lafarge officials stated that his commitment to teamwork and troubleshooting has significantly impacted its operations.
Joe Williams stands in front of the Bath Cement Plant in Loyalist, Ont. – Lafarge Canada
Nigel Shrive, PhD, a professor emeritus at the Schulich School of Engineering, member and former head of the McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada for groundbreaking contributions to structural mechanics, notably his translational and multidisciplinary research in both biomedical and civil engineering.
Sean Strickland has been elected chairman of BuildForce Canada‘s board of directors. Strickland says he looks forward to continuing his work with his colleagues on the board to advance the organization’s strategic priorities and to ensure BuildForce Canada continues to support the construction industry with up-to-date labour market data, development, and training.
Ted Davis has been appointed CEO of Avison Young’s Canadian operations. The company stated that since joining the firm in 2010, Davis has been instrumental in bringing teams together to create value for clients in his market, and they are excited to see him do this at the national level.
Dan Baxter is joining the Progressive Contractors Association of Canada as its new regional director for B.C. Baxter has served as president and CEO of the Richmond Chamber of Commerce, as well as policy analyst, director, and interim CEO at the B.C. Chamber of Commerce.
Dan Chyzowski has been promoted to vice president of construction at ETRO. Company officials stated that Chyzowski has been instrumental in building ETRO into what it is today. The added that he’s a natural leader with an innate talent for project management in a truly collaborative manner and has been a fantastic mentor to many.
ETRO Construction’s team celebrates reaching 100 employees in seven years in business. – ETRO Construction
Eduards Miska has been tapped by Aecom to be its director of engineering for B.C. Miska spent 30 years at B.C.’s Ministry of Transportation, eventually serving as its acting assistant deputy minister. He has held leadership and support roles with the Transportation Association of Canada, Intelligent Transportation Systems Canada, and the Canadian Institute of Transportation Engineers.
Amir Abd El-Halim has joined WSP’s Canadian leadership team as the new regional leader for Ontario and the Atlantic. WSP stated that El-Halim will use his 20+ years of industry experience to provide invaluable leadership to its teams in those regions.
Sean Smithson has joined Pomerleau‘s Toronto team as the new regional vice president. Smithson previously spent 11 years with Modern Niagara, reaching the role of executive vice president for the GTA and Southwestern Ontario region.
With the Toronto team, I’ll be continuing my adventure in the construction industry, in a market where the possibilities are endless. I am looking forward to working with my new colleagues, to shape the future of the GTA Region building the infrastructure our growing region needs! Let’s do this!
– Smithson
Paul Halliday is taking over the role CEO at NorLand Limited as Dave Reynolds enters retirement. Officials noted that Reynolds played a pivotal role in driving the company’s unprecedented growth and establishing a shared purpose and corporate vision.
For the uninitiated, the concept of SiteViews is simple. Leveraging both the remarkable submissions from our readers and our team’s diligent internet sleuthing, we curate a monthly showcase of some of the industry’s finest photos. Have a submission? Those can be sent to hello@readsitenews.com.
Axiom Builders
The first tower crane is up and ready to go at Neighbourhood Two by SHAPE as part of the The Amazing Brentwood development in Burnaby. Two tower cranes that will be erected for this phase. The crane currently standing at 180 feet but it will eventually reach 740 feet as the tower is built. New Firmus, Rapicon West and Mammoet assisted with the crane erection.
Erik Millette
Ontario crane operator Erik Millette shows his view from high above Toronto.
SkilledTradesBC / Construction Foundation of B.C.
Youngsters learn to measure twice and cut once at the Discover Trades Summer Camp for Young Women in North Vancouver, B.C. The free camp was led by Red Seal Electrician Lisa Scott. Participants used various tools to create beautiful copper bracelets, aluminum bowls, extension cords, corn hole boards and more.
Lafarge Canada
Crews oversee a pour for the Ottawa Midtown Rapid Bridge Replacement Project. The team utilized a time-sensitive concrete solution from BMQ.
British Columbia Institute of Technology / Derek Klassen
Carpentry Instructor Derek Klassen takes a selfie with Carpentry Foundation students as they celebrate the completion of their final project, a suspended slab framework.
Graham Construction
Graham’s crew complete a complex concrete pour for the structural slab of a new wastewater equalization tank in Gimli, Man. The pour took several weeks of planning as well as collaboration with the project owner, design team, trade partners, suppliers and Graham’s in-house forces.
Ledcor
Despite the name, Ledcor crews were treated to some clear skies this month in Rainy River, Ont. The team is busy constructing stages 4 and 5 tailings dam raises at a mine site.
Fort Modular
Fort Modular crews treated a statute to a fresh new look while supporting 150 West Georgia, a 17-storey office tower at B.C. place in downtown Vancouver.
Beedie
Crews are making progress on Calgary’s RISE at Point Trotter project. The project team is on track to deliver the first of two state-of-the-art industrial buildings by the end of the month.
True North Scaffold & Insulation / Mathias Jonsson
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Sunny skies, still water and scaffolding – what more could you ask for? True North Scaffold & Insulation have completed scaffolding for a bridge-widening project in Fort Fraser, B.C.
Syncra Construction
Workers dismantle a crane at The Fifteen, a four-storey mixed-use concrete development in Vancouver’s Dunbar neighborhood by Wave Developments.
Pitt Meadows Plumbing and Mechanical Systems / Take Off Photography
Crews lift district energy system components into place at the Gilmore Place development in Burnaby, B.C.
Shindico
A drone captured the early stages of Shindico‘s work on Winnipeg’s Water Tower District. The 165-acre mixed-use development includes multi-family housing, retail, office, parklands and industrial.
Aecon
The Site C Dam near Fort St. John B.C. is nearing the finish line. Aecon showed off some of the recent construction progress.
Norland Limited
A behemoth excavator reaches deep on a site in Vancouver.
The Shot of the Month goes to:
StructureCraft
This 80 metre clearspan timber footbridge in Banff has been shortlisted in the Project & Technology awards from the IABSE – International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering – Pedestrian and Cycle Bridges division. The project team designed an extremely shallow, pure arch using stepped Glulam girders and weathering steel haunches. The bridge was prefabricated and assembled into two sections, placed simultaneously.
In 2021, La Lloreria was a project that aimed to remove stigma around mental issues in the country. It was a pink-hued warm room, an open space that anyone could weep into.
That same year I was working as a property manager in Vancouver. A colleague and I would often joke that our office needed a designated Crying Room because there weren’t enough papers floating around to wipe our tears with. If we knew about La Lloreria then, I would have booked us one-way flights.
Could Canada adopt Spain’s idea of “The Crying Room” into our own real estate developments? If not literally, at least in any figurative sense? Is it possible to construct a “Mental Health Conscious” building?
Density (of the brain)
Living in a city can have its shares of pros and cons on mental health. While there is generally better access to health care and amenities, research also shows that the risk of mental illness is higher in cities than it is in rural areas.
In April 2023, the City of Vancouver proposed an increase in density bonus rates in popular areas such as the Cambie Corridor, False Creek and Mount Pleasant. So if more people are moving here, then why is it still so impossible to make new friends as an adult?
Developers seem to be attempting to answer this call by designing more inclusive community-oriented spaces such as rooftop communal gardens, lounges and commercial spaces for people to come together and connect. Will it be enough to save our mental health? I guess we’ll have to wait for the 2060 study on millennials and loneliness to find out.
Noise and the city
If I had a dime for every noise complaint I received from residents during my tenure as a Property Manager, I’d have like, $50. According to a podcast that I listened to recently (probably at too high of a volume), the average level of car noise in a city is the equivalent of having your TV on at high volume… all the time. But with all the city noise, municipal noise bylaws and soundproofing building processes, are we actually hearing each other?
My husband and I recently moved to a condo in Port Moody. When we moved in, we complied with all strata bylaws and never did any unpacking before 9am or after 9pm. Still, we were greeted by a wonderful card from the neighbours below asking us to “kindly stop digging our heels in” and advised that “this is a nice community and if we wanted to be a part of that, we should be mindful of our noise”. What a difference it could have made in welcoming us if we were greeted with compassion and understanding rather than assumptions and accusations. If they just knocked on our door, introduced themselves and talked to us, we would have actually listened.
There have to be better places to cry than inside a portable toilet
A 2020 study once found that every year more construction workers die from suicide than every other workplace-related fatality, combined. That needs to change, now. We cannot continue to allow real estate development to be subsidized on the backs of the labourers that makes it all possible. As a predominantly male industry, construction is even more vulnerable to the antiquated ideas, thoughts and opinions on mental health care.
It is every real estate development professional’s responsibility to help fight the stigma and increase the availability and accessibility of mental health resources for their teams. Our communities are counting on it.
So no, I can’t imagine we’ll be seeing “The Crying Room” as a featured amenity in a pre-sale marketing brochure anytime soon. But what I can imagine is a world where, little by little, brick by brick, the real estate development industry can tear down the walls of stigma and make it ok to not be okay. Mental health awareness can’t increase the cost per sq.ft. that much, can it?
Key Takeaways:
Officials heard feedback from 1,450 people regarding the international credential-recognition process.
Respondents said they want a faster, simpler and more accommodating process to recognized foreign skilled workers who want to work in Canada.
Feedback gathered from the public engagement will be used to help make adjustments to the program.
The Whole Story:
Stakeholders in B.C. want an easier process and more supports for international tradespeople to get their credentials recognized.
The province released the results of a survey of more than 1,450 people who gave feedback on the international credential-recognition process.
Feedback from the province’s engagement is available online and will be used to inform future legislation to improve credential recognition for newcomers to B.C.
In spring 2023, the province asked internationally trained professionals, educational institutions, immigrant-serving organizations, business associations, health-care associations, regulatory authorities and members of the public for their feedback about international credential recognition through a series of roundtables and an online survey.
“We’ve heard from regulators, post-secondary institutions and internationally trained professionals that the system isn’t working,” said Andrew Mercier, minister of state for Workforce Development. “This is a question of fairness and about making sure that internationally trained professionals have the support they need to succeed and practice in B.C.”
More than 1,450 British Columbians participated in this public engagement through roundtables and an online survey about how to improve the credential recognition process and remove unnecessary barriers for newcomers to Canada.
“Mosaic would like to express its appreciation to the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills and the Minister of State for Workforce Development Andrew Mercier and his team for taking the time to hear directly from the many immigrant professionals we work with, whose direct experience with the barriers to credential recognition will inform improvements to these processes,” said David Lee, director of employment at Mosaic, an immigrant-serving organization. “We look forward to how we can support newcomers to B.C. in connecting to employment in a way that takes full advantage of their skills and experience.”
The report identified eight themes for improvement:
improving the accessibility, consistency and transparency of information about the licensure process and requirements;
streamlining complex processes and shortening timelines;
exploring alternative pathways for credential recognition;
exploring more flexible approaches to demonstrate language proficiency;
introducing performance standards for data and reporting;
increasing financial and other supports for internationally trained professionals and regulatory authorities;
improving co-ordination between government and regulatory authorities at the provincial and federal levels; and
strengthening collaboration between regulatory authorities, educational institutions, employers and immigrant-serving organizations to support licensure and integration.
Feedback gathered from the public engagement will be used to help streamline the international credential-recognition process and work toward new legislation.
And if you are seeking a job, check out the full list of available positions.
Key Takeaways:
The parties announced that a deal was in sight after 13 days of striking, but it was voted down.
Federal officials stated that they believe the strike is not legal and are exploring all options to end it.
The union explained that they voted the deal down as they felt it would not protect their jobs now or into the future.
The Whole Story:
*Editors Note: This story has been updated as of 8 a.m., July 20, 2023 as the union’s strike notice has been rescinded.
Federal Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan Jr. and Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra say they are “looking at all options” and to resolve a reignited port strike on Canada’s west coast.
Just when it seemed that a deal was in sight, collective bargaining negotiations between the British Columbia Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Canada collapsed.
“Last week, after 13 days of work stoppage, Minister O’Regan asked federal mediators to provide recommendations on the terms of a settlement between the BCMEA and the ILWU Canada,” said government officials in a statement. “Both parties tentatively agreed to this settlement to bring an end to the strike.”
Ottawa received formal notice from the BCMEA that their membership had accepted this deal in full. However, they were also informed that, despite initially agreeing to recommend the Terms of Settlement, the ILWU Canada’s leadership had decided not to recommend ratification of the terms to their members.
The ministers stated that workers and employers across Canada cannot face further disruption and they are looking at all options. They added that there would be further announcements this week.
“We should not be here,” said the ministers. “The deal presented to the parties was the result of a constructive and substantive collective bargaining process. It represented a fair and balanced deal. It was informed by weeks of collective bargaining and drafted by third-party mediators in the interest of both the union and the employer. We have been patient. We have respected the collective bargaining process. But we need our ports operating.”
O’Regan Jr. also noted that the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) – an independent body created to keep industrial peace – ruled that the ILWU Canada cease and desist from participating in any strike action because the union did not provide 72 hours notice.
The ILWU Canada Longshore Caucus explained that it voted down the mediators Recommended Terms of Settlement because it does not believe the recommendations had the ability to protect their jobs now or into the future.
“Our position since day one has been to protect our jurisdiction and this position has not changed,” said the group. “With the record profits that the BCMEA’s member companies have earned over the last few years the employers have not addressed the cost of living issues that our workers have faced over the last couple of years as all workers have. The term of the collective agreement that was given with today’s uncertain times, is far too long. We must be able to readdress the uncertainty in the world’s financial markets for our members.”
Ontario Labour Minister Monte McNaughton doesn’t quite remember when he first got a taste of construction and the trades because he was probably too young to remember.
He grew up in a small, southwest Ontario town where his family owned and ran a hardware store for decades.
“At a young age I was sweeping the floors, stocking shelves and loading trucks for contractors. And at a young age I saw families in our community make a damn good living in the trades,” said McNaughton. “Our family owned a home hardware store and I can’t remember what age I started loading drywall and two-by-fours. I really gained an insight into the trades and I had respect for the men and women in the trades.”
“It became clear on day one that it all had to do with stigma. We have spent years sending a message to parents, guidance counsellors, young people and others that careers in the skilled trades are meaningful and lucrative.”
Monte McNaughton – Ontario Minister of Labour
Decades later, McNaughton is now presiding over an unprecedented boom in apprenticeships in the province. This June, the province reported apprenticeship registrations have increased 24% in the last year – from 21,971 to 27,319. Officials stated that in order to help deliver Ontario’s infrastructure plans, including building 1.5 million homes by 2031, Ontario will need over 100,000 new skilled trades workers this decade.
The increase comes after years of challenges. According to Statistics Canada, the largest drop in recent memory happened in 2020. New apprenticeship registrations declined almost 29% across the country. In Ontario, they were down 37%.
How has McNaughton pulled off this burst in apprenticeship registration? The story goes back to 2019 when he was appointed minister of labour by premier Doug Ford. His first task was hitting the road with his ears open.
“I met with apprentices, employers, union leaders, visited training centres, colleges and really got an understanding of the challenges with our apprenticeship system in Ontario,” he said. “It became clear on day one that it all had to do with stigma. We have spent years sending a message to parents, guidance counsellors, young people and others that careers in the skilled trades are meaningful and lucrative. These are careers you can build a family around and you can be damn proud of these careers.”
These trips haven’t stopped. When he spoke with SiteNews, McNaughton was was on the road to meet with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Construction Council of Ontario.
Ontario Labour Minister Monte McNaughton meets with workers to discuss issues with job site bathrooms – Monte McNaughton / Twitter
After conducting their research, McNaughton and his team devised a three pillar plan:
End trades stigma
Simplify the training system
Encourage employers to take on apprentices
McNaughton noted that ending stigma has been one of the biggest focuses of his strategy.
To attack some of the cultural attitudes directed towards the trades, McNaughton sought to take his message straight to young people.
“Around stigma, we had to be clear in saying that we don’t need every young person going to university,” said McNaughton. “I have been critical of the government in the past when they told every young person that the only way to be successful was to go to university. In the trades you can start your own business, travel Canada – the possibilities are endless.”
He explained that the education system has been built around sending every young person to university. He made it his mission to make sure all students were presented with the option of trying a career in the trades.
“When I think of how we got to the point this year with the nearly 25% increase, it’s because we’ve promoted the skilled trades, and invested heavily making sure, starting in grade one, that every student is learning about the skilled trades,” he said.
The ministry sent dozens of trades recruiters into every high school in the province to compete with university recruiters. And the conversation went both ways.
“Before we rolled out our $1.5-billion skilled trades strategy, we had the ministry do research and we interviewed hundreds of millennials and did focus groups,” said McNaughton. “Unprompted and unscripted, they said they would rather work for less if they were safe at their job. This highlighted the importance of health and safety. We have invested more in health and safety in Ontario than at any point in its history. We’re hiring a lot of health and safety inspectors.”
The province also embarked on a widespread crackdown on job site bathrooms. In 2022 ministry inspectors visited 14,000 construction projects and issued nearly 2,000 orders to upgrade facilities. McNaughton also passed new laws that require better sanitation and at least one women’s-only washroom where the size of the site warrants it. The legislature also requires women in construction and workers with diverse body types to be outfitted in properly fitting gear, including uniforms, boots and safety harnesses.
To simplify the apprenticeship process, McNaughton launched Skilled Trades Ontario, a new Crown agency tasked with to promoting and marketing the trades, developing the latest training and curriculum standards, and providing a streamlined experience. One of the agency’s early actions was to digitize apprentice log books to make things easier for workers.
Looking ahead, McNaughton said he plans to double down on his strategy and that he believes some of his tactics are set to bear even more fruit in the future. As students enter high school and graduate, he believes that the new curriculum and recruitment efforts will have produced even more apprentices.
He also is leaving no stone unturned. McNaughton has struck deals or is creating new policy to help skilled immigrants, residents with criminal records and underrepresented groups get careers in the trades.
“For far too long, people have looked down on people in the trades,” he said. “It’s an injustice and we’ve turned that conversation around in Ontario. I believe that has led to our success. We have a long way to go but it’s a good start. It will take years to fill labour shortages.
And if you are seeking a job, check out the full list of available positions.
A good deal is within reach to end the strike at B.C.’s ports, says Canada’s minister of labour.
Seamus O’Regan Jr., minister of labour, says the differences between the positions of the British Columbia Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Canada are not sufficient to justify a continued work stoppage.
“As a result of the hard work by the parties at the bargaining table, there is a good deal within reach – one that would work for both the employer and the union,” said the minister in a statement.
O’Regan Jr. has asked that the senior federal mediator send a written recommendation of the terms of settlement to him within 24 hours. Once he has received the terms of settlement, he plans to forward them to the parties and they will have 24 hours to decide whether or not to recommend ratification of the terms to their principals.
“Our nation’s economy depends on the relationship between industry and labour,” he added. “The scale of this disruption shows how important the relationship between the BCMEA and the ILWU is to our national interest. We cannot allow this work stoppage to persist and risk further damage to the relationship between these parties.”
Key Takeaways:
The funds will go towards groups that support the province’s goals of recruiting young people, Indigenous people and women into the trades and guiding them along their apprenticeship journey.
It will also support the development of more workers to get into home construction.
Over the next decade, there are expected to be 83,000 job openings for tradespeople. On average, approximately 6,400 apprentices complete their training each year.
The Whole Story
The government of B.C. is investing $5 million to support individuals entering the trades and help them complete their apprenticeships.
“This $5 million will do two things: help get people through apprenticeships by targeting organizations that provide apprentices with support, but it’s also to raise the profile and prestige of the trades,” said Andrew Mercier, B.C.’s minister of state for workforce development.
Over the next decade, there are expected to be 83,000 job openings for tradespeople. On average, approximately 6,400 apprentices complete their training each year.
The funds are specifically targeting underrepresented groups like women, young people and Indigenous people. They also will go towards developing workers for critical parts of the industry, like homebuilding.
The province’s strategy is to boost existing groups that are already accomplishing these goals. The $5-million investment will be allocated to six organizations specializing in attracting individuals to the skilled trades and providing support throughout their pre-apprenticeship training and apprenticeships.
“This is about making sure we are supporting the communities and the organizations in the industry that are doing a lot of the heavy lifting, particularly those who work with the vulnerable, at-risk and underrepresented apprentices,” said Mercier.
The organizations that will benefit from this funding are:
“This is about making sure we are supporting the communities and the organizations in the industry that are doing a lot of the heavy lifting, particularly those who work with the vulnerable, at-risk and underrepresented apprentices,” said Mercier.
In addition to expanding access to trades training and apprenticeships, the provincial investment aims to remove barriers for underrepresented groups, including women and Indigenous Peoples.
The funding will support the development of new and improved programming, as well as resources for equity-serving groups. Anti-racism initiatives, inclusivity-based workplace training programs, and student bursaries will also be enhanced, further promoting diversity and inclusion in the trades.
While women comprise 50.6% of the population between 15 and 65 in B.C., they currently represent only 10.1% of all apprentices in the province.
“Every time I speak with tradeswomen I always ask about their journey and experiences in the industry and listen to their stories,” said Mercier. “The one thing that keeps coming back is the role of mentorship. We want to make sure we are supporting groups that provide that.”
He noted that BCCWITT has built up an informal support network of mentors that the group is looking at formalizing.
Indigenous people account for 13.3% of the population between 15 and 65 in B.C. Currently, 8.5% of all apprentices in the province are Indigenous, with Indigenous women making up 1.5% of the total apprenticeship population.
Mathew Sheena, an apprentice at the Electrical Joint Training Committee (EJTC), shared his personal experience: “I was at a point in my life where I felt lost and down, struggling with no sense of direction. But then, I crossed paths with ACCESS and joined the entry-level trades training program at the EJTC. These programs turned my life around, giving me back control over my future, as well as a solid career and big dreams.”
Mercier noted that in addition to supporting underrepresented groups, the funding will try to bolster the homebuilding sector.
“We want to build a lot of homes and we need to make sure we are supporting the skilled workforce that can do that,” he said. “Residential construction is a unique market and sometimes supports are aimed more broadly at the ICI sector and others.”
The investment in trades training aligns with the StrongerBC: Future Ready Action Plan, which focuses on increasing accessibility, affordability, responsiveness, and relevance of education and training. The plan seeks to prepare individuals for both current and future job opportunities. The province has committed $480 million over three years to support the implementation of this action plan.
Key Takeaways:
The 450 workers include housekeepers, kitchen staff, janitors, lounge servers, guest service agents and maintenance.
Some Lodge workers are making $5 per hour less than they earned in the same positions at the Kitimat Modernization Project 8 years ago.
The project is close to 85% complete and remains on track to ship its first cargo by mid-decade.
The Whole Story:
Hospitality workers at Canada’s largest construction project have voted to go on strike.
Last week, Sodexo hospitality workers at LNG Canada’s Cedar Valley Lodge in Kitimat., B.C. voted 97% in favour of strike action.
Union officials stated that workers are frustrated with little movement by management in bargaining to address cost of living concerns.
“Cedar Valley Lodge is the only accommodation facility in Kitimat large enough to house workers for the LNG Canada project,” said officials with UNITE HERE Local 40 in a press release. “Usually accommodating up to 5,000 camp workers, a strike at the worksite could cause significant disruption to pipeline work.”
The union added that Sodexo Cedar Valley Lodge hospitality workers are the lowest compensated workers at the LNG Canada construction site. The poly-party vote was conducted by UNITE HERE Local 40 and IBEW Local 993. The workers are asking for “significant economic improvements” that will allow them to keep up with the rising cost of living.
The 450 workers – including housekeepers, kitchen staff, janitors, lounge servers, guest service agents, and maintenance – unionized with UNITE HERE Local 40 and IBEW on April 12.
According to UNITE HERE, BC Building Trades workers at the LNG Canada camp received a 12.5% wage increase in 2022, and by the end of October 2023 will receive an additional 10% increase.
Sodexo hospitality workers at Cedar Valley Lodge were not included in these increases. Some Lodge workers are making $5 per hour less than they earned in the same positions at the Kitimat Modernization Project 8 years ago.
“Cedar Valley Lodge workers are being treated unfairly. We deserve fair pay for the work we do – not to be the lowest paid people at the LNG Canada camp,” said Mike Lightheart, a first cook who has worked at Cedar Valley Lodge for 3 years. “With families to support, we need to be able to keep up with our bills. We will not be disrespected anymore, and we are ready to strike if we do not receive a fair proposal.”
Mediation between the Union and the employer began Monday at the BC Labour Board.
The massive LNG terminal facility is being built on the former Methanex facility site. It will include a gas liquefaction plant, storage tanks, a marine terminal and a rail yard.
Water treatment facility and flare stacks will also be constructed on the site. JGC Corp and Flour Corp have been awarded the engineering, procurement and construction contract.
The project has been approved under the Environmental Assessment Act, and by the National Energy Board (NEB) for a 40-year export license to replace the current 25-year license. A final investment decision was approved in October 2018 to go ahead with the project.
Earlier this month, LNG Canada officials announced the project is close to 85% complete overall and remains on track to ship its first cargo by mid-decade.
Buckle up. We have big news for tool and workwear aficionados.
SiteNews is excited to join forces with Akribis Leather for an exclusive, summer giveaway. We’re offering a one-of-a-kind opportunity to win a premium leather toolbelt, handcrafted with care in Summerland, B.C.
Due to overwhelming demand, Akribis Leather’s inventory is currently sold out, making our giveaway a rare golden ticket to snag one of these sought-after tool belts. It’s the perfect addition to any construction professional’s gear, or a unique gift for the industry enthusiast in your life.
The winner of this exclusive giveaway will be announced on July 19th, so make sure you’ve registered by then! Enter here for your chance to win.
Most of the time, construction work and the professionals that contribute to it go unnoticed. But sometimes, they get their day in the sun. Over the years, a variety of awards have sprung up to celebrate companies and professionals that are doing exceptional things. Some have been around for decades and others are just emerging. The following is a list of just some of the many annual competitions that seek to bring attention to achievements in Canadian construction.
25 Innovators in Construction
Construction is often seen as an industry that lags behind others. SiteNews wants to change this perception and push the sector forward. The 25 Innovators Awards aims to be a yearly award with the goal of celebrating and shining a spotlight on those companies driving progress in our industry. Winners will be chosen by a diverse panel of judges that are experienced in various construction-related fields across the country. Learn more and submit a nomination here. Applications close July 14.
Canadian Construction Association National Awards
The association’s National Awards recognize individuals, organizations and projects that promote and enhance the Canadian construction industry in nine different categories. The awards program is open to all relevant association member organizations and individuals who meet the requirements of each award, regardless of organization size or project scope. The winners are then announced at the association’s annual conference. The next one will take place in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, March 12 – 15, 2024. Here is where you can nominate.
Top 40 Under 40 in Canadian Construction
Now in its fourth year, these awards celebrate up and coming construction leaders and innovators under the age of 40. The program was created three years ago by SitePartners, a marketing firm that specializes in industrial clients and On-Site Magazine, a construction publication. The winners are chosen by a panel of judges based on professional achievements, innovation, leadership & community involvement. The deadline for nominations is July 28. Nominate yourself or others here.
The Canadian Council National Awards for Public-Private Partnerships
These awards are all about working together. The awards were established in 1998 to honour governments, public institutions and their private sector partners who have demonstrated excellence and innovation in public-private partnerships. The awards are presented annually to showcase Canadian excellence and innovation in project financing, service delivery, infrastructure investment and/or generation of economic benefit, which result in enhanced quality of public services and facilities. Details of the 2023 program have not yet been released.
Tunnelling Association of Canada Awards
A shot of crews working on Quebec’s Mount Royal Tunnel won Photo of the Year. – Hatch
You might really dig this one. The Tunnelling Association of Canada presents annual achievement awards each fall to recognize individuals and projects in the Canadian and worldwide tunnelling sectors. This year’s awards included Tunneller of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award, Photo of the Year, Project of the Year and many more. Nominations closed in May, but check out all last year’s winners here.
Canadian Consulting Engineering Awards
While applications for this year’s awards have already closed, it isn’t to late to make the awards gala on Oct. 19 in Ottawa. These awards are organized jointly by ACEC and Canadian Consulting Engineer magazine. They recognized the most remarkable engineering feats featured in projects by Canadian firms. he winners are publicized nationwide in press releases, they are showcased on ACEC-Canada’s website, and project details are published in a special issue of Canadian Consulting Engineer.
Royal Architectural Institute of Canada Awards of Excellence
While many architecture industry awards focus on projects, the Royal Architecture Institute of Canada‘s have a much broader scope. This year they include The RAIC Gold Medal, the Architectural Practice Award and the Emerging Architectural Practice award. These categories will be joined by three revamped awards previously under the biannual Awards of Excellence banner – the RAIC Advocate for Architecture Award, the RAIC Journalism and Media Award and the RAIC Innovation in Architecture Award. These awards will also be joined by a call for nominations for Honorary Member. Nominations for this year have closed.
CISC Awards of Excellence
Have no fear. The Canadian Institute of Steel Construction’s (CISC) has an awards program that covers all of Canada. The Awards of Excellence series has individual awards shows for these regions: Quebec, B.C., Alberta, Atlantic, Ontario and Manitoba/NW Ontario. The awards highlight projects that showcase complexity, innovation, beauty, uniqueness, originality and other attributes. Finalists are picked by a jury of renown architects, engineers and “steel Industry connoisseurs”. Check out all the individual awards show deadlines and details here.
Canada’s Best Managed Companies
While it’s not an specifically for the construction industry, construction and construction-related companies have been dominating this list for years. The list recognizes excellence in private Canadian-owned companies. Each year, hundreds of entrepreneurial companies undergo a rigorous application process, but only the best are awarded with this prestigious designation. This may, the program’s organizer, Deloitte, celebrated the 30th year of doing the list. While this year’s winners have been announced, pre-registration for next year is already open.
Canada’s Safest Employers
On the job site there is nothing more important than making sure everyone returns home in good health. What could be more prestigious than honouring that? For 13 years, the annual Canada’s Safest Employers Awards have recognized the outstanding health and safety professionals and companies for their achievements, leadership and innovation. The awards feature a category just for the construction sector. Nominations for this year’s awards closed in April and winners are usually announced in October. Be sure to check out last year’s winners here.
Wood Design & Building Awards
With technologies like mass timber and prefabrication, there’s lots to celebrate about wood construction in Canada. The Wood Design & Building Awards, presented by the Canadian Wood Council, recognizes and celebrates the outstanding work of architectural professionals around the world who achieve excellence in wood design and construction. This past year saw a record of 181 nominations from 25 countries.
CHBA National Awards for Housing Excellence
Presented by the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA), these awards recognize excellence in new homes, renovations, community development, and residential marketing. The 2023 winners were honoured earlier this year in Banff, Alta. at an awards gala that was the concluding event of CHBA’s Home Building Week in Canada. This year, nearly 800 entries were submitted into 48 categories. Finalists and winners were selected by a group of judges made up of almost 150 industry professionals from all over Canada.
Canada Green Building Council Awards
The Canada Green Building Council (CAGBC) Awards are intended to shine a light on those advancing green construction. Categories include awards of excellence for buildings, leadership awards for individuals and the Andy Kesteloo Memorial award that highlights inspiring student projects. Check out this year’s winners here.
For the uninitiated, the concept of SiteViews is simple. Leveraging both the remarkable submissions from our readers and our team’s diligent internet sleuthing, we curate a monthly showcase of some of the industry’s finest photos. Have a submission? Those can be sent to hello@readsitenews.com.
This month we’re excited to introduce a new feature – the SiteViews’ Shot of the Month. Hand-picked by our seasoned staff, this photo stands tall amongst a great lineup of industry shots. Read to the bottom to find out which photo takes the cake.
Jacob Bros Construction
A plane flies above Jacob Bros Construction crews as they work on the South Airfield Pavement Rehabilitation Project at Vancouver International Airport.
Justin McConnell / Toronto Beyond Media
A welder lays down a bead at a Toronto work site. Justin McConnell is a photographer and videographer who is passionate about capturing the lives of blue collar workers in Ontario. Check out our interview with him here.
Wales McLelland Construction
Wales McLelland is working on IntraUrban Gateway, a state-of-the-art 82,000-square-foot industrial facility in South Vancouver.
Dream
Frank Gehry (first row, fourth from the left) celebrates breaking ground on Forma, a two tower project in Toronto, the city where he was born.
Wildstone Construction Group
Wildstone Construction Group ponders where the nearest car wash might be near the Arctic Ocean on Banks Island.
Orion Construction’s team captures a sunset to celebrate the Coastal Heights Distribution Centre handover, now home to the Skechers’ first Distribution Centre in Canada. The 428,000 square foot building in Surrey has clear heights of 36 feet in the warehouse and design features that promote sustainability.
Emil Anderson Construction / Ballina Contracting
Emil Anderson Group and Ballina Contracting team up for work on B.C.’s Hemlock Valley Road.
Samuel Livingston / Livingstone Drone
A drone offers a top-down view of the Pattullo Bridge Replacement Project in Metro Vancouver.
Lafarge Canada
Ottawa Police and Lafarge officials teach local cyclists about how to safely share the road with cement trucks.
Mosaic Homes
Attendees line up for Mosaic’s block party celebrating the launch of its Woodward Townhome community project.
Marc DiMarco
Louie, a two-year-old bluetick coonhound demonstrates how to wear high-visibility gear in B.C.
Axiom Builders
RC at CF Richmond Centre has topped-off its first tower of seven. The affordable housing tower’s structure has 8830 square metres of concrete total.
3D Electrical Services
Some curious critters lend a helping hoof to electricians working in Duncan, B.C.
Anthem Properties
Crews enjoy an on-site feast to celebrate the topping off of SOCO One. The building is part of a 1.8 million-square-foot, master planned, mixed use community in South Coquitlam.
Canadian Nuclear Laboratories
Crews pour controlled low strength material at the site of the Advanced Nuclear Materials Research Centre in Chalk River, Ont.
The Shot of the Month goes to:
Broadway Subway Project Corporation
Workers walk along a tunnel dug for Vancouver’s Broadway Subway project. It is a 5.7 km extension of the Millennium Line, from VCC-Clark Station to Broadway and Arbutus.
Key Takeaways:
Individuals can be nominated by their peers or they can nominate themselves.
Nominations will close July 28.
Winners will be chosen based on their professional achievements, innovative approaches, leadership qualities, and involvement in the community.
The Whole Story:
It’s time to celebrate Canada’s up and coming construction leaders.
On-Site Magazine and SitePartners have announced the return of the Top 40 Under 40 in Canadian Construction awards. Nominations are now officially open for construction industry professionals from diverse backgrounds and sectors.
Now in its fourth year, the program celebrates outstanding young leaders who are driving innovation and progress in the construction industry across Canada.
Last year’s event honoured 40 construction professionals under 40 years old who have made significant contributions to their communities, cities, provinces, and the nation as a whole. These individuals, both on-site and off-site, played pivotal roles in advancing complex infrastructure projects, implementing cutting-edge technology tools for jobsites, and fostering thriving communities for families.
Who is eligible
In previous years, honorees have represented a wide range of professions, including architects, contractors, designers, engineers, equipment operators, estimators, executives, occupational health and safety managers, project managers, quantity surveyors, site supervisors, superintendents, tradespersons, as well as professionals from the consulting, law, finance, and technology fields, all of whom contribute to the advancement of Canadian construction.
Organizers encouraged the construction industry to nominate exceptional individuals under the age of 40, as of December 31, 2023, who are shaping Canada’s construction sector.
The winners will be chosen based on their professional achievements, innovative approaches, leadership qualities, and involvement in the community. The honorees will be showcased in the October 2023 issue of On-Site Magazine.
How it’s judged
A panel of judges will evaluate each candidate using a weighted system. Professional achievement will account for 50% of the evaluation, considering significant business or project accomplishments, outstanding work in their respective roles, professional designations, memberships, licenses, as well as educational development and qualifications. Innovation, leadership, and influence will contribute 40%, examining professional innovation, industry disruption, team leadership, and involvement in key decision-making processes. The remaining 10% will be allocated to business and community involvement, acknowledging participation in professional mentorship programs, as well as charitable or volunteer initiatives.
To be eligible, nominees must be respected leaders or rising stars in the construction community, residents of Canada, and currently working in the country. They should also be 39 years old or younger by the end of this year.
All eligible nominations must be submitted through the official Top 40 Under 40 in Canadian Construction form, available on the organization’s website. The form must be completed in full, which may require up to 15 minutes or more to fill out. While you can preview the list of nomination questions, only nominations submitted through the official online form will be considered.
Here are some key points to note:
Nominees may either self-nominate or be nominated by someone else.
If self-nominating, a Letter of Support from a current or former supervisor, colleague, client, or vendor must be attached.
Individuals or companies are welcome to submit nominations for more than one person, but those submitting on behalf of companies or organizations are encouraged to limit their nominations to five individuals.
Only nominations submitted through the official online form will be accepted.
Individuals who were nominated but did not win in previous years are welcome to reapply.
The deadline for nominations is 11:59pm PST on Friday, July 28th, 2023. For any inquiries, please contact awards@sitepartners.ca.
Kieran Hawe has been appointed EllisDon’s new CEO. Hawe has spent 23 years at the company. Officials noted that from his role as chief operating officer and executive vice president of construction, he has successfully overseen high-profile projects and played a pivotal role in the company’s construction operation.
Liza Tsimbal, director of SCM and land at TransAlta, was named Leader of the Month by the Construction Owners Association of Alberta. Tsimbal has extensive experience in the Oil and Gas and Renewable energy industries with a focus on project procurement, category management and operations procurement.
Greg Wooster, Amir Askari and Bill Driffield have joined Aura Office. Wooster will serve as the VP of workplace strategy and design. Askari has been hired as a project coordinator. Driffield has joined the team as a site superintendent.
Stephanie See has begun a new role as marketing and communications coordinator for Clark Builders. See is also also a co-owner of Storyline Studio Inc., an Edmonton-based communications agency.
Professor Janusz Koziński, dean of engineering at Lakehead University, has received the prestigious Gold Medal Award from Engineers Canada. The Gold Medal Award, the highest distinction for professional engineers in Canada, recognizes the exceptional achievements of engineers whose work has improved the lives of Canadians and others across the world.
Taylor Hogg has joined Scott Builders as a project manager. She has experience in AutoCAD, Revit, construction drawings, contracts and project management. Hogg also serves as a director for the Red Deer Construction Association.
Paul Demeule has resigned as general manager for Trotter & Morton Group of Companies in Vancouver. Demeule stated that he is moving on to an “exciting new opportunity in a few weeks” and will soon be providing more details. He thanked the team at Trotter, adding that he was proud of all the improvements that had made together.
Danna Ibrasheva has started a new job as business analyst at Clark Builders. Prior to the role, Ibrasheva worked as a data analyst for TC Energy.
Dustin Isaacs is Aecon’s new executive vice president and chief legal officer. Isaacs brings over 20 years of legal executive, business and leadership experience and will oversee all legal affairs at Aecon as a key member of its executive committee.
Diana Demmers was named U40 Person of the Year by the Vancouver Island Construction Association. Demmers is a project manager at EllisDon.
Felipe Albuquerque, a civil engineer and BIM specialist, has been hired as a Revit technician at Houle Electric. Prior to this role, Albuquerque worked as a BIM modeler and plumbing designer in Brazil.
Kiyomi Le has been promoted to to manager of engineering at RAM Consulting. Le said that she will continue to develop RAM’s engineering team and grow its engineering capabilities. She will be managing RAM’s engineering resources, including permits to practice, and internal documents.
Dan Lefebvre will lead the civil design team at J.L. Richards & Associates Limited (JLR) as civil discipline chief. Lefebvre brings 29 years of civil design experience to the role, including 21 with JLR.
Martin Jacques and Daniel Lessard‘s roles at Pomerleau have expanded to support Canada-wide growth. Martin Jacques is now chief operating Officer, buildings, for the entire country. Daniel Lessard is now chief operating officer, civil and infrastructure. He will be leading the company’s civil teams from coast to coast. In addition, he will support Pomerleau’s Borea subsidiary.
Derek Goring has been named CEO of Northcrest Developments. Goring, who assumed the position effective immediately, had served as executive vice-president of development at Northcrest since October 2019. Prior to that, Goring worked as the senior vice president of development for First Gulf Corporation.
David LeMay has joined the Centron Group of Companies as construction group president. LeMay will succeed Wayne Benz who is retiring after 37 years in the industry. Previously, LeMay served as president and CEO of Stuart Olson.
Jesse Reynolds has been promoted to project director at Chandos Construction. Reynolds stated that he looks forward to continuing his journey as a leader at the organization. He noted that his promotion would not have been possible without his team.
Ryan Beedie, Beedie president, has been named Business Leader of the Year by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce (Canada). The award aims to recognize exemplary corporate leadership and impactful community contributions.
*Editor’s Note: If you or someone you know had a major career move recently, let us know! Shoot an email to hello@readsitenews.com or tag SiteNews below the social media post. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to never miss an edition of People Moves.
It is National Indigenous People’s Day in Canada, a time to reflect on the history, heritage, resilience and diversity of the nation’s Indigenous population.
While efforts in the construction sector are underway to engage with Indigenous People and their communities, they remain highly underrepresented in the industry.
In 2021, Indigenous People accounted for 5.1% of Canada’s construction labour force, which is a slight decline from the share of 5.2% observed in 2016, but is notably higher than the share of Indigenous workers represented in the overall labour force (4.1%). As the Indigenous population is the fastest growing in Canada and Indigenous workers seem predisposed to the pursuit of careers within the sector, there may be scope to further increase the recruitment of Indigenous People into the construction workforce.
Below is a list of Indigenous-owned companies in the industry that show some of the opportunities the sector offers.
Backwoods Energy Services
Alberta-based Backwoods Energy Services is 100% owned by the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation and provides construction services to the oil, gas, utility and forestry industries in Western Canada. The company works with industry to create partnerships and economic opportunities for the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation community. The company recently helped combat forest fires near Edson and Drayton Valley.
Infracon
B.C.-based Infracon is a fully-integrated industrial services and construction group with over 40 years of experience in the western and northern Canadian markets. They won the B.C. Indigenous Business Award in 2016, 2017 and 2019 and stated that they are committed to long-term growth and sustainability with North America’s First Nations. Lower Nicola Site Services (LNSS) was formed in 2018 as a limited partnership between Infracon and the Lower Nicola Indian Band Development Corporation (LNIBDC). LNIBDC owns 51 percent of the company.
Kihew Fabco
Kihew’s prefabrication facility is based in Melville, Sask. – Kihew
It doesn’t get much more high tech than Saskatchewan’s Kihew Fabco. The wholly owned and operated Indigenous company uses robotics, laser scanning, CAD and automation at its advanced prefabrication facility to deliver custom industrial, commercial and agricultural building structures.
Swamp Cats
Swamp Cats crew does infrastructure work. – Swamp Cats
Swamp Cats is a 100% Aboriginally owned and operated company based in Lac La Biche, Alta. Started in 1996 by Vern McDonald, Swamp Cats specializes in environmental remediation, clearing, grubbing, heavy civil earthworks, oilfield construction, facility construction, underground utilities, decommissioning, demolition and more. The company noted that it is a strong believer that Aboriginal peoples have the moral right to develop an economy within their own culture and their communities, utilizing the inherent land and resources that is rightfully theirs. The company utilizes Aboriginal-owned businesses whenever possible.
Tahltan Nation Development Corporation
TNDC is the largest Indigenous corporation by number of employees in B.C. – TNDC
Located in B.C., Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (TNDC) is the business arm of the Tahltan Nation. TNDC pursues sustainable and responsible business and economic development opportunities in the region that lead to employment, training and business opportunities for Tahltan members. It provides heavy construction, earthworks, camp services, air support, aviation, energy, forestry, transportation and fibre optic communications services.
Smoke Architecture
A rendering shows the design of the Thunder Woman Healing Lodge in Scarborough, Ont. – Smoke Architecture
Founded in 2014, Smoke Architecture is Anishinaabeg owned and operated. The Hamilton, Ont.-based firm provides complete architectural with a focus on First Nation and Indigenous projects. The firm says that its clients, guided by Elders and community leaders, hold hundreds of years of expertise on how and what to build in traditional Indigenous territories. See more of their work here.
Shxw’ōwhámél Ventures was established in June 2015 as a labour workforce and in a few short years, has become one of the most diversified nation-owned construction companies in B.C. Its goal is to actively pursue and participate on major projects within and around its traditional territory in Hope, B.C.
Steel River Construction Group
Steel River Construction crews work on the NGTL System Expansion Project. – TC Energy
Steel River Group is an Indigenous-owned diversified management and development entity based in Calgary, Alta. The company says its mission to partner with Indigenous Nations and Peoples to maximize employment, education, ownership and entrepreneurial experience. The company’s noted that its governing principles are deeply rooted in Indigenous values, beliefs and culture. Steel River’s operating approach is centered around the company’s inclusive “ecosystem model”, which brings Steel River owned companies, Indigenous Nations and strategic alliance partners together over a shared vision and set of values.
Almiq
Almiq Contracting Ltd. is the eldest sister company of Quebec-based LFL Group. Its name comes from the names of the cities of Iqaluit, in Nunavut, and Alma, home communities of its partners. The company has a long history with architectural, mining, and industrial projects ranging in size from $30 million to $60 million. Quebec-based LFL Group is a family of general contractors specializing in projects of all sizes requiring high-level logistics. Some of the group’s recent work includes the construction of the naval facilities in Nanisivik, the hamlet office in Sanikiluak and a prefabrication plant in Arviat.
Points Athabasca
Founded in 1999, Points Athabasca is an Indigenous-owned civil, earthworks and industrial contracting company company known in the industry as an expert professional labour resource. The company says that building capacity is one of its key themes as they look for ways to go beyond job creation and make a positive long-term impact.
Kalmar
The Prophet River School in B.C. is one of many in Kalmar’s portfolio. – Kalmar
Kalmar Construction Ltd. is a registered Indigenous company and was incorporated in 1987, making Kalmar the longest operating, privately-owned construction company operating out of Fort St. John. It offes project management, general contracting services, design build services, and specialization in all aspects of concrete construction and building.
Cree-Con Construction
Cree-Con was founded in April 2012 by Dennis and Karma Hunter. It remains a family run, Indigenous-owned company in Edmonton that focuses on concrete placing and finishing. Their team has worked on Fox Tower, the Royal Alberta Museum and edmonton’s JW Marriot Tower.
Caribou Mountain Construction
Caribou crews work on new Construction for access into the Caribou Mountain Travel Centre. – Caribou Mountain Construction
Caribou Mountain Construction (CMC) is a division of The Little Red River Group of Companies LP (LRRG) based in High Level, Alta. Little Red River Group of Companies is 100% First Nation owned and has the goals of sustained growth and socio-economic freedom for the Little Red River Cree Nation. The company focuses on civil construction.
RAW Group
RAW Group’s team installs cables at an underground science facility in Sudbury. – RAW Group
RAW Group, is a Certified First Nations Corporation operating out of Greater Sudbury Area with its headquarters located in Atikameksheng Anishinabek. The general contractor specializes in electrical work, pre-engineered buildings, HVAC maintenance, concrete, and civil works. RAW Group is a medium to large scope contractor competing primarily in the Industrial, commercial & Institutional sectors, with an operating range that spans Northern Ontario and beyond.
Double M Construction
Alberta-based Double M Construction Group is a 100% Indigenous owned company specializing in directional drilling services for Western Canada. Their focus is on directional drilling, hydrovac, excavating and pipeline trenching, project management, inspection and consulting services.
Makhos
Makhos is an Indigenous owned and operated business providing specialized staffing, training, consulting and construction services, with headquarters in Neyaashiinigmiing, Ontario. Makhos provides guidance to companies looking to advance their progressive aboriginal relations (PAR) journey. Primarily serving the power and construction services sectors, its objective is to support meaningful employment and create sustainable partnerships within the industries that it supports. The company recently formed a joint venture with Aecon to provide an Indigenous-led solution for high voltage transmission, distribution and substation work, and related maintenance on utilities and nuclear projects in Ontario.
Warrior Plumbing
The Warrior team stands in front of one of its job sites in Burnaby, B.C. – Warrior Plumbing
Warrior Plumbing is a 100% Indigenous owned and operated mechanical contracting company located in North Vancouver, B.C. providing residential developers, builders and Indigenous landowners with comprehensive plumbing, gas fitting and HVAC solutions since 2010. Warrior Plumbing says it is the only fully owned and operated Indigenous mechanical services company in the lower mainland with Indigenous values woven throughout each stage of the mechanical systems process.
Akwesasne Earth Movers Construction Company
An excavator gets a lift from a boat. – Akwesasne Earth Movers
Akwesasne Earth Movers Construction Company is situated on the Saint Regis Mohawk Territory which straddles the U.S and Canada Border on the St. Lawrence River. This creates a unique situation for cross- border opportunities. It is an Akwesasne family-owned and operated company providing commercial construction, residential construction, excavation services, water and sewer services and marine capabilities.
Key Takeaways:
18 workers were sent to the hospital after a bus transporting them to a Coastal GasLink work camp flipped over.
A union noted that its members, housekeepers for the Parsnip Lodge, were the ones injured. 30 members were aboard the bus.
The union added that its members had raised concerns earlier this year about the four-hour roundtrip commute to site after they were told they could no longer be housed at the camp.
The Whole Story:
A group of workers involved in the Coastal GasLink project north of Prince George B.C. were injured when a bus transporting them to site flipped over.
All those injured are reported to be in good to fair condition after being hospitalized.
The Friday crash prompted University Hospital of Northern BC to issue a Code Orange. The code is typically reserved for natural disasters and mass casualty events and is implemented to allow staff to focus on triaging treatment. Additional staff and managers can also be brought in as needed. In total, the hospital received 18 patients. Later that day, all were considered to be in good to fair condition, stated hospital officials.
“We would like to thank our dedicated physicians, nurses and staff at UHNBC for their calm and coordinated response, and the excellent care provided to the individuals involved in this incident,” said Northern Health officials. “Thanks as well to our partners at BC Emergency Health Services who dispatched seven ambulances and support crews, and cared for and transported 15 people to hospital. Finally, thanks to Prince George and area residents for your patience, understanding, and support for our local health care providers.”
Officials with UNITE HERE Local 40 stated that the crash highlights concerns they raised with project officials earlier this year. 30 members of the union were aboard a bus that flipped over while traveling from Prince George to the project’s camp. The crash injured 18 people on the bus. The affected workers are housekeepers at Coastal GasLink’s Parsnip Lodge, the large majority of whom are immigrant women.
The union stated that its members had raised concerns about having to bus up to four hours to and from site each day.
“Our first concern is with our members and their families who have gone through a terrifying experience,” said Zailda Chan, president of UNITE HERE Local 40. “This never should have happened. Workers told management that this was not safe. We expect Horizon North to work with the Union to ensure workers’ health and safety is prioritized and not put at risk.”
Earlier this year, the union filed a grievance against Horizon North, which manages the project’s lodge, after management unilaterally moved all the housekeepers out of the camp and began bussing them to and from the site. The union stated that these workers are expected to travel up to four hours each day to and from camp, and along a forest service road, because they are no longer provided housing at the camp.
The union is calling on management to house lodge workers onsite, as they are required to do in the collective agreement. The union and management are currently in arbitration, which is expected to conclude this week.
*Editors Note: Horizon North has not yet responded to a request for comment from SiteNews
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.
On July 12, 2021, Zawislak, a senior technologist at a civil engineering firm, was working in a Kelowna office building when catastrophic failure caused a construction crane to fall. The crane was being dismantled at the Brooklyn tower portion of the Bernard Block development.
The 43-year-old died at the scene from his injuries. Four workers on site were also killed in the incident.
According to the lawsuit, the collapsed was caused “in whole or in part by the negligence of the defendants, the particulars of which are yet to be known pending the results of both the Work Safe BC and Royal Canadian Mounted Police investigations”.
Last month, WorkSafeBC announced that it had completed its investigation into the incident but would not be releasing its findings as the RCMP’s criminal investigation was still underway. They have turned over their findings to officers.
“Over the last 22 months, WorkSafeBC has worked with subject-matter experts and engineers to examine the crane components, sequence of events, and work procedures that took place during the crane dismantling process,” stated WorkSafeBC officials. “WorkSafeBC investigators also examined all relevant documentation and other evidence, in addition to conducting witness interviews.”
They added that the primary purpose of WorkSafeBC’s investigation has been to identify the cause of the incident, and any contributing factors, so that similar incidents can be prevented from happening in the future.
“A decision has been made, in consultation with the RCMP, to not release the WorkSafeBC investigation report publicly, at this time, to ensure it does not jeopardize the ongoing and concurrent criminal investigation,” said the group.
