Vancouver Regional Construction Association https://vrca.ca/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 22:49:08 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://vrca.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Favicon.svg Vancouver Regional Construction Association https://vrca.ca/ 32 32 BCCA Official Statement: Construction Projects Procurement Act https://vrca.ca/news/bcca-official-statement-construction-projects-procurement-act/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 22:49:07 +0000 https://vrca.ca/?p=34033 On March 5, 2026, Kiel Giddens, MLA for Prince George – Mackenzie and Critic for Labour, introduced the Construction Projects Procurement Act, a Private Member’s Bill aimed at restoring fair and open procurement on public construction projects in British Columbia.

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On March 5, 2026, Kiel Giddens, MLA for Prince George – Mackenzie and Critic for Labour, introduced the Construction Projects Procurement Act, a Private Member’s Bill aimed at restoring fair and open procurement on public construction projects in British Columbia.

BCCA has a long history of advocating for fair and open public procurement. Publicly funded infrastructure projects should be accessible to all qualified participants in the construction sector, regardless of labour affiliation. At a time when BC is facing significant skilled labour shortages, it is especially important that governments do not limit who can participate in building critical public infrastructure.

Competitive and transparent procurement helps maximize participation across the construction workforce and deliver better value for taxpayers. We support initiatives that strengthen fair and open tendering and ensure that public projects are awarded based on merit, safety, and the ability to deliver value for taxpayers.

Modernizing public procurement remains a key priority for BCCA as we continue to advocate for fair, open, and competitive processes that support BC’s construction industry.

Click here to learn more about our ongoing advocacy on behalf of BC’s construction industry.

This post was originally published on the BCCA website.

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Vancouver Regional Construction Association Earns National Honour Amid Rapid Growth and Industry Transformation https://vrca.ca/news/vrca-earns-national-honour-amid-rapid-growth-and-industry-transformation/ Wed, 18 Mar 2026 18:53:09 +0000 https://vrca.ca/?p=33956 Vancouver, B.C. – March 18, 2026 – The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) has been named the Partner Association of the Year by the Canadian Construction Association (CCA), recognizing a period of bold transformation, rapid member growth, and an increasingly influential voice for construction across the Lower Mainland.

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Vancouver, B.C. – March 18, 2026 – The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) has been named the Partner Association of the Year by the Canadian Construction Association (CCA), recognizing a period of bold transformation, rapid member growth, and an increasingly influential voice for construction across the Lower Mainland.

The annual CCA National Awards recognize the changemakers, leaders, and champions from across the country for their contributions to Canada’s construction industry. The Partner Association Award of Excellence, established in 1992, honours an integrated CCA partner association demonstrating leadership in industry advancement, education, and member growth.

Over the past two years, VRCA has grown by more than 200 member companies, expanding from a long-standing base of approximately 750 to over 1,000 members today. This growth reflects a deliberate shift: becoming more visible, more vocal, and more connected to the evolving needs of the industry.

“This recognition reflects the strength and momentum of our members, and the role associations play in times of change,” said Jeannine Martin, President of VRCA. “We made a conscious decision to show up differently – to be more active, more accessible, and more engaged in the conversations shaping our industry. That’s what’s driven our growth.”

Rather than relying on tradition, VRCA has leaned into a new model – one that prioritizes advocacy, regional accessibility, and real-time responsiveness to member needs. With a renewed focus on the Fraser Valley and a stronger presence at industry events such as BUILDEX and the Construction Expo, the association has expanded its reach and deepened its connection to the broader construction community.

At the same time, VRCA has elevated its voice through stronger advocacy efforts, ensuring that industry perspectives are not only heard, but represented where decisions are being made amid increasing political and economic uncertainty. By leveraging its integrated network with the British Columbia Construction Association (BCCA) and CCA, VRCA has been able to amplify its impact on issues that matter most to members.

Programs like Bring Trades to Schools, The Builders’ Bench podcast, the Construction Leadership Forum, and the Awards of Excellence reflect this approach, creating meaningful opportunities for workforce development, leadership growth, industry recognition, and dialogue. Initiatives like LEAP: Women in Construction Conference further support a more inclusive and future-ready industry, ensuring new voices and perspectives continue to shape construction across British Columbia.

“The VRCA is 98 years old, but most of our team has been here less than four years,” Martin added. “That combination of legacy and new energy has allowed us to challenge how things have always been done and try new approaches that are resonating with industry. We’re proud of how far we’ve come – and we’re just getting started.”

VRCA also credited the leadership of its Board of Directors and the collaboration with its regional partners, including the Northern Regional Construction Association (NRCA), Vancouver Island Construction Association (VICA), Southern Interior Construction Association (SICA), and the BC Roadbuilders Association.

As the construction industry continues to navigate uncertainty and opportunity, VRCA remains focused on building momentum and continuing to show up as a stronger, more united voice for construction across the Lower Mainland.

To learn more about VRCA’s recent work and impact, watch the CCA award submission video.

About VRCA

Since 1928, VRCA has been the voice of British Columbia’s construction sector. We connect, educate, and advocate for members across all disciplines, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable industry. With over 1,000 members, VRCA facilitates collaboration among General and Trade Contractors, Manufacturers, Suppliers, and Professional Services providers to drive innovation, growth, and excellence in B.C.’s built environment. Learn more at www.vrca.ca.   

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Sold-Out LEAP Conference Signals Growing Momentum for Women in Construction https://vrca.ca/news/sold-out-leap-conference-signals-growing-momentum-for-women-in-construction/ Wed, 11 Mar 2026 16:04:00 +0000 https://vrca.ca/?p=33881 Vancouver, B.C. – March 11, 2026 – A sold-out crowd of 375 construction professionals gathered on March 6 for LEAP: Women in Construction, the third annual flagship conference hosted by the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) and Canadian Construction Women (CCW) celebrating women across the construction industry.

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Vancouver, B.C. – March 11, 2026 – A sold-out crowd of 375 construction professionals gathered on March 6 for LEAP: Women in Construction, the third annual flagship conference hosted by the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) and Canadian Construction Women (CCW) celebrating women across the construction industry.

Held at the Fairmont Waterfront in Vancouver, the event brought together industry leaders, tradeswomen, executives, and emerging professionals for a full day of discussions focused on leadership, inclusion, and the future of construction. With tickets selling out weeks in advance and a waitlist forming ahead of the event, LEAP continues to demonstrate growing demand for spaces that support connection, mentorship, and professional development for women in construction.

“LEAP reflects the momentum we’re seeing across the construction industry,” said Jeannine Martin, President of VRCA. “As our sector continues to grow and evolve, creating opportunities for women to lead, innovate, and thrive is not only the right thing to do – it’s critical to building the strong, resilient workforce our industry needs.”

Throughout the day, attendees participated in networking opportunities, workshops, and panel discussions exploring topics such as leadership development, allyship, mentorship, and strategies for building more inclusive workplaces.

Highlights of the conference included keynote speaker Dr. Brynn Winegard, who explored the science behind how high-performing professionals think, focus, and thrive at work. The “Allies in Action” panel featured male leaders discussing how they are using their influence to champion inclusive workplaces and support the advancement of women in construction, while the HERStories sessions delivered real lessons and practical insights from women who have lived the journey.

Beyond the conversations on stage, LEAP reinforced the importance of mentorship, leadership development, and community in supporting long-term career growth for women in construction. With labour shortages continuing to challenge the sector, industry leaders increasingly recognize that creating welcoming and supportive workplaces is essential to strengthening the construction workforce pipeline.

“Events like LEAP demonstrate how powerful it can be when women across the industry come together to share ideas, build connections, and support one another’s growth,” said Stephanie Hun, President of CCW and Vice President of Business Development at FlatironDragados Canada. “By investing in leadership development and community-building, we’re helping ensure construction continues to be an exciting and rewarding career path for the next generation.”

VRCA thanks the speakers, panelists, sponsors, and attendees who helped make the event possible and contribute to the ongoing momentum for women in construction. Learn more about LEAP: Women in Construction and view the full agenda at events.vrca.ca/leap/agenda.

About VRCA

Since 1928, VRCA has been the voice of British Columbia’s construction sector. We connect, educate, and advocate for members across all disciplines, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable industry. With over 1,000 members, VRCA facilitates collaboration among General and Trade Contractors, Manufacturers, Suppliers, and Professional Services providers to drive innovation, growth, and excellence in B.C.’s built environment. Learn more at vrca.ca

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BCCA Statement on B.C. Adopting Permanent Daylight Saving Time https://vrca.ca/news/bcca-statement-bc-adopting-permanent-daylight-saving-time/ Wed, 04 Mar 2026 18:23:19 +0000 https://vrca.ca/?p=33822 B.C.’s construction sector welcomes the move to permanent daylight saving time. Stability and predictability matter in our industry. Eliminating the twice-yearly clock change removes an unnecessary disruption that can affect productivity and safety during those transition weeks.

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B.C.’s construction sector welcomes the move to permanent daylight saving time. Stability and predictability matter in our industry. Eliminating the twice-yearly clock change removes an unnecessary disruption that can affect productivity and safety during those transition weeks.

However, construction often operates on daylight-driven schedules, and safety is our top priority. Permanent daylight saving time will mean darker mornings during the winter months, and many crews start work early in the day when visibility is most important. Operating heavy equipment, working at heights, and managing active jobsites requires full alertness and strong visibility conditions.

While we support the consistency this change brings, it will be important for industry to plan carefully for winter operations including lighting, scheduling, and other safety protocols. With proper preparation and a safety-first approach, B.C.’s construction sector will adapt to permanent daylight saving time while protecting workers, and delivering projects safely across British Columbia.

This post was originally published on the BCCA website.

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BCCA Response to BC Budget 2026 https://vrca.ca/news/bcca-response-to-bc-budget-2026/ Tue, 24 Feb 2026 23:01:55 +0000 https://vrca.ca/?p=33709 BCCA RESPONSE TO BC BUDGET 2026:Budget release date: February 17, 2026

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BCCA RESPONSE TO BC BUDGET 2026:
Budget release date: February 17, 2026

BCCA’s Preliminary Statement on BC Budget 2026:

As British Columbia navigates a challenging fiscal environment, the British Columbia Construction Association (BCCA) is pleased to see continued commitment to capital spending on critical infrastructure. BC’s construction industry will play a pivotal role in delivering the projects enabled by this funding and advancing major projects that will position BC as a leader on national and international stages. Read the full statement.

Deconstructing the Details:

PST expansion will drive up costs for BC’s construction industry:
Budget 2026 bets big on infrastructure. But a commitment to capital spending and a decision to increase costs on capital projects can coexist in the same budget — and should. 

The expansion of PST to architectural, engineering, and related professional services will add real cost to virtually every project in BC. Professional services typically represent 8–15% of total project value. Applying PST to those fees adds an estimated 1–2% to overall project budgets.  

For schools to hospitals – projects that can cost upwards of $100M to $1B, these are additional, unnecessary costs ranging from $1-10 million. 

These costs don’t evaporate. They either reduce project scope, extend timelines as budgets are revised, or get absorbed back into the public purse. This risks undermining the Budget’s capital commitments. At a moment when the Province is trying to stretch infrastructure dollars as far as possible, adding cost friction at the front end of the project delivery pipeline works against that goal. 

Strategic Investments in Capital Projects Key to Infrastructure Goals:
BC is navigating a challenging fiscal environment. The decision to protect and continue capital investment in infrastructure is not easy, but necessary. 

The establishment of the Strategic Investments Special Account is a structural step that creates a more durable mechanism for funding major capital projects. Done right, this kind of framework provides the predictability our industry needs to plan for and deliver projects effectively. 

A strong province depends on a strong construction sector. Budget 2026’s capital commitments, and the framework being built around them, reflect that understanding. Now the work is making sure those commitments translate into projects in the ground — on time, on scope, and with the industry capacity to deliver them well. 

Project Delays Reintroduce Uncertainty for Industry:
When major public projects sit in limbo, contractors can’t commit resources. Subtrades can’t schedule crews. Skilled workers who might have stayed in BC take opportunities elsewhere. The project pipeline doesn’t pause — it drains. 

Budget 2026 tables or defers decisions on several significant healthcare capital projects, including long‑term care facilities and the Burnaby Hospital redevelopment. This will reintroduce uncertainty into an industry that relies on long‑term visibility to function efficiently. When the government signals hesitation on projects of this scale, it undermines confidence across the entire construction ecosystem.

This post was originally published on the BCCA website.

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VRCA Announces 2026 Young Construction Leaders (YCL) Committee   https://vrca.ca/news/2026-vrca-ycl-committee/ Mon, 09 Feb 2026 17:50:25 +0000 https://vrca.ca/?p=33393 Vancouver, B.C. – February 9, 2025 – The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) is thrilled to announce the results of the 2026 VRCA Young Construction Leaders (YCL) Committee elections, completed on January 30, 2026, and announced at VRCA’s 60th Annual General Meeting on February 3, 2026. 

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Vancouver, B.C. – February 9, 2025 – The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) is thrilled to announce the results of the 2026 VRCA Young Construction Leaders (YCL) Committee elections, completed on January 30, 2026, and announced at VRCA’s 60th Annual General Meeting on February 3, 2026. 

This year saw exceptional interest in the program, with 20 candidates nominated to serve on the VRCA | YCL Committee. The committee plays an important role in fostering industry connections, delivering professional development opportunities, and hosting social and networking events for emerging leaders in construction. 

“On behalf of the VRCA, I congratulate all VRCA | YCL Committee nominees,” said Jeannine Martin, President of the VRCA. “Their willingness to step forward and serve reflects the passion and commitment that is shaping the future of our industry. We are excited to see this talented group develop YCL programming, facilitate and build connections, grow professionally, and strengthen the construction community in the year ahead.” 

Keeli Husband of EllisDon will serve as the 2026 VRCA | YCL Committee Chair. The VRCA looks forward to the leadership, vision, and energy she will bring to the committee this year. 

Other members of the 2026 VRCA | YCL Committee include: 

  • Vice Chair: Cam Roy, Ram Construction 
  • Secretary: Joey Thompson, Marsh Canada Ltd. 
  • Treasurer: Herman Duley, Beedie Construction 
  • Education Director: Tommy Wong, Kinetic Construction 
  • Events Director: Igor Glos, ETRO Construction Limited 
  • Marketing Director: Michael Stec, Graham Construction & Engineering 
  • Director at Large / General Contractors Division Representative: Denis Malinowski, Bird Construction 
  • Director at Large / Trade Contractors Division Representative: Tanner Younghans, A&H Steel Ltd. 
  • Director at Large / Manufacturer & Supplier Division Representative: Carley MacKinnon, Greywolf Equipment 
  • Director at Large / Professional Services Division Representative: Adrian Alden, Sportschuetz & Company Law Corporation 

The VRCA also recognizes the leaders who have helped shape and strengthen the VRCA | YCL program over the past two years: 

  • Hugo Huynh of Flynn Group of Companies served as the 2025 VRCA | YCL Chair and will now serve as the 2026 YCL Past Chair on the VRCA Board of Directors  
  • Avi Horwitz of Sterling Floor & Tile Ltd. served as the 2024 VRCA | YCL Chair and as the 2025 YCL Past Chair on the VRCA Board of Directors, and has now completed his term 

“We extend our gratitude to both Hugo and Avi for their dedication to the program and to their industry peers,” added Martin. “The time and expertise these leaders have given to the VRCA | YCL program has made a lasting difference for emerging professionals and our industry as a whole.” 

About VRCA 

Since 1928, VRCA has been the voice of British Columbia’s construction sector. We connect, educate, and advocate for members across all disciplines, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable industry. With over 1,000 members, VRCA facilitates collaboration among General and Trade Contractors, Manufacturers, Suppliers, and Professional Services providers to drive innovation, growth, and excellence in B.C.’s built environment. Learn more at www.vrca.ca

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VRCA Announces 2026/27 Board of Directors https://vrca.ca/news/vrca-announces-2026-27-board-of-directors/ Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:07:00 +0000 https://vrca.ca/?p=33419 Vancouver, B.C. – February 5, 2026 – The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) is thrilled to announce its 2026/27 Board of Directors, as elected by the membership prior to the Annual General Meeting on February 3, 2026. Representing a cross-section of the industry, the Board will help guide VRCA’s strategic priorities and champion a strong,…

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Vancouver, B.C. – February 5, 2026 – The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) is thrilled to announce its 2026/27 Board of Directors, as elected by the membership prior to the Annual General Meeting on February 3, 2026. Representing a cross-section of the industry, the Board will help guide VRCA’s strategic priorities and champion a strong, connected construction community in the year ahead.

The 2026/27 VRCA Board of Directors includes:

  • Scott Adkins, Chair, PCL Constructors Westcoast Inc.
  • Regina Marklund, Past Chair, Turner Construction Company
  • Mike Wallis, Vice Chair, Flynn Canada Ltd.
  • Jonathan Boyce, Ledcor Construction Limited
  • Sam Brezden, Swain Solutions
  • Ronan Deane, North America Construction (1993) Ltd.
  • Craig Enns, EllisDon Corporation
  • Carter Hawke, MNP LLP
  • Hugo Huynh, Flynn Group of Companies (NEW)
  • Nikki Keith, Wilson M. Beck Insurance Services Inc.
  • Jerrylynn McCann,Raicor Contracting Ltd. (NEW)
  • Ellisha Mott, Mott Electric (NEW)
  • Danielle Savioz, Victaulic (NEW)
  • Tyler VanderHoek, GB Group Recycling Ltd. (NEW)

The VRCA also extends its sincere thanks to the Board members who have completed their terms. Their time, expertise, and leadership have made a meaningful impact on the Association and the broader industry. Departing Board Members include:

  • Corey Dandurand, Victaulic, Board Member 2023-2025
  • Paul Demeule, Pomerleau, Board Member 2023-2026
  • Derek Fettback, Western Pacific Enterprises Ltd., Board Member 2020-2026
  • Scott Harcus, Alexander Holburn Beaudin + Lang LLP, Board Member 2023-2026
  • Avi Horwitz, Sterling Floor & Tile Ltd., VRCA | YCL Committee Chair 2024-2025, VRCA Board Member 2025-2026
  • Brian Urquhart, Victaulic, Board Member 2025-2026

“Our Board of Directors plays a critical role in shaping VRCA’s direction and ensuring we continue to serve our members and industry effectively,” said Jeannine Martin, President of the VRCA. “We are grateful to those who have stepped into leadership roles and to those who have generously given their time and insights to support the Association’s progress.”

About VRCA

Since 1928, VRCA has been the voice of British Columbia’s construction sector. We connect, educate, and advocate for members across all disciplines, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable industry. With over 1,000 members, VRCA facilitates collaboration among General and Trade Contractors, Manufacturers, Suppliers, and Professional Services providers to drive innovation, growth, and excellence in B.C.’s built environment. Learn more at www.vrca.ca.

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VRCA Awards $30,000 in Bursaries to Support B.C.’s Next Generation of Construction Professionals https://vrca.ca/news/vrca-awards-30000-in-bursaries-to-support-b-c-s-next-generation-of-construction-professionals/ Fri, 30 Jan 2026 18:56:57 +0000 https://vrca.ca/?p=33322 Vancouver – January 30, 2026 – The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) announced today that it has awarded $30,000 to 10 recipients of the 2026 Bursary Program. Now in its third year, VRCA’s Bursary Program addresses the construction industry’s growing workforce gap by providing financial support to students pursuing careers in the trades, one of…

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Vancouver – January 30, 2026 – The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) announced today that it has awarded $30,000 to 10 recipients of the 2026 Bursary Program. Now in its third year, VRCA’s Bursary Program addresses the construction industry’s growing workforce gap by providing financial support to students pursuing careers in the trades, one of B.C.’s most essential sectors.

“Initiatives such as the Bursary Program are critical to support the next generation of builders,” said Jeannine Martin, President of the VRCA. “With BuildForce Canada projecting that B.C. will need to recruit more than 60,000 workers by 2034 just to keep up with demand, the time for action is now. This program eases the financial barrier that many students face and enables them to attain meaningful, long-term careers.”

This year’s Bursary Program recipients are enrolled in or pursuing careers in programs including electrical, piping and plumbing, cabinet making and joinery, building science, and architecture CADD.

“This was one of the most competitive years yet for the Bursary Program,” said Eva Ciesielska, Workforce Development Manager at the VRCA. “We received over 70 applications from students interested in exploring careers in the trades. Our judging panel was incredibly impressed with the caliber of the applications.”

VRCA’s Bursary Program is just one of the ways that the association helps to empower and inspire the next generation of builders. VRCA’s Bring Trades to Schools (BTS) program gives students hands-on experience with the trades. In 2025, the program connected nearly 600 youth with schools, industry partners, and post-secondary institutions.

“The VRCA is committed to strengthening the construction talent pipeline through the active involvement of our members,” added Martin. “Programs like Bring Trades to Schools rely on member volunteers who give their time, expertise, and mentorship to inspire students and provide real-world exposure to careers in the trades. That same commitment was reflected in this year’s bursary judging, with industry leaders from Division 15 Mechanical, Kindred Construction, Pitt Meadows Plumbing, Scott Construction Group, and Western Pacific Enterprises offering their time and knowledge to help select this year’s recipients from the next generation of builders.”

Recipients of the 2026 VRCA Bursary Program will be celebrated on February 3 at the VRCA Annual General Meeting, where they will receive their awards in person.

Learn more about VRCA’s Bursary Program and other workforce development initiatives here

About VRCA

Since 1928, VRCA has been the voice of British Columbia’s construction sector. We connect, educate, and advocate for members across all disciplines, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable industry. With over 1,000 members, VRCA facilitates collaboration among General and Trade Contractors, Manufacturers, Suppliers, and Professional Services providers to drive innovation, growth, and excellence in B.C.’s built environment. Learn more at www.vrca.ca.

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LEAP: Women in Construction Conference Returns on March 6, 2026 https://vrca.ca/news/leap-women-in-construction-conference-returns-2026/ Mon, 19 Jan 2026 21:27:06 +0000 https://vrca.ca/?p=33036 Vancouver, B.C. – January 19, 2026 – The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA), in partnership with Canadian Construction Women (CCW), is proud to announce the return of the LEAP: Women in Construction event, taking place on March 6, 2026. Registration is now open for this highly anticipated conference, which brings together women and allies from…

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Vancouver, B.C. – January 19, 2026 – The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA), in partnership with Canadian Construction Women (CCW), is proud to announce the return of the LEAP: Women in Construction event, taking place on March 6, 2026. Registration is now open for this highly anticipated conference, which brings together women and allies from across the Lower Mainland for a day of connection, inspiration, and leadership.

Now in its third year, LEAP has become a cornerstone event for women in construction, creating space for meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and professional growth. The 2026 event will be themed “Women Who Build,” setting the stage for an elevated and welcoming experience that blends inspiration with celebration.

“LEAP continues to be an important platform for bringing women together from all corners of the construction industry,” said Jeannine Martin, President of the VRCA. “Representation matters – not only in who we see leading conversations, but also in creating spaces where women feel seen, heard, and supported as they build their careers.”

Attendees can expect engaging speakers, opportunities to connect with peers and industry leaders, and thoughtful discussions that reflect the evolving role of women in construction. LEAP 2026 sessions will include:

Keynote Session: The Working Brain – Unlocking Your Full Potential

Dr. Brynn Winegard

In the opening keynote session, Dr. Winegard reveals the science behind how high-performing professionals think, focus, and thrive at work. Drawing from neuroscience research and real-world corporate experience, Dr. Winegard will explain how “The Working Brain” acts as the missing manual for your mind and show you how to work with your brain instead of pushing against it. Attendees will learn how to tap into their brain’s natural rhythms and apply Dr. Brynn’s MERIT Framework to design workdays that drive clarity, confidence, productivity, and long-term mental wellness.

Toolbox Session: The Smart Side of Soft Skills

Sophie Warwick, Co-CEO & Co-Founder, The Thoughtful Co.

This workshop breaks down why soft skills matter, how they influence reputation and opportunities, and how to intentionally build them over time. Participants will learn practical strategies for strengthening communication and demonstrating leadership through everyday interactions, as well as how to cultivate presence and professionalism in ways that support long-term career growth.

Toolbox Session: Leading With Compassion

Nicole Bryant, CEO, NRCA

This leadership session is designed to help industry professionals strengthen their leadership approach through empathy, awareness, and accountability. The presentation explores how compassionate leadership is not just a soft skill, but a strategic one, improving communication, retention, and team performance. Participants will leave with practical tools and insights to apply immediately, building stronger, safer, and more connected teams across all levels of their organization.

Toolbox Session: Owning the Room

Natasha Jeshani, President & CEO, Career Contacts

Rather than focusing on personality or performance, the session reframes presence as a practical leadership skill. It addresses the real dynamics women in construction face, from walking into rooms where they may be the only woman, to navigating technical conversations, site-based leadership, and decision-making environments with clarity and authority. Participants will leave with practical tools and mindset shifts they can apply immediately, along with a deeper understanding of the shared responsibility to create space and opportunity for the women coming up behind them.

Additional speakers and sessions will be announced in the coming weeks.

“LEAP allows us to share actionable ideas combined with strong community building opportunities to ensure women continue to grow to see construction as an excellent career opportunity,” said Stephanie Hun, President of CCW and Vice President of Business Development at FlatironDragados Canada. “The impact of LEAP extends beyond a single event – it helps build confidence, expand networks, and open doors to new opportunities within the construction industry.”

LEAP: Women in Construction is open to women and allies at all stages of their careers and across all sectors of the construction industry. Registration details and more information can be found here.

About VRCA

Since 1928, VRCA has been the voice of British Columbia’s construction sector. We connect, educate, and advocate for members across all disciplines, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable industry. With over 1,000 members, VRCA facilitates collaboration among General and Trade Contractors, Manufacturers, Suppliers, and Professional Services providers to drive innovation, growth, and excellence in B.C.’s built environment. Learn more at www.vrca.ca.    

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VRCA Returns to BUILDEX 2026 with Connector Lounge and Industry-Leading Programming https://vrca.ca/news/vrca-returns-to-buildex-2026/ Tue, 13 Jan 2026 17:35:41 +0000 https://vrca.ca/?p=32970 Vancouver, B.C. –  January 13, 2026 – The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) is thrilled to announce its return to BUILDEX Vancouver 2026, Western Canada’s largest forum connecting the built environment. The event takes place from February 11-12, 2026, at the Vancouver Convention Centre.

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Vancouver, B.C. –  January 13, 2026 – The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) is thrilled to announce its return to BUILDEX Vancouver 2026, Western Canada’s largest forum connecting the built environment. The event takes place from February 11-12, 2026, at the Vancouver Convention Centre.

For its third consecutive year, the VRCA will host the VRCA Connector Lounge at BUILDEX. Located on the trade show floor, the VRCA Connector Lounge serves as a gathering place and connection hub for builders, contractors, industry leaders, innovators, and emerging professionals at BUILDEX, supporting the continued growth and strength of B.C.’s construction industry.

“BUILDEX is an important opportunity for the industry to come together, and VRCA is proud to play a role in fostering those connections,” said Jeannine Martin, President of the VRCA. “The Connector Lounge, as well as our industry panel programming, reflects VRCA’s commitment to collaboration, advocacy, and leadership within the construction community.”

In addition to the Connector Lounge, VRCA will host a series of educational sessions at BUILDEX 2026, including industry panels and a construction keynote session, bringing together expert voices to explore timely issues facing the construction sector. This year’s programming includes:

The Builders’ Bench Live: Where Politics Meets Construction – Construction Keynote

Wednesday, February 11 at 10 AM, BUILDEX Main Stage

This dynamic panel will tackle the pressing political and economic issues that shape B.C.’s construction industry – from housing mandates and permitting reform to infrastructure investment and workforce challenges. Join the host of The Builders’ Bench podcast and VRCA’s Director of Advocacy and Engagement, Craig Larkins, for a conversation with Chris Atchison (President, BC Construction Association), Jeannine Martin (President, VRCA), Louis-Philippe Champagne (Associate Vice President, Public Affairs & Industry Practices, Canadian Construction Association), and Sajjid Lakhani (Director, Impact Public Affairs) about what’s coming next for builders across the province and what it means on the ground.

Building a Pipeline for the Future

Wednesday, February 11 at 11:15 AM, VRCA Connector Lounge

Explore how the Vancouver School Board’s Youth Work in Trades program opens early apprenticeship pathways for students and helps grow the next generation of skilled talent. You’ll learn how VRCA members can get involved and hear updates on our Bring Trades to School program and new partnership with Honour the Work

Meet the VRCA Board of Directors Mixer/Happy Hour

Wednesday, February 11 at 3:30 PM, VRCA Connector Lounge

Connect with the leaders shaping VRCA’s and the industry’s direction! This relaxed happy-hour mixer gives members a chance to meet the VRCA’s 2026/27 Board of Directors, share ideas, and build new connections, all in one place. 

From Permits to Projects: How BCCA Tools Support Builders – Thursday, February 12 at 9:30am

Thursday, February 12 at 9:30 AM, VRCA Connector Lounge

Discover PermitsCA, BCCA’s new real-time permit-tracking tool that’s transforming how builders plan, bid, and stay ahead. You’ll also hear about BCCA’s full suite of programs, including BidCentral, TalentCentral, and other tools designed to support your business.

The Builders’ Bench Live: The Municipal Election & the Future of Construction

Thursday, February 12 at 10:30 AM, BUILDEX Main Stage

Municipal governments make the decisions that shape our industry every day – from zoning bylaws to permitting timelines and procurement practices. With municipal elections ahead in 2026, the stakes for construction have never been higher.  Join the host of The Builders’ Bench podcast and VRCA’s Director of Advocacy and Engagement, Craig Larkins, for a conversation with Jeannine Martin (President, VRCA), Regina Marklund (Project Director, Turner Construction Canada), Sajjid Lakhani (Director, Impact Public Affairs), and Scott Adkins (Operations Manager, PCL Construction) as they explore how the next wave of municipal leadership will impact the way we build, bid, and do business.

Empowering Entrepreneurs Mixer & Panel

Thursday, February 12 at 2:00 PM, VRCA Connector Lounge

Join us for a candid, engaging panel on entrepreneurship in construction, followed by a high-energy mixer built for connection and collaboration. You’ll hear from Dmitri Tsonev (CEO, Madness Forming & Construction Inc.), Taylor Ross (CEO, TDR Electric Inc.), and Craig Larkins (Director, Advocacy & Engagement, VRCA) as they discuss how to empower the next generation of builders, leaders, and entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of construction.

“From workforce development to public policy and entrepreneurship, our BUILDEX programming reflects the real conversations happening in construction today,” said Martin. “By bringing these discussions to the show floor, VRCA is helping ensure our industry is informed, engaged, and prepared for what’s ahead.”

VRCA members receive exclusive discounts on trade show passes and are encouraged to visit the Connector Lounge and attend VRCA-hosted sessions throughout the event.

For more information about VRCA’s presence at BUILDEX 2026, visit www.informaconnect.com/buildex-vancouver/vrca-connector-lounge/

About VRCA

Since 1928, VRCA has been the voice of British Columbia’s construction sector. We connect, educate, and advocate for members across all disciplines, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable industry. With over 1,000 members, VRCA facilitates collaboration among General and Trade Contractors, Manufacturers, Suppliers, and Professional Services providers to drive innovation, growth, and excellence in B.C.’s built environment. Learn more at www.vrca.ca.

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