Our conference program offers a visionary agenda designed to address the evolving landscape of the construction industry. From engaging keynote speakers and interactive roundtables to insightful panel discussions and networking sessions, each element is crafted to provide you with cutting-edge knowledge and invaluable connections. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a transformative event that will drive the future of construction.
*Conference session titles, times, and speakers are subject to change.
Sunday, March 8, 2026
PRE-CONFERENCE DAY 1 (separate registration required)
13:00 – 16:00 | 2025-2026 Board of Directors meeting
(closed meeting)
Location: Aurora Room
18:00 – 21:00 | Board and National Advisory Council (NAC) dinner
(by invitation only)
Location: Avalon Room
Monday, March 9, 2026
PRE-CONFERENCE DAY 2 (separate registration required)
07:00 – 08:00 | Board and NAC breakfast
Start the day with a joint breakfast bringing together the CCA Board and National Advisory Councils for connection and informal discussion.
Location: Avalon Room
08:00 – 08:30 | Chair’s briefing
Join Chair, Francis Roy, as he welcomes you to the day’s pre-business meetings, provides an overview of the Association’s priorities and sets the stage for the day’s discussions
Location: Avalon Room
08:45 – 10:30 | NAC meetings
Join us for CCA’s National Advisory Council meetings. This is an invaluable opportunity to observe high-level discussions and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our industry. While the meetings are primarily for council members, observers are welcome to attend. Separate registration is required.
Locations:
Civil: Britannia Room
MS&S: Aurora Room
Trade: Cambria Room
10:35 – 10:45 | Break
Location: Sovereign Room
10:45 – 12:30 | NAC meetings
Join us for CCA’s National Advisory Council meetings. This is an invaluable opportunity to observe high-level discussions and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our industry. While the meetings are primarily for council members, observers are welcome to attend. Separate registration is required.
Locations:
GC: Britannia Room
LCA: Cambria Room
12:30 – 13: 15 | NAC report out and lunch
Council Chairs present key outcomes from the morning’s discussions, followed by a networking lunch.
Location: Avalon Room
13:30 – 14: 30 | CCA Annual General Meeting (AGM)
Join us for CCA’s Annual General Meeting, where we’ll reflect on the past year’s achievements, discuss key updates, and elect our 2026-27 Board of Directors. This is an important opportunity to hear from leadership and engage with fellow members. Pre-registration is required.
Location: Constellation Room
14:30 – 15:15 | Chair’s reception
Join us for the new Chair’s reception. This relaxed social hour offers the perfect chance to unwind and mingle with industry peers after our AGM. Registered companions are welcome to attend.
Location: Constellation Terrace
15:30 – 16:45 | 2026-2027 Board of Directors meeting
(closed meeting)
Location: Constellation Terrace
Conference day 1 – Tuesday, March 10, 2026
07:00 – 14:30 | Activity Day – Golf at Steele Canyon
Tee off with friends and colleagues for a relaxed and memorable round of golf at the stunning Steele Canyon Golf Club. Known for its championship layout and breathtaking scenery, this 27-hole course offers a perfect balance of challenge and playability for all skill levels. This outing is a great way to unwind, connect, and enjoy San Diego’s natural beauty.
(Pre-registration mandatory. Additional charges apply. Available to registered delegates only.)
09:00 – 14:30 | Activity Day – San Diego Zoo
Home to more than 12,000 rare and endangered animals, the San Diego Zoo offers unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages. Stroll through lush, immersive habitats, enjoy live presentations, and learn about global conservation efforts — all while soaking in the beauty of Balboa Park. Whether you’re traveling with kids, a partner, or exploring solo, this is a must-see San Diego adventure.
(Pre-registration mandatory. Additional charges apply. Open to companions and family.)
16:00 – 17:00 | First-timers reception
New to the conference? Here’s your chance to network and connect with CCA veterans. This exclusive, invite-only event is designed for those attending the conference for the first time, offering a unique opportunity to build relationships. Be sure to attend for a chance to receive a complimentary registration to next year’s conference! *By invitation only.
Location: Sunset Terrace
17:00 – 18:00 | Happy Hour
It’s time to mix and mingle at CCA’s Happy Hour! Whether you’re winding down from a busy day or gearing up for the evening ahead, this is the perfect chance to connect with fellow attendees in a lively, informal setting. *21+ activity.
Location: Beach Bar
18:00 – 22:00 | Welcoming Night presented by Travelers Canada
Kick off the conference with a culinary journey through Southern California. Enjoy an evening of food, music, and connection as colleagues, companions, and friends come together for a curated tasting experience inspired by SoCal’s diverse flavors. It’s the perfect way to reconnect, meet new faces, and get a true taste of what this vibrant region has to offer.
Location: Commodore Ballroom
22:00 – 24:00 | After Dark
When the sessions wind down, the good vibes keep going. Join us After Dark at the beach bar for conversations, ocean breezes, and California sunsets. Whether you’re catching up with colleagues or making new connections, this casual evening hangout is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy San Diego’s coastal atmosphere. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to network in a fun and engaging setting. *21+ activity.
Location: Beach Bar
Conference day 2 – Wednesday, March 11, 2026
08:00 – 09:30 | Economic outlook and breakfast
As Canada enters a pivotal economic period, the construction industry faces both opportunity and uncertainty. Success will depend on building resilient supply chains, embracing innovation, and adapting to shifting workforce and market trends. Join us for a power-packed breakfast session offering a forward-looking economic forecast for 2026. Gain exclusive insights into the Canadian policy landscape, macroeconomic trends that matter the most to construction, and the strategic decisions that will shape the industry’s next chapter. This session is your opportunity to get ahead of the curve, anticipate challenges, and position your organization for growth in a complex and competitive environment.
Location: Commodore Ballroom
09:30 – 09:45 | Networking break
Between sessions, enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks in our break lounge – the perfect space to relax, recharge, and connect with fellow attendees.
Location: Sovereign Room
09:45 – 10:45 | Nation builders: Unlocking strategic infrastructure for Canada’s future
Large-scale infrastructure isn’t just a government priority—it’s a national imperative. From energy and trade corridors to defence and critical infrastructure, this session looks at how industry leaders can drive alignment across jurisdictions and accelerate Canada’s major projects development.
Location: Constellation Room
09:45 – 10:45 | Risk management at scale: Financing, insurance, and bonding trends
As construction projects grow in complexity and cost, so do the financial and legal risks. Navigating this landscape demands more than traditional risk mitigation — it requires strategic alignment across the entire project team, from executives and insurers to surety providers. This session explores how top construction stakeholders are adjusting their strategies around insurance, bonding, and capital access to stay resilient and profitable in an unpredictable economy.
Location: Britannia/Cambria Room
10:45 – 11:00 | Networking break
Between sessions, enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks in our break lounge – the perfect space to relax, recharge, and connect with fellow attendees.
Location: Sovereign Room
11:00 – 12:00 | Constructing the next generation’s workforce: Immigration and workforce policies to build the future
Canada’s construction industry has long grappled with a chronic domestic labour shortage – a challenge now intensified by shifting perceptions on immigration. This timely session explores the intersection of labour market realities, policy frameworks, and public attitudes, while unpacking policy recommendations to supplement the workforce capacity needed for projects and pathways to leverage public support for sustainable construction workforce development.
Location: Constellation Room
11:00 – 12:00 | Ownership transition strategies: Succession, sale, and scaling for the future
As generational turnover accelerates across the construction industry, well-planned ownership transition is essential. Whether you’re planning to pass your business to the next generation, sell to a new owner, or scale for future growth, the decisions you make today will define your firm’s long-term value. This session dives into the key elements of successful transition planning: navigating tax policy, preparing for mergers and acquisitions, developing future leaders, and maximizing enterprise value. Walk away with practical insights to future-proof your business and lead with confidence into the next chapter.
Location: Britannia/Cambria Room
12:15 – 13:15 | CEO leadership panel: Perspectives on the future of construction
Join association CEOs from Mexico, the United States, and Canada for a high-level discussion on the current state and future of the construction industry across North America. This session brings together top leadership to explore the challenges and opportunities shaping construction in each country. With cross-border collaboration becoming increasingly important, this panel will offer insight into how national organizations are navigating change, supporting their members, and working to strengthen the industry regionally and globally.
Location: Commodore Ballroom
13:30 – 14:30 | Breaking barriers: Celebrating women in construction
This inspiring panel brings together women from across the construction industry to share their experiences, insights, and perspectives on working and leading in the field. From executive roles to on-site leadership, panelists will discuss the progress being made, the challenges that remain, and the opportunities to support a more inclusive workforce.
Location: To be announced
17:00 – 18:00 | Happy Hour
It’s time to mix and mingle at CCA’s Happy Hour! Whether you’re winding down from a busy day or gearing up for the evening ahead, this is the perfect chance to connect with fellow attendees in a lively, informal setting. *21+ activity.
Location: Beach Bar
18:00 – 22:00 | Fun Night
Set sail for an evening of smooth Yacht Rock classics – from Christopher Cross to Hall & Oates – mixed with the sunny, feel-good sounds of retro beach favorites like The Beach Boys. Whether you’re in boat shoes or flip-flops, get ready to dance, unwind, and celebrate SoCal style at this ultimate throwback party.
Location: To be announced
22:00 – 24:00 | After Dark
When the sessions wind down, the good vibes keep going. Join us After Dark at the beach bar for conversations, ocean breezes, and California sunsets. Whether you’re catching up with colleagues or making new connections, this casual evening hangout is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy San Diego’s coastal atmosphere. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to network in a fun and engaging setting. *21+ activity.
Location: Beach Bar
Conference day 3 – Thursday, March 12, 2026
08:00 – 10:00 | CONtact Innovator’s Pitch and breakfast
Step into the future of construction at the CONtact Innovator’s Pitch, where rising stars from the CONtact mentorship program unveil their groundbreaking innovations. Witness cutting-edge solutions poised to revolutionize the industry. Engage with these exciting developments and vote for the most promising innovation. Be part of shaping the next big breakthrough in construction and see how these visionary ideas could redefine the field.
Location: Commodore Ballroom
10:00 – 10:15 | Networking break
Between sessions, enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks in our break lounge – the perfect space to relax, recharge, and connect with fellow attendees.
Location: Sovereign Room
10:15 – 11:15 | Supply under pressure: The 2026 CUSMA review and beyond
With global trade tensions rising and the 2026 Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) review approaching, Canada must reassess its market integration. Limited domestic supply and provincial market size challenge competitiveness, while trade remedies and procurement rules add pressure. This session will examine how the review could reshape supply chains, costs, and project delivery. Strategies to diversify suppliers and corridors will also be discussed, as well as the policies and financing needed to support the economy while keeping projects affordable and on schedule.
Location: Constellation Room
10:15 – 11:15 | CCDC contracts in a changing world: Adapting to today’s realities
In a time of economic uncertainty and shifting risk, has there been a return to bad contract provisions once thought extinct? With development underway on the next CCDC 2, this session explores how today’s uncertainty is shaping the evolution of Canada’s standard construction contracts. Join industry experts as they unpack emerging challenges faced by contractors and owners and share how current realities are informing smarter, more balanced contract frameworks for the future.
Location: Britannia/Cambria Room
11:15 – 11:30 | Networking break
Between sessions, enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks in our break lounge – the perfect space to relax, recharge, and connect with fellow attendees.
Location: Sovereign Room
11:30 – 12:30 | Beyond the hype: Integrating AI into construction
Artificial intelligence is generating excitement across industries—but what does it really mean for construction? This session cuts through the buzz to examine practical ways AI can be applied today, from project planning and risk management to productivity tracking and safety. Attendees will gain insights into real use cases, challenges to adoption, and how AI can be integrated strategically to deliver measurable value for their organizations.
Location: Constellation Room
11:30 – 12:30 | Zero harm: A blueprint for success
Achieving zero harm is more than a safety goal—it’s a mindset, cultural commitment, and strategic imperative. This session brings together industry leaders to share the frameworks, innovations, and leadership practices that are driving transformative safety outcomes across infrastructure and operations. Explore how organizations are embedding zero harm into every phase of project delivery—from design and procurement to execution and maintenance. Learn how data analytics, predictive risk modeling, and frontline engagement are transforming safety from a checklist into a culture of accountability, care, and continuous improvement. Whether you’re leading teams, managing contracts, or shaping policy, you’ll walk away with actionable insights to help you build safer environments and deliver infrastructure with integrity.
Location: Britannia/Cambria Room
12:45 – 14:00 | Networking lunch
Connect with fellow attendees over lunch during this informal networking opportunity designed to foster meaningful connections. Share ideas, explore potential collaborations, and engage in insightful conversations in a relaxed and friendly setting. The networking lunch provides the perfect environment to spark dialogue, build relationships, and make the most of your conference experience
Location: Commodore Ballroom
22:00 – 24:00 | After Dark
When the sessions wind down, the good vibes keep going. Join us After Dark at the beach bar for conversations, ocean breezes, and California sunsets. Whether you’re catching up with colleagues or making new connections, this casual evening hangout is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy San Diego’s coastal atmosphere. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to network in a fun and engaging setting. *21+ activity.
Location: Beach Bar
Conference day 4 – Friday, March 13, 2026
08:00 – 09:30 | CCA National Awards breakfast ceremony
Start your morning with a celebration of our industry as we recognize exceptional individuals, achievements in innovation, sustainability, safety, Gold Seal, workplace development, community leadership, and, of course, the work done by partner associations on behalf of you, the members.
Location: Commodore Ballroom
09:30 – 09:45 | Networking break
Between sessions, enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks in our break lounge – the perfect space to relax, recharge, and connect with fellow attendees.
Location: Sovereign Room
09:45 – 10:45 | Unlocking opportunity in housing policy: Closing the infrastructure gap
The biggest barrier to the housing crisis isn’t just about the lack of development, it’s about the missing infrastructure needed to support that development. From throttled growth to exacerbated socio-political inequities, the narrative of this policy discourse must change to catalyze housing. This session challenges the siloed approach to housing policy and reframes the crisis through the lens of infrastructure. Join policy experts and industry leaders as they explore the kind of ambitious policies and bold investment needed to unlock solutions to a decades-long issue.
Location: Constellation Room
09:45 – 10:45 | Constructing tomorrow: Smart procurement for smart infrastructure
As cities and industries evolve to meet the demands of a digital and sustainable future, the way we plan, procure, and build infrastructure is just as important as what we build. This session explores how innovative procurement strategies are unlocking the potential of smart infrastructure. From leveraging data-driven decision-making and fostering cross-sector collaboration to enabling agile, outcome-based contracts, we’ll examine how procurement professionals can become innovation leaders. Our panel of experts will share insights, case studies, and practical tools to help you navigate the complexities of modern infrastructure development and deliver smarter, more resilient communities.
Location: Britannia/Cambria Room
10:45 – 11:00 | Networking break
Between sessions, enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks in our break lounge – the perfect space to relax, recharge, and connect with fellow attendees.
Location: Commodore Ballroom
11:00 – 12:00 | A political year in review: Power, policy, and what it means for construction
As Prime Minister Mark Carney marks his first anniversary in office, the spotlight is on his government’s early achievements and next steps. This panel of political insiders breaks down what it all means for construction, businesses, and the economy. Expect sharp analysis, behind-the-scenes insights, and a look ahead at the policies and power players that could reshape the sector.
Location: Constellation Room
12:15 – 13:15 | Closing keynote with the Honourable Jean Charest
The Honourable Jean Charest, former Deputy Prime Minister of Canada and Premier of Québec, will close out the 2026 CCA Conference. In January 2025, he was appointed to the Council on Canada-U.S. Relations launched by the Prime Minister of Canada. Mr. Charest is also a steering committee member of the private sector Canada US Trade Council (CUSTC) to collaborate on tariffs and Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) issues. With his deep experience in both national and international politics, Mr. Charest will offer timely insights into trade, diplomacy, and what the evolving Canada-U.S. dynamic means for our industry.
Location: Commodore Ballroom
The Honourable Jean Charest, Former Premier of Quebec and Deputy Prime Minister of Canada
17:00 – 18:00 | Happy Hour
It’s time to mix and mingle at CCA’s Happy Hour! Whether you’re winding down from a busy day or gearing up for the evening ahead, this is the perfect chance to connect with fellow attendees in a lively, informal setting. *21+ activity.
Location: Beach Bar
18:00 – 22: 00 | Closing Gala
Step into the golden age of glamour and glitz at our vintage Hollywood and Oscars night-themed Closing Gala. Enjoy an evening filled with red carpet moments, paparazzi, fine dining, and dazzling entertainment that captures the magic and excitement of Tinseltown. It’s your chance to shine like a star and experience the allure of vintage Hollywood.
Location: Commodore Ballroom
22:00 – 24:00 | After Dark
When the sessions wind down, the good vibes keep going. Join us After Dark at the beach bar for conversations, ocean breezes, and California sunsets. Whether you’re catching up with colleagues or making new connections, this casual evening hangout is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy San Diego’s coastal atmosphere. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to network in a fun and engaging setting. *21+ activity.
Location: Beach Bar