Infrastructure and economic recovery highlighted at Members Industry Summit
Post-pandemic economic recovery, infrastructure and CCA’s priorities were up for discussion at CCA’s Members-only Industry Summit, held on September 16.
“We created this free event to thank our members for their continued commitment to the industry and to share insights we hope would be useful in their businesses.”
Mary Van Buren, CCA president
The event kicked off with a favourite among members, Peter Hall, Vice President and Chief Economist at Export Development Canada, sharing his expert opinion on the construction economic outlook for the fall.
With pent-up consumer demand at a high and GDP rates of growth increasing, Peter reported that the world economy is currently in growth mode, but as those in the industry know, capacity constraints are holding back the level of recovery. This sentiment is echoed by our membership as workforce concerns and supply chain issues remain top of mind.
The summit’s second session explored a future vision for infrastructure with speakers Alex Carrick, Chief Economist at ConstructConnect, and Maryscott Greenwood, CEO of the Canadian American Business Council. Both Maryscott and Alex reinforced that infrastructure projects are best supported when communities recognize their benefit. CCA and our partner associations are also aligned with this view as we continue to advocate for a long-term vision for Canada’s infrastructure investment that responds to provincial, municipal and Indigenous needs while meeting our larger economic goals. Maryscott also reminded participants to not overlook cybersecurity in asset management. We need to expand our risk mindset to include cyber threats to critical infrastructure. This requires a coordinated effort between the public and private sector.
The speakers also touched on the benefit of getting all players involved as early as possible on projects. This type of procurement not only improves collaboration and teamwork, but also helps with planning for sustainability and innovation in the early stages.
The CEO roundtable session featured industry leaders Tim Coldwell, President of Chandos, Robert Hasell, President of Emil Anderson Construction, and Julie Zulich, President and Co-CEO of TESC Contracting Company Ltd. Topics that were covered included infrastructure, sustainability and climate change, technology, and the workforce. Panelists highlighted the importance of predictability in funding as it provides the confidence needed to invest in people, equipment, and technology; removing barriers to ensure money flows to municipalities; and supporting the participation of smaller contractors through fair contracting and procurement.
Ray Bassett, CCA Chair, and Mary Van Buren, CCA President, wrapped up the industry summit with a review of the association’s 2022 priorities and areas of focus, which include increasing infrastructure investment, building the workforce of the future, and exploring alternative delivery models to improve fair and competitive procurement. This was followed by a “big room” discussion allowing members to share their views on infrastructure investment, workforce capacity and fair contracting.
Thanks to all who attended as well as our presenting sponsor, Borden Ladner Gervais, and supporting sponsor, Ledcor Group. It is through your participation that CCA shapes its initiatives and provides value to our members.