Looking ahead to 2023: United to Build a Better Canada
Welcome to the new year! Before we close the door on 2022, let’s take a moment to celebrate our shared success.
CCA, our partner associations (provincial and local) work together to serve the members of the industry. We each provide unique services to ensure that construction firms – vertical and civil – can thrive no matter the circumstances. CCA has begun a process to review the potential of partner associations also being members of the CCA to recognize their important role.
2022 started with significant momentum and promise. With COVID more under control, in-person meetings returned, projects were released, and consumers began spending. We were then hit with a severe labour shortage, rising inflation, continued supply chain disruption resulting in procurement challenges and increased business risk.
Working together on these challenges produced solid results for our industry. Our unified voice on the workforce issue prompted the federal government to increase immigration and better partner with provinces. The urgent need for skilled trade workers is also receiving nationwide attention as we work to build the number of apprentices and turn construction into a first-choice career. CCA’s partnership with the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum is also delivering revenue to our integrated partner associations to promote the program to their members.
We are gaining momentum on increasing investment for trade-enabling infrastructure through our partnership with the Western Canada Roadbuilders & Heavy Construction Association, Business Council of Canada, and Canadian Chamber of Commerce, among others. The federal government is also reaching out, asking for our input on Canada’s Green Buildings Strategy. Our detailed recommendations were focused on developing a buy clean policy, mandating change, enabling investment decisions, growing Canada’s advantage in building practices, technology and building materials, and training and incentivizing the future workforce.
We engaged directly with members to better understand the important issues in your provinces. Our Standard Practices Tour had us meeting with five regions – Vancouver, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Montreal, and St. John’s – to discuss your pain points with procurement and prioritize best practices.
Looking to 2023, CCA will be amping up our advocacy efforts for a smart infrastructure plan backed by investment. The federal government made promises around a National Infrastructure Assessment, and we need to see some action.
CCA will also continue its work to advance fair procurement – among public and private owners. CCA’s Best Practices Services will deliver new resources – some of which are being developed through the work of our National Advisory Councils. We are also increasing our outreach to buyers of construction so we can educate them on the benefits of sharing risk and involving contractors early in the project.
It’s a digital world and CCA is leading the modernization of accessing CCDC and CCA documents. A new digital service will be launched in 2023, through our partner associations. Our Gold Seal program is also operating more efficiently thanks to instant exam evaluations and results. Digital badges and e-certificates were launched so those who are Gold Seal certified can receive more well-deserved recognition.
I look forward to seeing many of you in Tucson, Arizona for the 2023 CCA Annual Conference taking place March 7 – 10. Featuring exciting learning opportunities on topics that matter most to you and engaging discussions with peers and colleagues, be sure to register at the link below. Our discounted room block rates end February 6 so secure your spot quickly.
I’m very proud to lead CCA in collaboration with the Board, staff, volunteers, and my partner association colleagues from across the country. As we start a new year, I look forward to continuing to work together to turn challenges into opportunities in service to our members. Here’s to 2023!