Navigating change and building connections at the CCA Annual Conference
The storied walls and iconic architecture of the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac served as the backdrop for the 2025 CCA Annual Conference in Quebec City. Over 500 delegates, including 104 first-timers, gathered for the four-day event that took place March 11-14.
This year’s conference came at a particularly pivotal moment for Canada’s construction leaders. With the tariff situation unfolding, the swearing-in of a new Prime Minister, and the federal election being called just one-week later, the event’s discussions felt particularly relevant, capturing the challenges and shifts shaping the country’s future.
Leadership and strategy amid political shifts
Chantal Hébert, freelance political journalist, kicked things off with a keynote address, sponsored by Aviva Canada, exploring the evolving Canadian political scene. Hébert examined the challenges and opportunities facing Canada’s new leadership, including potential shifts in policy direction and the upcoming federal election. The impact of a tariff trade war on the construction industry was top of mind, leaving the audience to reflect on how these forces may reshape not just the economy and investment landscape, but the very fabric of Canadian society in the years to come.
Political readiness in uncertain times
The conference was a powerful platform for industry leaders and stakeholders to advocate for the future of the sector. At the CEO power lunch, sponsored by BDC, Zey Emir, President of Revay, and Patrick Lamarre, President of Kiewit Canada Group Inc., shared insights on navigating shifting economic conditions. The session, moderated by Rodrigue Gilbert, President of the Canadian Construction Association, emphasized strategic growth opportunities in an increasingly complex global landscape.
A session with leading political strategists highlighted the critical importance of electoral readiness. As Mark Carney was sworn in as the next Prime Minister, live on screen in front of the room, the discussion on anticipating policy shifts, engaging with new political leaders, and developing resilient strategies for navigating the uncertainties of an election year was both poignant and impactful.
Industry growth and resilience
This year’s conference featured 18 sessions with 54 speakers, covering a range of topics from discussions on disaster-resilient infrastructure and adapting to government strategies for sustainable infrastructure, to expert panels on the future of trade-enabling infrastructure (sponsored by Ledcor Group of Companies) and the overlooked costs of Canada’s housing crisis, conversations on modern contracting and procurement (sponsored by Revay) and improving workforce culture and retention through DEI initiatives (sponsored by WTW Willis).
Pierre Cleroux, Vice President of Research and Chief Economist at BDC, presented his Economic outlook for construction, sponsored by Procore, which included insights on the impact of U.S. politics on Canadian markets. Delegates in attendance gained actionable insights to position their companies for success in the years ahead.
Building connections and celebrating excellence
The sense of community was palpable throughout the conference. We recognized the outstanding achievements of women in construction at a fireside chat and reception, sponsored by Pomerleau. The CONtact mentorship program took centre stage with the Innovator’s Pitch, also sponsored by Pomerleau, emphasizing the importance of knowledge-sharing and fostering connections between seasoned professionals and the next generation of industry leaders.
A key moment of the event was the CCA National Awards breakfast ceremony, presented by Northbridge Insurance, where we celebrated excellence across Canada’s construction industry. From innovative projects to outstanding leadership and community impact, these awards showcased the dedication and talent that drive the sector forward.
Industry community-building
Delegates also took advantage of the many networking and social activities throughout the conference.
The first day started with a ski day, sponsored by Zurich Canada, at Mont-Sainte-Anne. Later that evening first-time attendees were welcomed at a special reception, sponsored by Black & McDonald, which led into a Canadian-themed Welcoming Night, presented by Travelers Canada, where delegates showed off their Canada pride.
The excitement continued with a variety of social events that brought delegates together in unique settings. The Fun Night at the historic Quebec Armoury, sponsored by EllisDon Corporation and Intact Surety, provided a memorable off-site experience, while Poutines and Pints, sponsored by Canam Group, offered a casual and delicious way to unwind. The conference wrapped up in true Renaissance-style with a Masquerade Gala, made possible by the sponsorship of Borden Ladner Gervais LLP and Graham Construction.
Take a minute to relive some of the special moment captured at the conference, thanks to PCL Construction for sponsoring the photography.
Throughout the conference, networking breaks, sponsored by MNP, Bird, and Groupe Humaco, gave attendees valuable time to connect between sessions. Daily Hospitality Hours and the After Dark Lounge, with sponsorship from MNP, Aon Reed Stenhouse, Northbridge Insurance, Corbec Inc., and Navacord, provided additional opportunities to unwind and socialize.
Staying connected was seamless thanks to Western Surety Company’s sponsorship of the Wi-Fi, Wilson M. Beck Insurance Services’ sponsorship of the conference app, and AutogenAI’s sponsorship of the charging stations. Marsh Canada Limited supported this community spirit with its sponsorship. Trisura Guarantee Insurance Company ensured easy access to rooms with sponsored key cards, while PLATFORM provided the conference lanyards, Liberty Mutual Insurance supported the conference badges, and Peter Kiewit Sons ULC provided travel mugs with New Bearing Project Partners Inc. welcoming you with conference bags.
With so many opportunities to engage, network, and celebrate, the CCA’s 2025 Annual Conference truly felt like a home away from home for our delegates.
We can’t wait to do it all again next year!