Thursday, March 12, 2026
The themes of nation building and building relationships ran through many of the sessions during the first day of the annual Canadian Construction Association conference in San Diego.
Former MP and president of the Treasury Board of Canada Scott Brisson opened the day with a speech highlighting the important role of the construction industry plays in leading the country “at this very important time.”
With relations with our southern neighbour at an all-time low, Brisson pointed out that there is “great excitement around the world regarding trade with Canada.
“There has never been a better time in Canada to think globally about trade,” he said.
(L to R) Paul de Jong (moderator), Kieran Hawe, Dominic Laporte and Ryan Docherty. (ReNew Canada)
During a discussion titled, “Nation Builders: Unlocking strategic infrastructure for Canada’s future,” panelists looked at how industry can accelerate Canada’s major projects development and some the opportunities and challenges that exist.
“I think it’s a time where we need to collaborate,” Dominic Laporte, Senior Assistant Deputy Minister with Public Services and Procurement Canada, told the audience.
When asked if the speed and scale of some of the approvals coming in the near future from the Major Projects Office are feasible, EllisDon’s CEO Kieran Hawe said the industry needs to park some of its traditional ways of doing business.
“I think we only get there if we work collaboratively, align goals from the get-go. It’s kind of like being on the end of the diving board. There’s an element of being exposed. But I think, that’s how we get there.”
Ryan Docherty, EVP, Capital Portfolio Delivery, with Hydro One, pointed out that with so many projects being planned and constructed, there are challenges for event the biggest owners.
“Everyone’s building, not just Hydro One. So, I think about, how can I be a client of choice? How can my partner be successful? And how can I be successful? And that, I think, goes to everyone having trust.”
The day wrapped up with an international construction leadership panel featuring the CCA’s president Rodrigue Gilbert, Jeffrey Shoaf from the Associated General Contractors of America, and Mario Salazar for the Mexican Chamber of Construction Industry.
“We need to work together,” stated Gilbert, echoing Salazar’s comment regarding the ties binding all three nations, including a to-be-renegotiated CUSMA. “The economic integration and the geography aren’t going anywhere.”
On the topic of tariffs, Shoaf said that supply chains issues are more important that materials cost, “in terms of the impact on the U.S. construction industry.”
Construction Series
The CCA also announced its Construction for Canadians Tour, a new national docuseries set to begin filming in June. The 12-week, cross-country tour will give Canadians a behind-the-scenes look at the work, people and expertise required to bring major projects to life at a time of ambitious national construction priorities.
“Canada has set bold goals for housing and infrastructure delivery,” said Gilbert. “While construction is central to the homes, roads, hospitals and public infrastructure Canadians rely on every day, much of the work that goes into delivering these projects happens out of sight. This series is about opening the door and showing Canadians the incredible effort, coordination and skilled talent required to build our country.”
Filmed as an 11-episode series, the Construction for Canadians Tour will travel across 10 provinces, visiting 21 stops at active construction sites and recently completed landmark projects alongside local elected officials and industry leaders.
“The success of Canada’s construction sector depends on strong collaboration across the industry and with communities,” added Gilbert. “Construction is often misunderstood. People see the final result but not the planning, technology, skilled trades and teamwork required to get there.”
CCA Board of Directors
At its 2026 Annual General Meeting on March 9, the CCA made changes to it board of directors.
The CCA welcomed Trevor Doucette who was appointed Chair of the Board of Directors for the 2026-2027 term. CCA thank outgoing Chair, Francis Roy, for his leadership and dedication to Canada’s construction industry.
Looking forward, Doucette shared his vision for the association over the next term. “We must remain steadfast in our mission, embrace innovation, and strengthen our connections with our stakeholders, our clients, and our industry,” said Doucette. “Together, we can build on our success, learn from our challenges, and chart a course that will leave a lasting impact as we navigate the ever-changing landscape of construction.”
Featured image: (ReNew Canada)
