Portrait of a smiling mature woman in a hardhat on construction site
There is a labour shortage in the construction industry – and it’s not exactly breaking news. Headlines declare that “nobody wants to work anymore,” but is this explanation really at the root of what’s a longstanding, industry-wide issue?
Amid the “Great Resignation,” as Baby Boomers retire and Gen Z workers reject the long hours of the construction industry, it’s more important than ever to examine the causes of this unprecedented labour shortage and explore potential solutions. Numerous companies are feeling the pressure, especially in the skilled trades, and many have not yet been able to solve their workforce woes. After increasing pay and flexibility with little to no results, a lot of companies find themselves asking, “Is our company culture to blame?”
During an education session titled “Culture in Construction – Is It Really That Bad?” at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023, speaker and construction industry advocate Wally Adamchik walked through the reasons why the answer to that question is both yes and no.
The good news is that industry-wide survey results indicate the construction industry’s culture issue may not be so bad, according to the 2019 People in Construction Report, says Adamchik. In fact, 83 per cent of people say that they would reapply for their current position and 73 per cent of people say that they are happy at work.
However, these results are not good enough to sustain successful growth and project execution, according to Adamchik. In addition, there is a significant divide between project management in the office and field supervision on the job site. In the office, 81 per cent of employees say that they have a close friend at work; in the field, only 50 per cent of employees share that sentiment. On top of that, 75 per cent of office workers feel that they can maintain a reasonable work-life balance, while again only 50 per cent of field employees feel that they can maintain a reasonable work-life balance.
Rather than list off more statistics about the industry’s labour shortage, many leaders want information about creating a more long-lasting and motivated labour force. There are several concrete actions that can be taken to improve company culture and keep workers happy, and companies should act now to avoid losing more of their employees. The labour shortage isn’t exclusive to the construction industry, and these actions can be implemented in any workplace. Even organizations with good company culture can implement some of these changes to elevate employee experience:
Standards and values. Approximately 90 per cent of survey respondents agreed that ignoring the core values of their workplace would get them into trouble. This shows that workplace values still matter, and the most visible way to manifest this is to enforce standards across the board. There should be no double standard when it comes to values. Employees will take standards and values more seriously when they are a part of company culture, and see leadership being held accountable to the same standards as employees.
There are several concrete actions that can be taken to improve company culture and keep workers happy, and companies should act now to avoid losing more of their employees.
Creating lasting change. Three quarters of senior leadership (those who are supposed to be spearheading change in the workplace) say that their efforts fall short. Change requires organizational capacity and requires a significant personal investment from leaders. Creating a path for change with concrete steps to follow along the way will help companies maintain organization and encourage both employees and leadership to follow through.
Encouraging and participating in employee recognition. There are a multitude of opportunities to tell employees how much they are appreciated. Chances are that on a daily basis, there are numerous opportunities to give positive and relationship-building recognition. Companies that regularly participate in positive recognition are more likely to attract and retain loyal employees.
Amping up one’s referral program. About 84 per cent of employees surveyed say that they would recommend their workplace to a friend (but don’t). Furthermore, 83 per cent of employees say that they would reapply for their current position if given the chance. There are also several ways to increase the effectiveness of a referral program, including using an easy-to-use option, offering a mixture of incentives, announcing or re-announcing the program, and recognizing current employees for referring candidates.
Bridging the gap between teams and departments. In construction, there are several discrepancies between survey answers from field and office staff members that could be corrected with a little work. For example, creating teambuilding opportunities for one’s entire staff on a monthly or quarterly basis can go a long way toward building camaraderie.
While there are several improvements that would benefit the construction industry’s culture, and company culture in general, the survey results show that the situation may not be as bad as advertised. There are several actions that employers can take to improve company culture, from enforcing values to bringing employees together. Even small actions make a big difference, and there is no better time to start than now!
Helium liquefaction facility could help ensure the security of Canada’s health sector
By Erin Matthews, Saskatchewan Research Council
Critical minerals provide the materials needed for nearly every aspect of our day-to-day lives and are becoming increasingly important for growing a prosperous future. Canada’s recently announced Critical Minerals List highlights 31 minerals and metals that are crucial for green energy, technology, transportation and health care. Saskatchewan’s own Critical Minerals Strategy focuses on the critical minerals found in the province including potash, uranium and rare earth elements. The strategy also has a strong focus on helium, a unique addition to this list.
A colourless gas that’s lighter than air, helium is the only critical mineral that isn’t truly a mineral. It is a commodity with rising demand in a global shortage.
While gaseous helium is mostly known for its use in party balloons, it is a critical substance that rarely has a substitute in both industry and health care. When mixed with oxygen, helium can be used to help people with asthma and other respiratory ailments breathe easier. In the manufacturing industry, helium is often used as a shielding gas in arc welding and in the production of semiconductors.
When cooled down to -269 degrees Celsius, helium transforms into a liquid with superior cooling properties. Liquid helium is essential for MRI machines to function in running scans, allowing for crisp, clear images needed for diagnostics. Synchrotrons and particle colliders – like the Large Haldon Collider – require helium to maintain stable temperatures needed for experiments.
Helium is even used as a coolant in certain types of nuclear reactors.
While helium is the second most abundant element in the universe, it is one of the rarest on Earth. With Canada’s most significant helium reserves found in southwestern Saskatchewan, the province has the potential to be a leader in helium production.
Producing helium on the Canadian prairies
While helium is the second most abundant element in the universe, it is one of the rarest on Earth. With Canada’s most significant helium reserves found in southwestern Saskatchewan, the province has the potential to be a leader in helium production.
Naturally found in deposits of natural gas, helium was first discovered in Saskatchewan during hydrocarbon exploration in the 1940s. The province’s first facility for helium production was later commissioned in the early 1960s.
In 2021, the Government of Saskatchewan released their plans to grow the province’s helium industry with the goal of producing 10 per cent of the world’s helium by 2030. On behalf of the Saskatchewan Ministry of Energy and Resources, the Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) investigated the potential of building a helium liquification hub in the province. This hub would be the first industrial-sized helium liquefaction facility in Canada and allow Saskatchewan to contribute towards ensuring the security of Canada’s health sector.
Led by SRC’s process development team – a group of client-focused chemical and electrical engineers, geologists and chemists – the study consulted stakeholders, examined the market, assessed environmental considerations and identified key infrastructure. The full report is available online.
Three scenarios for Saskatchewan’s helium liquefaction hub
The report concluded that building a helium liquefaction facility or a hub of several facilities would allow Saskatchewan to maximize the full value of this critical resource.
“A helium liquefaction plant could be instrumental in adding value to the province’s helium industry,” said Erica Emery, a senior research engineer on SRC’s process development team.
The report identified several options for expansion.
A liquefaction hub wouldn’t need to be located directly at production sites, but building a facility near to current or future sites would be ideal as transporting helium carries significant challenges. Weight restrictions limit the use of secondary highways, so designing liquefaction facilities with direct access to primary roads is key to establishing a successful helium hub.
Saskatchewan will need to ramp up production of helium to reach the goal of providing 10 per cent of global demand. SRC found that a single large-scale facility capable of liquefying 700 million cubic feet per year or 370 kilograms per hour of helium is one way to achieve this – providing the province with a liquefaction process model and an overview of challenges, potential solutions and the cost of a large-scale facility.
A mid-sized facility, capable of liquefying enough helium to reach half of the 2030 production goal was also proposed in the report. This facility would be able to liquefy 350 mmcf/y or 190kg/h of helium with a suggested location near Swift Current – the home of several historic helium wells. The nearby village of Mankota (150 km south of Swift Current) is currently home to a helium production facility.
Alternatively, SRC’s process development team offered a third option – the creation of a liquefaction hub consisting of two liquefiers that could be paired in a single location or split into two locations across Saskatchewan.
“If the province were to support two liquefiers there’s no reason they would need to be built at the same time,” said Emery. “In fact, there are many advantages to building them in a stage-gated fashion.”
The economic return of a large-scale facility was more attractive, but building two liquefiers in separate stages had several advantages for the province, including the ability to grow as the market develops and the ability to spread out capital expenditures over longer periods of time.
Providing unique support for industry and government clients
SRC’s process development team stands out from other business units across SRC with their unique ability to offer a wide range of services that tackle challenges faced by Saskatchewan’s key economic sectors.
“SRC has a long history of supporting innovation through research and technological advancement and the process development group helps our clients achieve economic and environmental solutions,” said Emery.
The group’s initial focus was on increasing the value of heavy oil by developing new processing techniques, which later expanded to biofuel, kaolin clay resources and alternative energy storage.
With over 40 years of expertise in the energy industry and decades of providing simulation and technoeconomic analyses, SRC’s process development team has the expertise needed to assist Saskatchewan’s growing helium industry.
New program from BuildForce Canada creates opportunities for entry-level workers and employers
By Pat Rediger
BuildForce Canada has announced a new program called Construction Career Pathways (CCP) to create more opportunities for both individuals wishing to enter the construction industry and for employers looking for entry-level workers.
“We put together a program to encourage employers to take a chance on people who have never worked in the industry. Once they get in the door, we hope that most employees will stay with their employers. This would help supplement the overall labour force,” said Bill Ferreira, executive director of BuildForce Canada.
CCP launched in April of this year and has a one-year funding commitment from the federal government. Both employers and employees can access the program on the CCP website (ccp-pcc.ca).
Ferreira says the program consists of 16-week, entry-level, paid work placements on construction sites across the country. No prior industry experience is necessary for workers, and employers can access funding to offset the onboarding these employees require.
The program targets small and medium-sized businesses (fewer than 500 employees) with a total wage subsidy of up to $2,400 per employee at the end of their work placement. There are placements available for up to 1,000 workers with half of the program intake allocated to individuals from populations that are underrepresented in the construction industry such as women; members of Black, Indigenous and racialized communities; people with disabilities; newcomers; those who identify as LGBTQ2+ and young people wanting to get work experience.
“There are benefits for both the employers and the employees,” said Ferreira. “The benefits to the company are that they get access to individuals who are keen to work in the construction industry and for workers, they get their first opportunity to work in the industry. The funding itself is designed to help offset some of the costs that the employer would face. The benefits for the individual are not only the immediate employment, but also hopefully a career that they wish to pursue in the construction industry.”
He says the program addresses two key areas that typically concern both sides: the cost of training a new employee and the lack of first-job opportunities. The program is intended to bridge that gap so the employer has a financial incentive to take a risk on a new employee.
BuildForce Canada is a national, industry-led organization that represents all sectors of Canada’s construction industry. Its mandate is to support the labour market development needs of the construction and maintenance industry. It works with key industry stakeholders, including contractors, proponents of construction, labour providers, governments and training providers to identify both demand and supply trends that will impact labour force capacity in the sector, and supports the career searches of job seekers wanting to work in the industry.
How to register
Both the employer and employee must register on the CCP site to participate in the program and answer a few basic questions. Companies provide a description of the position that they are looking to fill and individuals looking for work complete an online profile. BuildForce has partnered with Magnet, a company started by Toronto Metropolitan University, to assist with the matches.
The employer is still responsible for interviewing the employee and completing the hiring process. Once a job seeker reaches an agreement with the employer, the individual is then encouraged to take BuildForce’s online construction safety awareness course to assist with the onboarding process. At the end of the work term, BuildForce will provide the funding to the company.
Ferreira says that the program is really for entry-level positions in the construction industry and is not for Red Seal positions. Employers in heavy civil construction, residential construction and other construction sectors that don’t hire Red Seal trades now have access to a new program that addresses their specific needs. The program does not overlap with the Canadian Apprenticeship Service, although a new employee may consider entering the apprenticeship program after completing their 16-week program.
The program is a key ingredient of addressing the labour shortage the construction industry is currently experiencing, which is only expected to increase in the coming years, Ferreira said. There are estimates that one in every five construction workers are expected to retire within the next seven years, leaving a huge gap in the labour market. This issue, combined with increasing demand for new housing and infrastructure projects, will continue to put pressure on the industry to complete projects in a timely and cost-effective manner.
Smoke inhalation can cause short and long-term damage to workers
By Jon Waldman
One of the biggest stories of summer 2023 in Canada, if not the biggest, was the increase in wildfires that burned throughout the country.
Record numbers of fires and hectares of land burned have resulted in evacuations of cities and towns, while smoke warnings arose in areas far away from the directly affected regions. As reported by Environment Canada, Saskatchewan smoke hours (which is when visibility is reduced to 9.7 km) shattered previous records. From May 1 to Sept. 5, Saskatoon had 282 hours of smoke, with the previous high being 185 in 1981. La Ronge, meanwhile, had 802 hours, with a previous record of 165 from 2015.
Not only can this be a great concern for citizens who might otherwise enjoy a warm summer outdoors, it also increased caution for some in the heavy construction industry. Working outside in summer, where heat be overwhelming in normal conditions, is already a concern during lengthy stretches. Now, smoke and other particle inhalation is a greater risk.
“It’s more important than people realize. Wildfire smoke, especially, has several chemicals associated with it. There’s a significant respiratory risk. Even people who are otherwise healthy, on days where it’s really bad and you’re working outdoors in particularly strenuous activity, there’s potential to notice some of the effects,” said Dr. Niels Koehncke, a professor in the Department of Medicine and specialist in occupational medicine at the University of Saskatchewan.
“People who are otherwise at risk, who have pre-existing lung conditions like bronchitis and emphysema, pregnant workers, are at higher risk for exacerbation. It’s a concern in those circumstances, but on particularly bad days, people who otherwise would generally consider themselves healthy will definitely notice some effect.”
CBS News reported an example of how bad the effects can be in late June. At the time, writer Li Cohen shared information from the Environmental Protection Agency in the United States.
“The particulate matter within the smoke irritates the respiratory system, impacting the body’s ability to function even among those who are healthy, and even short-term exposure of just a few days can have serious impacts,” Cohen wrote. “‘Sensitive groups,’ including children, the elderly, pregnant people and those with pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular issues, are most vulnerable to these impacts.”
In Cohen’s comments, she focuses on those who come outside for recreation. For those whose livelihoods and income depend on being outdoors, there is no option to move indoors. As such, repeated exposure can be dire, especially for those with already weakened systems.
“For people with pre-existing medical conditions, they might find that wildfire smoke worsens them and that worsening can turn into a medium to long-term effect, particularly if this (the fire situation) is not going away,” Dr. Koehncke said.
Part of what makes wildfire so concerning is that its composition is not pure smoke. Instead, as Health Canada explains, it’s a complex mixture of gases, vapour and particles. Contents include ozone, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds and fine particle matter (also known as PM2.5). The latter is particularly concerning.
Working outside in summer, where heat can overwhelm the human body, is already a concern during lengthy stretches. Now, smoke and other particle inhalation is a greater risk.
“There is no evidence of a safe level of exposure for most of these pollutants. This means that smoke can impact your health even at very low levels,” the government agency stated on its website. “As smoke levels increase, your health risks increase. Air quality may be decreased even if you can’t see or smell smoke.”
Another wrinkle that comes into play for the construction industry is that exposure to hazardous materials in the air is already occurring, making the environment that much more troublesome to manage for construction jobs. “They (construction workers) are often exposed to a range of respiratory hazards. Sometimes it’s a crystalline silica layer,” said Jeannette Campbell, senior occupational hygienist with WorkSafeBC. “Layered on top, you have the exposure to substances that have long-term respiratory effects,” she said. “This is the stuff we’re still trying to wrap our brains around because it’s pretty unique.”
Campbell also points out that there is a gap in staff age, and those who have worked in these conditions for longer are more susceptible to illness and other effects from long-term exposure to contaminants and smoke.
“We have an aging workforce that, in some cases, has many years of exposure to respiratory hazards that are going to potentially make them more susceptible to the smoke,” she said.
“We have an aging workforce that, in some cases, has many years of exposure to respiratory hazards that are going to potentially make them more susceptible to the smoke.”
– Jeannette Campbell, WorkSafeBC
Preparation
Arming oneself and one’s staff against wildfire smoke inhalation can be tricky. In many situations, the best defence is personal protective equipment (PPE).
PPE for breathing was a lesson learned during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, where recommendations were made to wear masks when venturing outdoors. In particular, N95-graded masks can be a defence against the elements when worn properly.
“One of the things you can do is get the N95 masks that are well fitted,” Yellowknife’s Dr. Courtney Howard, an emergency room physician, said in a CBC article. “You can tell that it fits well (because) when you breathe in, the mask kind of sucks into your face. If you can feel the air coming around the sides, then it’s not a good fit or you may need to mould it more to your face.”
However, this is the last step in the safety process. “If there are other ways to avoid that exposure, such as administrative and procedural controls, they should be considered,” Dr. Koehncke said, adding that owners and project managers should ask questions such as, “are there changes to procedures and plans for a day or two days that can minimize workers or groups of workers that are exposed to smoke?”
“People who are otherwise at risk, who have pre-existing lung conditions like bronchitis and emphysema, pregnant workers, are at higher risk for exacerbation. It’s a concern in those circumstances, but on particularly bad days, people who otherwise would generally consider themselves healthy will definitely notice some effect.”
– Dr. Niels Koehncke, University of Saskatchewan
Combating the effects of wildfire can also be accomplished through pre-emptive moves, such as developing an Exposure Control Plan (ECP). The Manufacturing Safety Alliance of BC drafted a guide for its members on how to properly build an ECP, which includes:
A statement of purpose and responsibilities
Risk identification, assessment and control
Education and training
Written work procedures (when required)
Hygiene facilities and decontamination procedures (when required)
Health monitoring (when required)
Documentation and annual review (when required)
“Companies have a duty to protect their workers from exposure to wildfire smoke during construction activities that take place during wildfire smoke events,” The Manufacturing Safety Alliance of BC stated in the guide. “Effective controls are available to protect workers from exposure. A combination of control measures is required to achieve this objective.”
Forecasting can also help. Government organizations, in concert with meteorological groups, can aid in project planning by looking at weather patterns and results, as was the case in B.C.
“It was anticipated because last October was so dry and unseasonably warm that we were in a scenario where the soil didn’t have the moisture. So they were anticipating and we didn’t get the rains expected in June, and we have widespread drought conditions,” Campbell said. “It is anticipated that this is going to continue. The two fire weather forecasts I’ve listened to from committees I sit on were not looking at the seasonal shifts we get that bring in the rains in the fall. So, we’re in a wait-and-see scenario.”
While those conditions are still unfavourable, work has to start because of the damage incurred.
“As we move in these areas, as we move into the recovery phase, there’s still a lot burning and there will likely be additional fires,” Campbell said. “Those will now be in areas where we have construction workers going in and working.”
Another step in preparing for work in these new conditions is adapting heavy construction practices. Campbell sees preparation as being similar to dealing with higher temperatures.
“The piece is thinking of outdoor work in terms of how we manage it with heat – can we reduce the intensity with which that work is happening, can we take our breaks in cool places with clean air, using our vehicles as places of refuge,” she said. “Then we need to think of when we’re out there and in the environment of it, what those exposures are.”
In many situations, the best defence is personal protective equipment.
Recovery
The unfortunate reality is no matter how many preventative measures are taken, wildfire smoke inhalation is nearly impossible to avoid.
Thankfully, treatment for smoke-related irritation has several options. In a blog for Hearthside Medicine Family Care’s website, Havilah Brodhead, FNP, listed several techniques, including using a saline-based nasal spray and eating ginger and other anti-inflammatories.
However, the simplest solution is to drink plenty of water.
The implications for Saskatchewan’s construction industry: Embracing diversity, technology and change
By Pat Rediger
In a rapidly evolving construction landscape, where optimism about the industry’s future co-exists with challenges that demand innovative solutions, the release of the How We Build Now: Technology and Industry Trends Shaping Canadian Construction in 2023 report by Procore Technologies, Inc. has significant implications for Saskatchewan’s construction sector.
As the province grapples with its unique set of circumstances, ranging from labour shortages to technology adoption, this comprehensive report sheds light on the road ahead, emphasizing the need for diversity and inclusion programs and the integration of cutting-edge technologies to navigate the industry’s transformation.
“Although Saskatchewan may be less of a hotbed compared to the total construction that is going on across the country, we see that the province is essentially experiencing the same issues as elsewhere,” said Brandon Lee, senior manager of customer success at Procore.
The report, a result of extensive surveys and analyses, underscores the industry’s overall positive sentiment. Out of the over 500 respondents, consisting of owner/developers, general contractors and subcontractors, nine out of 10 expressed confidence in the industry’s conditions for the coming year.
This optimism can be attributed to several factors, including the initiation of large-scale projects such as the Ontario Line subway and clean energy ventures in British Columbia. The growing immigrant population is also driving demand for housing and infrastructure. These factors, coupled with an existing labour shortage, are adding to the industry’s backlog of projects.
Lee says that despite industry optimism, the data indicates there is a clear call for embracing technology to address crucial challenges. The survey shows 27 per cent of the total time spent on a project is used for rework or rectifying issues.
Other findings revealed that almost half of all projects go over budget and over schedule, and over 30 per cent of respondents identified needing new technology to improve operational efficiency and cost controls amid economic volatility. In fact, paper remains a common medium for Canadian construction decision-makers. About a quarter of respondents still use paper-based records or non-digital processes as part of their workflows.
The construction sector has historically faced hurdles in integrating technology tailored to its needs, but the advent of technologies like smartphones and the internet has paved the way for software developers to create solutions that streamline on-field operations.
Data access
The report highlighted that 41 per cent of respondents believe real-time and historical data accessibility would enable them to make better decisions. They also believe they could save up to 12 per cent of their total spending on projects if they captured, integrated and standardized data more efficiently. Notably, a significant 17 per cent of project costs are spent on data and information searches, showing a pressing need for more efficient data management systems.
Lee says that the transition to new technologies isn’t a one-size-fits-all endeavour. The challenge lies in successfully implementing these changes across a company, particularly in organizations with diverse roles and responsibilities. To mitigate these challenges, the report advocates for proactive problem-solving approaches, emphasizing the importance of leadership at all levels to effectively navigate obstacles that may occur.
“Process change management takes time,” he said. “You also have to hold the project teams accountable to leverage the system so that the people who need to make decisions at any point in the company have that understanding of what they need to double down on, or where they are running into issues in a project. This is a more proactive approach to problem solving.”
One of the most critical issues facing the construction industry nationwide, including Saskatchewan, is the labour shortage. The report reveals that nearly 29 per cent of respondents faced challenges accepting new projects over the past three to six months due to the scarcity of skilled labour. With the impending retirement of many experienced workers, the industry faces an urgency to attract younger talent who are already tech-savvy. Lee says that these individuals will soon be at the helm of these companies, making it crucial to create an environment that appeals to their career goals.
Diversity, inclusion and sustainability
The report noted that labour shortages can be addressed through diversity and inclusion initiatives to attract women, minorities and historically marginalized groups. The report indicated that 38 per cent of decision-makers recognize the need for such improvements in construction workplaces.
One of the most underrepresented groups in the construction workforce is women, particularly in executive roles.
“If there is an underrepresentation of [women], not only at the field or the office levels, but more importantly, in the management chain, you’re going to struggle to find the right talent, and in a time of labour shortage, to be able to deliver those projects,” said Lee.
The industry is also keen to adopt more environmentally conscious and sustainable building practices. Approximately half of the respondents have started to focus on strategies like prefabrication and improved material selection to reduce the carbon footprint of their projects. Four in 10 are either currently tracking or plan to start tracking (within the next 12 months) carbon emissions on their construction projects.
As the construction industry grapples with these multifaceted challenges, the report offers a blueprint for progress. The five recommended steps include effective preconstruction practices to enhance productivity, diverse hiring strategies to alleviate labour shortages, streamlined data management for enhanced insights, proactive data management to improve payment processes and the use of construction platforms for a competitive edge.
Lee says that undertaking these steps won’t be easy and it will require company-wide acceptance to move forward.
“I think it’s really important to have a realistic understanding of the appetite for change within an organization, and what can actually be achieved through that effort from top to bottom,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Lee says he is encouraged to see the Canadian construction industry’s leaders express optimism as they look to consolidate and build on post-pandemic progress. In particular, this survey shows half of the respondents see a need to embrace greater collaboration in projects among stakeholders, and half of them are well on their way in their digital transformation journey.
Some also recognize the opportunity to leverage the massive amounts of data generated through the use of technology to make more data-driven decisions across every phase of the construction life cycle. Ultimately, smarter construction empowers construction businesses to have better control of their projects and deliver higher quality builds.
See the importance of the heavy construction industry within and beyond Saskatchewan
By Martin Charlton Communications
SHCA is excited to spearhead the first-ever industry summit for Saskatchewan, which will bring together contractors, suppliers, engineers, government officials and other professionals to focus on infrastructure and transportation.
The summit will be made up of industry education sessions, an innovative trade show and networking opportunities spread over the course of two days on Nov. 29 and Nov. 30, 2023, at the Delta Hotel & Convention Centre in Regina. Speakers will deliver insights and knowledge on a variety of topics. The event will wrap up with industry awards and a banquet.
It is an opportunity to broadly see the importance and impact of the heavy construction industry within and beyond Saskatchewan, while deepening knowledge and insight about infrastructure, equipment, labour needs, projects, investment and much more.
“The Infrastructure Summit is important to members of SHCA because it will provide education sessions that will make us better builders,” said Shantel Lipp, SHCA president.
“Projects are becoming more complex, technology is changing and communication – or more importantly how we communicate – has become more important than ever before.”
Technological advancements within the industry will be highlighted through technical sessions across a broad sector of industry applications. There will be opportunities to learn more about the production and processing of materials, as well as troubleshooting asphalt plants and greener ways of paving. Attendees can expect to see virtual reality being used to attract young people to the heavy construction sector as well as to conduct safety training.
The Brandt Group of Companies, Gerry Huber, Wirtgen Group, Water Security Agency, Asphalt Institute, SMS Equipment, SaskPower, Cenovus Energy and Women of Asphalt will all be sharing valuable information on many different topics. They will cover cold in place recycling, intelligent compaction, asphalt volumetrics, balanced mix design, artificial intelligence advancements in road building equipment, new technology in tack coats, flood mitigation, the future of carbon capture and mining, and the inclusion and retention of women in the industry.
The summit will also offer personal as well as professional development opportunities. Speakers include Pamela Barnum, who will describe how to unlock the code of non-verbal communication. There will be a presentation by Mark Nesbitt, who will discuss creating the next generation of construction leaders. Also speaking is Bob Vaughan, who will cover projects becoming more complex and how to create a culture of success.
A panel discussion on harnessing trade to grow Canada’s economy will bring together Gary Mar, president of Canada West Foundation (CWF), Mary Van Buren, president of the Canadian Construction Association, and Chris Lorenc, president of the Western Canada Roadbuilders & Heavy Construction Association (WCR&HCA).
They have all been involved in a coalition of national organizations that also includes the Business Council of Canada and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.
This coalition came together through the development of a report by the CWF titled, “From Shovel Ready to Shovel Worthy: The Path to a National Trade Infrastructure Plan for the Next Generation of Economic Growth.” The WCR&HCA helped initiate the report, but it has been endorsed by numerous associations and organizations concerned with the current level of investment, the lack of co-ordination and planning on a long-term strategy, and the state of the federal trade corridors fund. This coalition is approaching the three orders of government to advocate for a national building strategy that would invest in Canada’s trade corridors, enabling and harnessing trade-based economic growth.
Topics such as the role of infrastructure in trade relationships and the need for long-term investment in infrastructure to seize opportunities and grow trade to benefit the economy are why this event will be of value to more than SHCA members. It is another opportunity to deliver the message to all who are invited that funding to develop and maintain infrastructure can deliver a return when there is a strategy for investment.
“This summit is important for the government because for decades the private sector has been asking for a long-term, permanent plan,” said Lipp. “Business investment grows when our industry is allowed to build, and the prairie provinces are Canada’s export leaders.”
A memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed in April by Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Alberta is aimed at strengthening the economic corridors between the three provinces, but that too is a chance to do more.
“The importance of the prairie provinces signing an MOU to open up trade corridors is an opportunity for growth because we know that supply chains don’t stop at the provincial borders,” said Lipp. “While this memorandum is a step in the right direction, SHCA continues to encourage the government of Saskatchewan to look at long-term funding commitments similar to Manitoba and Alberta.
“Long-term commitments will help the industry plan for future growth, which will contribute to meeting the goals set out in the memorandum,” said Lipp.
Those goals include improving the efficiency of inter-provincial highway and rail networks, encouraging the federal government for infrastructure funding and national supply chain solutions, keeping these provinces’ economies competitive, growing capital investment and harmonizing regulations to support businesses, industries and shippers.
It is an opportunity to broadly see the importance and impact of the heavy construction industry within and beyond Saskatchewan while deepening knowledge and insight about infrastructure, equipment, labour needs, projects, investment and much more.
An agenda for the summit and more details will be released as the date of the event gets closer. As with all SHCA events, please visit saskheavy.ca and check under the Events section of the website to find details about this event, including how to register.
SHCA 2023 Infrastructure Summit Speakers
Like many of the events hosted by SHCA, the first-ever industry summit for Saskatchewan will offer opportunities to learn and grow by featuring speakers who deliver valuable perspectives.
Events are held by SHCA to help develop and strengthen the voice of the association. Gathering to share experiences, ideas and suggestions helps members recognize and realize improvements and opportunities. It is also how members can find and form the connections that make their businesses and this industry better.
On an individual level, these events are also an opportunity for members to access personal as well as professional development opportunities that will benefit them in their own businesses and careers. This summit will feature numerous speakers who offer knowledge and insights they have developed through decades of professional experience and relationship building. They are sharing these insights to strengthen attendees’ abilities to navigate relationships and challenges to achieve greater success.
Pamela Barnum
The first speaker is Pamela Barnum, who will describe how to unlock the code of non-verbal communication. She is a trust strategist and body language expert who developed her skills and insights during her years as an undercover police officer and federal prosecuting lawyer.
While in graduate school, Barnum studied corporate negotiations and applied those skills to the non-verbal communication techniques she learned over two decades while working in the criminal justice system. In her presentations, she teaches others how to detect deception and interpret non-verbals cues in their personal and professional lives. Those eager to know what she has to share can get a sneak peek by watching her TEDx Talk, “What Drug Dealers Taught Me About Trust.”
Mark Nesbitt
Another presenter will be Mark Nesbitt, who will discuss creating the next generation of construction leaders. Nesbitt is the founder of Nesbitt Training and is an active member of the aggregate community with 30 years as a veteran in the aggregate, mining, trucking and construction industry. He has fostered a passion for helping people develop a multitude of personal and professional assets as they strive to grow and improve upon themselves. He dedicated himself to not only his own development as a leader, but also to assisting his fellow peers in the industry.
By attending leadership seminars and additional alternate training sessions, not only did Nesbitt develop a well-rounded perspective of leadership practices, but he also identified a key component frequently missed by most training and leadership programs – valuable background knowledge and subject matter directly pulled from industry experience.
Nesbitt knows the mining and construction industry is composed of individuals from a variety of backgrounds, and he is able to accommodate all of those involved given his unique collection of experiences and topical relatability.
Nesbitt knows that most industries today desperately need employees who can better their company and ensure its success into the future. Through Nesbitt Training, he is able to help companies establish better legacy knowledge practices and operational processes, as well as improve team leadership and communication skills. He wants to help everyone learn to be a valued member of a top professional team.
Bob Vaughan
Also speaking is Bob Vaughan, who will cover projects becoming more complex and how to create a culture of success. Vaughan has more than 25 years of experience in organizational effectiveness, change management and performance improvement in the private and public sectors in North America, South America, and Europe.
Vaughan will share the lessons he has learned from conducting over 100 workshops on alliance, partnering and culture for success that can be applied to project management. Today’s projects are more complex, with multiple owners, multi-discipline consultants and several sub-contracts. Everyone has good intentions to finish the projects on time and on budget, but there are many misaligned goals and miscommunications.
Those who have heard Vaughan speak appreciate his quick wit, intelligence and the street smarts that come from having both entrepreneurial and business experience. He is comfortable working in both the executive boardroom and the shop floor, and his speaking style demonstrates that.
He is with Bob Vaughan and Associates (BVA), an international consulting firm providing leadership training, business coaching, partnering sessions and strategic planning to mining, heavy equipment, construction, health care and other industries. Prior to forming BVA, Vaughan was the manager of quality improvement for Finning Canada. He was responsible for employee engagement, customer experience and process improvement. He led leadership training and partnering sessions with Finning’s employees and customers in North America, Chile, and England.
Vaughan has worked with the boards of directors for the BC Road Builders & Heavy Construction Association and the Alberta Roadbuilders & Heavy Construction Association, plus many member companies over the last 20 years. He has conducted partnering sessions on many of B.C.’s and Alberta’s most significant road-building projects, including Northwest Anthony Henday in Edmonton, Alta., Kicking Horse Canyon Project in Golden, B.C., and South Fraser Perimeter Road in Vancouver, B.C.
Barnum, Nesbitt and Vaughan are among many speakers at the summit who represent several different types of organizations including equipment dealers, government agencies, trade associations and more. They will be delivering information on a variety of topics, including cold in place recycling, how to use intelligent compaction, asphalt volumetrics, balanced mix design, AI advancements in roadbuilding equipment, new technology in tack coats, flood mitigation, the future of carbon capture and mining, and the inclusion and retention of women in the industry.
This summit will feature numerous speakers who offer knowledge and insights they have developed through decades of professional experience and relationship building. They are sharing these insights to strengthen attendees’ abilities to navigate relationships and challenges to achieve greater success.
More details on these speakers, their sessions and how to register for the first-ever industry summit will be available on the SHCA website under the Events section.
At the end of August, Premier Scott Moe announced a number of changes to the provincial cabinet.
“The mandate of our new cabinet is to build and protect Saskatchewan – to continue building a strong economy, strong communities and strong families, and to protect all that we have built together from threats like federal intrusion and economic challenges like inflation,” said Moe.
Moose Jaw North MLA Tim McLeod enters cabinet for the first time as Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, Seniors and Rural and Remote Health. Prince Albert Carlton MLA Joe Hargrave re-enters cabinet as Minister of SaskBuilds and Procurement.
Six ministers remain in cabinet but take on new responsibilities:
Lori Carr becomes Minister of Highways;
Jeremy Cockrill becomes Minister of Education;
Dustin Duncan becomes Minister of Crown Investments Corporation and Minister responsible for all the major Crowns, including SaskPower, SaskEnergy, SaskTel, SGI and SaskWater, as well as Minister responsible for the Public Service Commission;
Christine Tell becomes Minister of Environment;
Paul Merriman becomes Minister of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety and Minister responsible for the Firearms Secretariat; and
Everett Hindley becomes Minister of Health.
Nine ministers retain their current responsibilities:
Donna Harpauer remains Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance;
Jim Reiter remains Minister of Energy and Resources;
Gordon Wyant remains Minister of Advanced Education;
Jeremy Harrison remains Minister of Trade and Export Development, Minister of Immigration and Career Training, and Minister responsible for Innovation and Tourism Saskatchewan;
David Marit remains Minister of Agriculture and Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation, and also becomes Minister responsible for the Water Security Agency;
Don McMorris remains Minister of Government Relations, Minister responsible for First Nations, Métis and Northern Affairs and Minister responsible for the Provincial Capital Commission, and also becomes Minister of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety, and the Minister responsible for Workers’ Compensation Board;
Bronwyn Eyre remains Minister of Justice and Attorney General;
Gene Makowsky remains Minister of Social Services; and
Laura Ross remains Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport and Minister responsible for the Status of Women and the Lotteries and Gaming Corporation.
The overall size of cabinet remains unchanged at 18, including the premier.
Two members who recently announced they will not be seeking re-election in 2024 – Don Morgan and Dana Skoropad – are leaving cabinet. Morgan becomes Provincial Secretary.
“I want to thank those two members and particularly recognize Don Morgan, who along with Donna Harpauer has been in every cabinet since our government was first elected in 2007, making them the two longest-serving current ministers anywhere in Canada,” said Moe.
Major improvements on Highway 15 near Kenaston underway
A $22.7 million highway construction project is underway near Kenaston. The two-year major highway improvement project will include construction of a subgrade, widening and resurfacing on Highway 15.
“The Ministry of Highways is dedicated to enhancing safety and improving key transportation corridors through continued investments,” Minister Cockrill said. “Highway 15, a high clearance corridor, offers shippers and commercial carriers an ideal opportunity to transport over-dimension loads.”
The Highway 15 corridor allows goods to be trucked without the need to raise or temporarily cut utility lines and other structures.
The ministry will improve more than 1,000 km of provincial highways, putting the province on track to meet the Growth Plan goal to build and upgrade 10,000 km of highways over 10 years.
The Highway 15 construction project is 22 km, which runs from 15 km east of the junction with Highway 11 to about 20 km west of the junction with Highway 2. The project will include culvert replacements and road widening work this year, which is expected to be complete this fall. Paving work will begin during the 2024 construction season.
“This is a major project that will take time to complete,” Minister Cockrill said. “We appreciate the patience of drivers who slow down for safety as we work to enhance our transportation system.”
Langenburg Redi-Mix of Regina is the general contractor.
Link Developments Ltd. selected to construct Regina General Hospital parkade project
Link Developments Ltd. has been selected as the team that will construct and maintain the new Regina General Hospital (RGH) parkade with construction set to begin this fall.
“This milestone is significant in addressing the challenges encountered by residents, staff and other users of the RGH parkade facility,” SaskBuilds and Procurement Minister Joe Hargrave stated. “Our commitment remains unwavering as we strive to deliver accessible and convenient infrastructure for the benefit of all Saskatchewan residents.”
“Our government is very pleased to have a construction team in place for the new parkade at RGH,” Health Minister Everett Hindley said. “We have heard the concerns of staff and visitors to the hospital. This parkade will provide a safe, convenient option for parking for years to come.”
The new parkade at RGH will be built in the northwest section of the existing visitor parking lot. Link Developments’ proposed design includes a parking facility with a total of 1,005 stalls, consisting of 873 stalls in the parkade and 132 surface stalls, for a net increase of 686 parking stalls.
“Ensuring a better quality of life for all Saskatchewan people remains a priority for this government and the key objectives for this project drive us closer toward this goal,” Regina Pasqua MLA Muhammad Fiaz said. “These include improving safety, accessibility and convenience for staff, patients, families and visitors at RGH.”
“The Saskatchewan Health Authority is pleased that the construction of the parkade at the RGH is moving forward,” interim vice-president, quality, safety and chief information officer of Saskatchewan Health Authority Michelle Mula said. “With safety at the forefront of our decision-making, the parkade aims to provide additional safe and accessible parking at RGH for staff, patients and visitors.”
Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2024.
$50 million passing lanes project complete on Highway 16
Major safety improvements on Highway 16 have been completed. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held to commemorate completion of the final set of passing lanes which have opened near Saltcoats.
“The Yellowhead Highway is a major transportation corridor that is used to move people and goods across the province,” said Jeremy Cockrill, former Saskatchewan Minister of Highways and Infrastructure and current Minister of Education. “With the expanding canola crushing facilities in the area, there are a lot of large trucks travelling through the area and we’re taking steps to move that traffic safely and efficiently. These passing lanes allow drivers to pass slower moving vehicles safely.”
This highway safety project was a key investment in Saskatchewan’s $2 billion stimulus program during the global pandemic to help drive economic recovery. In all, 26 passing lanes and multiple intersection upgrades were constructed.
The multi-year passing lanes project extends from Clavet, east of Saskatoon, to the Saskatchewan/Manitoba border, east of Yorkton. This highway safety project was a key investment in Saskatchewan’s $2 billion stimulus program during the pandemic to help drive economic recovery. In all, 26 passing lanes and multiple intersection upgrades were constructed.
“As representatives of Saskatchewan truck transport, we are pleased to see investments in the highway network that assist the movement of trucks and most importantly ones designed to improve the safety for our professional drivers,” said Susan Ewart, president of the Saskatchewan Trucking Association. “The passing lanes and intersection enhancements will be welcome by our members.”
Passing lanes are typically a minimum of two kilometres and allow drivers to pass slower moving vehicles safely.
WSA announces $500K infrastructure crossing replacement program
The Water Security Agency (WSA) is launching a new $500,000 cost-sharing pilot program that will assist rural municipalities and irrigation districts with the cost of replacing aging infrastructure. RMs and irrigation districts replacing infrastructure like bridges or culverts that cross WSA channels are eligible for 50/50 cost sharing.
“This is another great example of WSA creating partnership programs to support rural infrastructure in Saskatchewan,” the former Minister Responsible for the WSA Jeremy Cockrill, whose duties were replaced by David Marit in August, said. “As replacement costs for infrastructure continue to rise, WSA is partnering with RMs and irrigators to alleviate the financial impact of replacement, all while safeguarding provincial infrastructure and protecting our communities.”
To be eligible, bridges or culvert-style crossings must cross WSA canals or other conveyance while maintaining current flow rates.
“Thanks to a grant from the WSA Infrastructure Crossing Replacement Program, an RM can not only complete a bridge or culvert project, but the money saved can be used for other critical infrastructure,” said Ray Orb, president of the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities.
There is no deadline to apply to the program, and grants will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Costs incurred through March 31, 2024, will be considered.
$26 million paving project underway in southeast Saskatchewan
The Government of Saskatchewan is ramping up repaving work this year with 230 km of improvements at key corridors around the province, including a segment of Highway 33. It is part of a plan to improve another 1,000 km of highway this season.
“Our construction crews are working all over the province making improvements to our transportation network which will improve safety and enhance key transportation corridors.”
– Jeremy Cockrill
“Our government is in year four of the Growth Plan and we made some commitments to Saskatchewan people, including a pledge to improve 10,000 km in a decade,” former Minister of Highways and Infrastructure Jeremy Cockrill said. “Our construction crews are working all over the province making improvements to our transportation network which will improve safety and enhance key transportation corridors.”
The 38-km repaving project between Fillmore and Stoughton will also include four intersection improvements on Highway 33. Construction began in July and is expected to complete in October.
“Maintaining and improving rural highway infrastructure is important for the people who work, live and visit our communities,” Fillmore Reeve Russell Leguee said. “The upgrades to Highway 33 will positively contribute to the safe and reliable movement of agricultural commodities to markets domestically and globally. Ensuring connectivity between communities and providing safe and reliable roads ensures a better quality of life for people living in rural areas.”
The general contractor is Langenburg Redi-Mix of Regina.
A weekly highway construction update is published on Saskatchewan.ca to provide drivers with the latest details on projects underway to help plan safe and efficient travel.
Bringing together contractors, suppliers, engineers and other professionals
Saskatchewan is embracing its role of providing the world with the food, fertilizer and fuel it needs. The provincial government’s Growth Plan has numerous economic goals, and our industry has a role in ensuring a number of them are achieved.
We know that roads and highways connect our landlocked province to the world. The construction our industry undertakes helps other industries achieve their goals set by the province. For example, earthwork was necessary ahead of the development of canola crush facilities, which will increase Saskatchewan-based processing of canola grown in the province. Our industry is also working to improve roads in northern Saskatchewan, which supports doubling the size of Saskatchewan’s forestry sector.
In my role, I am advocating for deeper and more widespread recognition of how our industry contributes to the growth of the province’s economy. That recognition is coming from leaders in other sectors, and I am working with them to deliver their important perspectives on the value of investing in trade and transportation infrastructure to the people and politicians of this province.
While those other industries (such as agriculture and forestry) grow stronger, our industry is also advancing. SHCA is pleased to play a role in that advancement. While I work with leaders in those other sectors, I never lose sight of the relationships I have with members. SHCA is dedicated to representing, advocating and supporting its members and, in that spirit, I am very much looking forward to a first-of-its-kind event SHCA is developing for our industry.
You might have seen posts on social media recently about the first-ever industry summit for Saskatchewan. SHCA is excited to spearhead this event, which will bring together contractors, suppliers, engineers and other professionals to focus on infrastructure and transportation. There will be industry education sessions, an innovative trade show and networking opportunities spread over two days on Nov. 29–30, 2023, at the Delta Hotel & Convention Centre in Regina.
The complete agenda for this key event is still coming together, but I am looking forward to highlighting technological advancements within the industry through technical sessions across a broad sector of industry applications. You will have opportunities to learn more about the production and processing of materials as well as troubleshooting asphalt plants and greener ways of paving. You can expect to see virtual reality being used to both attract young people to our sector and conduct safety training.
The summit will offer personal as well as professional development opportunities. I’m excited to learn from Pamela Barnum, who will be one of our keynote speakers. She is a trust strategist and body language expert who developed her skills and insights during her years as an undercover police officer and federal prosecuting attorney. In her presentations, she teaches others how to detect deception and interpret non-verbal cues in their personal and professional lives.
As with all our events, please visit saskheavy.ca and check under the Events section of the website where we will add details about this event, including how to register. Right now, if you are interested in participating, I would be happy to hear from you about your interest. You can email me, and I’ll respond to you.
This event is just one of many activities that have me busy lately. We are also planning to make a presentation to the official opposition about our industry and its impact. Other plans are to host breakfast meetings with Deputy Ministers and senior government officials to talk about SHCA. Finally, there will soon be a launch of a series of podcasts about the work SHCA is doing on behalf of members and the people of Saskatchewan.
Before you know it, the summit will be here. Until then, I look forward to working to develop this fantastic event to bring us all together once again!
The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce (SCC) welcomed many of the directions outlined in the Government of Saskatchewan’s 2023 Speech from the Throne.
“The continued expansion of Saskatchewan’s economy, and the growth in our agricultural exports is positive news for Saskatchewan businesses and residents across the province. We are very pleased to hear about progress that has been made in achieving the government’s Growth Plan goals, including population growth, private capital investment, and agri-food exports,” said Prabha Ramaswamy, CEO of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce.
Ramaswamy said she is looking forward to learning more about the new Investment Attraction Strategy. Investment attraction and economic development was ranked as the fourth highest priority for government expenditures among Chamber members. More than 54 per cent of SCC members have indicated investment tax incentives would lead their businesses to invest more capital and create more jobs in Saskatchewan.
“Labour shortage is a key issue facing businesses across the province. Eighty-two per cent of SCC members have indicated moderate to significant impact on their business due to labour shortage. Saskatchewan businesses will be interested in acquiring more details about the recruitment initiatives the province will be implementing as part of Saskatchewan Jobs Plan,” she said.
