Canadian Construction Association
by SHCA SHCA

National Infrastructure Assessment Underscores Urgent Need for Delivery-Focused Reforms

Canadian Construction Association

The Canadian Construction Association (CCA) welcomed the release of the National Infrastructure Assessment (NIA), noting that its findings strongly substantiate CCA’s long-standing recommendations for long-term planning, modernized delivery systems and the core infrastructure required to support Canada’s housing ambitions.

CCA president Rodrigue Gilbert says the assessment reinforces a message the industry has long emphasized: Canada cannot build more homes without the enabling infrastructure required to support them. 

“We are pleased to see the NIA clearly recognize that housing cannot accelerate without major improvements to water and wastewater capacity, solid waste management and public transit access,” said Gilbert. “These are the foundational systems that determine whether communities can grow.”

By providing a detailed snapshot of Canada’s housing-enabling infrastructure, the NIA reinforced the challenges CCA has consistently raised. The assessment shows that over $126 billion of infrastructure is in “poor or very poor condition,” with 11 per cent of water and wastewater assets and more than 13 per cent of public transit assets at risk, and solid waste infrastructure approaching capacity limits. This re-emphasizes the need for governments to act decisively to support safe, resilient and growing communities.

While the NIA provided an important national roadmap, CCA notes several areas where further action is needed:

  • Workforce gaps: The report focuses primarily on engineering students, without addressing the broader construction trades, vocational training and apprenticeships critical to meeting labour demand.
  • Data limitations: The NIA provides a snapshot of infrastructure conditions using 2022-2023 data, but lacks a plan for regularly updated, comprehensive information to guide evidence-based decisions.
  • Annual publication and stakeholder engagement: CCA recommends an NIA be published annually, developed with extensive engagement of relevant stakeholders, reflecting diverse perspectives and using evidence from infrastructure, economic and growth data to support long-term asset management planning.
  • Future scope: While the current NIA focuses on housing-enabling infrastructure, future assessments should also address transport and trade-enabling infrastructure to strengthen economic resilience and bolster our supply chains.

“The assessment provides a clear national vision, but delivery depends on coherent policy frameworks that support it,” said Gilbert. “To turn these findings into action, we need a workforce strategy that reflects real labour-market needs, fair, open and transparent procurement policies, supply chains that remain resilient under new domestic sourcing rules and internal trade policies that break down barriers between provinces. Without these elements, even the strongest infrastructure plan risks stalling on implementation.”

by SHCA SHCA

Canadian Construction Association Applauds Federal Budget’s Significant Infrastructure Investments, Calls for Co-ordinated Workforce Strategy

Canadian Construction Association

The Canadian Construction Association (CCA) welcomes the federal budget, which puts construction at the heart of Canada’s economic strategy through investments in infrastructure, defence and housing. These measures are critical to supporting the businesses and people who build the homes, transportation networks and other projects Canadians rely on every day.

CCA commends the government’s significant $115 billion investment in infrastructure, including $51 billion for local infrastructure such as housing and transportation, which will support communities across Canada and enable the ambitious homebuilding agenda.

“Canada has underinvested in critical infrastructure for decades,” said Rodrigue Gilbert, president of CCA. “These investments reflect the essential role of housing-enabling infrastructure in addressing the national housing shortage and committing substantial resources to these projects.” CCA also welcomes investment for the Major Projects Office, and the recognition within the budget that “for too long, the construction of major infrastructure in Canada has been stalled by arduous, inefficient approval processes.”

While the budget marks an important step toward recognizing construction’s role in Canada’s economy, CCA continues to call for a co-ordinated national workforce strategy, one that connects immigration, apprenticeships, upskilling and the destigmatization of careers in the skilled trades. “The construction sector employs 1.6 million Canadians and contributes $165 billion to Canada’s GDP, yet we continue to face significant labour shortages,” said Gilbert. “Without a long-term, co-ordinated workforce strategy, any ambitious construction agenda will stall.”

The government’s investment in foreign credential recognition is also important. However, CCA cautions that it is too narrowly focused on unionized programs. “Union training programs play an important role in building Canada’s workforce, but we must ensure equitable access to training and credential recognition for all workers, including the 70 per cent of Canada’s construction workforce that is non-unionized,” said Gilbert. “If we want to build more homes and infrastructure faster, we need investments that don’t leave the majority of workers behind.”

Finally, CCA supports the government’s ambition to strengthen domestic industry, but procurement policies must not unintentionally restrict the construction supply chain. Canada’s builders depend on a reliable flow of materials and components. Continued dialogue with the construction sector is critical to ensuring that domestic sourcing policies strengthen rather than constrain Canada’s ability to build.

“We look forward to working with the federal government to ensure domestic sourcing policies strengthen – not constrain – Canada’s construction capacity,” said Gilbert. “When [the] government and industry work together, we can deliver more skilled workers, modern infrastructure and stronger communities. Together, we build Canada.”

People, hands and outdoor stacked for support
by Rodrigue Gilbert Rodrigue Gilbert

Power in Unity

People, hands and outdoor stacked for support

In a year marked by political change and economic uncertainty, Canada’s construction industry is not standing still – we’re shaping the future, and at the core of that momentum is partnership. Thanks to the unwavering support and collaboration of partner association members, such as SHCA, CCA is not only elevating our industry’s national voice. We are turning that voice into action, influence and results.

Advocacy that delivers

When economic uncertainty hit and Canada-U.S. trade tensions escalated, CCA quickly recalibrated. We identified key issues affecting your business, including trade-enabling infrastructure, fair and transparent procurement and strengthening Canada-U.S. relations. We took those priorities straight to Finance Canada, Public Services and Procurement Canada, Canada’s U.S. ambassador and national business leaders. We joined the Canada-U.S. Trade Council to ensure construction has a seat at the table and a say in shaping continental trade. We also strengthened ties with groups like the Canadian American Business Council, forging alliances to tackle common challenges.

Thanks to the unwavering support and collaboration of partner association members like SHCA, CCA is not only elevating our industry’s national voice. We are turning that voice into action, influence and results.

Our national election campaign, Construction for Canadians, brought the industry’s voice to the national stage, with 74 candidate testimonials, 84 pledges of support, four billion media impressions and 165 national media hits. We put construction at the centre of critical policy debates around economic resilience, infrastructure investment and workforce development – exactly what Canada needs in this next chapter of nation-building.

These efforts are already making waves. Our priorities were reflected in the federal mandate letters, the speech from the throne and plans for a new Major Federal Project Office – a sign that the federal government is hearing our message loud and clear. CCA is already building relationships with newly elected MPs and ministers, laying the foundation for a powerful Hill Day and Meech Lake meeting in the fall. Together, we’ll advocate for the investments, policies and tools that Canada’s construction industry needs to drive our economic prosperity.

The road ahead

CCA is moving full speed ahead to ensure the momentum it built is not lost. The construction sector, backed by partners like SHCA, will continue pushing for the policies and investments that will move the industry forward. With strong partnerships, a united voice and a clear vision, we can build a more resilient supply chain, a stronger workforce and the modern infrastructure Canadians need. CCA is committed to advocating for the tools, policies and investments that will allow our industry to thrive – not just for today, but for generations to come. 

by SHCA SHCA

Canada’s Construction Industry Celebrates the Government’s Initial Portfolio of Nation-Building Projects

Canadian Construction Association

The Canadian Construction Association (CCA) applauded the Major Projects Office’s (MPO) announcement of important, nation-building infrastructure projects, which will receive expedited approvals and priority status. 

“We have been advocating for the reduction of red tape and greater investment in national, shovel-worthy infrastructure projects for many years, including through our leadership of the Canadian Trade Infrastructure Plan,” said Rodrigue Gilbert, CCA president. “Today’s announcement further cements the importance of our industry and the role we play in supporting and enhancing the everyday lives of millions of Canadians, enabling our national economy and bolstering our supply chains.” 

These projects send a strong signal from the federal government of its commitment to national infrastructure and a long-term plan for critical infrastructure. This new focus will boost Canada’s economy, unlock its natural resources and create well-paying jobs for countless Canadians. 

The announcement is also a major success for CCA, which has long advocated for the Canadian Trade Infrastructure Plan, a long-term investment solution aimed at spurring the next generation of economic growth in Canada through investment in road, rail, air, port and marine assets. The prioritization of several trade infrastructure projects is a step in the right direction. 

“We are very happy to see that the government clearly made an effort to prioritize shovel-worthy projects, not just shovel-ready projects,” said Gilbert. “We can always find projects to build, but we must prioritize those projects that will move the needle for our economy, and we believe the federal government has done just that.” 

CCA looks forward to building on this progress by continuing its work with the federal government to ensure that the MPO and the government consult with industry and invest in projects that will strengthen our economy and build a stronger Canada together. 

Blurred audience listening to a speaker at a professional conference event in a large auditorium.
by SHCA SHCA

Construction Professionals to Gather in Toronto for Inaugural Best Practices in Construction Symposium

Blurred audience listening to a speaker at a professional conference event in a large auditorium.

The Canadian Construction Association (CCA) is hosting a high-demand event for professionals from across the construction industry to showcase the tools, strategies and real-world insights they can put to work right away when delivering their next project.  

“This is a pivotal time for our industry and the opportunities ahead are endless,” said Rodrigue Gilbert, CCA president. “We are delivering this hands-on, skills-based event for the people that are building Canada. This is an opportunity to connect with experts so that we can all build better, faster. With a strong line-up of experts, this event is sure to be a valuable experience for all attendees and raise the standard of excellence even higher for our entire industry.”  

From engaging speakers to insightful panel discussions and networking sessions, the program is crafted to help construction professionals solve everyday job site challenges and deliver better project outcomes. Topics will include:  

  • Greener building practices – and how to implement them  
  • Data-driven decision-making from site to office  
  • Project management strategies that deliver results  
  • Equitable procurement and smarter contracting  
  • Collaboration models that break down silos  
  • Post-pandemic innovations that are here to stay  

In addition to the value that the program content will provide, all participants will also qualify for accreditation from various professional organizations, including two credits that are valid for construction management professionals applying for Gold Seal Certification or Professional Gold Seal Certification.  

“As our country looks to strengthen its economy and build major infrastructure, our industry needs to meet the moment,” said Gilbert. “The Best Practices in Construction Symposium is just one way of ensuring that we’re all operating at our best and rise to the occasion.”  

For more details on the symposium, visit CCA’s website at cca-acc.com/events/best-practices-symposium/.

Cover photo of CCA's Building resilience: A guide to climate governance for Canada's construction sector publication
by SHCA SHCA

New Guide Helps Construction Leaders Build Climate-Ready Companies

As climate change intensifies across Canada, a new report released by the Canada Climate Law Initiative (CCLI) and the Canadian Construction Association (CCA) is calling on the construction sector to embed climate resilience into their core governance. Building resilience: A guide to climate governance for Canada’s construction sector provides a practical roadmap to help industry leaders address growing climate risks across the entire construction value chain.

Cover photo of CCA's Building resilience: A guide to climate governance for Canada's construction sector publication

With nearly 30 per cent of the country’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions linked to construction, companies within Canada’s construction industry can play a significant role in addressing climate change and creating more sustainable and resilient communities.

“The construction and buildings sector holds enormous potential to drive positive change,” said Rodrigue Gilbert, CCA president. “Through effective governance, leadership and collaboration across the value chain, the sector can play a pivotal role in creating more sustainable, climate-resilient communities. From project financing and design through to construction, maintenance and renovations, each actor plays a critical role.”

While construction has always faced environmental challenges, climate change introduces more severe risks – like heatwaves, wildfires and flooding – that disrupt projects and endanger communities. The guide calls for long-term, governance-driven strategies to build resilience.

Key messages from the report include:

  • Directors and senior leadership are central to climate action. They hold significant power to ensure that climate risks and opportunities are properly considered in business decisions.
  • Climate action is a competitive advantage. By adopting long-term strategies around mitigation and adaptation, companies can lead in a changing marketplace, enhance business resilience and meet evolving client expectations.
  • A systems-level coordinated approach is essential. Projects involve many players at different stages in the life cycle – from project inception and financing to maintenance and renovations. Building climate resilience requires cross-sector coordination, continuity and shared accountability.

“Climate governance is a strategic imperative for Canadian construction companies to build sustainable and resilient businesses and communities for the future,” said Jacqueline Fitzpatrick, author of the guide and CCLI affiliated research scholar.

“Climate governance is not merely a corporate initiative – directors must be aware of their evolving fiduciary duties,” said Amee Sandhu, a volunteer climate change governance expert at CCLI as well as senior legal counsel at Alstom. “As citizens, regulators and stakeholders demand accountability, this guide provides practical insights to construction firms’ management and directors as they navigate this newly emerging area of law, ethics and business.”

Building resilience offers clear, actionable guidance tailored for construction companies of all sizes. It includes legal context, risk assessment frameworks and tools to help boards and management teams embed climate governance into their core operations. “Directors have a clear role to play in shaping the future of the industry,” said Gilbert. “This guide makes it easier for them to lead with confidence, fulfill their responsibilities and align with the transition to a low-carbon, climate-ready economy.”

Get your copy of the guide at cca-acc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Climate-governance-report-en-Jun-25-2025.pdf.

Crack between America and Canada flags. political relationship concept
by Rodrigue Gilbert Rodrigue Gilbert

Standing Strong Against Tariffs

Crack between America and Canada flags. political relationship concept
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In construction, where everything depends on long-term planning and tight cost forecasts, even a small disruption in the supply chain can throw things off in a big way. Lately, the rise in protectionist talk and new trade barriers, such as the 25 per cent tariff the U.S. placed on Canadian steel and aluminum, are causing significant turbulence across the industry.

The U.S. remains Canada’s largest trading partner, and our construction industry is deeply integrated with cross-border supply chains. Tariffs disrupt those chains, driving up costs, creating uncertainty, and delaying essential public and private sector projects.

For Saskatchewan’s heavy construction contractors, many of whom rely on imported steel and key materials for large-scale public and private projects, the potential impacts are stark:

  • Skyrocketing material costs that could make projects financially unviable.
  • Delays in project delivery due to supply chain disruptions.
  • Increased uncertainty that discourages investment and long-term planning.

These impacts extend far beyond the construction yard. When projects are delayed or cancelled, Saskatchewan’s communities are left waiting for the services, jobs and growth those investments were meant to deliver.

CCA has been actively working with federal and provincial leaders to ensure the construction industry’s voice is heard in trade and economic policy discussions.

What CCA is doing to fight for the industry

The Canadian Construction Association (CCA), representing over 18,000 member firms, is proud of our mission to inspire a progressive, innovative and sustainable construction industry. With partners like SHCA, we’re committed to shaping a stronger, more resilient Canada through the power of construction.

CCA has been actively working with federal and provincial leaders to ensure the construction industry’s voice is heard in trade and economic policy discussions. As part of our strategy, we have:

  • Participated in government consultations to highlight the specific risks tariffs pose to Canadian construction.
  • Engaged with policymakers to promote tariff exemptions or mitigation measures for essential materials.
    Published economic analyses showing how tariffs lead to higher costs and stalled progress on infrastructure.
  • Construction for Canadians: A call to action

We’re not just reacting, we’re pushing for proactive policies that protect our industry and the broader Canadian economy.

The 2025 federal election presented a pivotal opportunity for us to rally support for the construction sector. Through our Construction for Canadians campaign, CCA worked to ensure that construction remained a key issue in the national conversation, championing policies that promote growth, sustainability and resilience in our industry.

While the election may be behind us, the work continues. Our campaign wasn’t just about influencing platforms, it was about building long-term awareness and support for construction as a pillar of Canada’s economic future. Now, as the newly elected government begins its mandate, CCA remains focused on turning these conversations into real, lasting progress.

Turning advocacy into action

Now more than ever, Canada needs investment in resilient infrastructure that will support growth and meet the demands of a changing world. We must grow the construction workforce, modernize procurement processes and cut the red tape that hampers project delivery.

Canada has slipped from 10th to 26th in global trade infrastructure rankings. This is troubling for a country whose economy depends on the import and export of goods. Our ports, railways and highways, the arteries of our supply chains, are stretched thin and ill-equipped to handle growing demand and the mounting need to diversity our markets. Saskatchewan’s key export sectors are particularly vulnerable to bottlenecks at ports, rail terminals and highways.

CCA has been working in partnership with other stakeholders to secure a Canada Trade Infrastructure Plan that prioritizes strategic, long-term investments. A cornerstone of this plan is the creation of the Canadian Infrastructure Council, a significant milestone in pushing forward the National Infrastructure Assessment, which is a priority for CCA. This council will play a key role in prioritizing strategic infrastructure projects critical to Canada’s future.

With strong partnerships, a united voice and a clear vision, we can build a more resilient supply chain, a stronger workforce and the modern infrastructure Canadians need. CCA is committed to advocating for the tools, policies and investments that will allow our industry to thrive, not just for today, but for generations to come.

by SHCA SHCA

Raising the bar: The Canadian Construction Association unveils new Gold Seal Certification portal and directory

Canadian Construction Association

The Canadian Construction Association (CCA) has launched a new online portal and directory to improve the user experience for current and future Gold Seal Certified industry professionals. The new directory also allows employers and industry partners to easily verify and identify accredited professionals across Canada, supporting the program’s credibility and visibility.

“This portal and directory have been a very important project for our Gold Seal team over the last year as part of our ongoing commitment to digitize first,” said Rodrigue Gilbert, President of the CCA. “The Gold Seal portal joins our various digital resources and directories, which help to maintain and increase integrity and transparency within our services.”

“In our industry, we have to keep raising the bar – and that is exactly what our Gold Seal Certified workers and Gold Seal Employers do each and every day.”

– Rodrigue Gilbert, President of the CCA

CCA’s Gold Seal Certification is a nationally recognized standard of excellence for construction management professionals. Earned through industry experience, education, and examination, Gold Seal Certification enhances professional development, improves job mobility, and demonstrates skills, competence, and experience.

“In our industry, we have to keep raising the bar – and that is exactly what our Gold Seal Certified workers and Gold Seal Employers do each and every day,” said Gilbert. “We will continue to make it easier for construction professionals to become Gold Seal Certified and encourage them to continue leading with the highest standard of excellence so our industry can continue to build a stronger Canada.”

Employees who enroll and complete Gold Seal Certification take pride in their work and expertise. As we seek to develop and enhance our workforce, programs like Gold Seal help to not only ensure confidence in our industry, but to set a standard to which new workers can model during the early stages of their career. Together, we can all take pride in building a better Canada.