The Western Canada Roadbuilders & Heavy Construction Association (WCR&HCA) Board of Directors is calling on Prime Minister Mark Carney to share his vision for Canada, implement a four-pronged approach to address the economic impact of the trade war with the U.S. and help Canada emerge more resilient and stronger.
In a letter to Carney May 7, the WCR&HCA urged the Prime Minister, in his first 100 days in office, to deliver his vision, proposed direction and destination for Canada in a major policy address from a location in Western Canada. If accepted by the Prime Minister, that would be historic in nature, WCR&HCA president & CEO Chris Lorenc says.
Moreover, it would help assuage concerns that Western Canada alienation worries will be moot in a federal government that listens attentively, acts purposefully and is government for all the people of Canada, Lorenc says. The letter outlined a four-pronged national approach to respond to Trump’s tariffs. It noted the approach aligns with the Prime Minister’s comments in a recent press conference, in which he outlined the imperatives of focusing on national purpose, benefit and unity in a collaborative ‘Team Canada’ approach.
The Premiers of the four western provinces were also copied on the letter, which can be read here.
As president of the Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association for nearly 17 years, Shantel Lipp has developed a reputation as a fierce advocator for the industry.
Barilla commends Lipp for the efforts she’s made to develop her network for the benefit of the association. “She has made amazing in-roads with government officials,” he said. “It’s nice to be able to text any MLA, including the premier’s staff, and get an immediate response. If the industry has issues, she has access to the right people to try to help with the situation.”
And, of course, the industry has had issues. With those issues, SHCA can point to advocacy wins that benefit not only SHCA members, but everyone working in heavy construction in Saskatchewan.
“Just after COVID hit and inflation started to go crazy, the diesel fuel prices started to climb,” said Lipp. “A lot of the suppliers – especially those producing the material to lay on the ground – use a lot of fuel in their operations. They were hemorrhaging cash. And the government said, ‘Well, that was your bid price. They were reluctant to provide any supplement to help offset the increased costs.’ But our members needed help, so we kept pushing and kept meeting with officials.
“I do my job like everybody else does theirs. You never do it thinking you’re going to get any kind of an award nomination out of it.”
Shantel Lipp
Finally, it got to the point where we were left no choice and took our plea to the radio, calling on the government to work with the industry, and to remind the public of how important safe, reliable transportation infrastructure is to the economy and to public safety. We asked the public to make their voices heard and to call their local MLA. We also shared this message with our members, and phones did ring.
“We were backed into a corner and had to poke them. That got their attention.”
But those efforts paid off. Officials came back to the table. “Together, we worked out what was reasonable,” said Lipp. “We said we understood that inflation was hitting everybody hard – not just us – and we weren’t asking for the moon. We asked to meet in the middle so that people could continue to work. Initially, they weren’t willing to do that, but sometimes you have to ruffle a few feathers to get the odd egg.”
In the end, SHCA worked with officials to revise industry consumption rates to reflect more realistic, mutually beneficial figures. The payment schedule was also changed to monthly instead of at the completion of each phase of a project. In another recent example of an advocacy win by SHCA, the Regina city council proposed a fair wage policy in 2022.
Lipp explained to city officials that a fair wage policy would hurt the heavy construction industry and was unnecessary given that competition for labour in the province was tight and, as such, employers already recognized the need to pay people well. Secondly, contracts awarded by the City of Regina are typically with a general contractor, who then enlists subcontractors. A general contractor would have difficulty providing wage information for the employees of its sub-trades. Third, mandatory apprenticeship requirements could not be applied to the industry, because heavy civil construction does not have apprenticeships or journeyman designations for occupations outside of heavy equipment mechanic positions.
Lastly, Lipp explained how employees in the industry are compensated, which is based on skill, training, experience and the type of work they undertake, and that those factors are also weighed against the market. Lipp’s submission to council ultimately led to the defeat of the motion.
Building relationships
Lipp says that her government relations strategy boils down to a common-sense approach. “It’s respectful conversation,” she said. “When we first go into a meeting, we never go into it confrontationally – it’s business. Sometimes we’ll disagree in a meeting, but you always need to maintain a level of respect, and if a conversation ever slides off the rails, it’s time to stop. Regroup and come back with a fresh perspective. I’ve tried hard to never be disrespectful, but I will make it known that I disagree, or I will give my opinion.”
Keith Hershmiller Photography
If she feels like her message isn’t being heard, she’s willing to escalate. “When [we feel] the government stops listening, that’s when you start to have a problem, and then you have to decide how you need to get your message out. Sometimes, you have to poke them – it’s very rare, and we don’t like to do that, but sometimes you just have to.”
Driven by passion
Lipp points to one thing that fuels her when it comes to fighting for the industry.
“The members,” she said. “If you stop and talk to anybody who belongs to the association – whether they’re a supplier or a road builder – they’re inspiring people. They’re all so down to earth and relatable, and very humble. They just want to do a good job. They make a good living doing what they do, and I rarely come across anyone involved in the industry who doesn’t feel the capacity to give back to the communities they work in or that they come from. They’re humble, hardworking people – and it’s really easy to advocate for folks like that.”
A seat at the table
When Lipp first started working at SHCA in 2008, she says there was an “acceptance period.”
“When I first started, SHCA was going through a change,” she said. “They had an executive director, who managed the office, but SHCA revised the role and created a president role, which would be a CEO. This still included running operations, but it also included advocacy to the government and being the ‘face’ of the association. I became the person the government went to when they need to consult, or the person members went to when they needed to deal with the government. That was a transition.”
“Shantel Lipp is one of those people whose work is all around us, yet is seldom appreciated. The roads and infrastructure we all use and that keep our Saskatchewan economy strong are due, in part, to her nearly two decades leading SHCA.”
Michael Kram, MP for Regina–Wascana
Despite the occasional head-butting during board meetings, Lipp says she’s never felt like she wasn’t listened to or that her opinion wasn’t valued.
“When I look across the board, or across Canada at the other heavy construction or road building organizations, they’re all led by men. I’m the only woman at the table,” she said. “And I’ve never once been made to feel like I can’t share my opinion. As a matter of fact, I’ve been encouraged to be more vocal and that my input is valuable. It’s been great to have these working relationships with my peers.”
Recognized for advocacy
In January 2025, Lipp was surprised to learn she was nominated for the King Charles III Coronation Medal and that she would be a recipient of the award. The medal recognizes people who have made a significant contribution to their community. “I was totally unaware,” she said. “It was a bit of a surprise!” More important to Lipp is the person who nominated her – Member of Parliament for Regina–Wascana, Michael Kram.
“I’ve been honoured to have a close working relationship with Shantel since I was elected,” said Kram. “She’s an inspiring figure in Saskatchewan industry. I’m pleased to see her recognized for her dedication with the King Charles III Coronation Medal.” Lipp is grateful that Kram put the spotlight on the industry.
“I’m more impressed about the nomination than the award!” she said. “The fact that it came from one of our federal MPs. Somebody was paying attention and listening to what we have to say. For SHCA, that there’s recognition this industry is important – it’s important to the province, it’s important to the cities, it’s important to the country. To be recognized for the work we do, it’s really, really important.”
Kram gives credit to Lipp for the work she’s done for Saskatchewan. “Shantel Lipp is one of those people whose work is all around us, yet is seldom appreciated,” said Kram. “The roads and infrastructure we all use and that keep our Saskatchewan economy strong are due, in part, to her nearly two decades leading SHCA.” Barilla agrees.
“This recognition is well deserved for the work she has done in our province,” he said. “Our members sometimes don’t grasp how instrumental Shantel and the association are in making big changes in our province – changes that benefit our industry and the people in Saskatchewan.”
Lipp received the medal in a ceremony at the Atlas Hotel in Regina.
“I do my job like everybody else does theirs,” said Lipp. “You never do it thinking you’re going to get any kind of an award nomination out of it. But it was really nice to be recognized – and more so from an industry standpoint, to have someone at the federal level acknowledge the efforts that I put forth on behalf of the association. It’s also recognition of the association and the industry overall, which is a bigger feather.”
Construction sector taking bold steps toward net-zero emissions
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With a growing need to combat climate change, Canada’s construction sector is embracing ambitious goals to lower its carbon emissions. This transformation isn’t merely a trend, but a necessary evolution toward sustainability. As construction stakeholders innovate and adapt, the role of government support is even more significant.
Rodrigue Gilbert
The shift toward sustainability
The Canadian Construction Association’s (CCA) Q4 2023 ICIC Construction Sector Quarterly Insights report observed that the industry is making significant gains in sustainability. Despite its history as a contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, the sector is swiftly embracing measures to curb its environmental impact. There has been a notable decrease in emissions intensity across various infrastructure assets, and investments in clean technologies and materials are rising.
Key players, from developers to contractors, are integrating sustainable strategies into their projects. Green building materials are being employed to not only reduce the emissions associated with construction, but also improve energy efficiency over the project’s entire life cycle. Renewable energy sources like solar panels and wind turbines are also increasingly being integrated into building designs. Moreover, the availability of AI and big data analytics will offer unprecedented opportunities to monitor building performance, providing insights that lead to more effective energy management strategies.
Government support: The catalyst for change
While industry leaders are driving change from within, the Canadian government plays a pivotal role in accelerating the transition to net-zero. Financial incentives are essential tools to encourage sustainable practices across the construction sector. Tax credits for green building certifications, grants for research and development of sustainable technologies and subsidies for energy-efficient retrofits are examples of the type of government interventions needed.
Sustainability is not just a goal; it is a necessity.
Updated building codes and regulatory standards that mandate higher energy efficiency and stricter emissions targets for new construction and renovations are crucial. By setting clear and ambitious benchmarks, the government can ensure that the entire industry moves toward a sustainable future collectively. These standards not only guide current projects, but also inspire innovation in building design and construction methods.
Challenges and opportunities
Despite progress, challenges remain. The upfront costs of sustainable building practices and materials can be higher, posing a barrier to widespread adoption particularly for the small and medium-sized construction company.
The construction industry requires financial support and incentives to offset these initial investments. The timing is also ripe to update outdated procurement strategies. Engaging with contractors earlier and moving away from the lowest bid model will encourage the use of new processes, better practices, alternative energy and more sustainable materials. Moreover, the industry needs a long-term plan for infrastructure investment – one that will provide confidence to CCA members to invest in new technology, convert to low carbon materials and hire and train staff.
CCA released an update to its 2021 Strength, resilience, sustainability white paper in September. This broader report highlights the progress made by industry, explores the linkages between climate risk and infrastructure decisions and discusses the path forward in confronting the climate crisis. It also serves as a springboard for discussions with government on the need for greater investment and supportive policies to not only achieve net zero objectives, but also protect Canadians and the infrastructure they depend on daily from the escalating threats of extreme climate events.
Looking ahead
Sustainability is not just a goal; it is a necessity. Industry leaders are already demonstrating their commitment through innovative practices and technologies. Continued collaboration with the federal government will accelerate this transformation. By aligning policies with ambitious climate targets and providing the necessary financial incentives and regulatory frameworks, the government can empower the industry to achieve net-zero emissions.
Stay in touch!
Count on CCA to be a collaborative partner to the SHCA, providing helpful tools, sharing best practices across the country and being a voice with the federal government.
Football fans know that the view of the game is much different up in the stands compared to what you can see on the sidelines of the field.
Football coaches know this even better. The value of having an eye in the sky to have a view of the entire field can be exactly what some coaches need to figure out a way for their team to win. Having someone in the booth to call plays based on that vantage point can make a big difference in the outcome of their team’s game.
Getting a different view of the field can be advantageous when running a business, too, but that can be easier said than done. Running a business can take up so much time and attention, and it can be hard to find the occasions and resources to get an accurate perspective about what is happening beyond the business.
However, it is crucial for the success of the business to pop your head up, look around and observe, to get a view of what is happening on the field. Seeing beyond what is immediately going on can give the perspective a business owner needs to find solutions to overcome current challenges and recognize issues that are on the way.
The easiest way to get an in-depth view beyond the day-to-day activities of a business is to be a member of an industry association, such as the SHCA. An industry association has a view of the broader industry and more, and is set up to share that outlook with members to help them be more successful.
Industry associations provide important context to their members who are trying to understand and cope with the forces and challenges each of them encounters in business. Those forces and challenges could be understanding evolving customer interests, navigating human resources and labour issues, securing valuable partnerships or any one of the many complex and evolving situations a member might find themselves in.
Getting a team on the field
SHCA members run businesses that are about more than building roads and infrastructure. These businesses contribute to building the economy. Collectively, the businesses that make up the heavy construction industry add more than $6 billion to Saskatchewan’s gross domestic product, supporting tens of thousands of jobs and providing $1.5 billion of income.
These figures come from the most recent economic impact analysis that was done by Praxis for the SHCA. Research like this benefits the industry and members by establishing the scale and significance of the work they are doing.
Collectively, the businesses that make up the heavy construction industry add more than $6 billion to Saskatchewan’s gross domestic product, supporting tens of thousands of jobs and providing $1.5 billion of income.
Research lends added credibility to members’ interests and experiences, but it also serves customers of the industry by helping them better understand it and the businesses that form it. Other research, such as collecting and analyzing data that can help the industry come up with answers and propose influential solutions for major economic challenges, is also important.
Having access to the major leagues is possible through a membership with the SHCA. Becoming an SHCA member automatically provides an integrated membership to the WCR&HCA as well as the Canadian Construction Association (CCA), both of whom were a part the Shovel Worthy report and advocacy.
Getting in the game
The Shovel Worthy report was developed to get it in front of and be seriously considered by the federal and provincial governments as a plan for how Canada can return to its place in the top 10 of global trade infrastructure rankings, which is needed to restore the confidence of Canada’s trade customers.
Getting in the game and playing the best game possible is more likely when one deeply understands the sport. All governments have competing interests and concerns that must be addressed, as well as their own policy priorities. They have a process for advancing priorities and those who can best engage in the process will have their voices heard. Those who choose not to engage will have no say in decisions that could fundamentally impact their ability to do their job.
Photo courtesy of SHCA
There is more success to be found playing as a team than going solo. The SHCA brings a voice on behalf of its members to key stakeholders and decision-makers. The association advocates on behalf of members who in turn benefit when their businesses grow.
The SHCA has also been on the board of the Saskatchewan Common Ground Alliance, where the association joins the ranks of the major Crowns as well as major mining and development companies. The SHCA also participated on the board of directors for the Saskatchewan Center of Excellence of Transportation and Innovation at the University of Saskatchewan. Once a year, the SHCA also meets with the federal members of parliament to talk about the importance of infrastructure on a national level.
Learning the sport
There are also opportunities for players to learn to play at a higher level and find more opportunities to put points on the board. Each player in the game is going to perform better when they dedicate themselves to learning the sport. This begins with knowing the most current information and status of government regulations, specifications and legislative changes affecting the industry.
The SHCA provides all current members with updates with the most recent information available. Delivered daily are e-news and tender information notifications. These notifications include information about the association events, news updates and technical notices for all members.
Strong players know who is who and what is what when it comes to their sport. The SHCA produces a popular rental rate guide, which is the definitive reference tool used by both the user and purchasers of SHCA’s members’ services. This guide can be accessed electronically, which makes it even more useful. While it comes out annually, the SHCA knows people are using it daily to inform and connect them to the people and services they require.
At least five times a year, members are invited to gather and network with others in the industry. At these events, such as the annual general meeting and the new Infrastructure Summit, speakers share valuable knowledge and viewpoints that will help members as they consider and conduct their own business. Each year, the calibre of speakers and events keep increasing.
Think BIG also continues to be a great tool for getting the industry’s messages out to the people and government. Through this publication, the SHCA promotes their vision, mandates and services, providing members with information related to what’s happening not only in Saskatchewan, but around the world.
Between Think BIG issues, the association’s social media accounts keep members and the public up to date about the latest industry developments. Follow SHCA’s Facebook and LinkedIn accounts to be notified about training opportunities and events, and see the industry and the people working in it celebrated.
Being a member also provides access to networking opportunities. At least five times a year, members are invited to gather and network with others in the industry. At these events, such as the annual general meeting and the new Infrastructure Summit, speakers share valuable knowledge and viewpoints that will help members as they consider and conduct their business. Each year, the calibre of speakers and events keep increasing.
It is important to consider who else attends these events. The SHCA has formal opportunities to listen to and be heard from, such as the panel of guests hosted from SaskBuilds, Priority Sask and the Ministry of Highways at SHCA’s 2024 spring meeting to talk about capital budget planning and procurement.
There are informal opportunities as well. Governments and key stakeholder groups often have their representatives attend SHCA events, such as the annual industry summit, giving members an opportunity to meet and casually discuss their interests.
Developing players
High-performing players also need to be strongly skilled and well-conditioned. That is where education and training come into the picture in helping members become high performers. The SHCA works with those who develop and provide education and training opportunities, so members and their employees have the skills and knowledge they need to be at the top of their game.
For example, the SHCA collaborates with the Asphalt Institute, which provides full days of training, such as the paving inspector certification session. Ministry of Highways officials have attended those sessions to explain why the ministry is making such training a mandatory requirement for paving crews working on their projects.
Think BIG also continues to be a great tool for getting the industry’s messages out to the people and government. Through this publication, the SHCA promotes their vision, mandates and services, providing members with information related to what’s happening not only in Saskatchewan, but around the world.
Watch SHCA’s social media to learn of upcoming opportunities to participate in training sessions. In June, SHCA’s sessions provided information and insight into procurement and contracting, contract law and risk management as well as Construction 101, which is training for introducing people interested in construction to the industry.
The SHCA also shared and supported opportunities for longer training courses to qualify people for careers in the industry. For example, there is the 36-week Heavy Equipment & Truck & Transport Technician Certificate program available through Southeast College in Estevan, which gives participants basic training in two high-demand mechanical trades at the same time as a heavy-duty equipment technician or transport mechanic.
To continue to develop players, coaches must keep adding people to the roster. They must send the message to those not yet in the game that they would enjoy playing and be welcomed onto the team. The SHCA actively encourages people to consider careers in the industry, working to demonstrate that heavy construction is a viable option for women, new Canadians and others who may wonder if they are a fit.
Practice how you play: how members can get make the most of their membership
How you practice is how you play. Approaching practice as an opportunity to strategically develop technically, mentally and socially will prepare SHCA members to play a stronger game. The benefits and resources offered by the SHCA empower members to stay competitive, adapt to industry changes and thrive in their market.
Those who are in business know they must invest money, time and energy to give the business the best chance at success. Investing time and effort to participate in what the association has to offer will also return a result.
There are many functions and services provided to the membership. Several have already been described, but another to take note of is SHCA’s affinity program. There are several opportunities for members to benefit from discounts on office supplies, work site supplies, shipping services, tires, and access to communication services and meeting facilities.
However, for the association to be as strong as it can be, members need to be active, engaged and involved. It takes a strong team to come together to bring forward ideas and information to formulate plans and put them into action. It requires people showing up in person to engage with one another to build the relationships needed to advance the industry’s interests.
Spotlighting current and potential issues in the industry
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With an ongoing national housing crisis, the government’s prioritization of a low-carbon economy and the mounting workforce shortage, Canada’s construction industry is in the spotlight.
Representing more than 18,000 member firms, the Canadian Construction Association (CCA) is capitalizing on the political attention to advocate for strategic investment and policies that will support rather than hinder efforts to build a stronger Canada.
Next steps for the National Infrastructure Assessment
Investment in corresponding infrastructure for every new home built
A long-term plan to fill the gap in trade-enabling infrastructure
Modernization of procurement strategies to support shared risk
Meaningful collaboration with provinces, municipalities and industry
Estimates by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities indicate that each new housing unit requires $107,000 in public infrastructure investment, which means an additional $128 billion is needed to build, support and connect these homes to essential housing-enabling infrastructure. This represents a major shortfall in investment. The focus on measures to ease lending for homebuying and rezoning may only serve to exacerbate demand in the long-term with no real vision on how to increase supply.
Rodrigue Gilbert
CCA voiced these concerns at its Meech Lake meeting in May. This meeting is a chance for industry experts from across Canada to connect with senior federal government officials to discuss critical issues affecting the industry. By working together with the Government of Canada, the construction industry can continue building resilient and sustainable infrastructure for the benefit of all Canadians.
The second of these biannual meetings is scheduled for the fall to provide another touchpoint ahead of CCA’s annual Hill Day in November. Last year’s Hill Day was CCA’s most successful yet, with close to 100 industry experts meeting with parliamentarians from all parties and regions to champion construction, and reaffirm the value of the industry to Canada’s economic growth.
Awareness to action: construction’s progress on net zero objectives
CCA released an update to its 2021 Strength, resilience, sustainability white paper in June. This broader report highlights the progress made by industry, explores the links between climate risk and infrastructure decisions and discusses the path forward in confronting the climate crisis. It also serves as a springboard for discussions with government on the need for greater investment and supportive policies to not only achieve net zero objectives, but also protect Canadians and the infrastructure they depend on daily from the escalating threats of extreme climate events.
CCA’s recently published ICIC Construction Sector Quarterly Insights Report observed that the industry is making significant gains in sustainability practices. Despite its history as a contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, the sector is swiftly embracing measures to curb its environmental impact. There has been a notable decrease in emissions intensity across various infrastructure assets, and investments in clean technologies and materials are rising.
Continued work on trade-enabling infrastructure
The industry is gaining traction in its pursuit of a trade-enabling infrastructure investment strategy. Canada’s premiers called on the federal government to convene a First Ministers’ meeting dedicated to discussing the priorities of a strategic trade corridor infrastructure federal program, and its link to Canada’s economic growth and competitiveness.
With an estimated 300,000 workers set to retire in the next decade and increasing construction demands, there is a real need to partner with the federal government on workforce development strategies. While progress has been made, there’s still much work to be done.
CCA achieved some headway with the federal government on rebuilding Canada’s workforce through immigration reform. Immigration targets were increased, and a new process was announced under the Express Entry program to welcome skilled newcomers with work experience in occupations considered a priority in Canada, including construction.
However, ongoing dialogue will continue as the government needs to create a more supportive environment to alleviate the labour choke points. This includes changing an outdated immigration point system and working with provinces to ensure better skills matching.
Stay in touch!
Count on CCA to be a collaborative partner to the SHCA, providing helpful tools, sharing best practices across the country and being a voice with the federal government.
It would be hard for any Canadian to not notice the conversation around housing construction. Cities in our province, like every other province in the country, have seen their populations grow while the growth of housing stock has not kept up with demand. The need for housing in Canada has been a major concern over the last few years, with report after report coming out about this challenge.
Like many in Saskatchewan’s heavy construction industry, I am paying attention to this topic because this issue is about more than residential construction. The infrastructure necessary for this housing will be built by our industry because our members build more than roads.
Major projects are underway in Saskatchewan cities to address the underground infrastructure before revitalizing the surface infrastructure. The Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association (SHCA) is there to support the heavy construction companies working on those projects. Municipal leaders in our province are describing the strain they are under as they are asked to make decisions around upgrading infrastructure in their communities and securing the necessary funding to complete these projects.
As our cities grow, we are seeing councils having to make decisions about updating aging infrastructure while also looking at expanding that infrastructure to ensure all residents receive the municipal services they require at their homes and businesses. Councils also face conflicting perspectives when it comes to infill construction, with some pushing to build multi-unit developments in existing neighbourhoods where there already is infrastructure, while others resist such changes to their neighbourhoods.
The push for infill housing is led by the federal government, which is offering cities tens of millions of dollars through its $6 billion Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund. Of this, $1 billion is being distributed to cities for urgent infrastructure needs such as improving wastewater, stormwater and solid waste systems.
To many Canadians, that $1 billion sounds like a lot of money, but when you look at Regina as an example, it puts that amount into context. In early July, Mayor Sandra Masters said the city’s infrastructure has been “chronically underfunded” as council considered the Water Network Expansion, a critical project already underway to build a new pump station, plus two additional storage reservoirs that are necessary to supply water to Regina’s growing east end. Masters says Regina has “a billion-dollar infrastructure problem.”
A recent report by the Canadian Urban Institute plainly states that a plan to build homes must also factor in the need for water, wastewater, roads, transit, power-distribution infrastructure and more. In the introduction of A Jump Start: Providing Infrastructure for More Housing, the report makes it clear why we can’t discuss one without the other. “Bluntly speaking, any new housing needs toilets and tap-water,” the report states.
This report says that in fast-growing parts of Canada, the cost of providing a full range of infrastructure likely exceeds $100,000 per home over time. It also says that the cost of infrastructure to serve 5.8 million new homes in Canada over the next decade exceeds anything existing municipal fiscal arrangements could support. Municipal governments receive less than 10 cents of each tax dollar collected in Canada, the report says, while municipalities own and operate most of the public infrastructure. That is why all three levels of government have a history of sharing the cost of this infrastructure through capital grants or lending programs.
The SHCA maintains excellent relations and access to all levels of government. We are in regular communication with MPs, MLAs, ministers, mayors and councillors to put forward our members’ interests. We maintain these relationships not just to bring forward concerns. We also offer solutions to elected officials and bureaucrats. Our members have very valuable insights into the projects these governments undertake, and we offer recommendations on how to be more efficient and effective in these projects.
Being an SHCA member is the most effective way for a heavy construction company to be heard by all three levels of government. SHCA members do so without the risk of standing alone as they deliver what can sometimes be difficult messages to deliver. The message coming from industry – as opposed to a single company – can have more impact.
There are some difficult days ahead for these governments who are being asked to deliver more to taxpayers who are not agreeable to paying more. The Canadian Urban Institute recommends four measures to help municipalities pay for this necessary infrastructure. The first is moving from pre-payment to secured payment for infrastructure over its useful life. The second is ensuring all beneficiaries contribute to infrastructure’s cost over time. The third is reducing municipalities’ infrastructure financial risks and limitations by using innovative financial models and private capital. The fourth and final recommendation is to tailor infrastructure financing models to the fiscal risks and realities of Canada’s small, rural and remote municipalities.
Knowing what other organizations are proposing to the government that can potentially impact our industry is also important. This helps the SHCA keep members informed, but it also allows us to find opportunities to build relationships with organizations to present a united front on issues we have in common.
We saw this with the Western Canada Roadbuilders and Heavy Construction Association (WCR&HCA) working with the Canada West Foundation and the Canadian Construction Association to get the Shovel Worthy report in front of and seriously considered by governments. SHCA members are automatically also members of the WCR&HCA and the Canadian Construction Association, who collaborated with the Business Council of Canada and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce to advocate for a nation-building strategy that would invest in Canada’s trade corridors to enable and harness trade-based economic growth.
I look forward to hearing from all SHCA members about the different types of projects you work on in various parts of our province. I want to understand the challenges and successes you are experiencing so we as an association can support your needs and interests because it is likely your company is not alone in its experience. When it comes to municipal infrastructure, I will continue to maintain my connections and keep listening to the conversation out there so I can advocate to the best of my ability on your behalf.
There is growing pressure on the federal government ahead of its next budget to recognize the need to plan and invest in trade infrastructure to grow Canada’s economy.
Advocacy work initiated by the Western Canada Roadbuilders & Heavy Construction Association (WCR&HCA) has strong momentum. Several national groups dedicated to trade, business, construction, manufacturing and more joined it to form a coalition that is pressing politicians across the country to take this need seriously. Premiers of provincial and territorial governments have confirmed they are on board.
That need for planning and investment and the effort to have it recognized by the federal government was discussed during a panel discussion held the first day of the SHCA 2023 Infrastructure Summit & Trade Show. Titled “How Trade and Transportation Infrastructure Intersect in Canada’s Economic Growth Strategy,” the panel brought together representatives of some of those groups in the coalition – John Law, senior fellow with Canada West Foundation and co-author of From Shovel Ready to Shovel Worthy: The Path to a National Trade Infrastructure Plan for the Next Generation of Economic Growth, Mary Van Buren, president of the Canadian Construction Association (CCA) and Chris Lorenc, president of the WCR&HCA.
They were joined by two deputy ministers from the Saskatchewan government, Kyle Toffan of the Ministry of Highways and Jodi Banks of the Ministry of Trade and Export. Opening and moderating the panel was Gary Mar, president of Canada West Foundation. He says broadly speaking there is infrastructure Canadians want, such as parks. There is infrastructure Canadians need, which includes hospitals and schools. Then there is infrastructure that creates wealth that allows a country to be able to afford the other types of infrastructure.
Two-thirds of Canada’s GDP depends on trade, which relies on trade and transportation infrastructure. Mar says this reality is not lost on Canada’s premiers. What Canadians produce must be moved to ports to be shipped out of country for Canada to be able to participate in trade. The important role trade infrastructure plays in Canada’s economy and its future growth is expressed in the Shovel Ready to Shovel Worthy report authored by Law. In his brief overview of the report, he explained that Canada depends on road, rails, airports, bridges and other forms of trade infrastructure to get products to market.
“Every country needs good quality trade and transportation infrastructure, but it matters more for Canada,” said Law. “It matters to the extent of being three times more important to Canada from a GDP perspective than it is for the United States, for example, who are not only our major trading partner, but also our major competitor.”
The U.S. has paid significant attention to its infrastructure with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act being passed, which the White House calls a “once-in-a-generation investment in our nation’s infrastructure and competitiveness.” This legislation will drive forward the rebuilding of American roads, bridges and rails, strengthening supply chains by improving the country’s ports, airports, rails and roads to grow its economy “sustainably and equitably.” Law says that level of attention and investment is being made by other countries Canada competes against in trade as well.
“Our argument in the Shovel Ready report is that we need something that is not simply focussed on short-term, but rather is a long-term permanent solution for how we do this,” said Law.
Housing is the federal government’s current infrastructure priority, as evidenced by its 2023 Fall Economic Statement, Van Buren says. There are plans in motion to change the federal Department of Infrastructure to the Department of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, which Van Buren says is a “very strong signal” of the Liberal government’s focus. She says there is acknowledgement of the civil infrastructure that must be developed to support new housing, but she says there is a need to advocate for the federal government to recognize that trade-enabling infrastructure is a benefit to all Canadians.
Working together is necessary when advocating for change, Lorenc says, citing a proverb that says, “If you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far, go together.”
“No matter where you are in Canada, goods and services have to move out and we also need them to come in,” said Van Buren. “We’re working hard [with the other organizations] to make sure that trade-enabling infrastructure is on the table. We want a balanced approach. We can’t just put all of our money now into housing. We have to also look at trade-enabling infrastructure as well as community infrastructure.”
Banks and Toffan spoke about Saskatchewan’s focus on trade and transportation, with Banks highlighting the Saskatchewan Growth Plan and the work being done by her ministry to tell Saskatchewan’s story to the world and encourage trade to strengthen the provincial economy. “We have a huge amount of gross domestic product that depends on trade infrastructure,” said Toffan. “Saskatchewan has been doing about $37 billion in trade a year through and we have targets to grow that. That means more transportation infrastructure, not less.”
He outlined the challenges and opportunities from the perspective of the Ministry of Highways, including reduced federal funding of infrastructure, strained capacity in all areas of the supply chain to develop more infrastructure, rising costs due to inflation, the impact of carbon tax and insufficient national trade and transportation planning, as well as geopolitical considerations that can impact the quantity of resources, such as potash, that are needed by other nations.
Toffan also touched upon the memorandum of understanding (MOU) on economic borders signed by Saskatchewan, Alberta and Manitoba in April 2022. The key priorities of the three provinces are planning, investment and partnership opportunities with the private sector as well as harmonizing the regulatory environment, but elections held in Alberta and Manitoba since the signing have significantly slowed progress. Advocating for federal investment into economic corridors is another priority.
“If Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba can find three or four quick wins, some really big-ticket items that need investment, we’ll have a much better chance at getting investment than if we went at it alone, so we are trying to figure out a way to coordinate that as well,” said Toffan.
He says some judge major investments in infrastructure projects that are expected to serve the province for 100 years after just two to three years of operation, which is short-sighted. “These investments are being made for our kids, our grandkids, and our great grandkids, no different than the investments made in the 1800s and early 1900s,” said Toffan. “We have to think differently about these investments. They are nation-building and they have the opportunity to unlock all kinds of economic potential.”
Working together is necessary when advocating for change, Lorenc says, citing a proverb that says, “If you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far, go together.” He says the three provinces signing the MOU is an important example of that. Successful advocacy work includes patience, principles, commitment, a stated purpose and resources. It is also important to understand your audience and harness public opinion. The message you deliver must be tailored to meet their needs, Lorenc says, otherwise they have very little appetite to listen. Going where voters are and gently persuading them to see your point of view is also necessary.
Getting to this point of a coalition of like-minded organizations coming together to deliver a shared message to politicians, and having the Canada Trade Infrastructure Plan (CTIP) developed to present them, has taken about four years of advocacy work. It started when representatives of the WCR&HCA met with Van Buren to discuss the need for research related to trade and transportation. That is when Canada West Foundation was approached about developing a report, which Law authored. It was released in May 2022.
The next groups to be approached were the Business Council of Canada, Canadian Chamber of Commerce and the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters. They were asked to be part of a nation-building exercise that recognizes that two-thirds of Canada’s GDP is trade dependent and that three billion jobs coast to coast are sustained by this trade activity. It was pointed out that Canada’s reputation as a trading partner has fallen and needs repair to ensure Canada stays competitive and is viewed as a reliable trading partner. As a nation, Canada produces more than it consumes, and it must be moved to market. All of those principles along with the contents of Law’s report were used to develop CTIP.
CTIP urges the Council of the Federation to pursue a federally-leveraged, nation-building plan to revitalize Canada’s trade-enabling infrastructure to support sustained economic growth and expand and diversify Canada’s global trade profile. It says Canada should adopt globally recognised best practices and harness recommendations flowing from the Shovel Ready report to “usher in an era of long-term, predictable and high-value investments in Canada’s trade infrastructure.”
“These investments are being made for our kids, our grandkids, and our great grandkids, no different than the investments made in the 1800s and early 1900s.”
– Kyle Toffan, Ministry of Highways
The process of getting this plan to the federal government began in January 2023 with a meeting with then-premier of Manitoba, Heather Stefanson, who was serving as chair of the Council of the Federation, which is made up of all 13 provincial and territorial premiers in Canada. She was presented CTIP and asked to support and champion it at a July meeting of the council. She agreed to that request.
At that July meeting, there was unanimous support for CTIP from the premiers who explicitly endorsed its principles. They urged Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to convene a First Ministers’ Meeting dedicated to the linked priorities of competitiveness and strategic infrastructure. The next premier to take over as chair of the council was Nova Scotia premier Tim Houston, who sent a letter in August to Trudeau reminding him of that request. It was again repeated in fall 2023. At the same time, meetings have been held with federal opinion leaders, deputy ministers and assistant deputy ministers across the country, organized and led by the coalition of organizations behind CTIP (Business Council of Canada, Canada West Foundation, Canadian Chamber of Commerce, CCA, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, Civil Infrastructure Council Corporation and the WCR&HCA).
Lorenc says the objective of those meetings is to push for the 2024 federal budget to include an announcement of an investment that is sustained, predictable, incremental and driven through a lens of the return on investment to the GDP and nation-building. This would not be an investment based on per capita requirements, but rather one that looks at what the country needs to develop and enhance a strategic trade-enabling infrastructure network that will result in growth and wealth generation.
“That is advocacy at work. No single entity can do it on its own,” said Lorenc. “Saskatchewan can’t do what you heard the deputy minister speak to on its own. It has an MOU with two colleague provinces. Western premiers can’t do it individually. They meet as Western premiers. Provincial and territorial premiers can’t do it individually on their own. They do it through the Council of the Federation. Heavy construction associations, business organizations, manufacturers and exporters, rail, air, you pick your industry, can’t do it on their own, but together we can go further make a significant contribution to building this country. That’s what this advocacy is all about.”
The WCR&HCA Stronger Together Conference is taking place in beautiful Waikiki at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort from Feb. 5–9, 2023. This must-attend event is coming up quickly! If you’re on the fence about joining us in Waikiki, this is an opportunity not to miss.
Take a well-deserved time-out from Canadian winter and join hundreds of delegates in paradise in February. Network with peers, hear presentations and insights from industry leaders and take in the beautiful Hawaiian surroundings.
The Western Canada Roadbuilders & Heavy Construction Association (WCR&HCA) Stronger Together Conference is taking place in beautiful Waikiki at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort from Feb. 5–9, 2023.
Meet Your Keynote Speakers!
Gary Mar
President and CEO, Canada West Foundation The Role Western Canada Should Play in Global Trade
President and CEO of the Canada West Foundation since April 2020, Gary Mar is an accomplished and respectable speaker. He brings deep experience in government and business, and established expertise in CWF’s key policy areas: natural resources, trade and investment and human capital.
Jessica Holmes
Celebrated Comedian, Author, Mental Health Advocate The Comedy: A Tale of Perseverance
Beloved comedian Jessica Holmes has been a perennial favourite on Royal Canadian Air Farce for 15 years, and has brought the house down opening for giants such as Ellen DeGeneres, Russell Peters, Jerry Seinfeld and Oprah Winfrey. Her hilarious takes on life’s challenges are always a hit.
Program
Monday, Feb. 6 – The Greeting
Registration & Hospitality Desk Open Welcome to Waikiki Reception
Tuesday, Feb. 7 – Nation Building
Keynote Speaker – Gary Mar, President & CEO, Canada West Foundation His topic: The Role Western Canada Should Play in Global Trade. Q&A to follow.
Trade Panel (Interactive) – Harnessing Trade to Grow Canada’s Economy
Moderator: Chris Lorenc, President, WCR&HCA
Panellists:
Hon. Perrin Beatty, President & CEO, Canadian Chamber of Commerce
Mary Van Buren, President & CEO, Canadian Construction Association (CCA)
Gary Mar, President & CEO, Canada West Foundation (CWF)
Hon. Brad Wall, Former Premier, Province of Saskatchewan
Federal Advocacy Initiatives (Interactive) – A Reflection on National Advocacy Priorities and Interactive Discussion
Moderator: Mary Van Buren, President & CEO, CCA
Panellists:
Brendan Nobes, Chair, CCA
Nicole Chabot, Chair, CCA Civil National Advisory Council (Civil NAC)
Brad Scott, Chair, Civil Infrastructure Council Corporation (CICC)
The Public Procurement Model is Broken – How Do We Fix It?
Rodrigue Gilbert, Senior VP Public Affairs & Procurement, CCA
Mahalo – Until Next Time
Cocktail reception
Mahalo dinner
Friday, Feb. 10, 2023 – Moving Forward
WCR&HCA Board of Directors – by invitation meeting
Informal discussion with conference panellists
Setting advocacy priorities – moving forward
Join us in Hawaii!
This is a family conference and children are encouraged to attend. Additional family programming will be announced. The conference website includes travel and hotel information, sponsorship opportunities, conference registration information and more.
As a registered delegate, you receive:
All business session attendance
Networking breakfast attendance
Keynote speaker attendance
All social event attendance
Discounted airfare rates available with WestJet and Air Canada
Discounted hotel room rates starting at $259 USD per night*
* Hotel rooms are limited and are reserved on a first come, first served basis. If you have any special arrangements or are looking for additional room options, please email events@wcrhca.com or call us at 1-877-952-5507.
