Program

14:00 – 16:00 | CCA Board of Directors meeting

(closed meeting)

Location: Places des Arms

18:00 – 21:00 | CCA Board and NAC dinner

(closed meeting)

Location: Salle de Bal

7:00 – 8:00 | CCA Board and NAC breakfast

This exclusive breakfast offers a chance to connect with industry leaders.

Location: Salle de Bal

8:00 – 8 :30 | CCA Chair briefing

Join Chair Francis Roy as he welcomes you to the day’s pre-business meetings, shares insights, and prepares for the important discussions ahead.

Location: Salle de Bal

8:30 – 10:30 | CCA 2026 – 2029 strategic planning session

Be part of shaping the future of CCA! In this exclusive strategic planning session, we’ll focus on defining the goals, priorities, and vision for the next three years. Join key leaders and members as we collaborate on long-term strategies that will guide the association through 2026-2029. Your insights and contributions are essential to ensuring our continued success and growth. Separate registration required.

(open to all members)

Location: Salle de Bal

10:45 – 12:30 | National Advisory Council meetings

Join us for CCA’s National Advisory Council meetings. This is an invaluable opportunity to observe high-level discussions and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our industry. While the meetings are primarily for council members, observers are welcome to attend. Separate registration is required.

12:30 – 12:45 | NAC report out

Location: Salle de Bal

12:45 – 13:15 | Lunch

Location: Champlain Restaurant

13:30 – 14:30 | CCA Annual General Meeting

Join us for CCA’s Annual General Meeting, where we’ll reflect on the past year’s achievements, discuss key updates, and elect our 2025-26 Board of Directors. This is an important opportunity to hear from leadership and engage with fellow members. Pre-registration is required.

Location: Salle de Bal

14:30 – 15:15 | Chair’s reception

Join us for the Chair’s reception, hosted by CCA’s 2025 Chair, Francis Roy. This relaxed social hour offers the perfect chance to unwind and mingle with industry peers after our AGM. Registered companions are welcome to attend.

Location: Vercheres

15:15 – 16:45 | New Board meeting

(closed meeting)

Location: Place des Arms

7:30 – 15:30 | Ski at Mont-Sainte-Anne

Join industry colleagues, friends, and family for an exciting opportunity to enjoy scenic mountain views and adventure at the local Mont-Sainte-Anne Ski Hill. Start the day by networking with friends over a delicious buffet breakfast at the lodge before hitting the slopes. Additional fees required at registration.

(Pre-registration mandatory, surcharges will apply. Available to registered delegates only.)

Location: Lower tour desk

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14:00 – 16:00 | Free time

17:00 – 18:00 | First-timer reception

New to the conference? Here’s your chance to network and connect with CCA veterans. This exclusive, invite-only event is designed for those attending the conference for the first time, offering a unique opportunity to build relationships. Be sure to attend for a chance to receive a complimentary registration to next year’s conference!

(by invitation only)

Location: Salon Rose

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18:00 – 22:00 | Welcoming night presented by Travelers Canada

The Canadian-themed event invites delegates to experience the diverse cultures, food, and music that make Canada unique. Attendees will have the opportunity to “travel” across the country through various food stations, each offering regional specialties, while enjoying music and entertainment that captures the essence of Canada’s rich cultural heritage. It’s a celebration of Canada’s diversity, all in one unforgettable evening. We encourage you to wear your proud CANADIANA apparel – it can be a toque, jersey, t-shirt, or sweater – and show your Canada pride!

Location: Salle de Bal, Verchere, Frontenac

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22:00 – 24:00 | CCA After Dark Lounge

Pomerleau invites you to the CCA’s first-ever After Dark industry leaders networking event following the opening night dinner. Enjoy your favorite cocktail in a relaxed, speakeasy-style atmosphere while building meaningful connections with fellow attendees. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to network in a fun and engaging setting. *18+ activity.

Location: Le Cellier

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8:00 – 9:30 | Opening keynote by Chantal Hébert with breakfast

Charting the future: Canadian politics in transition

Join Chantal Hébert, freelance political journalist, for an insightful keynote address that will explore the evolving Canadian political scene. With a new Liberal Party leader expected to be at the helm, Hébert will examine the challenges and opportunities facing Canada’s new leadership, including potential shifts in policy direction and the upcoming federal election, likely to be called as soon as Parliament returns. Hébert will offer a timely analysis of how this election could reshape the political landscape, and explore how global factors, including Donald Trump’s impact on the Canada-U.S. trade relationship, might influence Canada’s future trajectory.

Speaker:
Chantal Hébert, Freelance Political Journalist

Location: Salle de bal

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9:30 – 9:45 | Break

Between sessions, enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks in our break lounge – the perfect space to relax, recharge, and connect with fellow attendees.

Location: Petite Frontenac

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9:45 – 10:45 | Fortifying Canada: The role of construction in disaster resilient infrastructure and emergency response

Learn about cutting-edge approaches to designing disaster-resilient infrastructure and the role of the construction industry in emergency response. This session will feature best practices and case studies from around the world, including industry contributions to disaster preparedness.

Speakers:
Wayne Ferguson (moderator), Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President, Infrastructure Services, EllisDon
Jason Lum, City Councillor, City of Chilliwack
Ken McMullen, Chief of Emergency Services – President of the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs, City of Red Deer
Melanie Pigeon, Senior Director – Expertise, Engineering and Standardization, Hydro Quebec

Location: Frontenac

9:45 – 10:45 | Modern contracting and procurement

This session will offer you a fresh perspective on the latest trends and their impact on procurement and project delivery. Gain practical insights into modern contracting practices and discover how all project parties can foster fairness and efficiency in the procurement process.

Panelists:
Jorgen Kvist (moderator), Director, Industry Practices, Canadian Construction Association
Nicolas Forget, Vice-President, Operations – Procurement, Defence Construction Canada
Brian Maksymetz, Lead Consultant and Owner, Better Projects Incorporated
Dave Thomas, General Manager, Project Management Practice Development, Société québécoise des infrastructures

Location: Bellevue

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10:45 – 11:00 | Break

Between sessions, enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks in our break lounge – the perfect space to relax, recharge, and connect with fellow attendees.

Location: Petite Frontenac

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11:00 – 12:00 | Building Canada’s gateway to the world: The future of trade-enabling infrastructure

Canada’s ambition to diversify its trade partnerships demands world-class infrastructure and logistics, and Canada’s construction sector plays a pivotal role in building trade enabling infrastructure that supports global market access. This panel will examine the current state of trade infrastructure, supply chain logistics, and the need for long-term funding commitments.

Speakers:
Mike Wieninger (moderator), Chief Operating Officer, Canadian Operations, PCL Construction
Dr. Neil Campbell, Partner, McMillan LLP
Marie-Claude Galarneau, Chief Human Resources and Strategy Officer, Montreal Port Authority
Julie White, Vice President, Quebec Manufacturers and Exporters

Location: Frontenac

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11:00 – 12:00 | Enhancing workforce culture and retention through inclusivity: Stories, strategies, and solutions

Engage in a lively discussion about improving workforce culture and retention in the construction industry, with a particular focus on inclusivity, retention strategies, and the experiences of both new and seasoned workers. learn best practices for creating a more inclusive and supportive work environment for women and minorities in construction.

Panelists:
Dr. Patience Adamu, Director, Social Impact, Aecon Construction Group Inc.
Jennifer Khan, Vice President, Inclusive Diversity, EllisDon

Location: Bellevue

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12:15 – 13:15 | CEO power lunch: Navigating trends, opportunities, and growth in a shifting market

Join top executives as they explore emerging business trends, dynamic market shifts, and strategic growth in a rapidly changing global market. Stay head of the curve with insights that will drive your company’s success.

Panelists:
Rodrigue Gilbert (moderator), President, Canadian Construction Association
Zey Emir, President, Revay
Patrick Lamarre, President, Kiewit Canada Group Inc.

Location: Salle de Bal

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13:30 – 14:30 | Building in the void: Governance challenges, risks facing Canada’s construction future

This session explores the pressing governance issues that undermine the development of critical residential planning and infrastructure in Canada. The presentation will delve into how politicalization, lack of long-term planning, questionable leadership, and the systematic misuse of resources expose the construction industry to significant risks. While construction remains a key partner in nation-building, it is increasingly vulnerable to the failures of public governance. This discussion will highlight the implications for the industry and the broader economy, urging a re-evaluation of how residential and infrastructure planning can be shielded from politicalization and planning volatility.

Speaker:
Paul Smetanin, President, Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis

Location: Frontenac

16:00 – 17:00 | CCA Hospitality Hour

Step into the timeless charm of Le Cellier, a vintage wine cellar beneath the Château Frontenac, to unwind and mingle. Whether reconnecting with old friends or meeting new ones, this is your chance to relax, recharge, and get ready for an exciting night ahead. Cheers to great conversations and even better company! *18+ activity

Location: Le Cellier

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18:00 – 22:00 | Fun Night presented by EllisDon Corporation and Intact Surety

Prepare for an unforgettable evening where fire and ice come to life! Hosted at the historic and majestic armory, the night begins with a reception, followed by a delicious dinner. Throughout the evening, enjoy live entertainment by the renowned Painchaud family, creating an electric atmosphere you won’t want to miss. CCA will be providing bus transportation to and from the armory.

(transportation included)

Location: Lower tour desk

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22:00 – 24:00 | CCA After Dark Lounge

Hidden deep within the foundation of the Fairmont Château Frontenac, discover the vintage charm of Le Cellier. Connect and engage with colleagues and friends from across the country while enjoying your favorite drinks and bar snacks in this unique and atmospheric setting. *18+ activity

Location: Le Cellier

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8:00 – 10:00 | The Innovator’s Pitch: CONtact Mentorship breakfast

Step into the future of construction at the CONtact Innovator’s Pitch, where three rising stars from the CONtact mentorship program unveil their groundbreaking innovations. Witness cutting-edge solutions poised to revolutionize the industry. Engage with these exciting developments and vote for the most promising innovation. Be part of shaping the next big breakthrough in construction and see how these visionary ideas could redefine the field.

Location: Salle de Bal

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Moderator:
Isabelle Côté, President, Synergy Frameworks and Founder, BRIX

Innovators:
Xavier Brochu, General Manager, Brique Recyc
Annie Dahan, CEO and Founder, Seacork Studio
Cooper Lane, Vice President, Sales Automation, Reko Automation Group Inc
Davin MacIntosh, CEO, Resolve Plastics Recycling Ltd.
Paul Okulov, President and CTO, IPR Innovative Products Resources, Inc.

Industry experts:
Tony Bégin, Vice President, Sales and Preconstruction, CANAM
Sean Boyer, Vice President, Preconstruction – Montreal, Quebec and Ottawa regions, Pomerleau
Leslie Doka, Director of Construction, Wright Construction Western Inc.

10:00 – 10:15 | Break

Between sessions, enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks in our break lounge – the perfect space to relax, recharge, and connect with fellow attendees.

Location: Petite Frontenac

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10:15 – 11:15 | Navigating immigration and workforce policies in Canada

Immigration has been a hot-button topic in Canadian policy, especially in relation to the ongoing housing crisis. Join us for an insightful panel discussion with perspectives from immigration experts to learn from those centred in this topical discussion about recent immigration changes and its effect on the construction sector. Gain insight on how recent trends in workforce immigration, to workforce retention and integration, immigration capacity relative to economy and infrastructure, navigating the express entry system, and more.

Panelists:
Bill Ferreira (moderator), Executive Director, BuildForce Canada
Chris Atchison, President, British Columbia Construction Association
Warren L. Creates, Immigration Lawyer, Perley-Robertson, Hill & McDougall LLP
Lara Dyer, Chief External Affairs Officer, Talent Beyond Boundaries

Location: Frontenac

10:15 – 11:15 | Adopting a new mindset, skillset, and toolset for AI in construction

As AI advances, its impact on the construction sector is growing significantly. It is driving improvements in efficiency, safety, and innovation, but fully leveraging its potential also demands the appropriate mindset and skillset.

Speaker:
Rajitha Chaparala, VP of Product, Data and AI, Procore

Location: Bellevue

11:15 – 11:30 | Break

Between sessions, enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks in our break lounge – the perfect space to relax, recharge, and connect with fellow attendees.

Location: Petite Frontenac

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11:30 – 12:30 | Turning policy into practice: Adapting to government strategies for sustainable infrastructure

Explore how government policies are transforming the future of construction. From decarbonization and building codes to compliance regulations and reporting, this session will provide practical insights from industry leaders and policy experts on what is needed for policy mandates to turn into tangible outcomes for a sustainable future.

Panelists:
Cory Richter (moderator), President and CEO, Quorex Construction Services
Prabh K. Banga, Vice President, Sustainability, Aecon
Jolene McLaughlin, Vice President, Climate and Sustainability, EllisDon Corporation
Genevieve Roy, Vice President, Environment and Sustainability, Pomerleau

Location: Frontenac

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11:30 – 12:30 | CCDC Roadmap: Exciting new documents and important changes on the horizon

The CCDC committee has been busy! Join us for an in-depth look at CCDC’s activities and be one of the first to learn about upcoming documents before they hit the industry. Gain insight into important changes, new documents (including a progressive design-build contract), electronic seals, Québec Civil Code contracts, and more!

Speakers:
Brendan Nobes, Director of Major Projects, rcs Construction
Melanie Pouliot, National Director, Contract Services, Defence Construction Canada

Location: Bellevue

12:45 – 14:00 | Poutines and Pints networking lunch

Join us for a casual afternoon where you can enjoy delicious poutine, sip on refreshing drinks, and make connections with fellow attendees. Whether you’re looking to relax after a busy day or simply enjoy some great food and conversation, this laid-back event is the perfect way to end your day.

Location: Salle de Bal

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16:00 – 17:00 | CCA Hospitality Hour

Step into the timeless charm of Le Cellier, a vintage wine cellar beneath the Château Frontenac, to unwind and mingle. Whether reconnecting with old friends or meeting new ones, this is your chance to relax, recharge, and get ready for an exciting night ahead. Cheers to great conversations and even better company! *18+ activity

Location: Le Cellier

Sponsored by

22:00 – 24:00 | CCA After Dark Lounge

Hidden deep within the foundation of the Fairmont Château Frontenac, discover the vintage charm of Le Cellier. Connect and engage with colleagues and friends from across the country while enjoying your favorite drinks and bar snacks in this unique and atmospheric setting. *18+ activity

Location: Le Cellier

Sponsored by

18:00 | Past Chair dinner

(by invitation only)

8:00 – 9:30 | CCA National Awards breakfast ceremony presented by Northbridge Insurance

Start your morning with a celebration of our industry as we recognize exceptional individuals, achievements in innovation, sustainability, safety, Gold Seal, workplace development, bettering communities, and, of course, the work done by partner associations on behalf of you, the members.

Location: Salle De Bal

Presented by

9:30 – 9:45 | Break

Between sessions, enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks in our break lounge – the perfect space to relax, recharge, and connect with fellow attendees.

Location: Petite Frontenac

Sponsored by

9:45 – 10:45 | Beyond four walls: The overlooked costs of Canada’s housing crisis

Meeting Canada’s housing goals requires more than just building new homes—it demands smart planning and investment in the public infrastructure that will support more people and more houses. Engage with thought leaders and contribute to solutions for one of the most pressing issues facing communities today.

Panelists:
Trevor Doucette (moderator), Senior Director of Operations, Synergy Group of Companies
Mathieu Bélanger, Executive Director, Policy and Public Affairs, Federation of Canadian Municipalities
Negash Haile, Director of Economic Analysis and Modelling, Housing Infrastructure and Communities Canada
Mathieu Laberge, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President, Housing Insights, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

Location: Frontenac

9:45 – 10:45 | Building blocks of innovation: Measuring progress in Canadian construction

Keep pace with the digital transformation in the construction industry as we share the preliminary results of the CCA and KPMG Canada survey on:

• The rate and focus areas for digital adoption and innovation in the construction industry
• Understanding the drivers for change and hurdles facing the industry
• Discussion of new technologies and use cases to improve project outcomes.

Panelists:
Jordan Thomson (moderator), Director – Global Infrastructure Advisory, KPMG LLP
Aaron Yohnke, Vice President, Corporate and Integrated Construction Services, PCL Construction
Russell Zirnhelt, Executive Vice President, Ledcor Construction Limited

Location: Bellevue

10:45 – 11:00 | Break

Between sessions, enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks in our break lounge – the perfect space to relax, recharge, and connect with fellow attendees.

Location: Petite Frontenac

Sponsored by

11:00 – 12:00 | Turbulence ahead: Strategic planning for industry resilience during political change

As Canada approaches a 2025 federal election, it’s crucial for industries and associations to prepare for possible disruptions. This session will provide a comprehensive guide to proactive electoral readiness and strategies for election-proofing your organization. Our experts will share insights on anticipating policy changes, engaging with new political leaders, and developing resilient strategies to navigate the uncertainties of an election year.

Panelists:
Louis-Philippe Champagne (moderator), AVP, Public Affairs and Industry Practices, Canadian Construction Association
Karl Bélanger, Président, Traxxion Stratégies
Vandana Kattar, Political Strategist
Tasha Kheiriddin, Columnist, The National Post

Location: Frontenac

12:15 – 13:15 | Economic Outlook and lunch

Economic outlook for construction

As Canada enters a pivotal economic period and global dynamics continue to shift, understanding the path ahead is critical for the construction industry. In this session, join us as we provide a strategic overview of Canada’s economic outlook for 2025, unpack the potential implications of the U.S. elections for Canadian markets, and discuss the macroeconomic trends shaping the construction sector. Gain actionable insights to anticipate challenges, adapt to change, and position your organization for success in the year ahead.

Speaker:
Pierre Cleroux, Vice President, Research and Chief Economist, BDC

Location: Salle de Bal

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13:30 – 15:00 | Celebrating women in construction fireside chat and reception

Join us for an inspiring session celebrating the incredible achievements of women in construction! The event kicks off with a 45-minute fireside chat featuring prominent leaders in the industry, where they’ll share their journeys, challenges, and insights on breaking barriers and driving change in the construction field. Following the conversation, we’ll host a 45-minute reception, offering a chance for attendees to network, connect, and continue the conversation in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the powerful impact of women in construction and connect with like-minded professionals!

Panelists:
Rhonda Neary (moderator), President, Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association
Angela Clayton, President and CEO (Interim), Infrastructure Ontario
Sophie Morin, EVP and Chief Legal Officer, Pomerleau
Audrey Murray, President and CEO, Commission de la construction du Québec

Location: Bellevue and Salon Rose

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16:00 – 17:00 | CCA Hospitality Hour

Step into the timeless charm of Le Cellier, a vintage wine cellar beneath the Château Frontenac, to unwind and mingle. Whether reconnecting with old friends or meeting new ones, this is your chance to relax, recharge, and get ready for an exciting night ahead. Cheers to great conversations and even better company! *18+ activity

Location: Le Cellier

Sponsored by

17:30 – 18:00 | Masquerade Cocktail reception Vercheres / Frontenac

18:00 – 22:00 | Closing Reception and Masquerade Gala presented by Borden Ladner Gervais LLP and Graham Construction

Step into a world of elegance and intrigue at our Masquerade Ball, set within the storied walls of the Fairmont Château Frontenac. Guests will begin the evening with a reception, followed by a plated dinner, that will transport you to another era. Don your mask and join us for an unforgettable evening of elegance, mystery, and unforgettable memories in this breathtaking, historic venue.

Location: Salle de Bal

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22:00 – 24:00 | CCA After Dark Lounge

Hidden deep within the foundation of the Fairmont Château Frontenac, Le Cellier exudes vintage charm. Join colleagues and friends from across the country in this unique and atmospheric setting, where you can enjoy your favourite drinks and bar snacks. This special gathering is hosted by representatives of Navacord and its construction specialist firms from across Canada. *18+ activity

Location: Le Cellier

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