The Canadian Construction Association has opened nominations for its 2019 awards.

Presented annually, the awards recognize the important contributions of individuals, organizations and projects that promote and enhance the Canadian construction industry, whether through innovation, projects, or dedication to the industry. The awards program is open to all relevant CCA member organizations and individuals who meet the requirements of each award, regardless of organization size or project scope

Education Minister Stephen Lecce announced yesterday that the Government of Ontario will expand its Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program to include 122 new programs that are aimed at encouraging more high-school students to enter the skilled trades.

The Canadian Construction Association says it is looking forward to working with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his new government to advance the priorities described by the national association in the months leading up to the federal election.

As peak construction season begins to wind down, the latest update from Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey (LFS) reveals strong gains in both employment and the size of the labour force in September 2019. When compared to the same month in 2018, Canada’s construction industry added 41,700 (+2.8%) jobs, while the labour force surpassed 1.6 million, as 45,700 (+2.9%) workers joined the labour force. However, the unemployment rate for the construction industry remained near record lows at 4.1%.

With the holiday season fast approaching, the Niagara Construction Association (NCA) is calling on its members to get into the giving spirit.

The association makes a point of encouraging members to enjoy a little friendly competition heading into its annual Christmas Lunch & Food Drive on December 6 at the Holiday Inn Parkway and Conference Centre in St. Catharines. Members are invited to either make cash or food donations, and top donor receives the grand prize; attendees are also treated to a dozen door prize draws.