The Canadian Construction Associated celebrated its annual Construction Day on November 30—and in conjunction with the efforts, participated in a day of meetings with Parliamentarians.

During its annual Hill Day, the association called on the federal government to make increased investment in infrastructure a top priority. CCA also encouraged the federal government to refresh its approach to procurement and to work with the industry to help build the workforce of the future.

“This is a historic moment for Canada to build a brighter and better future,” said CCA president Mary Van Buren. “Now is the time for action and increased investment in infrastructure that will help people, businesses, and communities thrive into the future. With the federal government’s support, the construction sector is ready to step up and play a key role in driving Canada’s economic recovery and future success.”

With some 1.4 million jobs, the construction sector is one of Canada’s largest employers. It is also a major contributor to the country’s economy, contributing 7.5 per cent of Canada’s Gross Domestic Product. Investments in infrastructure are an effective way to drive the economic recovery and make lasting improvements that will sustain Canada’s continued growth, says a release from CCA.

The association is calling for specific action on three fronts.

It says the federal government needs to close the gap between the level of investment currently allocated and what is needed to fix ageing infrastructure as well as position Canada for the future. In addition, goals must be set for building sustainability into infrastructure and funding must be predictable, flow quickly and be aligned with provincial, municipal, and Indigenous needs. An independent advisory body should be created to align governments at the provincial and municipal level to address infrastructure deficits across Canada.

With shortages in materials and labour, and productivity and sustainability issues on the rise, including net zero carbon targets, now is the time for the federal government to modernize procurement strategies to encourage innovation, account for long-term value and sustainability, promote the use of alternative delivery models, and support shared risk.

With many sectors hard hit from the pandemic, there is a significant opportunity to train and hire the next generation of construction workers who will benefit from good paying careers, while building the Canada of the future. The federal government needs to work with industry to position the construction industry as a “career of choice” and to recruit, train and retain tomorrow’s workforce.

Meanwhile, CCA’s National Construction Day focused on recognizing and celebrating those workers who build, maintain and connect communities through infrastructure. Diversity and inclusion was a particular focus.

“Construction provides well-paying and rewarding jobs – and we are encouraging more people to view the industry as a career of choice,” said Van Buren. “Attracting those from under-represented segments as well as from STEM fields will help accelerate diversity, inclusion, creativity, and innovation to the sector.”

The association’s business case for diversity demonstrates how cultural shifts within organizations can spark innovation, increase productivity, reduce turnover, improve safety and enhance a company’s reputation.