Wednesday, February 11
My Cart9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Construction Contracts 101
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core; 1 IDCEC General Hour
Location: Level 2: Room 224
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Interior Design
- Economics, Legal, Regulatory & Risk Management
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use
Construction projects vary widely and each one has its own unique challenges and obstacles to overcome. Capturing the nuance of each project in a contract is tricky business, but it is essential that those working in the construction industry be knowledgeable about the limitations and pitfalls of commonly used contracts. In this session, the speakers will put the “fun” in fundamentals of construction contracts by introducing the foundations, canvassing commonly used forms of contract, highlighting key provisions to which you should pay close attention, and touching on recent contract trends in the industry. In particular, special attention will be paid to the documents prepared by the Canadian Construction Documents Committee including the CCDC 2, CCDC 3, CCDC 5A, CCDC 5B, and CCDC 30.
Speakers
William Woodhead Partner, Borden Ladner Gervais LLP
Bill Woodhead is a Partner at Borden Ladner Gervais LLP in Calgary, Alberta and Vancouver, British Columbia. Bill focuses his practice in the areas of procurement and construction law. He acts for public and private owners, contractors, engineers, subcontractors, and suppliers drafting and negotiating procurement documents and the various agreements required to design, procure and construct any asset. Bill often speaks at construction and industry conferences on all aspects of construction and procurement law.
Gautam Dhillon Partner, Borden Ladner Gervais LLP
Gautam has a robust corporate commercial practice with a focus on large infrastructure projects. Gautam has experience in all aspects of infrastructure projects across a range of project delivery models, including public-private partnerships. He regularly acts for both proponents and lenders on project finance transactions and advises clients on secondary market public-private partnership transactions. Gautam drafts, reviews and negotiates project finance documents, procurement documents and project agreements. Gautam provides legal services through a Law Corporation.
- Regular
- $85
Session Sponsor
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
BCBC 2024: An Interactive Accessibility Refresher
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD; AIBC 1 Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Relevant enactments); 1 IDCEC HSW-Barrier Free
Location: Level 2: Room 217
- Architecture
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Interior Design
- Economics, Legal, Regulatory & Risk Management
- Design Concepts, Health & Wellness
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
This interactive technical refresher explores Section 3.8 Accessibility of the 2024 British Columbia Building Code (BCBC), highlighting key requirements while encouraging participants to understand the functional and objective intent behind these provisions. Through engaging case studies and best practice examples, attendees will discover how to prevent, identify, and remove barriers that inhibit equitable participation, ultimately learning to create adaptable and intuitive spaces that embrace universal design principles. The session demonstrates how combining compliance with an accessible framework allows designers to exceed minimum standards, offering practical insights on balancing regulatory requirements with more inclusive approaches. Participants will refresh their knowledge of the 2024 BCBC accessibility requirements, understand how functional and objective statements lead to intentional accessible design, examine real-world applications that align with both compliance and universal design principles, and gain valuable strategies for going beyond the Code to create truly accessible environments.
Speakers
Samantha Ryan CEO, Technical Lead, ABE Factors Inc.
Samantha Ryan (Proulx) C.E.T., RHFAC, is a leading Canadian technical accessibility specialist and nationally recognized accessibility compliance consultant with over 14 years of experience working on some of Canada’s largest and most complex building projects. Samantha is a designated Certified RHFAC Professional Assessor and former instructor of the RHFAC Program with over 100 RHFAC Ratings completed to date. She is also a co-author of the Amazon best seller "Building Better Bathrooms". Samantha sits on various national accessibility technical committees including Accessible Standards Canada Emergency Egress and Accessible Ready Housing, the Canadian Board for Harmonized Construction Codes (CBHCC) Accessibility Committee, Canadian Standards Association CSA B651 and CSA B652 (Chair), and the RHFAC Technical Committee. Her expertise and ability to easily navigate technical accessibility provisions on behalf of her clients consistently pays tribute to advancing accessibility.
Brieann Ventura Senior Accessibility Consultant, ABE Factors Inc.
Brieann Ventura, CTech, RHFAC, is a technical accessibility specialist and inter-provincially trained building code consultant with over 10 years of experience interpreting a wide range of codes and standards. Her project portfolio includes complex mixed-use developments, civic facilities, transportation hubs, industrial spaces, and more. She contributes her expertise to several national accessibility technical committees, including Accessible Standards Canada’s Accessible Childcare Centres Committee and the Canadian Board for Harmonized Construction Codes (CBHCC) Accessibility Committee. In addition to her committee work, Brieann is active in the community, delivering code presentations and training sessions to professionals across the built environment sector. With a focus on creating spaces that are functional, aesthetically thoughtful, and intrinsically inclusive, she brings both technical precision and design innovation to her work.
- Regular
- $85
Session Sponsor
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Construction Keynote – Builders’ Bench: Where Politics Meets Construction
Location: Tradeshow Floor: BUILDEX Main Stage (Booth 843)
- Construction & Trades
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Economics, Legal, Regulatory & Risk Management
Building Type: Civil / Infrastructure, Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
Partners: VRCA
Experience The Builders’ Bench podcast brought to life on stage at BUILDEX 2026. This dynamic panel will tackle the pressing political and economic issues that shape BC’s construction industry – from housing mandates and permitting reform to infrastructure investment and workforce challenges. Featuring insights of key industry voices, the discussion promises candid perspectives, lively debate, and a look ahead at what’s next for builders across the province.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Speakers
Craig Larkins Director, Advocacy & Engagement, Vancouver Regional Construction Association
Craig Larkins has spent the last 15+ years blending media, politics, and public engagement to spark conversations that matter and drive real change. As the Director of Advocacy for the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA), he leads outreach efforts, builds relationships across all levels of government, and shapes the conversations that impact the people building B.C.’s future. Craig’s career began in journalism, reporting for CBC and Global News in newsrooms across Canada. Those storytelling roots still shape how he works today — clear, compelling, and always people-first. After nearly 15 years in broadcasting, Craig transitioned into politics, serving as Director of Communications for four MLAs in Manitoba, before bringing his expertise in messaging, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement to the construction sector. If you care about policy, people, and building better communities, Craig’s someone you’ll want to talk to.
Chris Atchison President, British Columbia Construction Association
Chris Atchison is the President of the British Columbia Construction Association (BCCA), where he leads initiatives to modernize the construction industry, enhance workforce development, and drive economic growth for the province. With over 25 years of experience in leadership, employment, and training strategies, he oversees programs such as the Skilled Trades Employment Program (STEP), Integrating Newcomers (IN), and the Builders Code. He actively participates in industry advisory boards, including the Deputy Minister Industry Infrastructure Forum and the Canadian Construction Association’s National Advisory Council, where he helps guide the future of the sector in British Columbia and across Canada.
Louis-Philippe Champagne Associate Vice-President, Public Affairs & Industry Practices, Canadian Construction Association
LP Champagne is a public affairs professional with over twenty years’ experience in federal, provincial, and municipal politics. He has a proven track record in government relations, strategic communications and specializes in planning and executing successful advocacy campaigns.
As Associate Vice-President of Public Affairs & Industry Practices at the Canadian Construction Association (CCA), Louis-Philippe is a trusted advisor on issues facing the construction industry and works to advance policies that support members in their businesses. Prior to joining CCA, he managed Canadian government affairs for Scotiabank and supported clients from a variety of industries as a senior consultant at Earnscliffe Strategies. His diverse experience across industry associations, nonprofit organizations and large corporations provides him with a unique perspective on Canadian public policies and legislative affairs.
Sajjid Lakhani Director, Government Relations and Strategy , Impact Public Affairs
Sajjid is a results-oriented public affairs professional with a track record of leadership and innovation. Along with advocating for his clients’ interests to the Government of Canada, Sajjid works extensively in British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan as Impact’s Western Canada lead. Sajjid has organized major advocacy campaigns across Canada and has experience working with senior decision-makers to advance key priorities. He has been liaising between the industries he represents and governments across the country to ensure that governments understand industry’s actions in response to trade tensions. Sajjid has a comprehensive background in politics, including working for a BC Member of Parliament, serving in leadership roles on election campaigns, and providing strategic direction to Electoral District Associations. He was also the recipient of the Public Affairs Association of Canada’s inaugural Emerging Leader Award, which honours a rising public affairs professional who has already made an impact through innovative contributions.
Jeannine Martin President, Vancouver Regional Construction Association
As the President of the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA), Jeannine leads the organization’s mission to champion the Vancouver construction industry through advocacy, education, and facilitation of business-building connections. Her work with the VRCA serves to elevate and engage 900+ member companies through proactive and inclusive leadership. With an extensive background in construction and engineering, she brings industry understanding and expertise that elevates her ability to uplift issues important to construction and helps drive the success of the association, its members, and the broader industry. Jeannine’s 25 years of experience combines construction and business development leadership for both global and local companies, with service on boards including the British Columbia Construction Association Employee Benefit Trust (BCCA EBT), the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies British Columbia (ACEC-BC), and the British Columbia Construction Roundtable (BCCR).
- Free
Session Sponsor
Presenting Partner
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Top 8 Strata Property Division CRT Cases
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD
Location: Tradeshow Floor: Property Management Learning Lab (Booth 242)
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Economics, Legal, Regulatory & Risk Management
Building Type: Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: PAMA
Every year there are hundreds of strata property disputes the Civil Resolution Tribunal adjudicates. While their decisions are not precedential, they certainly influence the legal landscape for strata corporations. In this seminar the speakers will discuss what they consider to be the top 8 cases of 2025, and how they may influence strata corporations.
Speakers
Veronica Franco Partner, Co-Chair of Strata Property Group, Clark Wilson LLP
Veronica is a partner and Co-Chair of Strata Property group at Clark Wilson LLP. Veronica is a leader in strata law in British Columbia, known for her contributions to industry education. She regularly presents for organizations like the Condominium Homeowners Association and the Professional Association of Managing Agents. She also is an editor of the Strata Property Practice Manual.
Amanda Magee Associate Lawyer, Lesperance Mendes Lawyers
Amanda Magee is an associate lawyer in the strata property law group at Lesperance Mendes. She focuses on a solicitor’s practice, and regularly works with strata corporations, strata owners and property managers on a wide variety of strata property and governance matters.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
Property Management Learning Lab Presented by
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
The Business Case for Mass Timber
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core
Location: Level 2: Rooms 208/209
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Economics, Legal, Regulatory & Risk Management
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- WoodWorks at BUILDEX
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: WoodWorks
Mass timber is redefining how we design and deliver buildings. This session spotlights two projects at the forefront: The Exchange office building in Kelowna and a planned residential tower in Vancouver. Alongside these case studies, the speakers will present a business case analysis, breaking down costs, risks, and opportunities. Together, the speakers will share how mass timber is being applied today, the lessons learned, and why it is becoming a viable choice for development in today’s market.
Speakers
Annabelle Hamilton Technical Manager, Planning and Development, WoodWorks BC
Following the completion of her postgraduate degree from Ulster University in Northern Ireland, Annabelle has worked for several multi-family development companies, overseeing various multi-million dollar projects through the project lifecycle from acquisitions and municipal approvals to construction completion.
Graham Brewster Director of Development, Wesgroup Properties
Graham is Director of Development at Wesgroup Properties, one of Western Canada’s largest private real estate organizations. Graham is leading Wesgroup’s mass timber exploration and execution, with an eye to not only build better buildings, but building the understanding to build a robust and sustainable industry in BC.
Tim McLennan Principal Architect, Faction Projects
As co-founder and CEO of Faction Projects Inc., Tim oversees a vertically integrated group of companies including Faction Architecture Inc., Faction Construction, and multiple subsidiaries—delivering full-spectrum project services from concept to construction. He leads the company’s long-term strategy, corporate governance, and financial stewardship. His leadership drives innovation across the group’s project delivery platforms—anchoring Faction’s reputation for integrated, regionally responsive, and technically advanced solutions.
Neil McGowan Partner, Senior Advisor, BTY Group
Neill is a Partner at BTY and is responsible for providing planning and cost consulting services to financial institutions, government agencies, real estate developers and contractors. He has over 35 years of experience in British Columbia providing cost and risk advisory services. Neill is a sustainability leader and has led BTY’s team on a wide variety of projects advancing the understanding of capital and life-cycle costs of energy conservation and GHG-reduction measures for government and institutional clients.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
Stream Sponsor
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
The Professional Seal: Authentication, Accountability, and Assurance
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core
Location: Level 2: Room 221
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Economics, Legal, Regulatory & Risk Management
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
Partners: EGBC
Join us for a joint presentation by the AIBC and Engineers and Geoscientists BC to discuss professional seals and what to look for when accepting documents sealed by an architect or a professional engineer. As recent cases of fraudulent seals highlight, it is important for builders, owners, project managers, and authorities having jurisdiction to understand what to look for in relation to sealed documents. This presentation will talk through the history of the professional seal, the evolution from strictly manual seals to the modern option of digital authentication with the use of digital certificates, and highlight key things to look for when accepting documents using each option.
Speakers
Harshan Radhakrishnan Manager, Climate Change and Sustainability Initiatives, Engineers and Geoscientists BC
Harshan is the Acting Manager, Professional Practice Advice Program at Engineers and Geoscientists BC (EGBC), where he leads a team that provides professional practice advice on a wide range of regulatory, ethical, and practice-related inquiries. He has considerable experience in the regulation of the engineering and geoscience professions, professional development, policy development, and sustainability. At EGBC, Harshan has led the development of numerous professional practice guidelines spanning topic areas such as built environment, natural hazards, and climate resilience across various engineering and geoscience disciplines.
Maura Gatensby Lead Practice Advisor and Regulatory Liaison, Architectural Institute of British Columbia
Maura Gatensby is currently Lead Practice Advisor and Regulatory Liaison with the AIBC. She is a former vice-chair of the BC Building Code Appeal Board, and currently a member of the BC Energy Step Code Council.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
High Tides and High Stakes: Climate Resilience for BC’s Built Environment
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD
Location: Level 2: Rooms 215/216
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Economics, Legal, Regulatory & Risk Management
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use
As climate-related events grow in frequency and severity, the building industry must shift from reactive responses to proactive risk mitigation. This session explores emerging trends in climate resiliency, including the integration of Climate Risk Assessments into capital planning and design strategies. Through real-world case studies – including a property impacted by two 100-year floods – attendees will learn how to identify vulnerabilities and apply resilient design principles to protect assets and occupants. Targeted at intermediate to advanced professionals in architecture, engineering, property management, and sustainability, this session equips participants with actionable tools to future-proof buildings and infrastructure. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of climate risk frameworks and how to incorporate them into long-term planning.
Speakers
Andrew Epp National Practice Leader, Building Science & Sustainability, Pinchin Ltd.
The National Practice Leader in Building Science & Sustainability at Pinchin Ltd., Andrew Epp is a seasoned Senior Engineer and Project Manager. Over his 25-year career, Andrew has personally completed over 100 engineering assessments and led over 80 related projects (retrofit, renewal or new construction) across a broad range of building types in both the private and public sectors. His vast building science experience in Building Performance (including envelope, HVAC); Asset Management, Building Certifications, and Building Resiliency includes a particular focus on sustainability and energy efficiency / conservation. Andrew is a licenced Engineer (P.Eng) in multiple provinces, carries the Project Management Professional (PMP) designation from the Project Management Institute and earned a BaSC in Mechanical Engineering from Queens’ University. He also lectures in the fields of Building Science & Sustainability at Lambton College in Sarnia Ontario.
- Regular
- $85
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Working With Building Officials and Building Permit Regulations
Location: Level 2: Room 224
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Economics, Legal, Regulatory & Risk Management
- Public Sector
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
Building construction should be a collaborative process between proponents and regulators. Understanding the roles and responsibilities of building officials as well as the different regulatory tools utilized by building officials can support successful applications and inspections. This session will provide the opportunity to learn about the different regulatory tools that building officials work with. Attendees will also learn about the differences of interpretation and what the available dispute resolution options are.
Speakers
Trevor Welsh President, Building Officials' Association of BC
Trevor has held various supervisory and leadership roles within local government, notably as the Director of the Building Permits Division for the City of Abbotsford as well as the Director of the Building Division for the City of Surrey. He is currently the Director of Building Permits for the City of Coquitlam. He has also worked as a part-time instructor at the British Columbia Institute of Technology, instructing on building codes.
Trevor has served on the Building Officials’ Association of BC’s Executive Committee since 2019. During this time, he has been involved in multiple committees and working groups, including the Governance Committee and Certification Working Group, and he has chaired the Finance Committee. In the Executive Committee, Trevor has held the positions of Secretary, Treasurer, Vice President and currently serves as President of the Association.
- Regular
- $85
Session Sponsor
Presenting Partner
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Prompt Payment: Anticipating a New Era for BC’s Construction Industry
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Non-Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Relevant enactments)
Location: Level 2: Rooms 215/216
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Interior Design
- Cross-Industry
- Economics, Legal, Regulatory & Risk Management
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
Prompt payment and adjudication legislation will represent the most significant change to the BC construction industry in a generation. This panel brings together perspectives from government, legal, contractor, and trade to explore what this legislation could mean in practice, how it needs to connect to and align with lien legislation, and what businesses should be doing now to prepare. Owners, consultants, contractors, and trades will all need to examine and adapt their internal processes to ensure compliance with any new laws and regulations. Panelists will also highlight how adjudication could operate as a fast-track dispute resolution tool and what it means for day-to-day project management. The shift will undoubtedly require not just contract revisions but also changes in billing practices, accounting systems, and project administration. Discussion will cover key features including how payment processes, contract terms, project cash flow, and payment certification practices may need to adapt across the supply chain.
Speakers
Chris Atchison President, British Columbia Construction Association
Chris Atchison is the President of the British Columbia Construction Association (BCCA), where he leads initiatives to modernize the construction industry, enhance workforce development, and drive economic growth for the province. With over 25 years of experience in leadership, employment, and training strategies, he oversees programs such as the Skilled Trades Employment Program (STEP), Integrating Newcomers (IN), and the Builders Code. He actively participates in industry advisory boards, including the Deputy Minister Industry Infrastructure Forum and the Canadian Construction Association’s National Advisory Council, where he helps guide the future of the sector in British Columbia and across Canada.
Kyle Wisniewski General Manager, BC Region, Black & McDonald Limited
Kyle Wisniewski is the General Manager for Black & McDonald Limited’s BC Region, overseeing Mechanical & Electrical Service, Facility Maintenance & Operations, Construction, and the Kelowna & Vernon Hospital Project divisions. With extensive experience in managing complex projects and multidisciplinary teams, Kyle focuses on operational excellence, strategic growth, and fostering collaboration across service lines. His leadership ensures timely project delivery and strong client relationships in both the public and private sectors. Kyle is deeply engaged in advancing best practices in construction and maintenance, including initiatives that improve efficiency, safety, and financial transparency. As a senior leader in one of Canada’s largest integrated contractors, he brings practical insight into how legislative changes, such as BC’s new Prompt Payment framework, impact contractors, subcontractors, and owners. Kyle is committed to building resilient teams and supporting industry-wide improvements that benefit businesses and communities.
Katie Armitage Legal Counsel, Ministry of Attorney General, Justice Services Branch
Katie Armitage is legal counsel with the Ministry of Attorney General’s Justice Services Branch, where she supports the Ministry’s work around legislation, policy, and law reform. Katie was called to the bar in 2007 after graduating from UBC’s Faculty of Law in 2006 and has worked in both the private and public sectors in Ontario and BC.
David Volk Partner, Jenkins Marzban Logan LLP
David is a highly experienced construction lawyer and partner at Jenkins Marzban Logan LLP. He provides advice and representation at all stages of a project, including contract drafting, tendering, negotiations, mediation, arbitration, and in court. He works with all types of clients in the industry, including owners (private and First Nations), general contractors, subcontractors, and material suppliers. Much of David’s construction practice involves acting as litigation counsel in large, complex disputes that require strategic planning and close attention to detail.
Glenn Ackerley Partner, WeirFoulds LLP.
Glenn is the Chair of the Construction Practice Group at WeirFoulds LLP, specializing in construction law, liens, and litigation. As a trusted project lawyer, he advises clients across the construction industry – owners, developers, contractors, and consultants – on contracts, procurement, risk management, and dispute resolution. An active industry leader, Glenn has served on the National Advisory Council of the Canadian Construction Association, the Toronto Construction Association Board, and Ontario’s Expert Panel on Construction Lien Act reforms. He has also taught construction law at Toronto Metropolitan University and frequently speaks at industry and legal seminars. With extensive experience in mediation and arbitration, Glenn is a go-to expert for navigating legal challenges and ensuring fair, efficient project outcomes.
- Regular
- $85
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Navigating Section 71: Significant Changes to Common Property and Common Assets in BC Strata
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD
Location: Tradeshow Floor: Property Management Learning Lab (Booth 242)
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Economics, Legal, Regulatory & Risk Management
Building Type: Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: PAMA
This seminar provides participants with a legal and practical overview of Section 71 of the Strata Property Act. Section 71 governs significant changes in the use or appearance of common property or common assets within a strata corporation. The seminar will focus on the topic from both the strata corporation and owners’ perspective, with particular emphasis on risk management for strata managers.
Speakers
Sat Harwood Managing Partner, Lesperance Mendes Lawyers
Sat Harwood is the Managing Partner of Lesperance Mendes. A lawyer for the past 18 years, Sat regularly advises strata corporations on legal issues with respect to strata governance, bylaw enforcement, construction defects, cost-sharing, privacy, regulatory, employment and human rights law.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
Property Management Learning Lab Presented by
Thursday, February 12
My Cart10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Depreciation Reports: An Overview of the Changes to the Strata Property Act – July 1, 2025
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD
Location: Tradeshow Floor: Property Management Learning Lab (Booth 242)
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Economics, Legal, Regulatory & Risk Management
Building Type: Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: PAMA
Effective July 1, 2025, the Regulations were amended, and strata corporations no longer have the right to waive the requirement to obtain a depreciation report. In this session, attendees will hear details on when a depreciation report is specifically required, and the best way to obtain and use a depreciation report.
Speakers
Jennifer Neville Partner, Hamilton & Company
Jennifer has been advising strata corporations and owners since 2003 on issues such as bylaw drafting, compliance with the Strata Property Act, repairs, collections, financing, disputes, and Civil Resolution Tribunal claims. She frequently presents seminars for organizations like PAMA, SPABC, and CHOA, and is a contributing author to the BC Strata Property Practice Manual. Jennifer also serves as a Director of CHOA. Jennifer’s practice is built on legal expertise, effective communication, and a deep understanding of her clients’ needs.
Guillaume Vadeboncoeur Senior Manager, Building Science Division, WSP Canada Inc.
Guillaume Vadeboncoeur is a Professional Engineer with over 21 years of experience in building science. Mr. Vadeboncoeur has a mechanical engineering degree with a major in material properties and is currently the building science Group Leader for the Fraser Valley and Southern Interior. He is also a project manager and project engineer that has managed several building science projects that include building envelope remediations, building envelope condition assessments, roofing assessments, roofing replacement projects and wall monitoring. His expertise lies with knowledge of building envelope components, building science theories and ways to incorporate new technologies in construction. Mr. Vadeboncoeur has attended Laval University and graduated with a diploma in Mechanical Engineering. He is a past President for the Western Canada IIBEC Chapter.
- Regular
- $85
Session Sponsor
Presenting Partner
Property Management Learning Lab Presented by
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
VRCA Builders’ Bench Live: The Municipal Election and the Future of Construction
ConEd Credits: BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction management and supervision)
Location: Level 2: Room 217
- Construction & Trades
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Economics, Legal, Regulatory & Risk Management
- Housing Planning, Development & Supply
- Public Sector
Building Type: Civil / Infrastructure, Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
Partners: VRCA
Municipal governments make the decisions that shape our industry every day – whether it’s zoning bylaws, housing targets, permitting timelines, or procurement practices. With federal and provincial elections behind us and municipal elections on the horizon in 2026, the stakes for construction have never been higher.
In this live edition of The Builders’ Bench, industry leaders and political voices will tackle the pressing questions: What issues matter most? What needs to be fixed? And what should we be telling candidates before they ask for our vote?
Expect candid insights, clear priorities, and a roadmap for how municipal leadership will impact the way we build, bid, and do business. This is your chance to hear directly from industry decision-makers on what’s at stake for your company, your projects, and your future.
Speakers
Craig Larkins Director, Advocacy & Engagement, Vancouver Regional Construction Association
Craig Larkins has spent the last 15+ years blending media, politics, and public engagement to spark conversations that matter and drive real change. As the Director of Advocacy for the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA), he leads outreach efforts, builds relationships across all levels of government, and shapes the conversations that impact the people building B.C.’s future. Craig’s career began in journalism, reporting for CBC and Global News in newsrooms across Canada. Those storytelling roots still shape how he works today — clear, compelling, and always people-first. After nearly 15 years in broadcasting, Craig transitioned into politics, serving as Director of Communications for four MLAs in Manitoba, before bringing his expertise in messaging, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement to the construction sector. If you care about policy, people, and building better communities, Craig’s someone you’ll want to talk to.
Regina Marklund Project Director, Turner Construction, Canada
Regina has been with Turner Construction for over 18 years and holds a Mechanical Engineering degree from Hofstra University. Her expertise spans estimating, project management, business development, and construction management. She played a key role in establishing Turner’s Vancouver office in 2016 and has been actively involved with VRCA ever since. Regina is committed to fostering industry growth and professional development.
Scott Adkins Operations Manager, PCL Construction
Scott is a professional engineer with over 27 years of experience across Western Canada and the Northwest US. His career spans the heavy civil, commercial, and institutional sectors. Since joining PCL in 2005, he has been actively involved in corporate initiatives focusing on employee growth, pension investment, recruitment, and PCL’s Canadian DEI council.
Jeannine Martin President, Vancouver Regional Construction Association
As the President of the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA), Jeannine leads the organization’s mission to champion the Vancouver construction industry through advocacy, education, and facilitation of business-building connections. Her work with the VRCA serves to elevate and engage 900+ member companies through proactive and inclusive leadership. With an extensive background in construction and engineering, she brings industry understanding and expertise that elevates her ability to uplift issues important to construction and helps drive the success of the association, its members, and the broader industry. Jeannine’s 25 years of experience combines construction and business development leadership for both global and local companies, with service on boards including the British Columbia Construction Association Employee Benefit Trust (BCCA EBT), the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies British Columbia (ACEC-BC), and the British Columbia Construction Roundtable (BCCR).
Sajjid Lakhani Director, Government Relations and Strategy , Impact Public Affairs
Sajjid is a results-oriented public affairs professional with a track record of leadership and innovation. Along with advocating for his clients’ interests to the Government of Canada, Sajjid works extensively in British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan as Impact’s Western Canada lead. Sajjid has organized major advocacy campaigns across Canada and has experience working with senior decision-makers to advance key priorities. He has been liaising between the industries he represents and governments across the country to ensure that governments understand industry’s actions in response to trade tensions. Sajjid has a comprehensive background in politics, including working for a BC Member of Parliament, serving in leadership roles on election campaigns, and providing strategic direction to Electoral District Associations. He was also the recipient of the Public Affairs Association of Canada’s inaugural Emerging Leader Award, which honours a rising public affairs professional who has already made an impact through innovative contributions.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Strata Legal Update: Discussion of Hot Topics in Strata Law
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD
Location: Level 2: Rooms 215/216
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Economics, Legal, Regulatory & Risk Management
Building Type: Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: PAMA
This presentation will be on the latest developments in strata property law and how these developments will affect your strata corporation. With new cases from the CRT almost daily and potential amendments to legislation seemingly always around the corner, the speakers will be sure to present a digestible, relevant, and current presentation of changes and hot topics in strata law.
Speakers
Kathrine Uppal Partner, Bleay Both Uppal LLP
Kathrine has been practicing property law for most of her legal career. She regularly provides advice to individual’s, property management firms, and strata councils. Kathrine enjoys solving her client’s legal issues related to strata governance, conflict resolution, and collecting money owing. Along with advising and providing legal advice to clients, Kathrine regularly appears before the Provincial and Supreme Courts of British Columbia on a range of legal issues. She also assists her clients with matters before the Civil Rights Tribunal, the Employment Standards Board, and the Human Rights Tribunal.
Ben Scheidegger Partner, Hamilton & Company
Ben’s practice is almost exclusively strata property law with a focus on litigation and dispute resolution. Ben has appeared at all levels of court in British Columbia and various tribunals representing strata corporations and owners. Ben frequently assists clients throughout BC with CRT disputes and judicial reviews of CRT decisions in the BC Supreme Court.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Adapting to Economic Instability in Construction
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Non-Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction management and supervision); 1 IDCEC General Hour
Location: Level 2: Room 221
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Interior Design
- Cross-Industry
- Economics, Legal, Regulatory & Risk Management
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
This session will delve into the significant economic uncertainties currently facing the construction industry, including the impact of tariffs, financial market volatility, and evolving government policies. A panel of experts will offer diverse perspectives on how these factors are affecting project viability, supply chains, and client confidence. The session will provide actionable strategies for construction professionals to mitigate risks, adapt their business practices, and maintain project momentum in these challenging economic times.
Speakers
Melanie Teetaert Co-Head, Litigation and Dispute Resolution, Bennett Jones
Melanie Teetaert is Co-Head of Litigation and Dispute Resolution Department and has practised energy, commercial and construction litigation and commercial arbitration in Calgary and Vancouver for over 20 years. She has extensive experience with contract disputes, breaches of trust and fiduciary duty, negligence and other general commercial claims. Her focus in energy related litigation includes joint ventures, CO&Os, joint operating agreements, farmout agreements and transportation and handling agreements. Melanie is experienced in royalty, accounting and operator disputes and is regularly consulted on rights of first refusals. Her focus in construction-related litigation includes delay claims, engineering and design issues, breach of contract and negligence. Additionally, she has experience in cross-border claims, including coordination of inter-related claims in Canada and the United States. Melanie has acted in both international and domestic commercial arbitrations under the Alberta and British Columbia Arbitration Acts, ADR Institute of Canada, BCIAC and the International Chamber of Commerce International Court of Arbitration.
Jerry Crawford Principal Director, KGC Consulting Services Ltd.
Jerry Crawford is the Founder and Principal Director of KGC Consulting Services Ltd., providing pre-construction administration assistance, project execution commercial management services, project performance audits, and lessons learned follow-up debriefings. With over 43 years of expertise in commercial management and contract administration, Jerry is a highly skilled Quantity Surveyor, Estimator, and Project Manager. Having predominantly worked in Canada on diverse projects in transportation, energy, commercial, industrial, multi-residential, and civil and building infrastructure, Jerry boasts a comprehensive understanding of the entire project lifecycle – from procurement and pre-contract phases to execution and post-contract phases. With a rich background attending civic court trials for insurance settlements, liens, and claim disputes, Jerry has honed skills in handling claims and disputes, collaborating with legal counsel, owners, contractors, subcontractors, and surety companies.
Rob Malli Chief Financial Officer, Marcon
Rob Malli is Chief Financial Officer at Marcon, where he leads an integrated corporate services portfolio that includes finance, business technology, and people & culture in support of the company’s ambitious growth across Metro Vancouver’s real estate and construction markets. Over the past 15+ years, Rob has served as CFO in banking, public transportation, real estate, and airport sectors—including Vancity, TransLink, Edmonton International Airport, and Western Wealth Capital—overseeing finance, shared services, strategic real estate, and major capital programs.
An operations-focused, people-centric leader, he has overseen asset portfolios in excess of $20 billion and helped pioneer initiatives such as green bond financing for large-scale transit investments. Rob also brings more than a decade of board and committee experience across financial institutions, real estate development, insurance, mutual funds, and community organizations, and he holds a CPA designation with academic training in economics, risk management, and accounting.
- Regular
- $85
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Managing Difficult People: A Property Manager’s Guide to Navigating Challenging Clients
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD
Location: Level 2: Rooms 215/216
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Economics, Legal, Regulatory & Risk Management
Building Type: Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: PAMA
Rental and Strata Property management isn’t just about managing properties; it’s about managing people. What options are available under the Residential Tenancy Act and Strata Property Act to deal with disruptive tenants? How should a property manager respond to a client who is not following their advice? At what point does bad behavior constitute harassment? Join this panel which will offer tips and tricks for managing difficult people, both inside and outside of your building.
Speakers
Lisa Mackie Partner, Alexander Holburn Beaudin + Lang LLP
Lisa is a partner and leader of the strata property practice and residential tenancy practice at the law firm of Alexander Holburn Beaudin + Lang LLP. She has represented clients before all levels of Court in British Columbia on strata property and residential tenancy law matters. Lisa also regularly represents and advises clients on human rights complaints, privacy disputes, and defamation matters. Lisa has been a trusted legal resource for various print and television media publications on strata property and residential tenancy issues including: CBC Radio, CBC News, Canadian Lawyer Magazine, CityTV Breakfast Television, Times Colonist, Metro Vancouver, The Province, Canadian Property Management Magazine, and the CHOA Journal. She is an Editorial Board member of and a contributing author to CLEBC’s BC Strata Property Practice Manual.
Alex Chang Partner, Lesperance Mendes Lawyers
Alex is a partner and leader in the strata and tenancy practices of Lesperance Mendes Lawyers. Alex has successfully represented clients on strata matters at all levels of court in British Columbia and various tribunals. Alex also regularly advises clients on a wide range of real estate issues including strata property matters, residential and commercial tenancy matters, construction and new home warranty issues, collections, human rights disputes, privacy disputes, air space parcels, easements, and the partition of co-owned property. Alex frequently speaks at educational seminars for property managers and owners and has published numerous articles and legal texts on strata and tenancy matters.
Al Kemp President, A.G. Kemp & Associates Inc.
Currently owner and president of A.G. Kemp & Associates Inc., Al provides services, assistance, strategic problem solving, and "boots on the ground" education to rental housing providers ranging from owners of secondary suites to some of Canada’s largest ownership and property management companies. Al’s reputation is one of outstanding knowledge and service. He is recognized as the person outside government with the most knowledge of the Tenancy Acts, Regulations, and policies – and how they work from a business perspective! He was a major contributor to the total rewrite of BC’s tenancy legislation in 2004 and continues to advise the Residential Tenancy Branch on planned regulatory or policy changes. He is also qualified as an Expert Witness on rental tenancy matters.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Indigenous Leadership in Land Stewardship: Law and Partnerships
Location: Tradeshow Floor: BUILDEX Main Stage (Booth 843)
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Project Planning, Procurement, Management & Delivery
- Economics, Legal, Regulatory & Risk Management
- Indigenous-Led Projects and Design
Building Type: Commercial, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
As the built sector increasingly acknowledges the importance of reconciliation and collaboration with Indigenous communities, this panel will explore how law, governance, and design intersect in shaping land management and development projects across Canada. A central focus will be on the Sumas First Nation’s groundbreaking Soil Law – a first-of-its-kind initiative in British Columbia that reclaims authority over environmental regulation and resource management on their lands. Panelists will show how the Nation’s leadership, paired with technical expertise, is advancing ecological protection, cultural values, and economic revitalization through this precedent-setting approach.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Speakers
Patrick Stewart Architect, Patrick R. Stewart Architect
Dr. Patrick Stewart is a hereditary chief in the Killerwhale House of Daaxan of the Nisga’a Nation. He is the principal of Patrick R. Stewart Architect, a member of the Architectural Institute of BC and the NWT Association of Architects, a Fellow of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, and a member of the RAIC Executive Committee and Treasurer. He is also co-director of the Indigenous Peoples Work Program for the Union of International Architects.
Jennette Pierre Lands Manager, Sumas First Nation
Jennette possesses over 25 years of extensive experience collaborating with First Nation communities across diverse sectors such as administration, education, economic development, and lands and resources. Her professional journey is marked by specialization in First Nation Law and Policy Development, Land Development, Land Use Planning, Soil Site Management & Remediation, Lands Department Strategizing, and Project Management. Throughout her career, Jennette has successfully overseen projects ranging from contaminated site remediations to flood mitigation and capacity building initiatives. Her deep-rooted connection to her First Nation community provides her with a profound understanding of its dynamics, aspirations, challenges, and opportunities.
Lance Hunt National Lead, Indigenous Relations, Resilience, Arcadis
Lance Hunt is a Professional Chemist with the Association of the Chemical Profession of BC and a Contaminated Sites Qualified Professional with over 20 years of experience conducting environmental site assessments and remediation work within the province. Lance is an Associate Principial and Practice Lead of the Vancouver Environmental Solutions team at Arcadis and is responsible for developing, coordinating, and managing large scale environmental site investigation and remediation programs. Lance has extensive experience conducting environmental site assessments on First Nations and federal lands including historical site research, site investigations, sample collection, contaminated sites remediation, screening level risk assessment, analytical data interpretation, and technical report writing. Over his 20 years of practice, Lance has been working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples from over 40 Nations within Canada.
Arend Hoekstra Partner, Aboriginal Law Group, Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
Arend Hoekstra*, CPA, CA, is a partner in the Aboriginal Law Group at Cassels. Arend is also a Chartered Professional Accountant. Arend provides advice on the duty to consult, treaty negotiations, project-related environmental and regulatory matters, mining projects, legislative drafting, litigation matters including judicial review proceedings, use of Reserve lands including Section 53(1) easements, Section 28(2) tenures, and rights-of-way, drafting of Impact Benefit Agreements and Capacity Funding Agreements, and financing and acquisition of mineral resource properties. His previous experience includes acting as a Senior Advisor for one of Canada’s largest mines and acting as a controller for a large helicopter services company serving the mineral exploration and mining industry in the NWT. As a Chartered Professional Accountant, Arend worked with governments, including Indigenous governments and communities, across the NWT and Nunavut. Arend earned his J.D. from the University of British Columbia and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration co-conferred by Okanagan College and the University of British Columbia-Okanagan. Arend is recognized as “Up & Coming” by Chambers Canada for his work in Aboriginal Law.
- FREE
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Why and What Next? Sudden and Accidental Building Water Loss Causation and Remediation
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD; BC Housing 1 CPD (Legal issues)
Location: Tradeshow Floor: Property Management Learning Lab (Booth 242)
- Construction & Trades
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Economics, Legal, Regulatory & Risk Management
Building Type: Commercial, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
This presentation will delve into the complexities of sudden and accidental water losses within in commercial, residential, and industrial buildings. A team of forensic experts will showcase the cause of common failures that occur within plumbing, fire suppression, and HVAC systems that lead to significant damage, and effective remediation strategies that emphasize timely response and technological solutions. We will address the regulatory frameworks and health and safety considerations critical to managing water loss incidents, ensuring complete compliance while safeguarding occupants and workers. Through a series of case studies, we will illustrate the challenges of investigations and remediation of water losses in real-world applications. Attendees will gain an understanding of how a water loss investigation and remediation would typically proceed, as well as how to navigate each step from the perspective of relevant stakeholders of a building’s ownership, operation, and management.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Speakers
Grant Elligsen Practice Lead, Remediation, Environmental, Health & Safety, 30 Forensic Engineering
Grant Elligsen is Practice Lead of the Remediation and Occupational Health & Safety groups at 30 Forensic Engineering. Grant has extensive experience conducting occupational health and safety investigations, specializing in labour and employment critical injury and fatality investigations. Grant also has a background in all facets of indoor environmental projects, including fire, smoke, and water damage, and industrial hygiene assessments.
Mitchell Albert Associate, Materials & Product Failure, 30 Forensic Engineering
Mitchell is an Associate with the Materials & Product Failure team at 30 Forensic Engineering. He holds a Master of Applied Science degree in Materials Engineering from the University of British Columbia, where he developed a functioning prototype for a point-of-care biosensor for diagnostic applications. At 30 Forensic Engineering, Mitchell investigates a diverse range of product failures, mechanical system failures, and equipment failures.
Madison Polgar Associate, Remediation, 30 Forensic Engineering
Madison is an Associate with the Multidisciplinary Remediation Team at 30 Forensic Engineering. She holds a Bachelor of Applied Science degree specializing in biochemical engineering from Queen’s University and specializes in environmental assessments. Madison’s experience includes indoor and outdoor environmental assessments including water, mould, and fire damage, chemical processes, and laboratory analysis.
- Free
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