Wednesday, February 11
My Cart9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Building Affordable Housing With Competitive Timber Solutions
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction technology)
Location: Level 2: Rooms 208/209
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Housing Planning, Development & Supply
- WoodWorks at BUILDEX
- Prefabrication, Modular & Offsite Construction
- Housing Solutions
Building Type: Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: WoodWorks
This dynamic session brings together industry leaders to share real-world strategies for driving cost competitiveness and thoughtfully designed homes. From innovative construction methods like prefabrication and mass timber to new technologies shaping the future of building, attendees will hear what works, what doesn’t, and why. This session will also explore the power of partnerships and collaboration models that unlock new pathways for delivery, along with insights into financing, funding, and regulatory solutions that can make or break a project. Join this presentation for practical takeaways and fresh ideas to help scale the impact of affordable housing.
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.
Robin Petri VP Development, Catalyst Community Developments Society
Robin Petri is VP of Development at Catalyst Community Developments Society, a nonprofit developer and operator of affordable rental housing. Robin has worked at Catalyst for over 10 years, developing, with a strong team of consultants and contractors, the 15 projects (over 1000 homes) that Catalyst now operates for its residents. Prior to Catalyst, Robin worked on River District while Director of Development at Wesgroup Properties and on Southeast False Creek and the Olympic Village while at the City of Vancouver. Robin has a Masters In Engineering from UBC and a Bachelor’s in Engineering from McGill University.
Noha Sedky Principal, CitySpaces
Noha is a Principal of CitySpaces Consulting, a leading provider of community planning and development consulting in Western and Northern Canada. With over two decades of experience, she has led impactful projects in policy, planning, research, and development, focusing on affordable housing, homelessness, and community-based impact. Part way through her career, Noha shifted her focus toward development, helping organizations bring their built project visions to life. She supports projects from early concept and feasibility, through design, approvals, construction, and completion. Together, Noha and the team at CitySpaces have supported non-profits and public institutions in building hundreds of non-market housing units and community facilities throughout Western Canada and the Territories. An active member of the Canadian Institute of Planners, Noha is often called upon to speak on issues of housing and homelessness, and is a passionate advocate for change in the housing sector.
Imelda Nurwisah Senior Development Manager, Community Land Trust
Imelda has ten years of experience in real estate development and urban planning. She is driven to create vibrant and resilient communities through a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach. As a Senior Development Manager at Community Land Trust, she works with municipalities, lenders, and consultant teams to successfully advance projects through the development process. Imelda has expertise in pro forma development, project management, lease negotiations, and public engagement. Leveraging her skills, she has delivered affordable housing to nonprofits, First Nations, and municipalities across British Columbia as well as providing recommendations to municipalities, faith-based groups, and private portfolio holders on feasibility and redevelopment strategies, affordable housing policy frameworks, and land use recommendations. Her current portfolio of work at CLT includes a 76-unit downtown infill development (under construction), a 112-unit Passive House high-rise (under construction), and nearly 400 units in pre-development.
- Regular
- $85
Session Sponsor
Presenting Partner
Stream Sponsor
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Timber Lessons From the Jobsite
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core
Location: Level 2: Room 207
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Project Planning, Procurement, Management & Delivery
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- WoodWorks at BUILDEX
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: WoodWorks
Experts in timber construction will present real-world experiences addressing key site challenges, such as complex installation sequences and effective moisture management. Through practical examples, speakers will share lessons learned, highlight common pitfalls, and outline proven strategies that have led to successful project outcomes.
Speakers
Derek Ratzlaff Technical Director, WoodWorks BC
Derek began his career in the wood industry in high school working on single and multi-family light wood construction. After university and almost 20 years of structural consulting experience, Derek has worked in all types of wood construction, and played key roles in the delivery of iconic BC wood structures, the Richmond Olympic Oval and Grandview Heights Aquatic Centre. He brings his experience in design and construction to support the industry as the Woodworks BC Technical Director.
Kenny Dempsey Project Director, Kindred Construction
Kenny is a construction leader with more than 20 years of experience delivering complex projects. His portfolio spans everything from detailed tenant improvements to a 382,200-square-foot mixed-use development, and innovative construction methods such as mass timber and Passive House. He is currently leading the construction of one of Vancouver’s most ambitious mass timber projects that will shape the city’s future skyline while establishing critical benchmarks for scalability and sustainability. A respected mentor and problem-solver, he combines deep technical expertise with a forward-looking vision, making him a trusted voice in advancing construction practices in the industry.
Scott Comfort President, Seagate Mass Timber
Scott brings 30 years of working experience in construction and a strong mix of both industry and formal education to Seagate. Having worked for large general contractors in increasingly senior roles and independently as a business owner, Scott is uniquely positioned to help guide Seagate in a construction industry poised for the growth of mass timber. Scott strongly believes in servant-minded leadership, building relationships, and helping our personnel constantly develop their capabilities and careers. Scott’s responsibilities encompass all aspects of Seagate mass timber operations, including the growth of a strong company culture and identity, the promotion of a safe, inclusive, and healthy work environment for all of our workers, mentoring and professional growth across all levels of the company, business development, quality standards, and managing our internal processes as they relate to advances in technology and systems within the mass timber field.
Andrew Hambleton Senior Engineer, ASPECT Structural Engineers
Andrew’s approach is all about thoughtful and meticulously planned designs. As he works with clients and project teams, Andrew intentionally spends time thoroughly understanding their needs and brings these considerations into the early stages of design and construction. From complex installation sequencing to environmental concerns, Andrew’s background in project planning enables him to provide invaluable insights into site challenges and develop solutions that minimize risks for all stakeholders.
Andrew graduated from the University of Western Ontario and has garnered more than 15 years of experience working with all major building materials, including light frame wood, mass timber, steel, concrete, masonry, and light gauge steel. A jack-of-all trades, his portfolio extends across a range of building types, from multi-unit residential to institutional to community and recreation centres. Since joining ASPECT, he’s played a pivotal role in leading ASPECT’s temporary works and construction engineering teams, regularly mentoring younger engineers.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Disruption by Design: The Profession Reimagined Through AI-Driven Workflows
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core; 1 IDCEC General Hour
Location: Tradeshow Floor: TECHCENTRIC (Booth 1603)
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Interior Design
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Artificial Intelligence
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Artificial Intelligence is transforming how design ideas move from concept to construction. Clients and small developers are already experimenting with AI-generated designs, while architects, interior designers, and builders are adopting new workflows that compress sketching, feasibility, and visualization into rapid, integrated processes. This session will explore what these changes mean for the future of professional practice. How can architects and designers remain essential when clients bring AI-generated concepts to the table? How can small firms leverage AI to compete with larger practices? And what does this shift mean for builders as projects move faster from idea to execution? AI is not just another tool, it is a cultural force reshaping the profession. This session examines emerging workflows, challenges in adoption, and the long-term implications for how architecture, interior design, and construction evolve in an AI-driven future.
Speakers
Kostika Lala Founder, Principal Architect, FlashCube Labs
Kostika Lala is a Toronto based architect and creative technologist exploring how artificial intelligence and visual storytelling can reshape the future of the built environment. His work sits at the intersection of design, technology, and culture, championing an image first design movement that places compelling visuals at the heart of the architectural process. By creating feedback loops between imagery, ideation, and construction, he is helping to redefine how architecture is conceived, communicated, and realized. Licensed with the Ontario Association of Architects since 2020, Kostika has led award winning residential and institutional projects known for their clarity, contextual sensitivity, and collaborative approach. He actively contributes to academic discourse as a guest critic at the University of Toronto and the University of Miami, and was recently featured in Ontario Home Builder Magazine for his work at the forefront of AI driven innovation.
- Regular
- $85
Autodesk TECHCENTRIC Stage
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
UBC Museum of Anthropology Great Hall Renewal
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core
Location: Level 2: Room 220
- Architecture
- Engineering
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Building Management & Optimizing Building Performance and Net Asset Value
Building Type: Institutional
The Great Hall at the Museum of Anthropology by Arthur Erickson was identified as a high-risk building in a seismic event, and retrofit options were explored. To ensure the heritage status and significance of the building was maintained, ultimately the decision was made to completely rebuild the Great Hall, with the same geometry and architectural intent, from the glazing design to the colour of the concrete. Unlike the original design, the new Great Hall has been built on base isolators, to allow the building to perform in a seismic event. Other than the requirement to maintain the existing architectural design intent, the integration of building systems and structural elements with the existing Museum of Anthropology proved to be a complex design challenge. This session will discuss the development of the structural design and how a base-isolated building was ultimately delivered for the Museum.
Speakers
Eric Karsh Founding Principal, Equilibrium Consulting Inc.
Since founding Equilibrium Consulting in 1998, Eric has been recognized for his design innovation and commitment to the environment and education. Driven by a passion for concept development and problem solving, Eric has often been described as "an architect’s engineer." His contributions over his 35-year career are particularly notable in the field of timber engineering, where Eric has consistently pushed design and construction boundaries. He has been instrumental in having timber recognized as the "high-tech" material that it has become in the North American market and beyond. Eric has led many of the firm’s most notable projects, including the Raleigh-Durham Terminal 2 roof structure, the UBC Earth Sciences Building, the Wood Innovation Design Centre in Prince George, The Audain Art Museum in Whistler, and the Oregon State University Oregon Forest Science Complex in Corvallis, OR.
- Regular
- $85
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Hybrid Building Strategies: Optimizing Structural Materials
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core
Location: Level 2: Room 207
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- WoodWorks at BUILDEX
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: WoodWorks
As hybrid construction rapidly gains momentum in BC and beyond, mass timber and steel are emerging as complementary materials that redefine how we design and build. This panel explores real-world lessons learned from recent projects that successfully integrate these systems. Attendees will gain insights into why hybrid strategies are advancing, what challenges to anticipate, and how to optimize collaboration across the supply chain. The session will highlight case studies that demonstrate practical approaches to performance, cost efficiency, and sustainability. Designed for owners, architects, engineers, and developers, this discussion equips participants with skills to evaluate opportunities and apply hybrid solutions in their own projects.
Speakers
Derek Ratzlaff Technical Director, WoodWorks BC
Derek began his career in the wood industry in high school working on single and multi-family light wood construction. After university and almost 20 years of structural consulting experience, Derek has worked in all types of wood construction, and played key roles in the delivery of iconic BC wood structures, the Richmond Olympic Oval and Grandview Heights Aquatic Centre. He brings his experience in design and construction to support the industry as the Woodworks BC Technical Director.
Trent Berger Project Director, Scott Construction
Trent is a Project Director at Scott Construction with over 15 years of experience delivering complex projects across the Vancouver region, including large community facilities and residential developments. Starting his career as a framer on wood-frame residential projects, he brings strong first-hand constructability insight to projects that integrate mass timber and conventional structural systems. Known for his organized, pragmatic approach, Trent works closely with owners, architects, engineers, and trade partners to manage risk, sequencing, and coordination on technically demanding builds. He is currently leading the Steveston Community Centre in Richmond, BC. This facility is currently under construction and will provide a three-storey, 60,000-square-foot community centre and library that incorporates mass timber and other complementary structural systems, with amenities including gymnasiums, a fitness centre, multipurpose spaces, and public library areas, and is being designed and built to achieve LEED Gold certification.
Tyler O’Connell Owner, Lead Carpenter, Tyhol Construction
In 2016, Tyler O’Connell founded Tyhol Construction Ltd. with a clear vision: to deliver high-quality construction and renovation services rooted in integrity, craftsmanship, and care. Tyler’s passion for woodworking began early and led him into the construction industry during his high school years. After gaining valuable hands-on experience, he enrolled in the Carpentry Apprenticeship Training Program at the University of the Fraser Valley, further developing his skills and commitment to the trade. Since its founding, TYHOL has grown into a close-knit, skilled team of carpenters, each bringing a diverse mix of experience, talent, and dedication to the job. Alongside our in-house crew, we work with a trusted network of local subcontractors and suppliers—relationships built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to quality.
Alden Prier President, Apex Structural Design
Alden Prier graduated from the Architectural Technology Program at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology and began his career in the structural steel industry in 1992. In 1998, while working for a steel fabricator specializing in the pulp and paper industry, he launched his first company in Prince George, BC. Alden is a former member of the Board of Directors for the Canadian institute of Steel Constriction, and a current board member for the National Institute of Steel Detailing. In 2009, Alden founded Apex Structural Design with a vision to take on unique and challenging building projects while adapting to the evolving needs of clients. Today, Apex is a team of 18 professionals with offices in Red Deer, Alberta, and Port Coquitlam, BC. With expertise in specialized and mass timber industries, Apex has contributed to numerous commercial and residential projects across the Pacific Northwest and Hawaii over the past decade.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Digitally Accelerated Standardized Housing (DASH) to Speed Multi-Family Construction
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction technology); 1 IDCEC HSW-Building Code
Location: Level 2: Room 217
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Interior Design
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Housing Planning, Development & Supply
- Prefabrication, Modular & Offsite Construction
- Housing Solutions
Building Type: Residential: Multi-Unit
DASH is a non-proprietary platform aimed at streamlining the delivery of high-quality, multifamily housing by leveraging digital tools, standardized designs, prefabricated building components, and a coordinated supply chain. This innovative approach enables jurisdictions to scale up housing solutions quickly, efficiently, and affordably while focusing on five core goals: speed through standardized prefabrication, cost-efficiency with reduced waste, scalability that adapts to regional needs, environmental sustainability, and collaborative partnerships across the housing ecosystem. This session introduces the DASH platform as a powerful tool for accelerating multi-family housing production, demonstrating how it engages stakeholders throughout the housing spectrum to collectively address barriers to faster development of housing supply, ultimately creating a more responsive and effective approach to meeting urgent housing demands.
Speakers
Esther de Vos Executive Director of Research, BC Housing
Dr. Esther de Vos serves as the Executive Director of Research at BC Housing. As a pracademic with housing research and public policy expertise from both academic and operational perspectives, Esther is passionate about housing and wellbeing and working towards everyone having a home to call their own. She holds the Certified Practitioner credential from the Chartered Institute of Housing Canada and her Doctorate of Social Sciences (Royal Roads University) focused on social housing in Canada and tenant wellbeing. Esther also holds a Master of Public Administration (University of Victoria), a Bachelor of Laws (University of Alberta), and a Bachelor of Arts (University of Alberta). She has taught courses on public policy as Associate Faculty for Royal Roads University since 2019 and will be teaching affordable housing policy and planning at UBC in Winter 2026.
Albert Lam Associate, Iredale Architecture
Albert Lam’s experience ranges from architecture, BIM, innovation, and apprentice carpenter. He brings detailed knowledge of construction methods and a practical approach to resolving on-site issues. His project portfolio includes a variety of heritage, commercial and residential projects, as well as innovation development in sustainability and housing. He is passionate about global and community stewardship. Albert routinely works within international teams and has delivered presentation on innovation to peers globally. He also works closely with City policy makers and staff, as well as directly with communities, on social and economic development, including Vancouver’s Chinatown, the Downtown Eastside, and Strathcona.
Chris Hill Founder, Chris Hill Consulting Inc.
Chris Hill is a seasoned expert in sustainable construction and offsite manufacturing, with over 20 years of experience in the construction industry. As a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CMA) and Master Residential Builder, Chris combines his financial expertise with a deep understanding of building processes. He has designed, fabricated, and constructed numerous prefabricated buildings and light wood-frame structures, focusing on energy-efficient, climate-neutral designs. Chris is a key thought leader in the prefabrication and offsite construction sectors, advocating for scalable solutions to address housing shortages, particularly in underserved communities. A board member for organizations like (Past) Passive House Canada, (Current) Safer Homes BC, Small Housing BC, and Hiy̓ám̓ Housing, Chris is committed to driving innovation, sustainability, and efficiency in the construction industry.
Franck Murat Senior Advisor, Aliova Consulting Inc.
Architect by training, Franck Murat is a pioneer and recognized leader in collaborative BIM, with 20+ years of experience on major projects in Quebec and France. Known for simplifying complex topics, he shares his vision and expertise to drive industry progress. His mastery of collaborative processes, information management, and asset lifecycle makes him a key player in both project delivery and organizational transformation. With a human-centered approach and insight into technical, operational, and strategic issues, Franck identifies opportunities, overcomes challenges, and delivers impactful solutions. Beyond consulting, he contributes to digital transformation through education as a lecturer at Université de Montréal’s Faculty of Environmental Design. A frequent speaker, he addresses human and organizational aspects of digital change. He is also a founding member and former President of Groupe BIM du Québec.
Michael Epp Director of Housing Planning and Development, Metro Vancouver Housing
Michael is a land use and community planner whose work has ranged from neighbourhood planning and visioning projects in New York City neighbourhoods, to managing planning departments in BC communities. As Director of Planning in the City of North Vancouver, Michael championed policies that significantly increased the rental and non-market housing supply, with the City of North Vancouver one of only a small number of municipalities that delivered targeted levels of housing. In his current role, Michael is leading the delivery of 2,000 new affordable homes across the region and advancing policies to help ensure at least 15% of new housing is affordable.
- Regular
- $85
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Prefab Forward: Integrating Building Science With Next-Gen Envelope Systems (Greenstone)
ConEd Credits: BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction technology)
Location: Level 2: Rooms 215/216
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Housing Planning, Development & Supply
Building Type: Commercial, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
As British Columbia’s residential and light-commercial construction sector adapts to higher performance requirements under the BC Energy Step Code, builders are facing increasing complexity around airtightness, envelope detailing, and construction sequencing. At the same time, prefabricated and modular systems are becoming more prevalent – often faster, more consistent, and better aligned with performance targets. However, they remain unfamiliar to many professionals in the field. This session will discuss the adaptation in the industry and how to evolve.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Speakers
Jake McFaddin Project Manager, Prevail Solutions Inc.
Jake McFaddin is a residential and light-commercial builder with over 18 years of experience delivering high-performance buildings across diverse Canadian climates, from cold prairie regions to British Columbia’s humid interior and coastal environments. An early voluntary adopter of the BC Energy Step Code, Jake has never completed a project below Step 4 and routinely exceeds Step 5 performance targets. His projects consistently achieve airtight results below 1.0 ACH, driven by a strong focus on envelope detailing, constructability, and quality control. Through hands-on experience with prefabricated and modular
systems, he brings a practical, builder-led perspective on applying evolving building science principles without significantly increasing cost or complexity.
- Free
Session Sponsor
11:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Eliminate Manual Processes With Practical AI for Construction Teams and Property Managers (SimplyAsk AI)
Location: Tradeshow Floor: TECHCENTRIC (Booth 1603)
- Construction & Trades
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Artificial Intelligence
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
Manual processes are notorious for causing cost overruns, project delays, and increased injury risks across multiple departments within construction and property management. Streamlining just one of these processes can significantly enhance productivity, worker satisfaction, and cost-effectiveness. This session will explore ways to practically and realistically use AI to transform common bottlenecks within construction, focusing on processes with high potential and low risk. The speaker will present concrete examples within safety, operations, project management, finance, and other departments. By using AI practically, teams can achieve substantial cost savings, improved operational efficiency, and heightened worker safety and happiness.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Speakers
Zane Frantzen VP of Platform & Operations / Founder, SimplyAsk.ai / Symphona
Zane Frantzen is the VP of Platform & Operations at SimplyAsk.ai and the founder of Symphona, the company’s flagship AI automation suite. He leads product direction and consulting delivery, helping organizations reduce manual work, streamline execution, and implement practical automation and AI with measurable productivity gains. He’s focused on building end-to-end, democratized AI that bridges human decision-making with reliable automation, so that solutions are not only powerful, but actually adopted with tangible benefits.
- Free
Session Sponsor
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Design and Construction of the PNE Freedom Mobile Arch: A Long-Span Timber Landmark
Location: Tradeshow Floor: BUILDEX Main Stage (Booth 843)
- Architecture
- Engineering
- Project Planning, Procurement, Management & Delivery
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- WoodWorks at BUILDEX
Building Type: Commercial, Institutional, Mixed-Use
Partners: WoodWorks
Explore the structural ingenuity and collaborative execution behind the PNE Freedom Mobile Arch – one of the world’s largest free-span mass timber structures. This session dives into the technical coordination required to deliver a 105-meter clear span, 7,200 sqm roof system supported by three steel King Arches and 60 precision-glulam timber vaults. Attendees will gain insights into how design, fabrication, and construction teams aligned sequencing strategies for timber installation, temporary works, and steel/timber interfaces. Presented by the structural engineer, contractor, and timber fabricator, the session emphasizes project delivery, digital modeling, and on-site problem solving that enabled this iconic landmark. Targeted at intermediate to advanced professionals in engineering, construction, fabrication, and development, attendees will leave with practical lessons on large-span timber coordination, structural interface management, and the role of interdisciplinary collaboration.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Speakers
Simon Gallagher Project Director, Nordic Structures
Simon Gallagher is a structural engineer and Project Director/Team Leader at Nordic Structures. In his role at Nordic, Simon has worked on multi-storied residential projects, sports complexes, and institutional and educational buildings. Most notably, he was the design engineer and project manager for Origine, a 13-story condominium building in Quebec City and was the team leader for Platte15, a 5-story retail and office building, Colorado’s first cross-laminated timber (CLT) building. He also led the team for the Limberlost Place project in Toronto and for the PNE Amphitheatre project in Vancouver. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from McGill University and a Master of Applied Science in Civil Engineering from École Polytechnique de Montréal.
Mark Gaglione Director, Construction Sciences, EllisDon
Initially trained as an engineer, Mark Gaglione spent the early part of his career in private real estate development. Now with EllisDon, Mark leads the Building and Material Sciences team where he is focused on accelerating the adoption of emerging construction technologies and supporting construction operations nationally. Mark has played a central role in the proliferation of mass timber within EllisDon and is passionate about low carbon building solutions.
Robert Jackson Partner, Fast + Epp
Robert Jackson is a structural engineer and Partner at Fast + Epp, in Vancouver, BC. He offers a unique skill set due to his hands-on experience as a carpenter and fine woodworker. He is a designer with expertise in timber, steel, and concrete in both Canada and the US. Over his career, Robert has developed a particular specialization in mass timber design, having contributed to the success of many of the firm’s most innovative timber projects across North America including the TallWood House at Brock Commons, Limberlost Place, The Hive, 981 Davie Street, and the PNE Amphitheater. He is a contributing author on many articles, papers, and journal publications relating to timber research and development and is passionate about sharing lessons learned.
- FREE
Presenting Partner
12:15 PM – 12:45 PM
Bridging Design and Construction: The Critical Role of Preconstruction (Autodesk)
Location: Tradeshow Floor: TECHCENTRIC (Booth 1603)
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Project Planning, Procurement, Management & Delivery
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Join this session for an in-depth look at how Autodesk is bridging the gap between design and construction, with a focus on the critical role of preconstruction in delivering successful projects. Autodesk has made significant investments in its preconstruction solutions, integrating essential workflows such as estimation, takeoffs, bidding, tendering, prequalification, risk assessment, and more into the common data environment of the broader construction lifecycle. In today’s data-driven environment, a common data environment like Autodesk Docs serves as the central hub, ensuring all project stakeholders stay connected and aligned across every phase of construction.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Speakers
David Nichols Partner Technical Solutions Executive, Autodesk
Graduating as a Mechanical Engineer from Concordia University, David immediately continued his internship and became a full-time R&D Project Manager at Theatrix Technologies. He worked on designing, sourcing, and manufacturing for the R&D department. After a couple of years, he transitioned into construction, joining Kiewit Construction, where he spent most of his time as a structural field engineer on the Kearl Supplementary Crusher project. In 2019, he moved into construction technology, joining Autodesk. Although his GEOs, job title, and assigned accounts have changed significantly since then, he continues to represent the best tools in the industry.
- Free
Autodesk TECHCENTRIC Stage
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Scaling Housing With Prefabricated Timber: Regulations-Ready Mid-Rise Prototypes
Location: Level 2: Rooms 208/209
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Housing Planning, Development & Supply
- WoodWorks at BUILDEX
- Prefabrication, Modular & Offsite Construction
Building Type: Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: WoodWorks
British Columbia faces an urgent housing shortage and mounting pressure to accelerate delivery of multi-unit housing. Recent code changes enabling mass timber up to 18 storeys create a unique opportunity to rethink how housing is designed, permitted, and built.
This session will present findings from the Housing Growth Innovation Program’s Prefabricated Timber Housing Systems project. Attendees will learn how pre-engineered, regulations-ready modular timber prototypes can streamline design and approvals, reduce embodied carbon, and speed construction through off-site manufacturing. The session will share strategies for integrating computational design, compliance analytics, and supply-chain insights to create adaptable, scalable mid-rise housing solutions. Geared to architects, developers, policymakers, and builders, participants will gain insight into how prefabrication and digital tools can de-risk projects, reduce permitting delays, and accelerate the delivery of sustainable, affordable homes in B.C. and beyond.
Speakers
Adrian Watson Principal, Design Director, Perkins&Will
Adrian Watson is Principal and Design Director at Perkins&Will, where he leads complex, high-profile projects that integrate sustainability, innovation, and design excellence. With over 30 years of experience, Adrian has shaped award-winning buildings and master plans across sectors, including higher education, infrastructure, civic, and housing. In his role as Design Director for the Vancouver and Calgary studios, Adrian leads a team of over 160 architects and designers. He is committed to the development design processes that look to the future, whilst believing that design excellence is attained by doing simple things very well.
Yann Tregoat Architect, Perkins&Will
Originally from France, Yann’s early career was spent in Amsterdam and Paris, working on the Paris 2024 Olympic Games Aquatic Centre. Through urban environment and professional exposure, he has developed a strong interest in mass timber and parametric design, as well as innovative sustainable building solutions. Since moving to Vancouver in 2021, he has worked on various mid-to-large-scale projects, from private development to civic buildings. He brings his own life and professional experience from Europe to his work while learning and further expanding his design expertise at Perkins&Will. Yann has two master’s degrees in both Architecture and Structural and Civil Engineering from the Institute of Applied Science of Strasbourg, France.
Solomon Fung Associate Principal, Introba
Solomon Fung is an Associate Principal at the multidisciplinary engineering firm Introba. Based out of their Vancouver office, he brings 15 years of experience to the mechanical team with a diverse project portfolio including mid- and high-rise mixed-use residential buildings, affordable housing, commercial & office buildings, passive house design, and healthcare. With a keen interest in innovation, Solomon leads his team in pursuit of simple solutions that are replicable for the industry.
Brent Olund Partner, Principal, Credos
Brent Olund is a Professional Engineer, a Gold Seal Project Manager, and holds an MBA from the Richard Ivey School of Business. Brent’s 28 years in the construction industry to date started with industrial, commercial, and marine construction and included many years of focus on residential concrete high-rises, educational buildings, and mass timber construction. Brent is a nationally recognized expert and thought leader in the field of planning and control of mass timber structures, has worked with design teams through validation of several upcoming mass timber building assembly systems, and has designed and patented a new lateral structural system for use in these buildings. Brent believes that the highest purpose of his efforts is helping solve the housing crisis by implementing building systems toward improved productivity of construction.
Andrew Blackie Structural Designer, ASPECT Structural Engineers
Andrew enjoys a diverse engineering background, ranging from adaptive reuse of heritage buildings through to the development of modular construction systems. As a common thread across his body of work, he brings expertise in digital workflows and parametric design to deliver an efficient, modern form of building design. Andrew graduated with a Master’s in Structural & Architectural Engineering from the University of Strathclyde in 2016 and has since gained almost a decade of experience between the UK and Canada. He joined ASPECT in 2025, where he has been developing strategies to deploy mass timber at scale and at pace. Andrew’s focus is bridging the gap between conventional and off-site construction, easing the transition away from carbon-intensive materials through a kit-of-parts approach to building structures.
Halil Erhan Professor of Interactive Systems and Design Director of Computational Design Lab, SFU School of Interactive Arts and Technology
Dr. Halil Erhan completed his undergraduate studies at Middle East Technical University (METU) before earning a master’s degree at Clemson University, where he specialized in integrating 3D models into building design. He received his Ph.D. in Design Computation from Carnegie Mellon University, with a focus on generating design requirements. Currently, Dr. Erhan serves as a professor at Simon Fraser University and leads the Computational Design Laboratory. His interdisciplinary research approaches design as a cognitive and collaborative problem-solving process, aiming to develop effective tools that enhance the capacities of creative practitioners. He and his team create and test innovative, human-centered computational design tools. Dr. Erhan founded a research initiative called “Design Analytics,” which uses data from Performance Predictions to facilitate design space exploration through interactive visualizations. He collaborates with industry partners to encourage the adoption of new tools in the AEC sector.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
Stream Sponsor
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Precast Concrete for Mid-Rise Residential in BC
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction technology)
Location: Level 2: Room 220
- Architecture
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Housing Planning, Development & Supply
- Prefabrication, Modular & Offsite Construction
- Housing Solutions
Building Type: Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: CPCI
Precast concrete has become a popular method of housing construction in western Canada. However, there is still relatively little precast presence in BC. Precast concrete can be an important part of the solution to BC’s housing supply challenges. The BC housing market needs a more diverse material supply chain, more prefabricated construction, and more resilient buildings. Precast concrete can fulfill all these needs. This presentation will examine how precast concrete can work in BC mid-rise residential construction, with examples and lessons learned from recent projects in Alberta. The advantages and limitations of the system will be discussed. The audience will see what type of projects are suited for precast and take inspiration on how it might work for their projects.
Speakers
Ray Li Technical Representative, Western Canada, Canadian Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute
Ray is the staff liaison for CPCI Western Chapters (BC, AB, and MB/SK) and CPCI’s Sustainability, Safety, and Productivity committee. He oversees technical inquiries, provincial codes and standards, and industry education in Western Canada. Ray also leads CPCI’s efforts related to net-zero and life cycle assessments.
Kelly Grubb Principal, Structural Engineer, Grubb Engineering
Kelly is the founder and principal structural engineer of Grubb Engineering. He has over 30 years of experience in structural design utilizing all major engineering materials. His team over the past decade has been heavily involved within the precast concrete industry including plant engineering support, precast component design, modelling with BIM, and structural design of numerous precast buildings throughout western Canada.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Disrupting the Norm: Housing Reimagined for a World in Crisis
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction technology)
Location: Level 2: Room 221
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Housing Planning, Development & Supply
- Housing Solutions
Building Type: Residential: Multi-Unit
What happens when a developer, architects, engineers, and consultants team up to push past the limits of “business as usual” in housing and construction? With 7 of 9 planetary boundaries already crossed, housing costs soaring, and investments growing riskier, this group took on one bold question: how do we build better? In this session, attendees will see how innovators are reinventing the process. The speakers will discuss how they are tapping existing value chains, cutting wasteful iterations, slashing embodied carbon by 4x, and speeding up construction by 6x. They will also address how these initiatives are making buildings reusable, protecting workers and inhabitants from toxic exposure, proving that mass timber can compete on price for small-scale multi-unit housing, and more.
Speakers
Elisabeth Baudinaud Principal, Carbon Wise
Elisabeth is the Principal and Founder of Carbon Wise, a group of energy and carbon advisors providing combined operational and embodied carbon services. Carbon Wise aims to bridge the gap between the realities of on-the-ground construction and the imperative actions needed to meet our climate targets. Elisabeth and her team have established themselves as leaders in the field, with a strong commitment to sharing their knowledge—often publishing case studies to advance research on high-performance buildings and participating in policy development. Their leadership and innovation have been recognized through multiple awards, including the BC Embodied Carbon Award (2023 and 2024) and the HAVAN Trailblazer Award (2024), recognizing their impact on driving sustainable construction practices forward.
Bruno Stadler Project and Construction Manager, Timbase Canada
Bruno Stadler is more than a builder, he is a storyteller in wood. Born in Switzerland, he discovered early the beauty of timber as a living, renewable material and built his career around shaping it into meaningful spaces. With over 15 years of experience across Europe and North America, his journey has taken him from hands-on carpentry and timber framing to managing large-scale timber projects. Today, as Project and Construction Manager at Timbase Canada, Bruno pioneers prefabricated timber basements – a bold alternative to carbon-heavy concrete foundations. His work blends technical innovation with a deep respect for nature, creating spaces that are sustainable, warm, and human-centered. A family man, nature enthusiast, and steward of his own forest, Bruno lives the values he builds with: that working with wood is not only construction but also a way to leave the world better for future generations.
Jason Wegman Founder, Landscape Architect, gökotta studio + lab
Jason has spent over 27 years as a landscape architect. He focuses on blending nature, ecology, and human experience in design. He contributed to award-winning projects like Dockside Green, a world-record LEED Platinum development, and the SFU Observatory. He founded gökotta studio + lab in Vancouver, British Columbia, with a central mission: to use ecological restoration in both natural and urban environments to help mend our fractured relationship with Nature and, by extension, with each other. As of 2025-2026, Jason serves as Secretary on the Board of Directors for the Society for Ecological Restoration, Western Canada chapter (SER-WC).
Stephane Laroye Principal, Architect + Urban Planner, SLA
During his 29 years in the industry, Stephane has participated in many project types and delivery methods. As an architect and urban planner, he participates in every stage of projects and leads projects from conceptual site planning through to project close-out. He enjoys being hands-on and actively involved at every stage of a project. Establishing Stephane Laroye Architect Inc. (SLA) in 2016, SLA is proud to provide master planning, urban design, site planning, feasibility studies (working closely with land economics consultants) on multi-family, mixed-use, placemaking and infrastructure projects, providing full services from schematic design, detailed design, contract documentation, field review, construction contract administration, and project close-out. SLA focuses on creating great work through collaboration, attention to detail and experience with a keen interest in high-performance buildings and engineered wood solutions.
- Regular
- $85
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Innovative Shearwall Strategies for Mid-Rise Wood Buildings
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction technology)
Location: Level 2: Room 207
- Architecture
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- WoodWorks at BUILDEX
- Housing Solutions
Building Type: Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: WoodWorks
Vancouver Island is one of Canada’s most seismically active regions, and recent code updates have significantly increased seismic force requirements even further. This has made the design of wood-frame mid-rise residential buildings more complex and costly. Traditional lateral systems often struggle to meet these demands without adding wall length or sacrificing usable floor area, which impacts both affordability and design flexibility. This presentation explores innovative high-capacity shearwall solutions to address emerging risks through a design example of a fictitious residential building in Victoria. The first is the modified version of the already codified Midply shearwall system. The second involves a high-strength concept currently under development by FPInnovations using multiple rows of nails. When paired with lighter floor toppings, these strategies enable six-storey wood frame buildings to remain viable in very high seismic zones.
Speakers
Alejandro Coronado Technical Advisor, WoodWorks BC
Alejandro Coronado is a Technical Advisor with a multidisciplinary background spanning contracting, supply, and consulting engineering. With both a Diploma and a Bachelor’s Degree in Structural Engineering from BCIT, Alejandro began his career in single-family residential design and steadily advanced to contribute to landmark projects such as the Centre Block Base Isolation at Parliament Hill, the UBC Museum of Anthropology Great Hall Renewal, the Royal BC Museum PARC Campus, and a mass timber campus in Silicon Valley. Initially drawn to mass timber for its expressive architectural potential, Alejandro quickly recognized its broader value in addressing today’s social and environmental challenges. Through many years of hands-on experience, Alejandro has become a champion for sustainable construction and simple yet effective structural solutions.
Dorian Tung Manager, Building Systems, FPInnovations
Dorian Tung is currently the Manager of Technology Assessment at FPInnovations. Prior to this, he practiced as a structural consultant in Canada and the US, and obtained his PhD on earthquake engineering from UBC. As the Manager at FPInnovations, he has been working with scientists on projects related to structure, seismic, durability, energy, fire, acoustic, and vibration. Specifically, he has been working with his team on testing mid-ply and high-capacity shear walls to support the development of codes and standards. With the evolving ecosystem, Dorian is active in many working groups to facilitate discussions, remove duplicates, accelerate processes, with the goal to maximize impacts for the forest industry NOW using applied research data.
Mark Robertson Principal, WHM Structural Engineers
Mark is a Principal at WHM with close to 20 years of structural design experience. Through his extensive experience, Mark has established himself as an expert in providing cost-effective solutions to complex projects. He has worked on various residential, institutional, and commercial projects in various locations throughout Canada and the United States. He has been involved in numerous projects utilizing wood frame construction, including the first-ever use of CLT in a market residential project – Virtuoso.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
1:15 PM – 2:15 PM
Prefab Anywhere: Mobile Factories as Workforce Solutions
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction technology)
Location: Tradeshow Floor: TECHCENTRIC (Booth 1603)
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Housing Planning, Development & Supply
Building Type: Commercial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Skilled labour shortages and urgent housing demands are redefining construction. Mobile prefabrication brings production to sites, creating accessible trade work, new career pathways, and long-term economic opportunities. In this session, discover how “flying factories” developed in partnership with BC First Nations demonstrate their competitive ability to deliver system-agnostic prefabricated wood panels while incorporating various trades training opportunities and scopes. Presenters will demonstrate how these mobile facilities train and upskill workers, generate employment, enable economic independence, and accelerate timelines. Attendees will gain insights on how architects, owners, contractors, governments, and First Nations organizations can engage with this model to help address the housing crisis, strengthen workforce pipelines, and advance equitable, high-performance construction.
Speakers
Mark Taylor Interim VP of Operations, Flying Factory Implementation Manager, Naikoon Contracting Ltd.
Mark Taylor has over 35 years of experience in the construction industry, having worked with major companies in Canada and the UK, including PCL and Stuart Olson. Throughout his career he has held leadership roles such as Vice President of Permanent Modular Construction, Director of Operations, and Senior Construction Manager. Today, Mark draws on this extensive background to collaborate with contractors and owners in developing innovative solutions that integrate prefabrication into projects, including the use of mass timber. He is an experienced project scheduler and planner with a deep understanding of how strong planning and coordination can shape project outcomes. Known for challenging the status quo, he continues to seek ways to advance construction practices and improve how we build. In addition, Mark provides training through construction associations across Canada, helping to develop the next generation of strong builders and leaders.
Curtis Thomas Co-Founder/Councillor, Kʷasən Enterprises Ltd./Tsleil-Waututh Nation
Born and raised on the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, Curtis Thomas currently serves in his 3rd consecutive term on TWN’s elected leadership Council. On the Council Curtis currently holds the Economic Development portfolio, in the past he served on the Community Climate Action Committee, the TWN Housing Committee, and the TWN Land Tenure working group. Curtis is a red seal plumber and gasfitter gaining both certifications at BCIT. Curtis has 20+ year’s experience in the construction industry running his own mechanical contracting company Warrior Plumbing Ltd. Making it part of his business plan to focus on hiring Indigenous people whenever possible to offer apprenticeships and mentoring, and a chance at a well-paying career. Working with many reputable industry professionals over the years has strengthened Curtis’ skillset and aligned him with a broad network within the Lower Mainland. Curtis is passionate about mentoring Indigenous people and believes Kʷasən Enterprises is another viable avenue to achieve this and offering various opportunities outside the mechanical industry.
- Regular
- $85
Autodesk TECHCENTRIC Stage
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Tall Timber and Affordable Housing: A Case Study
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction technology)
Location: Level 2: Rooms 208/209
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Housing Planning, Development & Supply
- WoodWorks at BUILDEX
- Prefabrication, Modular & Offsite Construction
- Housing Solutions
Building Type: Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: WoodWorks
As cities face growing pressures around affordability, climate resilience, and livability, innovative projects like Catalyst’s 18-storey CLT rental development in North Vancouver offer necessary solutions. Targeted toward architects, engineers, developers, and municipal leaders, this session explores sustainable mass timber construction and affordable housing. Attendees will gain insights into using CLT in construction and the unique challenges. In-depth review of challenges such as structural grid constraints, moisture protection, and prefabricated balcony systems, and how the team transformed these into creative solutions. Furthermore, it will provide insight into integrated mixed-use programming, BIM-enhanced coordination, and the permitting process for tall wood buildings, with practical takeaways for implementing similar projects in other cities.
Speakers
Rhys Leitch Principal, Integra Architecture Inc.
Rhys Leitch has been a principal at Integra since 2018, he has worked on award-winning projects ranging from sustainable design, high-end single-family, multi-family, and mixed-use residential developments. Originally from Australia, Rhys brings a unique approach to contemporary west coast architecture, paying special attention to the way materials, massing, and design respond to the context of a site. Recently his focus has been CLT mid and high rise projects, pushing the boundaries in different mass timber housing typologies.
Sean Binns Project Director, Kindred Construction
Sean is a proven construction leader with over 20 years of experience delivering major residential and commercial projects across the UK and Canada. As Project Director at Kindred Construction, he leads complex builds and champions innovation in mass timber, Passive House, and modular construction. A mentor and speaker, Sean fosters industry talent through strong partnerships with local universities.
Harrison Glotman Principal, Glotman Simpson Consulting Engineers
Harrison Glotman is a Principal at Glotman Simpson with several years of experience working on complex projects across Canada and the U.S. Prior to joining Glotman Simpson, Harrison worked on high-end homes and retrofits in some of the most iconic buildings in New York and San Francisco. He completed his Master of Science in Structural Engineering with a full scholarship to Stanford University where he specialized in seismic engineering. The knowledge gained through this degree has proven to be incredibly valuable in building design on the West Coast.
- Regular
- $85
Session Sponsor
Presenting Partner
Stream Sponsor
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Managing Moisture in Mass Timber Builds
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core
Location: Level 2: Room 207
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Project Planning, Procurement, Management & Delivery
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- WoodWorks at BUILDEX
Building Type: Civil / Infrastructure, Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
Partners: WoodWorks
This session delivers immediately applicable strategies for contractors and trades to mitigate moisture-related risks during construction. Drawing from recent field-tested guidance and real-world case studies, we’ll explore how to develop project-specific moisture management plans, coordinate across trades, and implement monitoring protocols. Whether you’re working on a hybrid system or exposed timber interiors, this session equips you with the tools to protect your project and preserve the integrity of mass timber elements.
Speakers
Brad Carmichael Principal, 4EA Building Science
Brad has been consulting on building enclosures throughout North America for nearly two decades. Brad is passionate about good design and the role it can play in social and environmental stewardship. He believes that durable and efficient building enclosures are critical for a built environment that is low consumption and long lasting. Brad has consulted on a wide array of different project types and sectors, including high rises, healthcare facilities, cultural institutions, workspaces, affordable housing, and historic landmarks.
Max Closen President, MTC Solutions
Max Closen, President and Founder of the Canadian-owned and operated MTC Solutions, established the company founded on integrity and a lifelong passion for wood—a passion sparked by his father, a forester. Max’s commitment to practical and robust design, rooted in a ranch-like upbringing, led him from a carpentry apprenticeship to advanced mass timber connection systems. His mass timber involvement began in 2007 as a Master’s student at UBC, pioneering research into the seismic performance of moment-resisting timber connections using self-tapping screw reinforcements.
Residing on the North Shore of Vancouver by choice, driven by a deep appreciation for Mother Nature and a desire to find peace and comfort in the woods, Max intimately knows what persistent wet conditions entail. This direct experience and curiosity regarding the impact of wetting on timber connections inform his specialty in robust moisture management and connection systems, and mounts MTC Solutions as a forward-thinking innovator for mass timber connection technology.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Canada – Italy Green Building Forum 2026
Location: Tradeshow Floor: Innovation & Networking Hub (Booth 201)
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
Building Type: Civil / Infrastructure, Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
A place to connect and learn about what’s new in the green building space. A bilateral hub to connect, network and do business with new clients and suppliers. Brought to you by the Italian Chamber in Canada – West.
Presentation details:
Removing Certification Programs Barriers for Swing Doors Code Compliance
LabTest is working with the Fenestration Industry to improve the process and time to market for product approvals and reporting, which impacts everyone involved: from pre-hangers, component suppliers, installers, architects, regulators, and energy consultants. Join this free to attend event on the Tradeshow Floor: Innovation & Networking Hub (Booth 201) from 3:30pm to 4:30pm on Wednesday, February 11.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
- FREE
Sponsor
Thursday, February 12
My Cart9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Challenging Convention With Innovative Timber Applications
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core
Location: Level 2: Rooms 208/209
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
- WoodWorks at BUILDEX
Building Type: Commercial, Mixed-Use
Partners: WoodWorks
This dynamic session explores cutting-edge applications of mass timber in Canadian construction through three compelling case studies that showcase how timber is revolutionizing the building industry. Attendees will discover Spearhead’s visionary approach to next-generation manufacturing through their innovative glulam facility in British Columbia. This groundbreaking project challenges conventional thinking and reimagines timber production processes, setting new standards for what’s possible in wood manufacturing. The session will also feature Intelligent City’s remarkable achievement—Canada’s first tall timber Passive House facade. This case study reveals how mass timber building envelopes can deliver exceptional environmental performance while meeting the most demanding energy efficiency standards, creating sustainable structures that perform as beautifully as they look. Finally, the session will present ETRO’s 837 Beatty project, where heritage preservation meets modern timber innovation. This thoughtful integration creates a harmonious dialogue between historical architecture and forward-thinking construction methodologies, demonstrating timber’s versatility across different building contexts.
Speakers
Shaun St-Amour Retrofit (Revive) Manager, ETRO Construction
Shaun brings a unique combination of expertise, leadership, and passion for high-performance buildings. With extensive knowledge of high-performance building standards and hands-on experience with sustainable materials and methods, he bridges the gap between design intent and construction execution. Beyond ETRO, Shaun contributes to the Passive House Accelerator, organizes Zero Carbon Building Tours with ZEBx, and hosts building science meet-ups. His expertise plays a key role in driving decarbonization, resiliency, and efficiency in both new and existing buildings.
Josh Hall Partner, Director of Business Development, Spearhead
Josh is a Partner and Director of Business Development at Spearhead, where he helps shape the company’s vision and strategic direction. With over fifteen years of experience spanning architecture, digital fabrication, and commercial construction, his knowledge of design, process, and project delivery plays a key role in guiding Spearhead’s continued growth and evolution. Josh holds a Master of Architecture from the University of British Columbia and a Bachelor of Architectural Science from the British Columbia Institute of Technology.
Shawn Keyes VP, Strategic Growth & Business Development, Intelligent City
Shawn is a structural engineer and commercial executive with more than a decade of experience leading innovation in mass timber and industrialized construction. As Vice President of Strategic Growth at Intelligent City, he leads commercialization, market strategy, and partnerships to scale the company’s prefabricated housing systems. Previously, Shawn served as Executive Director of WoodWorks BC, where he led a strategic transformation that strengthened partnerships, technical leadership, and influence across the development, AEC, and policy sectors. Before that, he spent over six years at Fast + Epp, developing deep expertise in mass timber and hybrid structural systems. Shawn’s teams have supported more than 150 mass timber projects across Canada, and he has served on advisory councils for BC Housing, BCIT, and the BC Office of Mass Timber Implementation. He holds an MBA from UBC Sauder, a Master of Engineering from Carleton University, and is a licensed Professional Engineer in BC and Ontario.
- Regular
- $85
Session Sponsor
Presenting Partner
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Homebuilding & Renovation Keynote – The Future of Modular and Offsite Housing
Location: Tradeshow Floor: BUILDEX Main Stage (Booth 843)
- Construction & Trades
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Housing Planning, Development & Supply
- Prefabrication, Modular & Offsite Construction
Building Type: Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
This keynote will explore how modular and offsite construction are addressing housing challenges across low-density and medium-density developments. Panelists will discuss technological innovations, emerging financial models, and the roles of the private and public sectors in advancing offsite solutions. Attendees will gain insights into the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of housing through modular and offsite approaches.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Speakers
Jake Fry Founding Partner / Principal, Smallworks Studios / Laneway Housing
David J. (Jake) Fry is the founder and principal of Smallworks Studios and Laneway Housing Inc., a pioneering real estate development and design–build firm specializing in sustainable small homes. His projects are designed to maximize land efficiency and market value while maintaining affordability, offering enduring returns for homeowners and strengthening the communities in which they are built. By integrating advanced building science with hand-crafted finishes, Jake has demonstrated that innovative, sustainable housing can also be financially sound and scalable. As an industry leader, Jake was instrumental in advising the City of Vancouver on its original laneway housing bylaw and has since worked with municipalities across Canada to create zoning frameworks that expand affordable housing options. His expertise has positioned him as both a policy influencer and a successful developer, bridging innovation in housing with pragmatic real estate practices. In 2012, Jake co-founded Small Housing BC (SHBC), a non-profit dedicated to advancing small housing solutions.
Lesa Lacey President, CHBA & Business Manager, Lacey Developments Ltd.
Lesa Lacey is Business Manager at Lacey Construction – a custom home builder, renovator, and commercial builder based in Mission – and a 5-time Custom Home Builder of the Year. Ms. Lacey is active in the community, including as president of CHBA-BC, Past Chair of the BC Construction Safety Alliance, and a board member with CORCAN, Skills Canada BC, the University of the Fraser Valley, and the Mission Association for Community Living. Ms. Lacey is also a founding member of the Fraser Valley Women in Construction Group and a founding member of the CHBA Fraser Valley Boot Bank. She is the recipient of the President’s Award from the Mission Chamber of Commerce, Member of the Year Award from CHBA BC, and Three Time President’s Award from CHBA Fraser Valley. In her volunteer roles, Ms. Lacey is passionate about volunteering to support women in trades and trades as meaningful careers – including volunteering with Skilled Trades BC, Correctional Service of Canada, and Defy Ventures.
Lisa Helps Executive Lead, Project Acceleration, BC Housing
As Executive Lead for BC Builds Project Origination at BC Housing, Lisa focuses on accelerating affordable home delivery for middle-income British Columbians through low-interest loans and grants. Previously, Lisa served two terms as Mayor of Victoria, B.C., where my professional work centered on urban transformation, addressing housing, climate change, and reconciliation. Lisa is passionate about realizing big ideas and fostering collaboration across diverse groups to build strong, resilient communities.
Joe Geluch CEO, Naikoon Contracting Ltd.
Joe is a Red Seal Carpenter, a Gold Seal Project Manager, a Certified Housing Professional, and CEO of a boutique, full-service construction firm that has managed a roster of award-winning, high-performance prefab projects using a wide variety of materials and technologies, including structural insulated panels, cross-laminated timber insulated panels, hybrid steel and mass timber, and mass timber columns and beams. Joe exploits traditional practices and digital and project management innovation.
- FREE
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
AI Proof-of-Value: Lessons From BC’s Adoption Cohort
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD; AIBC 1 Non-Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction technology)
Location: Tradeshow Floor: TECHCENTRIC (Booth 1603)
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Artificial Intelligence
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
The AI Adoption Proof-of-Value Initiative is a first-of-its-kind program helping mid-sized construction firms and local tech providers de-risk adoption. Over 18 months, it has delivered dozens of projects across western Canada, resulting in $1M+ in AI-adoption while surfacing $3M+ in cost savings. This session shares key learnings from those experiences – where measurable value was found, benefits realized, and lessons learned when moving beyond pilots into results – and will spotlight the BC-based 2025 cohort. Attendees will gain insights into adoption considerations such as defining an AI-why, team alignment, and process integration, with examples across business development, preconstruction, and field operations. Designed for executives, innovation leads, and project teams, this session offers a blueprint for real results; with less risk, time, and cost.
Speakers
Shawn Gray Founder, CEO, ConstructIQ Advisory
Shawn Gray, P.Eng, is the founder of ConstructIQ Advisory, helping construction firms improve productivity and profitability by turning emerging tech into meaningful results-with less risk, time, and cost. A Top-40-Under-40 in Canadian Construction and global leader in AI adoption, he brings nearly two decades of experience, including $5B+ in project delivery and AI initiatives scaled across $25B+ in construction. Shawn also serves as VP of the Prairies Proptech Association and advises leading industry associations and academic institutions.
- Regular
- $85
Autodesk TECHCENTRIC Stage
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
From Forest to Form: Sourcing Local Wood for BC Projects
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction technology); 1 IDCEC HSW-Sustainability
Location: Level 2: Rooms 208/209
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Interior Design
- Project Planning, Procurement, Management & Delivery
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
- WoodWorks at BUILDEX
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
Partners: WoodWorks
Wood and mass timber are increasingly being specified for all kinds of buildings and spaces in BC, including mid-rise and taller residential apartments, schools, and healthcare facilities. Does this mean BC will cut down more trees? On this panel, hear BC’s Chief Forester discuss the province’s forest management practices and wood supply. Learn from a recently completed project that effectively sourced local wood materials and discover the tools and resources available to assist in procuring wood products from BC’s forests.
Speakers
Helen Goodland Principal, Head of Research and Innovation, Scius Advisory Inc.
Helen Goodland is an architect registered in the UK and has an MBA from the University of BC. As head of research and innovation for Scius, she brings over 30 years of experience working on transformative solutions for the real estate and construction industries in Canada and around the world. Helen is firmly committed to achieving truly sustainable buildings within the next decade. She is also passionate about advancing leadership opportunities for women in construction technology. To this end, she participates on numerous boards and committees. Currently she serves on the Board of Directors of Building Transformations (formerly CanBIM), the BC Digital Advisory Council, the BCIT Mass Timber Education Advisory Board and the University of Victoria’s Green Civil Engineering Advisory Council. She is also past chair of the UN Sustainable Buildings Initiative’s Materials Technical Committee.
Shane Berg
Shane Berg is an Assistant Deputy Minister, and the Chief Forester, for the Province of BC with the Ministry of Forests. Shane obtained his BSc. in Forestry from the University of Alberta and has more than 35 years of experience working within BC’s Public Service. Shane is a registered professional forester (RPF) and has worked throughout the province, beginning as a silviculture technician in Invermere, a silviculture forester in Grand Forks, a forest planning manager in Squamish, and eventually taking on district manager roles over a span of 14 years with the BC Forest Service in northern BC (Hazelton) and the southern interior (Kamloops). He spent six years working as a regional executive director with the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation until he returned to FLNR as an executive director and the deputy chief forester in 2017, a role that he held until has appointment as BC’s 18th chief forester in June of 2022. The mantra for the Office of the Chief Forester is “Caring for BC’s Forests”…and Shane’s goal as chief forester is to promote BC as a world leader in sustainable forest management.
Ayme Sharma Associate Principal, ZGF Architects
Ayme leads ZGF Vancouver’s Building and Project Performance Team, drawing on almost 20 years of professional experience in architecture centered on building performance and environmental stewardship. Trained as both an ecologist and an architect, Ayme brings deep expertise in embodied carbon, healthy materials, high-performance envelope design including Passive House and LEED certification. Her current research delves into linking the biogenic value of wood to sustainable forest management practices in BC to understand carbon and ecosystem benefits. Ayme has cultivated an extensive network of wood industry partners that spans the entire supply chain-from First Nations forest stewards to both small- and large-scale product fabricators. Ayme brings expertise in designing one of the first CLT elementary schools in British Columbia that promotes student health and well-being.
Rebecca Holt Senior Director, Sustainability, hcma
Rebecca Holt is an urbanist and passionate advocate for our planet. She spent her career collaborating with design teams, organizations, and researchers on strategies for high-performance buildings, neighborhoods, and cities. She leads hcma’s Impact Team, shaping how we practice, operate, and advocate. A subject matter expert with a foundation in building performance assessment and climate-responsive design, Rebecca brings decades of experience in design guidance. She is a strategist and steward of process dedicated to outcomes that respect the planet and include everyone.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Prefab at 837 Beatty: Washroom Wall Panels – There’s More to Prefab Than Most Realize
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core
Location: Level 2: Room 220
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Prefabrication, Modular & Offsite Construction
Building Type: Commercial, Institutional, Residential: Multi-Unit
There’s more to prefab at 837 Beatty than mass timber. Attendees will learn about pilot pre-designed washroom wall-panel kits that are built off-site with sequenced delivery – turning bathrooms into a place-connect-verify exercise. Learn about RFIs/rework, logistics and safety, QC traceability, and cost predictability. Attendees will see model progression and hear about single cut-dimensions, penetrations, connections, tolerances, and MEP – plus how jigs, steady cadence, and protected packaging enabled floor-by-floor delivery. Attendees will also learn about field results that include fewer hoists, shorter walks, cleaner floors, earlier inspections, more consistent finishes, and why “no VDC, no prefab” is a workflow, not a slogan. The session will conclude with what’s next: a 1:1 bathroom-kit mock-up, risers and corridor service zones, a digital tote program for small-parts control, and a pragmatic “start tomorrow” playbook with workforce wins that right-skill tasks, improve ergonomics, and attract new talents.
Speakers
Kristof Hebel Manager, Prefabrication + Offsite Construction, ETRO Construction
Kristof Hebel bridges the gap between big-picture goals and on-the-ground execution. With over 10 years of expertise in project management, especially in prefabrication and off-site construction, he translates complex requirements into clear,actionable steps. Adaptable and proactive, Kristof ensures teams feel supported with the resources they need while driving innovative solutions. A strong communicator and problem-solver, he refines ideas into successful strategies. Committed to collaboration and continuous improvement, Kristof empowers teams, instills client confidence, and advocates for knowledge-sharing to push the industry forward.
- Regular
- $85
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Innovation, Collaboration, and Prefabrication: Managing Time, Cost, and Risk on High Performance
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD; AIBC 1 Core
Location: Level 2: Rooms 218/219
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Prefabrication, Modular & Offsite Construction
Building Type: Commercial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: ZEIC
This session will feature an animated three-way discussion between an architect, a general contractor, and a manufacturer on common pitfalls to avoid and best practices to cultivate to deliver high-performance prefab projects that effectively manage time, cost, and risk. Attendees will be actively engaged in this dialogue. Panelists will draw from their experience on multiple award-winning projects using a wide variety of prefabricated materials, technologies, and approaches in wood frame and mass timber construction. Topics include innovations in digital design, interdisciplinary collaboration, procurement, project cycle, finance, site organization, and risk management.
Speakers
Alex Boston Principal, Boston Consulting
Alex is a policy, planning, and engagement innovator dedicated to advancing elegant solutions to complex problems. As Director of Community Climate & Energy at Golder Associates, Alex has led multiple award-winning projects delivering deep GHG reductions. He initiated the Local Solutions to Mid-Rise Mass Timber Program at SFU Renewable Cities, where he served as ED. Collaborating with the Zero Emission Innovation Centre, he recently established the Local Government Offsite Construction Accelerator.
Joe Geluch CEO, Naikoon Contracting Ltd.
Joe is a Red Seal Carpenter, a Gold Seal Project Manager, a Certified Housing Professional, and CEO of a boutique, full-service construction firm that has managed a roster of award-winning, high-performance prefab projects using a wide variety of materials and technologies, including structural insulated panels, cross-laminated timber insulated panels, hybrid steel and mass timber, and mass timber columns and beams. Joe exploits traditional practices and digital and project management innovation.
Mesa Sherriff Associate Principal, ZGF Architects
Mesa is an accomplished architect and urban designer with 15 years of experience working and designing with wood. He has a keen focus on innovative construction methodologies, particularly mass timber and modular construction, his professional journey reflects a deep commitment to addressing crucial social and environmental challenges within the built environment. Mesa is adept at leveraging his expertise across a spectrum of projects, ranging from small-scale conceptions to complex, large-scale initiatives, with consideration for community development, equity, and sustainability. Mesa’s recent contributions to design guidelines, urban integration studies, and ongoing dialogues surrounding mass timber and mid-rise residential construction underscores his commitment to design as a process for shaping sustainable and inclusive urban environments.
Devon Parkinson Senior Project Manager, Kalesnikoff Mass Timber
Devon is a Senior Project Manager specializing in Mass Timber manufacturing and construction projects. He has overseen complex structural packages throughout North America, including Design Assist, shop drawing preparation, material and hardware procurement, fabrication, logistics, and installation. Collaboration with designers, manufacturers, and builders allows Devon to have a unique perspective on project delivery challenges and best practices, including collaboration, procurement strategy, digital design, coordination workflows, and risk management.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
People, Process, and Technology: Redefining Project Delivery at BC Place
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core
Location: Level 2: Room 221
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Project Planning, Procurement, Management & Delivery
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
Building Type: Commercial, Institutional, Mixed-Use
This session explores what it takes to deliver complex projects in today’s rapidly evolving construction landscape. With the global spotlight on Vancouver for the FIFA World Cup 2026, ETRO’s work on the transformative renovations at BC Place showcases how strategy, people, and technology come together to redefine project delivery. Through real-world lessons from BC Place and other landmark projects, the speaker will share how integrating Virtual Design & Construction (VDC), prefabrication, and digital collaboration tools drives smarter, more predictable outcomes. This session is a must-attend for those seeking to understand how innovative construction practices are reshaping our industry and setting new benchmarks for performance, efficiency, and impact.
Speakers
Mike Maierle Founder, President, ETRO Construction
Since founding ETRO Construction in 2015, Mike Maierle has built the company into an award-winning industry leader recognized for complex projects driven by innovation, transparency, and strategic partnerships. His people-first leadership emphasizes strong core values and cultivating top talent, growing ETRO to nearly 200 employees and close to $200M in annual revenue across the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, and the Bahamas. The firm’s diverse portfolio spans commercial, hospitality, institutional, residential, mission-critical, and tenant improvement projects. As Founder and President, Mike champions technology and forward-thinking solutions while keeping relationships central. Beyond construction, through the ETRO Family of Companies and CapitalM Ventures, he has launched ventures in real estate, self-perform services, and equipment management, creating an integrated, scalable platform designed for agility and long-term value.
- Regular
- $85
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Prefab Solutions for Transitional and Affordable Housing
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction technology)
Location: Level 2: Room 217
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Prefabrication, Modular & Offsite Construction
- Housing Solutions
Building Type: Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
This session will explore how prefabricated, panelized construction can help bridge the gap between emergency shelters and permanent housing, while also offering scalable solutions for municipalities facing broader housing challenges. Using Two Steps Home as a case study, the speakers will discuss how prefab approaches can deliver durable, sustainable, and rapidly deployable housing, and how these lessons can inform strategies for affordable and supportive housing across Canada.
Speakers
Jackson Wyatt CEO, CABN
Jackson Wyatt is the CEO and Founder of CABN, a Canadian leader in sustainable housing solutions. He previously founded and led Greenlid, a widely successful sustainable products company recognized across North America for its compostable consumer goods. Building on this entrepreneurial success, Jackson launched CABN during the COVID-19 pandemic with the goal of making sustainable housing more attainable. At CABN, he has pioneered CABN Core Technology™, a breakthrough construction system that integrates renewable energy, innovative materials, and Canadian-sourced timber to deliver net-zero, off-grid housing at scale. His work is redefining what’s possible in climate-resilient communities-combining speed, affordability, and sustainability to meet Canada’s urgent housing needs.
Aaron Budd Principal, Regenerative Practice, WW+P
Aaron is a partner at SvN and leads the firm’s Regenerative Practice, which integrates architecture and urbanism with natural systems. With over two decades of global experience in architecture, planning, and sustainability, he is known for pragmatic, climate-positive design solutions. Aaron brings together multidisciplinary teams to create zero-carbon, circular, and resilient communities, with current projects ranging from Toronto’s Ontario Line transit-oriented communities and a net-zero rental building, to the Keeseekoose First Nation Master Plan in Regina, a nature reserve in the Bahamas, and a mass-timber project in Collingwood. His career spans Toronto, Ghana, Indonesia, the Philippines, France, New York, and London.
- Regular
- $85
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Building Canada’s Future With Wood
Location: Tradeshow Floor: BUILDEX Main Stage (Booth 843)
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- WoodWorks at BUILDEX
- Prefabrication, Modular & Offsite Construction
- Housing Solutions
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: WoodWorks
This keynote will feature thought leaders in a podcast-style conversation exploring the evolving role of wood in Canadian construction. Through a series of rotating interviews, the discussion will highlight key themes including the rise of mass timber and tallwood buildings, the shift toward offsite construction, and wood’s potential to address the housing affordability crisis. The session offers a forward-looking yet grounded perspective on the opportunities and complexities shaping the industry.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Speakers
Russell Hixson Editor, SiteNews
Russell Hixson is an award-winning investigative journalist who spent the early parts of his career doing crime and courts reporting in the U.S. before stumbling into covering Canada’s construction sector. He spent eight years writing for the Journal of Commerce where he became well versed on the industry and its issues. He’s covered the federal budget from Ottawa and documented the early impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic while locked down in his bedroom. Hixson has developed a passion for the construction industry and seeks to convert others by sharing its stories through SiteNews.
Jana Foit Principal, Higher Education Practice Lead, Perkins&Will
Jana is a Principal and Higher Education Practice Lead for the Vancouver studio of Perkins&Will. She has over two decades of experience and has led several mass timber projects that include the Earth Science Building and Gateway Building at UBC, as well as the recently completed BCIT Tall Timber Student Housing project. In addition to being a frequent speaker and panelist on mass timber topics, Jana is a contributor to the Nail Laminated Timber Design and Construction Guide, the Survey of International Tall Wood Buildings, and the Technical Guide for the Design and Construction of Tall Wood Buildings in Canada.
Robert Malczyk Principal, Timber Engineering
Robert is one of a small number of university-trained, specialized timber engineers. Following graduation with a master’s degree from Warsaw Technical University, Robert came to Canada for an opportunity to study at UBC under the world renowned Borg Madsen. In 1997, Robert co-founded Equilibrium Consulting Inc. and worked on a number of award winning buildings including the Art Gallery of Ontario Galleria Italia with architect Frank Gehry. In 2021, Robert co-founded Timber Engineering Inc. He is currently working on projects all over Canada, in the USA and in Asia. Robert’s specialty is a systems approach to Mass Timber with emphasis on structural and energy efficiency.
Andrew Stiffman Vice President, Construction Services, Kalesnikoff
Andrew has diverse project experience: single-family homes, Canada’s largest residential passive house project, and low-rise and mid-rise mass timber projects. At Kalesnikoff Mass Timber, Andrew oversees the project life cycle of all mass timber and prefabricated projects, from initial conversations through to successful project completion. His background in building science, development management, and hands-on high-performance construction allows him to leverage technical expertise and creativity to lead multidisciplinary project teams.
- FREE
Presenting Partner
1:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Smarter Property Operations: Managing Maintenance, Capital Projects, and Budgets in One Platform (Yardi)
Location: Tradeshow Floor: Property Management Learning Lab (Booth 242)
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
From day-to-day maintenance to capital projects, operational efficiency starts with visibility into budgets, costs, and timelines. In this session, attendees will learn how Yardi Breeze Premier brings together maintenance management, job costing, and fixed asset tracking in one connected platform to help property teams save time, control expenses, and protect long-term asset value.
Attendees will see how to:
- Track reactive, planned, and preventative maintenance tasks in real time to reduce downtime and extend asset life
- Manage capital projects with complete transparency into budgets, contracts, permits, and deadlines
- Use job cost tracking to stay on budget, prevent overspending, and improve forecasting accuracy
- Monitor fixed assets and warranties to optimize replacement planning and reduce avoidable repair costs
Join this live demonstration to see how a single, integrated platform helps your team reduce risk, stay on budget, and increase operational efficiency, all while maintaining asset value.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Speakers
Kiera Sinnamon Account Executive, Canada, Yardi
Kiera Sinnamon serves as an Account Executive at Yardi, specializing in property management technology solutions for the Canadian real estate market. She leverages her expertise with Yardi Breeze Premier, a cloud-based property management solution, to help her clients simplify accounting, leasing, maintenance and communication with their stakeholders.
Kiera is committed to delivering tailored technology-driven solutions that address the unique challenges of her clients, ensuring they can succeed in the market. By fostering meaningful connections and providing practical insights, she helps clients leverage technology to achieve their goals. Be sure to attend her session and connect with her to explore how Yardi’s solutions can transform your property management processes.
- Free
Session Sponsor
Property Management Learning Lab Presented By
1:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Design, Document, and Deliver With Vectorworks Architect (Vectorworks)
Location: Tradeshow Floor: TECHCENTRIC (Booth 1603)
- Architecture
- Interior Design
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Housing Planning, Development & Supply
Building Type: Commercial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
Discover what Vectorworks Architect can do for your design process and your architectural projects. Join the speaker as they go from initial hand sketch to drawing, modelling, and rendering in a fully integrated BIM workflow – all within Vectorworks. Whether you are an architect or designer who is looking for a flexible, design-oriented solution or you are an existing Vectorworks user who wants to take your practice further, this session is for you.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Speakers
Neil Barman Architect, Product Specialist, Vectorworks Inc.
Neil Barman is a registered architect with AIBC in Victoria, BC, and a Product Specialist with Vectorworks Canada, providing workflow guidance, software training, and support for clients across the country. Neil has a deep understanding of Vectorworks and enjoys empowering others to become efficient and create more with the software. He is also a co-designer of Victoria, BC’s first LEED Platinum home.
- Free
Session Sponsor
1:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Tech in Action: Rethinking CRE Space for Higher NOI (Yardi)
Location: Tradeshow Floor: Property Management Learning Lab (Booth 242)
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
Commercial real estate is changing fast as tenants and investors demand better buildings and experiences. Join Yardi in the BUILDEX Learning Lab for a 30-minute tech session and live demo that shows how interactive floor plans and connected building data help you centralize lease information, reconfigure suites and common areas, maximize rentable space, and see the impact on NOI in real time. Learn how this approach also supports more accurate CAM charge distribution and facility management and gives owners, asset managers, and leasing teams clearer visibility across properties and projects.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Speakers
Rav Gahunia Account Executive, Yardi
Since entering real estate tech in 2019, Rav Gahunia has supported organizations ranging from small portfolios to mid market enterprises. His work spans Yardi Breeze Premier and Yardi Voyager ERP, giving him a unique perspective on how integrated software ecosystems drive operational efficiency and growth.
- Free
Session Sponsor
Learning Lab Presented By
1:30 PM – 2:00 PM
BIM and Specifications: Helping to Successfully Create a Digital Twin (NBS)
Location: Tradeshow Floor: TECHCENTRIC (Booth 1603)
- Architecture
- Engineering
- Interior Design
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
The presentation will offer an overview of the current state of specification technology in Canada before discussing how and when specifications could or should be integrated with a BIM model in Vectorworks or Autodesk Revit. Ultimately, the information and process presented will improve the quality of contract specifications produced and reduce risk by helping to create a digital twin of the project.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Speakers
Mark Barretto VP Sales, The NBS
Mark Barretto is the Vice President of Sales for Hubexo Canada, formerly NBS Canada. With over 15 years of experience in the information technology sector, including roles at Microsoft and Walmart, Mark is dedicated to advancing the AEC industry through innovative tools like NBS Chorus. His work focuses on helping professionals create smarter specifications with BIM-integrated solutions, including NBS Source and Specification Services. As the leader of Canadian operations, Mark is committed to driving excellence in specification software and services. He is an active member of CSC (Construction Specifications Canada) and the RAIC (Royal Architectural Institute of Canada), frequently participating in industry events to champion the evolution of specifications through technology.
- Free
Session Sponsor
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Emerging Technology in AEC: Perspectives From Practitioners
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD; AIBC 1 Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction technology); 1 IDCEC General Hour
Location: Tradeshow Floor: TECHCENTRIC (Booth 1603)
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Interior Design
- Cross-Industry
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
Building Type: Civic / Infrastructure, Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
Emerging technology is moving quickly from hype to practice in the AEC sector. This session brings together practitioners from leading firms to present real-world case studies of how emerging technology such as AI is being applied today. Each study will highlight a distinct use case: from generative design workflows, to automated code compliance, to predictive analysis, to smaller operational efficiencies. The panel will move beyond abstract discussion to share tangible lessons learned, implementation challenges, and measurable outcomes. Attendees will gain insight into how to evaluate opportunities and limitations for their own organizations.
Speakers
Xun Liu Assistant Professor, School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture, UBC
Xun Liu is Assistant Professor at the School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture at the University of British Columbia. Her research explores computational design with a focus on generative AI, representation and digital media, data-driven methods, and environmental sensing. She investigates how emerging technologies can inform design processes, bridge quantitative analysis and creative practice, and operate across both architectural and landscape scales.
Xun holds a Ph.D. in Constructed Environment from the University of Virginia. Her dissertation, AI+ Landscapes: Deep Learning in the Generation and Analysis of Landscape Form, investigates the theories and applications of AI in landscape architectural design and research. She also holds a Master of Landscape Architecture from the Harvard Graduate School of Design—where she received the Jacob Weidenman Prize and the Irving Innovation Fellowship—and a Bachelor of Architecture from Tongji University.
Sahar Barzani Computational Design Team Lead, StructureCraft
Sahar is a computational designer with a strong interest in digital fabrication. She holds a Master of Advanced Studies in Architecture and Digital Fabrication from ETH Zurich and a Master of Architecture and Landscape from Shahid Beheshti University. For over 2 years, Sahar was involved in geometry rationalization and making CNC production files in Switzerland. Parallel to her studies, she worked as an architect and technology resident in several offices.
At StructureCraft, Sahar leads our computational design team on freeform projects, involving such duties as leadership of internal computational teams, schedule maintenance, issue correction, and collaboration with the 3D department. When she finds a free moment, latte art, augmented reality, and cooking occupy her interest.
Robert Jackson Partner, Fast + Epp
Robert Jackson is a structural engineer and Partner at Fast + Epp, in Vancouver, BC. He offers a unique skill set due to his hands-on experience as a carpenter and fine woodworker. He is a designer with expertise in timber, steel, and concrete in both Canada and the US. Over his career, Robert has developed a particular specialization in mass timber design, having contributed to the success of many of the firm’s most innovative timber projects across North America including the TallWood House at Brock Commons, Limberlost Place, The Hive, 981 Davie Street, and the PNE Amphitheater. He is a contributing author on many articles, papers, and journal publications relating to timber research and development and is passionate about sharing lessons learned.
Jason Heinrich Building Performance Lead, HDR
Jason is a sought-after subject matter expert for project delivery and a known leader in building performance and analytics. His deep understanding of building system principles allows him to use cutting-edge technology to conduct sophisticated analyses that fundamentally inform design decisions and improve the sustainability and functionality of the built environment. With experience throughout all phases of architectural production, from initial concept to detailed delivery, Jason understands how to transform high-level strategies and ideas into design and construction solutions.
As building performance lead, Jason applies advanced analytical techniques to perform building analysis and optimize building efficiency and intelligence across many building typologies. With his well-rounded and blended perspective of architecture and mechanical engineering, he brings a unique approach to each project with attention to detail, weaving together factors such as thermal comfort, energy usage, and indoor air quality to deliver innovative solutions.
Elton Gjata Digital Practice Manager, Associate, Perkins&Will Canada Architects Co.
- Regular
- $85
Autodesk TECHCENTRIC Stage