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CALGARY CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATION

ADVOCACY UPDATE- Q3, 2023

Roundtable with the Provincial Ministers of Advanced Education and Immigration In July, we participated in a roundtable discussion with the provincial Minister of Advanced Education, Rajan Sawhney, and the Minister of Immigration, Muhammad Yaseen. The event was organized by BILD Calgary, and the topic was the importance of addressing the alarming shortage of skilled trades labour in our region. During the conversation, we highlighted the urgent need for strategic collaboration between the government, educational institutions, and the construction industry to develop innovative training programs and apprenticeships. Emphasizing the importance of attracting and retaining skilled workers, we explored various solutions, such as enhancing vocational education, simplifying certification processes, and creating pathways for international skilled workers to contribute to our local workforce. The dialogue underscored the significance of proactive policies and initiatives to bridge the gap between the demand for skilled trades and the available workforce, ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of Calgary's construction industry.

Expanding our Relationships with Partner Organizations Collaboration is woven into the fabric of our advocacy efforts. In 03, we have deepened our collaborations with partner organizations. Through joint initiatives, we have shared expertise and amplified our collective influence. By standing together, we have been able to address common challenges more effectively, ensuring that our advocacy efforts resonate louder and reach farther.

Developing a Zero-based Emissions Exchange in Calgary The development of Calgary's building information exchange continues. Stewarded by the Alberta Ecotrust Foundation and funded in part by the City of Calgary, the Calgary Construction Association has been active in engaging in conversations about a potential building information exchange progress. For years, the CCA has called on the development of a zero-based emissions building exchange program (ZEBx) based on an approach pioneered in New York. In practice, the exchange group would develop education programs, demonstration buildings and more, and act as a conduit between the city and all stakeholder groups in developing the best possible solutions for all parties.

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To advance the creation of a zero-based exchange, Alberta Ecotrust, in collaboration with the Calgary Construction Association (CCA) and Smart Sustainable Resilient Infrastructure Association (SSRIA) partnered with the City of Calgary to conduct engagement and analysis in a "Shaping the Exchange" process. A final report was submitted to the City of Calgary in July 2023. The City of Calgary has expressed intent to provide funding to Alberta Ecotrust as the Host Organization for the Calgary component of the Emissions Neutral Buildings Information Exchange (ENBIX). Upon finalization of that funding agreement, it is our understanding that the zero-based emissions exchange chapter in Calgary will be launched in early 2024.

Working with Partners to Address the Labour Shortage The CCA has proactively collaborated with key partner organizations, such as Women Building Futures, Careers Next Generation, and Momentum, and the Public and Catholic school boards to effectively tackle the pressing issue of labour shortage in the construction industry. Women Building Futures has played a significant role in empowering women to enter the construction workforce, creating a more diverse and inclusive industry.

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Careers Next Generation has been instrumental in nurturing young talent, providing them with essential skills and training, while Momentum has focused on supporting disadvantaged individuals, offering them opportunities for stable employment in the construction industry. Through these strategic partnerships, the Calgary Construction Association is not only addressing the immediate labour shortage but also fostering a sustainable and skilled workforce for the future. At this year's BUILDEX Alberta Conference, the CCA will host the Workforce Solutions Centre, in conjunction with Women Building Futures and Momentum. This initiative will provide a hub at the heart of Alberta's largest building and construction show to facilitate the exchange of information, connections and solutions between employers, employees, government bodies, and industry partners dedicated to tackling the industry's labour crisis. Moreover, the CCA will be present at the Futures in Trades and Technology (FITT ) event in late October. The Futures In Trades and Technology (FITT) event is an immersive experience, providing a unique opportunity to explore Alberta's industry collaborations, sustainability initiatives, and emerging technologies in energy, technology, and construction sectors. Through our relationship with the Public and Catholic school boards, we believe that this is an important event to showcase the skilled trades to prospective students looking to enter the industry.

Engaging with Calgary Economic Development In Q3, the CCA demonstrated proactive engagement with Calgary Economic Development, the City of Calgary's leading economic agency. The highlight of our engagement during this quarter was marked by Frano Cavar’s active participation on behalf of the CCA in Calgary Economic Development’s workforce symposium, where he addressed a pressing concern: the significant labor gap within the construction industry. At the symposium, we took a forward-thinking approach by highlighting the urgency of encouraging students to consider careers in the trades. We emphasized the vitality and growth potential within the construction sector, and how to entice young minds to explore this field. Additionally, we discussed the viability of a career in construction, shedding light on the diverse opportunities and long-term prospects available within the industry. This collaborative effort between the Calgary Construction Association and Calgary Economic Development signifies a crucial step towards bridging the labor gap and promoting a sustainable future for the construction workforce in the city.

Expanding our Relationship with BILD Calgary and the Calgary Chamber of Commerce

The Calgary Construction Association has cultivated a strong and harmonious relationship with BILD Calgary and the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, demonstrating a collaborative approach to addressing crucial industry challenges. Our alliance with BILD Calgary has been particularly impactful, marked by invitations to exclusive roundtables with provincial leaders, where we have actively contributed insights and expertise. Additionally, both the CCA and BILD Calgary addressed the pressing issue of housing affordability, speaking together at City Council on the housing affordability task force recommendations. Moreover, the Calgary Chamber of Commerce has recognized the CCA as a reputable reference and source on various industry issues, citing our statistics both in the media and at presentations to City Council. These collaborative efforts underline the association's commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships, ensuring the construction industry's voice is heard and valued in crucial policy discussions.

Growing Our Presence in the Media Communication is key, especially in advocacy. Q3 has witnessed an ampliﬁcation of our voice through additional media exposure. By proactively engaging with various media outlets, we have disseminated accurate information about the construction industry’s contributions, challenges, and aspirations. Through interviews, articles, news releases and social media campaigns, we have debunked myths, showcased success stories, and highlighted the industry's positive impact on Calgary's social and economic fabric. Since November 2021, the Calgary Construction Association has appeared in over 70 media sources, including tv interviews, radio spots, articles, and columns. Our headlines in Q3 2023 include: 1

Calgary Construction Association praises Alberta apprenticeship announcement ConstructConnect

Shortage of construction workers in Calgary can increase delays and home prices: experts City News

Worker shortage in Calgary construction industry threatens delays, price increases CBC

Le manque de travailleurs freine la construction de logements en Alberta Radio-Canada

What's next, now that Calgary's housing strategy has been approved? Calgary Herald

CCA urges provincial funding for proposed $380M multi-sport ﬁeldhouse ConstructConnect

Feds won't fund Calgary housing strategy unless city agrees to axe certain zoning rules CBC

David Parker: Calgary Construction Association's New Members Centre aims to unite local industry Calgary Herald

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