CHAIR’S MESSAGE
Collaboration, clarity and commitment: Building Ontario’s future together
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n uncertain economic times, collaboration is more than a guiding principle; it’s a necessity. Across Ontario’s infrastructure sector, we face shared challenges. That’s why a united message, delivered by many voices, is essential to ensuring our industry is heard and understood by all. Over the past 18 months, OSSGA’s board has developed and began to execute a strategic plan rooted in collaboration. A key step in that journey was our move into the “Roadhouse,” where we now share office space with the Ontario Road Builders’ Association (ORBA). With 75 per cent of our members overlapping, this move reflects our shared goals and strengthens our ability to work together. That spirit of partnership has already led to meaningful joint initiatives, including Lobby Day 2025, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Infrastructure Industry Reception and the upcoming Fall Gala. These events demonstrate the power of coordinated advocacy. Looking ahead, OSSGA and ORBA’s executive committees will meet to explore new opportunities for collaboration and to ensure our efforts are aligned. At the same time, we must work to build clear, distinct brands for the key areas of infrastructure in Ontario, including asphalt, aggregate and road building. While these sectors often operate under the same umbrella, they each play a unique role in Ontario’s infrastructure landscape. By clarifying our identities and speaking with a single amplified voice, we can better address all levels of government and advocate more effectively for the resources and recognition our members need. Raising the profile of the aggregate industry has been a personal priority. Over the past year, I’ve attended many meetings at Queen’s Park, engaging directly with the premier, ministers and other senior officials. My message has been consistent: investing in infrastructure benefits us all, and stone, sand and gravel are essential to doing so. From roads and homes to schools and hospitals, our materials form the foundation of progress. Infrastructure investment is key to growth; not just economically but in the quality of life it supports. As chair, I remain committed to collaboration and advocacy. By working together with our partners, clarifying our message and continuing to engage with government, we can position our industry for a stronger future. Together, we will build Ontario, because nothing gets built in this province without stone, sand and gravel! – By John MacKay, chair of the Ontario Stone, Sand & Gravel Association and president of Fowler Construction
Avenues is published for
Ontario Stone, Sand & Gravel Association 365 Brunel Rd., Suite 2 Mississauga, ON L4Z 1Z5 Tel: (905) 507-0711 www.GraveFacts.ca Publishers Michael McSweeney Executive Director Sharon Armstrong Vice-President, Industry and Stakeholder Relations Editor Andres F. Ibarguen Senior Manager, Communications Sales Executive Sharon Headley Designer Katrina Teimo All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the association. Published September 2025 PUBLICATION MAIL AGREEMENT #40787580 Please return undeliverable items to: Ontario Stone, Sand & Gravel Association 365 Brunel Rd., Suite 2 Mississauga, ON L4Z 1Z5
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