| Title |
Speaker Names |
Presentation Outline |
| 1A Solara Flats – 21 Storey Net Zero Highrise |
Daneeka Abon Portfolio Manager, Design and Construction more – UWCRC 2.0 (Developer); Travis Defoort Partner/Mechanical Engineer – Epp Siepman Engineering: Mallory Briggs Architect – Cibinel Architecture Ltd. (Architect); Anthony Militano Project Manager – B less |
This presentation will explore Solara Flats, a 21-store morey mixed-income, mixed-use residential development that showcases innovative sustainability features. This $77m high-rise is designed to be a net zero carbon building, one of the first of its kind in Canada. Although this project is based in Winnipeg, the insights gained could be relevant and adaptable to other regions as well. One of its standout sustainable elements is the integration of building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) cladding, which combines solar energy generation with the building's exterior facade. This technology, along with other advanced energy-efficient systems like air-source heat pumps, contributes to the project's goal of achieving near net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. less |
| 1B: NBC 2020 changes to firestop requirements for penet morerations, joints, and curtain walls less |
Nam Giao Le, P.Eng. Senior Field Engineer – Hilti (Ca morenada) Corp. Nam Giao Le is a Lead Field Engineer and technical resource at Hilti, specializing in structural support systems, fasteners, and fire protection solutions. Nam Giao holds a degree in Civil less |
The 2020 edition of the National Building Code of Canad morea ("NBC 2020"), issued in the spring of 2022, includes 15 substantial changes to the requirements for firestopping in fire-rated walls and floors. This session will explain each of the changes and how your specifications for firestopping need to change to meet updated code requirements. Learning objectives: • Specify firestopping details that will comply with NBC 2020 for through penetrations, recessed boxes, and joints within fire-rated walls and floors. • Specify firestopping that will comply with NBCC 2020 for the joint at the building perimeter between a fire-rated floor slab and a non-rated curtain wall. • Use the revised and new NBC 2020 Annex sections to guide firestopping decisions when in doubt about code intent. • Avoid inadvertent code violations when using previous details or specs by recognizing the differences between NBC 2015 and NBC 2020 firestop requirements. less |
| 1C - Communicate to Lead — Human Relations in Action |
Rob McIntyre - Dale Carnegie Organization |
Let’s be real: construction doesn't run on concrete a morelone—it runs on communication. Whether you're leading a team, managing a client, or navigating a tense jobsite moment, your ability to connect, influence, and build trust is mission-critical. In this energizing session, Rob McIntyre—veteran trainer with the Dale Carnegie Organization—delivers field-tested principles of human relations that drive real results. This isn't about soft skills for the sake of being nice; it's about hard outcomes from better conversations. Attendees will explore communication techniques to reduce friction, boost morale, and lead with clarity. From conflict resolution and active listening to motivation and team engagement, Rob breaks down timeless Carnegie principles into practical habits you can apply immediately—whether you're in a toolbox talk or a boardroom update. This session reminds us: great projects are built by great people, and great people communicate with purpose. less |
| 2A - Bridging the Gap: Leveraging Education to Align De moresigners and Specification Writers less |
Everton Bonorino - RRC PolytechEverton Bonorino Archite morect, Educator, & Construction Specialist – RRC Polytech Everton is an innovative architect and dedicated educator who excels at bridging the critical gap between high-level design theory and precise te less |
In the increasingly complex world of architecture, engi moreneering, and construction, misalignment between design intent and written specifications often leads to inefficiencies, miscommunication, and project delays. This talk explores how targeted education initiatives can serve as a powerful tool to bridge the gap between designers and specification writers. Drawing from classroom and real-world experience, and industry surveys, we examine the root causes of disconnect—ranging from siloed workflows to differing terminologies and priorities. We propose ideas for education that foster mutual understanding, shared language, and collaborative problem-solving. Attendees will learn strategies for curriculum development, interdisciplinary training, and in-office development programs aimed at improving communication and documentation accuracy. By aligning educational pathways more towards a community of designers, we can create a more cohesive project delivery system that enhances both creativity and constructability. less |
| 2B - Building Beyond the Blueprint — School Construct moreion in Northern First Nation Communities less |
Jeff Moroz, MAA, OAA, AAA, LEED AP, BD+C Principal, Ar morechitecture, Manitoba Buildings Operations Leader – Stantec Jeff is known for the care he takes in collaborating and creating facilities that have implicit meaning for the people involved and for those less |
Designing and constructing schools in remote Northern F moreirst Nation communities isn’t just about infrastructure—it’s about legacy. It’s about creating spaces that reflect culture, withstand extreme climates, and earn the trust of communities that have every reason to be wary of southern promises. In this thoughtful and experience-driven session, Jeff Moroz of Stantec unpacks the complexities of northern school construction through the lens of cultural relevance, climate resilience, and genuine community engagement. From fly-in logistics and permafrost foundations to incorporating Indigenous worldviews into spatial design, Jeff walks attendees through what it really takes to build something meaningful—and lasting—in these remote settings. This isn’t a case study in construction alone. It’s a call to rethink how we show up: as collaborators, not just contractors. For those ready to lead with humility and design with intention, this session is a must. less |
| 2C - Rising Together — Indigenous Business and Women morein Construction less |
Nicole Chabot, Métis Entrepreneur Vice President – L more. Chabot Enterprises Ltd. Nicole Chabot is Vice President of L. Chabot Enterprises Ltd., a 100% Métis-owned, third-generation heavy civil construction and aggregates company helping shape Manitoba’s infr less |
Construction is changing—and it’s about time. In an more industry long dominated by familiar faces and familiar names, voices like Nicole Chabot’s are cutting through with clarity, courage, and purpose. As a proud Métis business owner and advocate for Indigenous inclusion and women in trades, Nicole brings a powerful, lived perspective on what it means to build a business—and a legacy—while navigating both visible and invisible barriers. This session explores the realities of Indigenous entrepreneurship in construction, the role of women in reshaping jobsite culture, and how true partnerships are built on equity, not just compliance. Attendees will walk away with insights into how to support meaningful Indigenous engagement, elevate underrepresented talent, and create supply chains and project teams that reflect the communities we serve. This isn’t about checking boxes—it’s about changing blueprints. less |
| 3A - Building the Outside Inside: Integrating Design an mored Technology to Balance Extreme Interior and less |
Monica Giesbrecht - HTFC Planning and Design; Sarah Ch moreernis - Architecture49 Inc.: Chris David - Senior Project Coordinator: Gerald Dieleman - Assiniboine Park Conservancy less |
Grounded in the Conservancy’s mission to promote a gr moreeater public understanding and appreciation for the natural world, The Leaf and the Gardens at The Leaf provides visitors with a year-round immersive experience through 4 distinct biomes and 6 unique outdoor gardens. Protected by an innovative cable net ETFE roof, the interior biomes simulate diverse climates allowing plants to thrive while inspiring visitors from around the world. While this is a Winnipeg based project, lessons from this project could apply to a variety of jurisdictions. This presentation will explore the design concepts, unique construction techniques and the complex challenges to create and maintain stable environments for each interior biome in a sustainable way. less |
| 3B - Maximize your Insulation [AIA/CES Registered Provi moreder Program. Credits: 1 LU Hour (HSW)] less |
Andrew Brassington, CTR - Technical Sales Manager - Wes moretern Canada , Owens Corning , Stephen Oberlin, Architect, Senior Design Lead Ironclad Developments less |
This session provides a technical examination of insula moretion performance within modern building envelope design, focusing on how effective R-values are shaped by real-world variables such as thermal bridging, cladding attachment systems, air leakage, moisture infiltration, and assembly continuity. It outlines how nominal insulation values can be reduced by 20–50% through structural framing and junction interfaces, emphasizing the need for continuous exterior insulation, airtight detailing, and strategies that limit wind-washing and settlement. The presentation also highlights the embodied-carbon implications of various insulation materials, demonstrating how product selection influences both operational energy performance and carbon payback timelines. By integrating building science principles with practical construction detailing—supported by modelling insights related to TEDI, MEUI, and TEUI—the session illustrates how material choice, assembly design, and execution standards collectively determine the thermal efficiency, durability, and overall performance of the building envelope. less |
| 3C - Collaboration with Digital Tools - The process & f morerequent challenges less |
Daniel Kazado Managing Partner – Professional Constru morection Solutions less |
Building Information Modeling (BIM) has moved beyond bu morezzword territory in Canada—it’s now a strategic necessity. In this session, Daniel Kazado demystifies the evolving BIM landscape, breaking down how digital coordination is reshaping collaboration, risk mitigation, and decision-making across the project lifecycle. At the center of the conversation is the Boundary Trails Health Centre Expansion—a pivotal healthcare infrastructure project in Manitoba that demonstrates how BIM isn’t just about flashy models. It’s about early stakeholder alignment, proactive clash detection, and crystal-clear constructability—long before the shovel hits the dirt. This case study dives into how BIM was applied not only in design coordination, but also in construction phasing, digital twin development, and cross-discipline communication. Through Daniel’s firsthand experience, attendees will gain insight into what’s working, what’s still evolving, and how to scale BIM maturity across project teams. less |
| 4A - Different Paths to a Common Goal – How Contracto morers and Designers Navigate Toward Successful Pro less |
Rock Jerome Principal – FT3; Peter Grose President an mored CEO – Westland Construction Ltd. ; Harald Schulz Sr. Vice President of Pre Construction – Concord Projects; Jerald Peters Principal – FT3; Craig Derksen Executive Director – Shared Health less |
It's the industry’s favorite blame game: the designer more says, “Why can’t they just build what we drew?” The contractor replies, “Why did they draw something that cannot meet the budget? less |
| 4B - Foundations First — Mastering Front-End Docs in moreCM, Design-Build & IDP Projects less |
Glenn Chatten, HBA, CTR, CSP, Principal, Cadence Specif moreications Inc. less |
Before the first shovel hits the ground, before the RFI mores flood in, before the schedules get squeezed—there’s Division 00 and 01. Front-end documents may not get the spotlight, but they absolutely set the stage for project success or failure. In this targeted session, Glenn Chatten walks attendees through the critical role of Division 00 (procurement and contracting requirements) and Division 01 (general requirements) in the context of Construction Management, Design-Build, and Integrated Project Delivery (IDP) models. Expect a deep dive into how these documents drive clarity, mitigate risk, and define the rules of engagement—long before conflicts arise. Glenn breaks down best practices for aligning front-end documentation with collaborative delivery models, how to avoid scope gaps, and what must be crystal clear from day one. This is a must-attend for those who know that the smartest risk management doesn’t happen in the field—it happens in the front-end paperwork. less |
| 4C - Introduction to LEAN Construction |
Jim Johnston - Lean Construction Consultant & Coach, Q moreuality Dynamics less |
What if you could do more with less—less waste, less moredelay, and less stress? Enter LEAN Construction, a mindset-shifting, system-based approach to project delivery that prioritizes flow efficiency, collaboration, and value creation over traditional siloed methods. In this session, Jim Johnstone, a seasoned LEAN advocate with boots-on-the-ground experience, breaks down the core principles of LEAN thinking and how it’s transforming job sites across North America. Attendees will explore how applying LEAN methods—such as Last Planner® System, pull planning, 5S, and continuous improvement loops—can dramatically boost productivity, predictability, and crew engagement. This is more than a theoretical intro—Jim draws from real-world construction examples, emphasizing practical tools and small shifts that lead to big returns. Whether you're managing multi-million dollar builds or just trying to get your team home on time, LEAN is the edge your project didn't know it needed. less |
| 5A - Understanding and Preventing Floor Covering Failure |
Chris Maskell CEO, CAE, CSMT, ITS – National Floor C moreovering Association of Canada less |
Rethink floor coverings and understand the challenges t morehat come with installing today’s products with warranties intact, in an increasingly fast paced construction environment. Slabs placed during early construction may be rejected during late-stage construction by the flooring installer causing delays, short cuts, quality issues and disputes leaving facilities with no end to flooring problems, why? How can we avoid this? By understanding testing requirements, surface preparation, who is responsible for what on site and where to find resources available to anyone involved in a flooring project to help avoid these recurring problems. less |
| 5C Social Media for Architects and Specifiers |
Dory Azar, OAA AIA LEED AP MRAIC Architect and Product moreConsultant – RIB Software Dory Azar is a licensed architect and social media content creator known for his entertaining, educational, and personality-driven content. Based in Ontario, Canada he brings less |
Whether you’re starting from scratch or ready to leve morelup your existing social media game, this session will inspire you to rethink how architects can share their work and purpose online. Join architect Dory Azar for a candid, hands-on talk about turning your process and personality into content that connects. Alongside actionable strategies, you’ll witness a full video captured, edited, and posted live during the session using the same process Dory uses to connect with his audience of over 285,000 followers. You’ll leave with fresh ideas, useful tools, and the confidence to finally hit “share.” Learning Objectives: • Participants will be able to define their area of expertise and apply strategies to position themselves as a credible voice online. • Participants will be able to identify three meaningful content verticals to organize their social media mindset and set clear, actionable goals. • Participants will be able to practice online engagement techniques that increase connection and visibility across platforms. less |
| 6A - Reclaiming Heritage: Reconciliation Through the Re moredevelopment of Historic Structures less |
Gavin Johnstone - True North Real Estate Development Lt mored. (Developer) David Van Hooren - PCL Constructors Canada Inc. (Construction Manager) JJ Ham - Architecture 49 Inc. (Architect) less |
This presentation examines how the redevelopment of his moretoric structures can serve as a catalyst for reconciliation and cultural renewal. Through case studies such as the transformation of Winnipeg’s former Hudson’s Bay Company Building into Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn, participants will explore the architectural, cultural, and social dimensions of reimagining colonial-era landmarks. The session will delve into approaches for respectfully integrating Indigenous perspectives, building equitable partnerships, and creating spaces that reflect shared histories while advancing inclusive, forward-looking communities. less |
| 6B - Integrated Testing of All Systems (Fire & Life Saf moreety and anything that touches it)-as per CAN/ less |
R. Lance Marohn, P. Eng., LEED AP BD+C District Buildin moreg Systems Manager / Sustainable Construction Advisor – PCL Constructors Canada Inc.; Phil Dompierre P.Eng., LEED AP, BCxP Principal – Crosier Kilgour Structural Engineering & Building Performance less |
This presentation will delve into the critical importan morece of integrated testing for all fire and life safety systems, along with any interconnected building systems, as mandated by the National Building Code of Canada and specifically guided by the CAN/ULC-S1001 standard. Highlighting the potential catastrophic consequences of system failures due to lack of integration. less |
| 6C - Building Envelope Optimization to Ease into Passiv morehaus and Energy Efficiency Requirements less |
Kaylen Bao, Technical Services Manager - ADEX Systems Inc. |
This session dives into how continuously insulated clad moreding systems can help projects meet or exceed Passivhaus and NECB performance thresholds. The presentation focuses on practical design and detailing strategies that eliminate thermal bridging, simplify wall assemblies, and streamline compliance documentation. Participants will learn how to balance aesthetic flexibility with high-performance outcomes, achieving measurable energy savings without compromising constructability or cost control. less |
| 7A - Next-Generation Sprayed Polyurethane Foam: Enhanci moreng Energy Performance and Sustainability less |
Ibrahim Huseen, M. Eng. Construction and Standards Regu morelations Specialist – BASF Canada less |
The continual evolution of spray foam insulation repres moreents a significant stride in modern construction methodologies. As the industry increasingly prioritizes sustainable building practices and regulatory frameworks tighten, the latest iteration of spray foam emerges as a pivotal solution, offering enhanced thermal performance, one of the highest R values of any insulation, and several additional benefits. This paper highlights the distinguishing features of this new generation of spray foam insulation, emphasizing not only its superior thermal resistance but also its versatility in fulfilling various critical functions of the building envelope, providing the design community with tested and proven building envelope solutions. Drawing upon recent large-scale testing, this presentation illustrates the efficiency of spray foam insulation across diverse building assemblies. From fire-rated flooring and wall assemblies to measures against radon infiltration and the establishment of robust air barrier systems, spray foam's adaptability shines through. Moreover, this paper highlights the alignment of spray foam insulation with sustainability, highlighting its role in reducing carbon footprints, both in terms of embodied carbon during production and operational carbon over the building's lifecycle. In an era where holistic approaches to building design are paramount, the versatility of spray foam insulation emerges as a critical asset, capable of fulfilling multifaceted roles within comprehensive building systems. By bridging the gap between thermal performance and environmental responsibility, spray foam insulation emerges as a key player in shaping the sustainable buildings of the future. less |
| 7B - Accessibility in Canada and the Role of Automatic moreOpeners less |
Pamela Gervais, Horton Automatics |
Purpose: Discuss features and selection to increase awa morereness about design, safety, and proper selection of automatic and manual doors. This presentation examines the role of automatic entrances in delivering safety and convenience to pedestrian traffic in a commercial setting. Automatic Entrances have been around from the mid twentieth century and became mainstream in the 1980’s, gaining global adoption in North America. The American with Disabilities Act of 1990 cemented automatic entrances as a must-have solution in virtually all commercial buildings. The presentation will walk the audience through the codes, and selection criteria, including general and specialty automatic entrance systems applications including sliding, swing, revolving, security, and transit systems. Incorporating evidence from years of experience and current best practices, this presentation equips the participant with the tools to authoritatively understand and properly specify automatic entrances for any application. Objectives: Determine the best pedestrian door product to meet application & security needs. Determine safety requirements and compliance with ANSI standards. Understanding potential issues of selection and installation. less |
| 7C - Lead Without Losing It: Staying Steady When the Si morete (or Life) Gets Messy less |
Jaime Mann, The Amaryllis Project, Jaime Mann is a lead moreership strategist, keynote speaker, and the founder of The Amaryllis Project, where she helps leaders build trust, clarity, and resilience in high-pressure environments. With a background in psycholo less |
Success in today's cross-functional, diverse workplace morerelies on your ability to collaborate with people who think, work, and communicate differently than you do. And in construction, chaos is part of the blueprint. Projects shift, people get heated, and your phone buzzes like it’s personally offended by your existence. But strong leadership isn’t about staying calm when things are calm—it’s about staying grounded when the concrete’s cracking. In this session, we’ll tackle the real stuff: how to lead when you're under pressure, communicate when it counts, and show up steady (even when you don’t feel it). You’ll walk away with tools you can use right away—on the job and off—including how to handle tough conversations, keep your cool under stress, and inspire people to follow your lead without losing yourself in the process. This isn’t fluff. It’s leadership for the real world. less |
| 8A - Building Relationships with Owners, GC’s and Con moresultants to get the Best Roofing Results less |
Ed Gallos, Master Roofing |
This presentation will explore the critical role of str moreong, collaborative relationships in achieving optimal outcomes on roofing projects. Attendees will learn how to understand the owner’s vision, navigate GC dynamics, leverage consultant expertise, and proactively address challenges which in turn will drive superior roofing results. less |
| 8B - Air Barriers |
Ryan Dalgleish, Chief Operating Officer – Building P morerofessionals Ryan Dalgleish has been involved in the building envelope and building performance areas of construction for over 25 years. Ryan is an educator and developer of building enclosure education less |
Ryan brings extensive knowledge and practical experienc moree to the critical topic of building envelope performance, with a focus on airtightness, air barriers, and water-resistive barriers. His insights, drawn from years of hands-on work and collaboration with industry professionals, provide actionable strategies for optimizing building envelope systems to enhance energy efficiency, durability, and occupant comfort. Join Ryan as he explores the latest innovations, best practices, and technical considerations for effective air and water barrier solutions in modern construction. less |
| 8C - The Importance of Clear Installation Procedures fo morer Architectural Acoustic Details less |
Brian Chapnik, PhD, PEng - Principal, HCG Engineering |
Acoustic details are often integrated into architectura morel design drawings and specifications, focusing mainly on approved products and referencing installation methods “recommended by the manufacturer”. However, trades often do not follow the related installation guides, which can lead to significant deficiencies and performance reductions including non-compliance with the requirements of the National Building Code and related provincial building codes. Drawing from multiple case studies, this presentation will highlight some common installation problems and suggests particular improvements to drawing details and/or the installation sections of the related specifications to help avoid such issues less |
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