| 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 – Bockstael Construction (Construction Manager) 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 (C moreanada) 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 Engineering from the University of Manitoba. He started his career spending eight years doing structural design at a local consulting firm in Winnipeg. Since joining Hilti in 2017, Nam Giao collaborates directly with architects, engineers, city officials, inspectors, and installers on product applications and design support. Over the past year, a focus of his has been on regulatory implementation, working with various jurisdictions across Canada to help integrate the NBC 2020 firestop code changes. 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 - Rob has del moreivered hundreds of motivational and thought-provoking presentations. Companies, professional clubs, and charitable groups have all benefited from Rob’s unique ability to deliver a powerful message in a fun and exciting manner. less | 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 technical execution. Currently an instructor for the Architectural Technology program at RRC Polytech, Everton brings a unique, high-stakes perspective to the classroom informed by a distinguished 26-year career as a construction expert and veteran of the Brazilian Air Force. A lifelong learner with a robust academic foundation, Everton holds a Bachelor’s in Architecture and Urbanism, is a Civil Engineering Technologist, and has completed post-graduate studies in Sustainability in Civil Construction. This multidisciplinary background, combining structural engineering principles with sustainable architectural design, allows them to mentor students through the full lifecycle of a project, from initial concept to high-performance technical documentation. Beyond the technical, Everton is a trilingual professional, fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, which has facilitated a global perspective on architectural standards. Deeply dedicated to their students, Everton places the learner at the center of the educational experience by championing alternative grading models that prioritize individual growth over traditional testing. His pedagogical mission extends beyond producing technically proficient graduates; his focus on cultivating the "whole person", equipping students with the critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern built environment. By fostering mastery, Everton prepares students for the industry not just as skilled technologists, but as resilient, independent thinkers ready to lead their communities. 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 who will use the facility. He regards each project as a shared endeavour, and has developed an extensive portfolio of work in his 25+ years of practice. For Jeff, witnessing the opening of a new project is a real privilege – Jeff brings his vision and his skills to a variety of architectural typologies, but takes special interest in designing educational facilities, most recently in Northern First Nation communities. Jeff takes great joy in designing for children – creating thoughtful architecture that in itself becomes a teaching tool, and his team employs methods of directly engaging with children, who are often inherently intuitive, bold, and adventuresome in their decision making. For Jeff, architecture is not just about design; it’s about leading, coordinating, and inspiring the entire team, including the First Nation communities he serves. Jeff designs with people and for people, drawing on ideas borne of collective talk to create an architecture of place. It is no surprise that people like working with Jeff, and that his designs resonate deeply with those for who the setting has the most vital impact – the people and the greater community. Souk Xoumphonphackdy, MAA, OAA, AAA, SAA Principal, Architecture – Stantec Souk is a graduate of the University of Manitoba and currently an architect at Stantec who has been involved with several Education, Healthcare and Cultural Projects across Canada and with various First Nation Communities. He is committed to a meaningful and collaborative design process to transform community needs into innovative high quality spaces and outcomes. Souk has 15+ years of experience in various areas of the project delivery process, from schematic design conception to the fully constructed building. 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 infrastructure for over 55 years. A respected industry leader, Nicole serves as Vice-Chair of the Manitoba Hydro-Electric Board and as a director of the Manitoba Heavy Construction Association. She previously chaired the Canadian Construction Association’s Civil Infrastructure National Advisory Council and the Manitoba Heavy Construction Association and was the first female President of the Heavy Equipment & Aggregate Truckers Association of Manitoba. Nicole holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Manitoba, a Gold Seal Certification in Construction Safety, and the ICD.D designation from ICD-Rotman. A proud Métis leader, she is committed to advancing inclusive growth, strong partnerships, and the next generation of talent in construction and infrastructure. 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 - West moreern 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 - With over 25 years of experience in construction and 17 years specializing in Building Information Modeling (BIM), Daniel Kazado has spent the last 13 years focusing exclusively on BIM. He has worked on over 20 million square meters of projects, including 18 large airports and five multi-purpose complexes, making him an international authority in the field. Daniel has delivered more than 200 training sessions, presentations, and publications across Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America, including speaking at Autodesk University Las Vegas. He is an instructor at universities, colleges and a contributor to key international BIM manuals and standards, such as the Canadian Practice Manual for BIM. Daniel is an active member of wBIMc, buildingSMART, and the Standards Council of Canada. 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. - With an honors degree in religious studies and psychology from the University of Waterloo and having studied for a M.Div. at McMaster University Seminary, at first glance, Glenn Chatten may not seem to be considered a likely candidate for work in the Construction or Architectural Design Industry. Add also the fact that he is a well-known, award winning, singer/songwriter, CFMA nominated, professional finger-style guitarist and an accomplished touring recording artist, the chances of seeing him in at construction or design meetings would seem remote. Yet, Glenn has carved out a niche for himself in the world of construction by his varied experiences ranging from being a steel worker at Inverleigh Bridge Construction in the mid-eighties; the CEO of an award winning Ontario contracting firm in the nineties; the Architectural Sales Representative for Western Canada for General Paint Inc; to a successful specification writer working in partnership with Specworks Inc. in Vancouver, BC. The strong thread that has tied all these experiences together has been his continued intent and focus on, awareness of, and ability to utilize his finely tuned and engaging communications skills. For the past 20 years as the Principal of Cadence Specifications Inc. (formerly Wordclear Specifications), Glenn works not only as an architectural consultant creating construction documentation and specifications for the construction industry but also offers education in the importance of specifications by providing presentations, lectures and workshops to firms, associations, college and universities; and teaching the following courses – PCD, CCA, TR, Specifier - offered by Construction Specifications Canada (CSC). He brings with him an extensive knowledge of, and experience in - construction design, communication, building envelope sciences, specification writing, contract documentation and project management. His seminars and lectures are both informative, educational and some would even say, entertaining. 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 | James Johnston, P. Eng., CM-Lean, is an Industrial Eng moreineer, Lean Construction coach, and Approved Trainer with the Associated General Contractors of America. He is also a contributing author to the latest edition of the internationally recognized Lean Construction Education Program. With over 30 years of experience, James specializes in construction operations, production system design, and continuous improvement. His work focuses on helping organizations improve project outcomes through Lean thinking, better planning systems, more reliable workflows and improved stakeholder alignment. As a consultant and educator, James has led Lean transformations across a wide range of projects and organizations. He is known for translating Lean concepts into practical, field-ready applications—coaching teams on the implementation of processes such as the Last Planner System, takt planning, Lean Production System design and constraint management. James has trained thousands of construction professionals across North America and internationally. Through his work, he continues to develop and deliver programs that help teams improve schedule reliability, reduce waste, and achieve better cost, quality, and safety outcomes. 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 - Chris has worked in the floor covering industry for 30 years. During this time Chris has held a variety of roles including flooring contractor, project manager, installer, manufacturer's representative, certified floor inspector and business owner. Now, as CEO of the National Floor Covering Association of Canada (NFCA), he works with NFCA’s Board of Directors to promote installation standards for commercial floor covering installations and manages the NFCA's Quality Assurance Program (QAP) - a specifiable third-party inspection review service. Chris travels across Canada, speaking at conferences and trade shows engaging with all construction parties on the challenges (and solutions) associated with commercial floor covering installations. 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 |
| 5B - Accessibility in Canada and the Role of Automatic moreOpeners less | Pamela Gervais, Horton Automatics - Pamela Gervais has more worked in the automatic door industry for 22 years. She currently works for Horton Automatics as the Regional Business Manager covering all Canadian provinces. In her current position she manages the company’s architectural development programs and works strategically with distributors throughout Canada. less | 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 |
| 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 over 20 years of architecture experience to his role at RIB Software as architectural consultant and brand ambassador. With over 285,000 followers across Instagram and TikTok, Dory's talks empower architects to use social media to build their brand, share expertise, and grow their business, all with a focus on accessibility and inclusivity. Recent Presentations: • October 2025 - CSI (Construction Specifications Institute) Conference • May 2025 - OAA (Ontario Association of Architects) Conference • May 2025 - CSC (Construction Specifications Canada) Conference • October 2024 - RAIC (Royal Architectural Institute of Canada) Con-Ed Series online • October 2024 - CSI (Construction Specifications Institute) Conference • May 2024 - OAA (Ontario Association of Architects) Conference 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 | Jerry Daniels was elected to a historic third term as G morerand Chief of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) in 2024, representing over 87,000 First Nation citizens. A Long Plain First Nation member and proud father, Daniels has advanced economic and social reconciliation through initiatives in healthcare, education, child welfare, and environmental protection. He is a strong advocate for truth and reconciliation, working to honour Survivors, address the legacy of residential schools, and create meaningful pathways toward healing and justice. Daniels advocates for youth engagement, with SCO scholarships supporting post-secondary education, and he is committed to providing opportunity for First Nations people to design, lead and implement high quality programming and services for First Nations people. 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 I morenc. - Kaylen is currently the Technical Services Manager at ADEX Systems Inc., where he has leveraged over 13 years of experience in various roles. His extensive background with the company has honed his expertise in developing and implementing effective strategies for design professionals in enhancing building performance. less | 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 - In his role, he focuses on national and provincial building codes and standards. Ibrahim provides engineering support for the polyurethane spray foam (SPF) business. He manages research and development projects across North America. He also participates in ULC and ASTM standards developments. Prior to joining BASF, he worked as a building engineer consultant specializing in building science. Ibrahim has a master’s degree in civil engineering from Concordia University. 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 - Bidding - What is the Law | Kaz Kanani, FCSC, CCCA, CSP Senior Associate and Practi morece Lead for Specifications and Contract Administration at BDP Quadrangle. Bringing over 20 years of experience as a Specification Writer and Contract Administrator, Kaz is a Senior Associate and Practice Lead for Specifications and Contract Administration at BDP Quadrangle. His expertise spans architectural specifications, contract administration, building science, evaluation of building materials and systems, and construction law and contracts. In his leadership role at BDP Quadrangle, Kaz leads both the Specifications and Contract Administration departments, guiding the development and coordination of project specifications, contract documentation, and construction administration services across a rapidly growing studio. He plays a key role in ensuring consistency, quality, and technical excellence throughout the full lifecycle of projects, from documentation through to construction completion. Recognized for his depth of knowledge and industry leadership, Kaz actively contributes to the broader professional community through organizations such as Construction Specifications Canada, where he was elected Vice President in 2017, served as President in 2022/2023 and was elevated to Fellow in 2020. He was promoted to Associate in 2017, Senior Associate in 2018, and Practice Lead in 2025, reflecting his continued leadership, technical expertise, and impact within both the practice and the profession. less | This presentation will provide an overview of the biddi moreng process in the construction industry, with a focus on the legal principles that govern competitive tendering in Canada. While not a legal opinion, the session will highlight key concepts that owners, consultants, and contractors should understand to navigate procurement responsibly and mitigate risk. A central component of the discussion will be the landmark Supreme Court of Canada decision in R. v. Ron Engineering & Construction (Eastern) Ltd., and its lasting impact on tendering law more than four decades later. Attendees will gain a practical understanding of how legal expectations influence bid preparation, evaluation, and award, along with common pitfalls and evolving considerations in today’s construction environment. The session aims to bridge legal theory and industry practice, equipping participants with insights to make more informed decisions during the bidding process. 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 leade morership 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 psychology and over two decades of real-world leadership experience—including leadership roles in the construction industry—Jaime knows what it’s like to lead when timelines are unforgiving, teams are complex, and the margin for error is slim. Her work focuses on self-leadership as the foundation for effective communication, strong relationships, and sustainable performance. Known for her research-backed, no-nonsense approach, Jaime blends behavioral science with practical tools leaders can use immediately—on job sites, in project meetings, and across multidisciplinary teams. She is a certified coach, a member of the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers, and is completing her master’s degree in the psychology of leadership at Penn State University. Jaime’s sessions are engaging, grounded, and refreshingly honest—designed to help leaders lead themselves well so their teams can do the same. You can find her at www.jaimemann.com 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 - Ed is the President and own moreer of Master Roofing Ltd. which was founded in 1973. He has been actively involved in the roofing industry for over 5 decades. Ed has been a member of the Canadian Roofing Contractors Association’s National Technical Committee since 1981 serving as Chair of that committee numerous times. Ed has been President of both the Roofing Contractors Association of Manitoba and the Canadian Roofing Contractors Association. Also, he has served 2 terms on the Board of Directors of the National Roofing Contractors Association in the USA. less | 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 and credentialing programs for building sub-trades and is part of the Quality Assurance management team for field air barrier installation across North America. Ryan is a certified Net Zero building instructor and is a frequent speaker at various technical events and conferences. Ryan obtained credentials in Adult Education, Leadership from the University of Manitoba and has been mentored and trained by some of the best building scientist's in the world. 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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