The Current State of the Construction Industry 2009 Presentation by Keith Sashaw, President Vancouver Regional Construction Association September 26 th, 2009

Vancouver Regional Construction Association: BC’s largest and most inclusive construction association, with over 700 union and non-union members, in all aspects of the non wood frame construction industry Celebrating over 80 years of service to the industry Provides numerous services, including plan rooms, documents, seminars, advice and other benefits Affiliated with the BC Construction Association and Canadian Construction Association

Value of Total Building Permits

Non-Residential Construction

Total Non Residential Building

Construction Cycle

Non-Residential Investment

Future Construction Prospects are Promising Source: Major Project inventory, Province of BC

Future Construction Prospects are Promising Source: Major Project inventory, Province of BC

Substantial Increase in Projects in Last Three Years Source: Major Project inventory, Province of BC

Construction Industry Employment

Supply of Skilled Workers A Challenge Source: Construction Sector Council

Shifting Markets for the Major Trades Source: Construction Sector Council

Retirement a Major Factor

Steps Are Being Taken To Address Skills Issue Active Recruitment at High School level Examining style and type of Delivery of Training Programs Working with non- traditional sources of labour

ISTEP is a pilot project to help landed immigrants build careers in B.C.’s construction industry, and to address skills shortages. ISTEP will help break down barriers that immigrants often face by directly matching them to employers who need skilled trades people. ISTEP will provide ongoing support to immigrants on the job advising them on training to improve skills and earnings. ISTEP was developed through a partnership of industry and government and has the potential to be working model not only serving British Columbia but helping to address skills shortages across the country.

How does it work? Immigrants who have experience or interest in the construction trades will be matched to employers Job Coaches will assess your skills, experience and credentials and help connect you to a suitable job with the right employer. Job Coaches will continue to help you when you are on the job, and advise you on training to improve your skills and your earnings.

Who can apply? You can apply to I STEP if you are a landed immigrant and if you: Have experience in construction work Have some trades training Would like to begin a career in the construction industry Have skills related to construction How can I apply? Your local immigrant service agency and resource centre can help you apply to ISTEP OR You can call the Job Coach in your area Lower Mainland (778) Southern Interior (250) Northern BC (250) Vancouver Island (250)

Strong Construction Growth Generates Employment, Positive Economic Activity and a Vibrancy in every Community