Building a Stronger Construction Industry
Since 1928, VRCA has been the voice of British Columbia’s construction sector. We connect, educate, and advocate for members across all disciplines, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable industry.
With over 1,000 members, VRCA facilitates collaboration among General and Trade Contractors, Manufacturers, Suppliers, and Professional Services providers to drive innovation, growth, and excellence in BC’s built environment.
Construction Contribution
to BC’s GDP
10 %
$29 Billion
Construction’s rank as an employer in BC’s goods sector
1
243,000 workers
Average Yearly Wage of BC Construction Employees
$81,555
$17.5B cumulative yearly wage
Value of Current Construction Projects in BC
$158 Billion
$160B in 2024
Vision
Building tomorrow’s communities.
Mission
Uniting the voice of construction in the Lower Mainland—driving connection, advancing change and leading the industry forward.
Values
Integrity
We champion fairness, transparency, and doing what’s right for the industry.
Leadership
We champion fairness, transparency, and doing what’s right for the industry.
Innovation
We fuel progress by connecting people to insights, ideas, and each other.
Inclusivity
We believe that inclusivity is essential to our collective strength and future success.
Community
We take pride in our craft and in the prosperity we help create for society.
Strategic Plan
Planning for the Future of Our Members and the Industry
VRCA’s Strategic Plan drives our efforts in shaping a strong, resilient construction industry. Our focus areas ensure a lasting impact on our members and the broader sector.
Priority 1
Evolve
Evolve the association to stay relevant and Lead in the new era of construction.
We’re investing in the future of the association by Optimizing systems, strengthening our understanding of Member needs, and developing the next generation of leaders, so that VRCA remains a trusted, forwarding-looking Hub for the construction industry.
Priority 2
Unite
Unite industry stakeholders to create a strong, collective voice and strengthen the future of construction.
We’re strengthening our collective voice by building strategic relationships with government and industry partners, so that VRCA can influence decisions, align efforts across the sector, and lead the way on issues that matter most to construction.
Priority 3
Amplify
Amplify the brand and value of construction to elevate the industry’s profile and attract the next generation.
We’re elevating construction’s voice and visibility by showcasing its impact on our communities, economy, and future—using bold storytelling, outreach, and partnerships to inspire pride in the industry and attract the next generation of talent.
Leadership & Governance
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2,500
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2,500
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2,500
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2,500
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Reconciliation Action Plan
Strengthening Indigenous Partnerships
VRCA’s reconciliation journey and initiatives aim to foster meaningful engagement, education, and collaboration between our members and Indigenous communities.
Our History
Our Legacy in Construction
Founded in 1928, VRCA has played a pivotal role in shaping BC’s construction landscape. From major infrastructure projects to industry advocacy, our members have built the province’s most iconic structures.
Through nearly a century of evolution, we have adapted to industry needs, expanded our network, and reinforced our position as a trusted construction association.
1928
The Building & Construction Industries Exchange of BC
VRCA began as a “builder’s exchange,” supporting industry growth and networking of builders and tradespeople.
With the exception of a recession in 1921, the 1920s ushered a new era of expansion for the construction industry in Vancouver. Along with this expansion came problems that will be familiar to today’s contractors. With the objective of forming an association that would include all segments of the industry and that only such a group would have any force in dealing with the industry’s problems – the new Builders Exchange was formed. Some 75 members represented all segments of the industry; Colonel Keen was elected the first president.
1966
Amalgamated Construction Association of BC
The association united various construction groups under a single industry voice.
There was a proliferation of construction associations by the late 1950s. There was a need to get them all together to speak one voice – not only to deal with labour relations, but also with governments when there was legislation affecting the construction industry. Although the bid for province-wide unity had failed, the Amalgamated Construction Association became the substitute and many of the problems besetting the industry were tackled and many were solved.
1999
Vancouver Regional Construction Association
A new name and constitution reinforced our commitment to advocacy and education.
The 1990s marked a period of significant transformation for ACA in many ways: in organization structure, in physical location, in relation to other construction associations. As the organization moved from the 20th century into the new millennium, it embraced change with a new constitution and a new identity—becoming the Vancouver Regional Construction Association. Gary Nikolai served as chairman for 1998 and 1999.
2023
95 Years of Leadership in Construction
The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) is proud to celebrate 95 years of leadership and innovation in the construction industry. Over the decades, VRCA’s members have been integral to the success of some of the region’s most high-profile projects, including the Vancouver Convention Centre West, the redevelopment of BC Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Parq Casino, Emily Carr University, the Royal Columbian Hospital redevelopment, and the expansion of Vancouver International Airport.
As we reflect on these accomplishments, we look forward to continuing our legacy of excellence and shaping the future of construction in the years to come.
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