IDEA Committee
IDEA Committee
Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility (IDEA)
Resource Page
The VRCA IDEA Resource Page is your go-to hub for practical tools, learning opportunities, and resources that support inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility across the construction industry.
Built by the VRCA IDEA Committee, this page brings together resources that help individuals, companies, and project teams create stronger, more welcoming workplaces and job sites. From training and education to programs already making an impact across the industry, the IDEA Resource Page will continue to grow and evolve over time.
The IDEA Committee itself is made up of VRCA members from all walks of life and across all corners of the construction industry. Together, they bring lived experience, professional insight, and a shared commitment to ensuring construction reflects the communities it helps build.
Whether you are just getting started or looking to deepen existing efforts, this page is designed to support learning, spark conversation, and turn ideas into action.
Resources
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Gender and innovation: why diverse teams are more creative
Learn MoreWhat makes a team truly innovative? Is it talent, resources, or just plain hard work? While these factors matter, there is another secret ingredient often overlooked: diversity.
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Measuring the impact of mental health initiatives
Learn MoreMental health issues are a growing concern in workplaces. According to the canadian mental health association (CMHA), one in five canadians experiences a mental health problem or illness in any given year.
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Building for everyone: the future of accessibility in construction
Learn MoreAccessibility is often overlooked in the workplace – or viewed as a simple act of compliance. Meet the prescribed code, pass an inspection, move on to the business of actually getting work done.
Partner Programs
Builders Code | Built in BC. Available Across Canada
The Builders Code is a construction-industry-led initiative managed by the BC Construction Association that sets clear expectations for respectful, inclusive, and professional behaviour on worksites.
Designed to help create an industry that works for everyone, the Builders Code provides practical tools, training, and resources that support safe, equitable, and accountable workplaces. Built in BC and available across Canada, it continues to evolve through collaboration with industry partners to reflect the changing needs of the construction workforce.
How Can You Get Involved
The Builders Code can support your company in creating a workplace where people want to work and stay. Start by reviewing You’ve Signed the Pledge – Now What?, which outlines practical next steps to help bring the Builders Code principles to life within your organization.
Builders Code
Tailgate Toolkit Training
The Tailgate Toolkit Training provides practical, job-ready learning designed for construction crews and leaders. Built to support respectful, inclusive, and professional worksites, the training offers short, accessible sessions that can be delivered directly on site or integrated into existing safety and team meetings.
Focused on real-world scenarios, the Tailgate Toolkit helps teams start meaningful conversations, set clear expectations, and build a positive work culture across projects of all sizes. It is a simple, effective way to turn values into everyday practice on the jobsite.
Designed for supervisors, forepersons, project managers, and company leaders, this training delivers practical, industry-specific tools that can be applied immediately on the job site. Strong leaders build safe crews and a healthier industry.
Register Now
Rick Hansen Foundation — Accessibility Training (Fundamentals & Professional)
The Rick Hansen Foundation (RHF) is a respected Canadian charity focused on removing barriers and promoting accessibility and inclusion in the built environment and communities.
Visit rickhansen.com for more information.
Programs & links
Why it matters
For the construction and built-environment sector, accessibility is not only a compliance or EDI imperative — it’s part of delivering inclusive, future-oriented projects. This partner provides training that builds workforce capability in meaningful access and inclusive design.
Key Highlights
- Fundamentals course: no prerequisites; online; covers how built-spaces and social environments affect people with disabilities; introduces Universal Design
- Professional course: for architects, engineers, facility managers, and accessibility consultants; includes applying RHFAC rating survey, site assessments, and design review
- RHF programs are offered online, making them accessible to VRCA members and learners across BC and Canada
Credits
RHFAC Fundamentals and Professional courses are eligible for Gold Seal credits and can earn up to 10 Gold Seal Credits for course completion.
VRCA Member Benefit
Members receive 10% off registration fees.
Vancouver Community College (VCC) – Inclusive Leadership in Construction & Trades
VCC has partnered with the Vancouver Regional Construction Association to launch the Inclusive Leadership in Construction & Trades micro-credential course, designed to equip construction and trades professionals with the leadership skills needed to build inclusive, diverse and equitable workplaces.
Credits
The 30-hour online course awards a digital badge and up to 10 Gold Seal credits, helping both emerging and experienced leaders advance inclusive culture on site.
VRCA Member Benefit
VRCA members receive $100 off the registration fee.
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