The VRCA Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) Committee is dedicated to fostering a culture of inclusivity, fairness, and equality within B.C.’s construction industry.
Our purpose is rooted in the commitment to eliminate unconscious bias, thereby creating an environment where diversity is celebrated and all individuals are provided equal opportunities for professional growth and success in the construction industry.
The IDEA committee consists of VRCA members who generously volunteer their time to foster a more diverse and inclusive construction industry in the Lower Mainland.
IDEA Committee Chair – Anna Lary, Instructor, BCIT/ Master Electrician
Christine Brightman, “Project Administrator, ACE Excavating Ltd.
Shannon Callender, People & Culture Manager, ETRO Construction
Tammy Carlin, Human Resources Manager, SMITH BROS. & WILSON (B.C.) LTD.
Munyaradzi Chitekedza, Quality Manager, Graham
Tina Khan, Director, Stakeholder and Community Relations, BCIB
Heather Bissonnette, Specialist, Communications and Stakeholder Relations, BC Infrastructure Benefits
John Kearsey, Customer Service Manager, GeoScan
Peg McAndrews, Business Development Strategist, The Radius Group
Michael Mc Goldrick, Project Manager, Bird Construction
Carly Ouderkirk, Sales Representative, Super Save Group of Companies
Robyn Grewal-Sangha, General Manager, True North Labour Inc.
Henry Seppala, Client Executive, Acera Insurance”
Matthew Tyson, Sales, Vancouver Island, RKM Crane Services
Carina Sun – ModuPro Construction Tech
Current IDEA Initiatives
Stay tuned for information on how to register for our new training content offered in partnership with the Rick Hansen Foundation and the University of Alberta. Learn more about the upcoming courses on Foundation Accessibility Certification (RHFAC).
Our mission at Rick Hansen Foundation is to create and deliver innovative solutions that lead to a global movement to remove barriers and liberate the protentional of people with disabilities and our vision is to have an inclusive world where people with disabilities are living to their full potential. Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification (RHFAC) is an innovative rating system that measures meaningful access in the built environment. An RHFAC rating goes beyond compliance with building code or adherence to minimum standards or guidelines and provides a snapshot of the real level of accessibility of a site along with recommendations for areas of improvement. Site owners or managers can use this information to make positive changes that will help to ensure all users of their facilities feel welcome.
Intended for anyone interested in creating inclusive spaces, Fundamentals Training, a 4-week online course, provides learners with foundational knowledge to understand the needs of people with disabilities and how our physical spaces can be made more accessible. Enhance your knowledge and application of Universal Design and meaningful accessibility through case studies. Learners will also be introduced to the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification™ (RHFAC). There are no prerequisites to take this course. Join us on this journey towards an accessible world for everyone, everywhere.
The “Bridging Perspectives” webinar series is a thought-provoking and informative initiative aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of reconciliation within the Vancouver construction industry. Recognizing the significance of acknowledging Indigenous histories and promoting inclusivity, this series seeks to bridge the gap between traditional practices and modern construction processes.
WATCH HERE: Session 1: Acknowledging Land and Histories
Objective: Explore the historical context of the land on which we build, acknowledging Indigenous histories and traditions. Understand the importance of recognizing the land’s original stewards and their ongoing connection.
WATCH HERE: Session 2: Building Stronger Partnerships
Join Sam Brezden and guest speaker Will Pauga, President of Southwest Contracting Ltd and Principal of siyeýe Contracting, as they offer insights, strategies, and success stories, guiding the path towards sustainable partnerships. Delve into the crucial aspects of fostering meaningful collaborations that honour Indigenous perspectives, values, and traditions within the construction sector.
WATCH HERE: Session 3: Integrating Indigenous Culture into Construction
Objective: Sam Brezden, along with guest speaker Kwes’Kwestin from the Musqueam Nation, will provide valuable insights into honouring Indigenous culture within construction practices and fostering inclusivity for the Indigenous workforce on your sites.
WATCH HERE: Session 4: Empowering Indigenous Voices in Construction Leadership
In the fourth edition of the webinar series, Sam Brezden welcomes Terry Sparrow from Musqueam Nation. Sparrow will provide invaluable insights from his experiences, emphasizing the importance of forging authentic relationships built on trust and reciprocity. His perspective offers a compelling narrative of reconciliation in action, illustrating the transformative power of genuine collaboration.
WATCH HERE: Session 5: Supporting Indigenous Peoples in Trades and Indigenous Companies: June 20, 2024
Join us for an enlightening webinar featuring Donna Anderson from SkilledTradesBC. Donna will share the comprehensive initiatives and programs that SkilledTradesBC has been implementing to prioritize reconciliation in their work.
Who Should Attend:
● Construction professionals and executives
● Project managers
● Architects and designers
● Government representatives
● Indigenous community members and leaders
● Anyone interested in fostering reconciliation in the construction industry
Why Attend:
This webinar series offers a unique opportunity to engage with industry leaders, Indigenous voices, and experts in the field, providing valuable insights and practical strategies for advancing reconciliation efforts within the Vancouver construction community. Let’s build a more inclusive and collaborative future together.
Preventing and Responding to Gender-based and Sexual Harassment in the Workplace: Micro-Lessons Series for the Construction Industry
This series provides an understanding of how gender-based and sexual harassment show up in the workplace and practical ways to develop a culture of trust, respect, transparency, and accountability through policies and practices.
TOOLS FOR LEADING CHANGE IN CONSTRUCTION CULTURE
Self-directed Online Training
Approximate Time for Completion: 1 Hour
For: Owners/Executives/HR/Leaders in the Construction Industry
Construction culture is evolving, and as leaders, it’s essential to evolve with it. Influencing change begins with leadership and impacts, not only those they are responsible for, but the industry at large.
This self-directed course is designed to encourage a new mindset in construction culture, and provide insights into why it’s important. You will learn practical tools to both implement and foster a workplace culture that champions the case for diversity, equity, and inclusion for the success of your business and a thriving construction industry.