Vancouver, B.C. – January 19, 2026 – The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA), in partnership with Canadian Construction Women (CCW), is proud to announce the return of the LEAP: Women in Construction event, taking place on March 6, 2026. Registration is now open for this highly anticipated conference, which brings together women and allies from across the Lower Mainland for a day of connection, inspiration, and leadership.
Now in its third year, LEAP has become a cornerstone event for women in construction, creating space for meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and professional growth. The 2026 event will be themed “Women Who Build,” setting the stage for an elevated and welcoming experience that blends inspiration with celebration.
“LEAP continues to be an important platform for bringing women together from all corners of the construction industry,” said Jeannine Martin, President of the VRCA. “Representation matters – not only in who we see leading conversations, but also in creating spaces where women feel seen, heard, and supported as they build their careers.”
Attendees can expect engaging speakers, opportunities to connect with peers and industry leaders, and thoughtful discussions that reflect the evolving role of women in construction. LEAP 2026 sessions will include:
Keynote Session: The Working Brain – Unlocking Your Full Potential
Dr. Brynn Winegard
In the opening keynote session, Dr. Winegard reveals the science behind how high-performing professionals think, focus, and thrive at work. Drawing from neuroscience research and real-world corporate experience, Dr. Winegard will explain how “The Working Brain” acts as the missing manual for your mind and show you how to work with your brain instead of pushing against it. Attendees will learn how to tap into their brain’s natural rhythms and apply Dr. Brynn’s MERIT Framework to design workdays that drive clarity, confidence, productivity, and long-term mental wellness.
Toolbox Session: The Smart Side of Soft Skills
Sophie Warik, Co-CEO & Co-Founder, The Thoughtful Co.
This workshop breaks down why soft skills matter, how they influence reputation and opportunities, and how to intentionally build them over time. Participants will learn practical strategies for strengthening communication and demonstrating leadership through everyday interactions, as well as how to cultivate presence and professionalism in ways that support long-term career growth.
Toolbox Session: Leading With Compassion
Nicole Bryant, CEO, NRCA
This leadership session is designed to help industry professionals strengthen their leadership approach through empathy, awareness, and accountability. The presentation explores how compassionate leadership is not just a soft skill, but a strategic one, improving communication, retention, and team performance. Participants will leave with practical tools and insights to apply immediately, building stronger, safer, and more connected teams across all levels of their organization.
Toolbox Session: Owning the Room
Natasha Jeshani, President & CEO, Career Contacts
Rather than focusing on personality or performance, the session reframes presence as a practical leadership skill. It addresses the real dynamics women in construction face, from walking into rooms where they may be the only woman, to navigating technical conversations, site-based leadership, and decision-making environments with clarity and authority. Participants will leave with practical tools and mindset shifts they can apply immediately, along with a deeper understanding of the shared responsibility to create space and opportunity for the women coming up behind them.
Additional speakers and sessions will be announced in the coming weeks.
“LEAP allows us to share actionable ideas combined with strong community building opportunities to ensure women continue to grow to see construction as an excellent career opportunity,” said Stephanie Hun, President of CCW and Vice President of Business Development at FlatironDragados Canada. “The impact of LEAP extends beyond a single event – it helps build confidence, expand networks, and open doors to new opportunities within the construction industry.”
LEAP: Women in Construction is open to women and allies at all stages of their careers and across all sectors of the construction industry. Registration details and more information can be found here.
About VRCA
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 B.C.’s built environment. Learn more at www.vrca.ca.