Vancouver – January 30, 2026 – The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) announced today that it has awarded $30,000 to 10 recipients of the 2026 Bursary Program. Now in its third year, VRCA’s Bursary Program addresses the construction industry’s growing workforce gap by providing financial support to students pursuing careers in the trades, one of B.C.’s most essential sectors.
“Initiatives such as the Bursary Program are critical to support the next generation of builders,” said Jeannine Martin, President of the VRCA. “With BuildForce Canada projecting that B.C. will need to recruit more than 60,000 workers by 2034 just to keep up with demand, the time for action is now. This program eases the financial barrier that many students face and enables them to attain meaningful, long-term careers.”
This year’s Bursary Program recipients are enrolled in or pursuing careers in programs including electrical, piping and plumbing, cabinet making and joinery, building science, and architecture CADD.
“This was one of the most competitive years yet for the Bursary Program,” said Eva Ciesielska, Workforce Development Manager at the VRCA. “We received over 70 applications from students interested in exploring careers in the trades. Our judging panel was incredibly impressed with the caliber of the applications.”
VRCA’s Bursary Program is just one of the ways that the association helps to empower and inspire the next generation of builders. VRCA’s Bring Trades to Schools (BTS) program gives students hands-on experience with the trades. In 2025, the program connected nearly 600 youth with schools, industry partners, and post-secondary institutions.
“The VRCA is committed to strengthening the construction talent pipeline through the active involvement of our members,” added Martin. “Programs like Bring Trades to Schools rely on member volunteers who give their time, expertise, and mentorship to inspire students and provide real-world exposure to careers in the trades. That same commitment was reflected in this year’s bursary judging, with industry leaders from Division 15 Mechanical, Kindred Construction, Pitt Meadows Plumbing, Scott Construction Group, and Western Pacific Enterprises offering their time and knowledge to help select this year’s recipients from the next generation of builders.”
Recipients of the 2026 VRCA Bursary Program will be celebrated on February 3 at the VRCA Annual General Meeting, where they will receive their awards in person.
Learn more about VRCA’s Bursary Program and other workforce development initiatives 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.