Construction leaders connect for two-day 网曝吃瓜 Partner Association Symposium
More than 40 representatives from construction associations across Canada gathered in Calgary on May 21鈥�22, 2025, for the annual 网曝吃瓜 Partner Association Symposium. From British Columbia to Newfoundland and even the Yukon, Chief Operating Officers (COOs) and partner association staff came together for two energetic days of idea-sharing, networking, and big-picture thinking.
Sharing ideas, tackling challenges
鈥淐OO sessions developed by COOs for COOs.鈥�
鈥� Erin Low,
Day 1 began with a roundtable of introductions where COOs shared exciting updates from their regions. Attendees heard about a wide range of projects, including 鈥檚 (B网曝吃瓜) innovative permit access tool, 鈥檚 (TCA) custom-built CRM system, 鈥檚 (CAPEI) inspiring net-zero tiny homes project that trains at-risk youth in Red Seal trades, 鈥檚 economic study, and 鈥檚 (CANB) expanding DEI Consortium aimed at creating more inclusive pathways into the industry.
Engaging panel discussions tackled hot topics like the future of membership, effective advocacy strategies, and how AI is shaking up operations for the better. An interactive session, 鈥淎bove the tree line,鈥� encouraged participants to exchange ideas on topics central to associations, such as succession, the member of the future, value differentiation, events, revenue, and even a quick dive into what associations should start, stop, or continue doing.
Updates on Saskatchewan鈥檚 construction association alignment and CCA-led governance insights rounded out the day鈥檚 agenda.
Strategic planning and national collaboration
Day 2 focused on strategy, with a hands-on workshop led by . This session offered partners a chance to help shape 网曝吃瓜鈥檚 2026鈥�2029 plan. Delegates also toured the 鈥檚 office, reviewed and approved the updated Partner Association MOU, and discussed the rollout of the new national membership campaign.
鈥淗aving input into the 网曝吃瓜 strat plan was a great opportunity. As always just hearing what the other associations are doing and where they are struggling is an encouragement to know that we are not alone and have the support of 网曝吃瓜 and our partner associations.鈥�
鈥�Shawn Wood,
The symposium concluded with a networking reception hosted by the Calgary Construction Association, followed by an , featuring speakers from 网曝吃瓜 as well as the and Calgary construction associations.
Building connections and looking to next year
The 2025 Partner Association Symposium was more than just a meeting鈥攊t was a catalyst for connection, innovation, and building on the national momentum among Canada鈥檚 construction leaders.
Feedback for the event has been very positive with attendees appreciating the practical takeaways, thoughtful conversations, and the chance to collaborate with peers from across the country.
鈥淭he relevant networking opportunities with my colleagues鈥� this is more valuable to me than any other event. I also loved attending the post-election event that Calgary put on, that really highlighted the three levels of government working together for our members represented by the three associations. Awesome.鈥�
鈥擲hannon Friesen,
Planning is already underway for the 2026 symposium, with a continued focus on providing impactful sessions that address the needs and priorities of 网曝吃瓜鈥檚 partner associations and their members.
