Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Partner for Construction Industry Advocacy and Workforce Development
The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) has been the authoritative voice of British Columbia's construction sector since 1928. With over 1,000 members, we unite General and Trade Contractors, Manufacturers, Suppliers, and Professional Services providers to drive innovation, growth, and excellence in BC's built environment. Our advocacy efforts focus on critical industry issues including Prompt Payment legislation, skilled labor development, and fair procurement practices. Through strategic partnerships with the BCCA and CCA, we amplify our members' influence in regional, provincial, and national discussions shaping the future of construction.Our workforce development initiatives deliver industry-recognized certifications, customized training programs, and bursary support to address labor shortages and ensure a skilled workforce. As a trusted industry leader since 1928, we maintain strict adherence to core values of integrity, leadership, innovation, inclusivity, and community impact. Our strategic initiatives focus on evolving industry practices, strengthening stakeholder collaboration, and promoting construction as a vital economic driver and rewarding career path.
Services
Industry Advocacy
Workforce Training
Event Networking
Bursary Programs
School Outreach
Details
- Year established: 1928
Highlights and features
- We offer 95 years of construction industry expertise and advocacy leadership
- Our workforce development programs deliver industry-recognized certifications and customized training
- We provide exclusive networking opportunities through industry events and member mixers
- Our bursary program supports future construction professionals' education and career development
- We maintain strategic partnerships with provincial and national construction associations
Services
Industry Advocacy
VRCA champions critical construction industry issues through policy advocacy and legislative engagement. Our team works with provincial and national associations to address skilled labor shortages, implement fair procurement practices, and advance Prompt Payment legislation. We provide members with monthly advocacy updates and industry news to keep them informed about regulatory developments affecting their operations.
Workforce Training
Our comprehensive training programs deliver construction-specific certifications and professional development opportunities. Through online self-paced courses, live workshops, and customized corporate training, we help professionals enhance technical skills, safety knowledge, and management capabilities. Programs include Gold Seal credits, Continuing Professional Development points, and AIBC units for industry-recognized credentials.
Event Networking
VRCA hosts exclusive networking events including annual awards galas, member mixers, and industry forums. These gatherings connect construction professionals with potential partners, suppliers, and clients while providing educational content on emerging industry trends. Our events calendar features specialized programs like the Construction Leadership Forum and LEAP: Women in Construction initiatives.
Bursary Programs
Our bursary program provides financial assistance to aspiring construction professionals pursuing education and training. The initiative supports students in construction-related fields through monetary awards presented at our annual general meeting. Recipients gain access to industry networking opportunities and mentorship programs to support their career development in the construction sector.
School Outreach
VRCA's school and volunteering programs connect students with construction industry professionals through hands-on workshops and career talks. Our Bring Trades to Schools initiative introduces youth to high-demand trades through interactive demonstrations while addressing workforce development challenges. The program partners with educational institutions to create customized learning experiences aligned with industry needs.
People
Jeannine Martin
President
With over 25 years in construction and engineering, Jeannine leads VRCA's advocacy efforts and strategic direction. She represents 900+ member companies in policy discussions and industry development initiatives.
Craig Larkins
Director of Advocacy and Engagement
Bringing 15 years of media experience, Craig manages VRCA's advocacy communications and engagement strategies. He previously served as Director of Communications for Manitoba MLAs and teaches digital marketing.
Cecile Lopez
Director of Operations
Cecile oversees daily operations with a background in marketing and education. She manages organizational processes while supporting the President and Board of Directors in strategic initiatives.
Sandy Ho
Director of Finance
Sandy manages VRCA's financial health with advanced degrees in finance and corporate governance. As a Fellow of CPA, she ensures financial accountability and strategic resource management.
Eva Ciesielska
Workforce Development Manager
Eva leads education programs and workforce initiatives with expertise in applied linguistics and education. She focuses on talent attraction and training solutions for construction industry professionals.
Questions
What does VRCA do for the construction industry?
VRCA advocates for construction industry interests through policy influence, workforce development programs, and business resources. We connect 1,000+ members across construction disciplines to drive innovation and strengthen industry practices.
How can I access VRCA's training programs?
Our workforce development initiatives offer online self-paced courses, live workshops, and customized corporate training. Visit our website to browse current course offerings and registration options.
What networking opportunities does VRCA provide?
We host annual awards galas, member mixers, and industry forums that connect construction professionals with potential partners, suppliers, and clients while sharing insights on industry trends.
How does VRCA support future construction professionals?
Our bursary program provides financial assistance to students pursuing construction-related education. We also offer school outreach programs that introduce youth to career opportunities in the construction industry.
What membership benefits does VRCA offer?
Members receive advocacy representation, exclusive networking events, workforce development resources, and access to industry-specific training programs designed to enhance business operations.
