Cutting Edge Educational Sessions

Wednesday, December 4th @ 7:00-8:30am | Room 703 

Presented by: Master Builders Solutions

Join Master Builders Solutions for a conversation about current trends and new technologies for concrete construction! There are many contributions that concrete admixtures can provide for carbon reduction, speed of construction, labor savings and concrete workability with GUL cements. Join a panel of industry experts in a small, relaxed setting for a lively discussion about local construction trends that effect such things as carbon footprint, reducing waste and increasing efficiency. Get your toughest questions answered about concrete production, construction, durability/resilience, sustainability and corrosion mitigation. Each session’s discussion will provide a unique opportunity to share concrete challenges and learn about solutions that will save you time and money. Content discussed in sessions will differ based upon attendee questions. The event includes a hot breakfast!

Speakers:

• Bart Kanters, President, Ready Mixed Concrete Association of Ontario
• Luis dos Reis, Canada Division Manager, Master Builders Solutions Canada
• Shervan Khanna, Regional Manager, Master Builders Solutions
• Phil Matisak, Product Manager - Sustainability, Master Builders Solutions
• Marc Rached, Manager Engineering Technical Services, Master Builders Solutions

Wednesday, December 4th @ 9:00-10:00am | Room 703 

Presented by: CANAM Group

This session will address complete turn-key solutions for steel superstructures in multi-residential buildings for building owners, developers, and general contractors. Demonstrated proficiency in designing, fabricating, and erecting mid and high-rise buildings guarantees timely and cost-effective project completion. Visitors are invited to explore the full Hambro Structural Building System and experience the benefits of partnering with Canam that specializes in designing, manufacturing, as well as building.

Speakers:

• Andrew Deamone, Business Development Representative, Canam Group
• Scott Gruer, Business Development Representative Multi-Residential Buildings, Canam Group

• Wednesday, December 4th @ 1:00-2:00pm | Room 703 
  
  Presented by: Peikko Canada
  
  With Toronto and other cities in Ontario at the forefront of new upcoming trends in senior living, this session offers key insights for those involved in this evolving sector. Attendees will learn how to enhance their construction projects through flexibility and reduced construction timelines within the context of senior housing developments.
  
  Speaker:
• Mark Johanson, Technical Business Development, Peikko Canada

Wednesday, December 4th @ 2:30-3:30pm | Sol-R Main Stage (#1043) 

Presented by: PCL

The session will explore the thought process behind sustainable development projects. It is critical to understand how E in ESG can pay off. What is viable in the current market? Are sustainable buildings more profitable? What lending options are available to the sector? In what capacity are the regulations impacting new projects? How do we see the future sustainable developments panning out? Pre-registration is required, and attendance will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis on the day.

Speakers:

• Mark Henderson, Manager, Sustainable Retrofits and Decarbonization, PCL Constructors Canada Inc.
• Tony Lagrasta, Head of ESG, Colliers
• Kit Milnes, Vice President, Sustainability & Resilience, Kingsett
• Charles Todd, Managing Director, Investments, Canadian Infrastructure Bank

Wednesday, December 4th @ 2:30-3:30pm | Building Futures Stage (#126) 

Presented by: Workorb

This session explores the immediate and transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. The speaker will be outlining key areas where AI is already making a difference: business development, leveraging past project knowledge, streamlining project management, and automating routine tasks and documentation. Following this, they will offer a concise primer on generative AI, explaining its core functionality, practical applications, and inherent limitations. The session will feature compelling case studies from AEC firms, demonstrating successful AI implementation and quantifiable returns on investment (ROI). Crucially, it will also address the vital considerations surrounding data security, privacy, and ownership within the context of AI adoption in AEC.

Speaker:

• Nick Koudas, CEO, Workorb

Wednesday, December 4th @ 2:00-3:30pm | Room 703 

Presented by: Graham

The conundrum of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Canada through building retrofits is responsible for an adoption rate of 1% per year. At that rate, the estimated time to retrofit buildings is approximately 175 years for residential and 70 years for commercial and institutional buildings. This session will identify the commercial and general circumstances that are preventing broader adoption and present practical solutions that will highlight approaches to design, construction, financing and policy that could significantly improve adoption and help us achieve 2030 and 2050 targets.

Speakers:

• Gordon Bourque, Vice President Business Development, Akonovia
• Roland Hebb, Associate Director, Graham

Thursday, December 5th @ 7:00-8:30am | Room 703 

Presented by: Master Builders Solutions

Join Master Builders Solutions for a conversation about current trends and new technologies for concrete construction! There are many contributions that concrete admixtures can provide for carbon reduction, speed of construction, labor savings and concrete workability with GUL cements. Join a panel of industry experts in a small, relaxed setting for a lively discussion about local construction trends that effect such things as carbon footprint, reducing waste and increasing efficiency. Get your toughest questions answered about concrete production, construction, durability/resilience, sustainability and corrosion mitigation. Each session’s discussion will provide a unique opportunity to share concrete challenges and learn about solutions that will save you time and money. Content discussed in sessions will differ based upon attendee questions. The event includes a hot breakfast!

Speakers:

• Bart Kanters, President, Ready Mixed Concrete Association of Ontario
• Luis dos Reis, Canada Division Manager, Master Builders Solutions Canada
• Shervan Khanna, Regional Manager, Master Builders Solutions
• Phil Matisak, Product Manager - Sustainability, Master Builders Solutions
• Marc Rached, Manager Engineering Technical Services, Master Builders Solutions

Thursday, December 5th @ 8:00-10:00am | Room 701A

Presented by: TCA 

This year’s CEO Breakfast at The Buildings Show focuses on the topic of women in real estate and construction. A panel of accomplished women will share insights on career advancement, the importance of mentorship, and strategies for navigating work-life integration. Discussion will also cover the unique challenges women face in the industry and how leaders can advocate for more inclusive workplaces. Attendees will gain valuable advice on supporting the next generation of women leaders.

Speakers:

• Tania Skapura, Senior Manager, Business Development, Bothwell-Accurate
• Krystal Davey, Senior Vice President - Corporate Operations, Bothwell-Accurate
• Lidia Di Maria, Vice President of Project Management and Technical Services, BentallGreenOak (BGO)
• Merrill Fung, Vice President of Architecture and Design, Development, The Cadillac Fairview Corporation Limited
• Sarah Heppinstall, Vice President, Design and Construction, Canadian Tire Corporation

Thursday, December 5th @ 10:30-11:30am | Room 703

Presented by: SolidCAD

Contract and Construction Administration accounts for a significant portion of design fees. It is no wonder that AEC industry professionals are looking for ways to build efficiency in this tedious and litigious process. While technology for the Contract and Construction Administration (CCA) process has improved over the last five years, it also raises some intriguing questions. This session will delve into the intricacies of CCA, discussing the often overlooked aspects, and providing insights into the current state workflows and technologies. Attendees will learn effective strategies to control specific aspects of the CCA process and take ownership of project data. Additionally, speakers will address how CCA software can help minimize cost overruns and promote transparency within projects.

Speakers:

• Jay Polding, Account Executive - AECO, SolidCAD
• Elnaz Jafarian, Construction Software Trainer, SolidCAD

Thursday, December 5th @ 10:30-11:30am | Room 715B

Presented by: Canadian Standards Association (CSA)

With only 6.1% of materials entering the Canadian economy sourced from recycled materials, Canada faces a critical opportunity to embrace a circular economy. This session delves into the transformative potential of circular practices within the built environment, focusing on strategies to reduce reliance on raw materials, minimize waste, and cut greenhouse gas emissions. A panel of experts will discuss the foundational principles of a circular economy and its benefits for construction and infrastructure. The panelists will share insights from recent research on a strategic framework for a circular built environment, addressing key findings, gaps, and actionable recommendations for industry transformation. Attendees will gain a comprehensive view of successful national, municipal, and industry initiatives, as well as best practices to reduce embodied carbon in buildings through circular approaches.

Thursday, December 5th @ 1:00-2:00pm | Room 703

Presented by: Green Lotus

This session focuses on how AI, digital marketing, and sales automation can enhance online visibility, ultimately driving sales for construction companies. It will provide an in-depth exploration of four key pillars essential for successful digital marketing and sales automation. Attendees will gain valuable insights from real-world case studies and proven strategies designed to boost lead generation, improve close rates, and position their businesses for market leadership. Tailored specifically for leaders in the construction industry—including renovators, builders, manufacturers, business owners, and sales managers—this session will demonstrate how to harness the power of Google’s new AI Overviews, generative AI, SEO, sales automation, and digital marketing to drive exponential growth.

Speaker:

• Bassem Ghali, Founder and Head of Client Strategy, Green Lotus Agency

Thursday, December 5th @ 2:30-3:30pm | Room 703

Presented by: Bluebeam

Explore how a leading construction services company has harnessed the power of technology to improve efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration in its construction projects. Attendees will gain insights into the critical role of digital transformation in the construction industry, practical methods for streamlining takeoffs, estimates, and team collaboration, and how conflicts between trades can be resolved while reducing rework and delays. Join this session to learn from an industry leader and discover how technology can drive success in your own projects.

Speakers:

• Khalid Abounassif, Director, Innovation and ConTech, EllisDon Corporation
• Arslaan Rashid, Assistant Project Manager, ConTech Delegate, EllisDon Corporation

Thursday, December 5th @ 3:00-4:00pm | Sol-R Main Stage (Booth 1043)

Presented by: DMZ

Although real estate operators have been using technology to drive efficiency, there is a lot more to be done. Investors are fueling this evolution, while implementers are delivering tangible results. In this session, we will learn how organizations are embracing digital solutions, utilizing IoT, AI, data analytics, and smart infrastructure to enhance operations and reduce costs. What tools are available to adapt and scale and what are the barriers? A social hour with refreshments will follow the session. Pre-registration is required, and attendance will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis on the day.

Speakers:

• Julia Stefanishina, Partner, Strategy and Transactions, Real Estate Advisory, EY Canada
• Courtney Cooper, Partner, Alate Partners
• Edi Demaj, Co-founder, KODE Labs
• Ram Srinivasan, Managing Director, Consulting, Work Dynamics, JLL

Wednesday, December 4th @ 10:00-11:00am | Building Futures Stage (#126) 

Presented by: The Site Visit Podcast

Join this live recording session of The Site Visit podcast that will present a four-pillar strategy for attainable and substantive change that drives companies to guide individuals through a sustainable process during their tenure. It will explore the critical factors behind each pillar and how these can be culturally implemented within organizations. The session will leave no factor unexamined, encouraging critical thinking and uncovering the realities of business in Canada. Topics will include motivation, productivity, the cost of living, and the overall sentiment within the construction industry, providing a comprehensive look at the challenges faced by both employees and employers.

Speakers:

• Leslie Dibling, Director of Organizational Development, AMC Services
• James Faulkner, President, SiteMax
• Agnes Watkinson, Founder, AMC Services

Wednesday, December 4th @ 11:30am -12:30pm | Building Futures Stage (#126) 

Presented by: The Site Visit Podcast

Join this live recording session of The Site Visit podcast addressing the urgent mental health crisis in the construction industry and emphasizing the need for immediate action to prevent potentially severe consequences. This session will explore the distinction between “hard life circumstances” and conditions on the psychosis spectrum, while also examining the increasing impact of drug use on job sites. The discussion will focus on how the Canadian government can effectively address this growing issue. With the rising costs of employee assistance programs, there is concern about how these expenses impact private-sector developments, potentially fueling inflation. The session will also explore how government programs can distribute these costs more equitably, ensuring that companies are not disproportionately burdened while still remaining profitable.

Speakers:

• James Faulkner, President, SiteMax
• Gianluca Pascale, Chief Connector and Curator, Constructors Guild™
• Angelo Suntres, Director of Operations, Mattina Mechanical Limited

Wednesday, December 4th @ 1:00pm -2:00pm | Building Futures Stage (#126) 

Presented by: The Site Visit Podcast

Join this live recording of The Site Visit podcast diving into the complex world of artificial intelligence (AI) and its growing role in the construction industry. This session will address common misconceptions about what AI truly is and what it is not, shedding light on its real potential and limitations. Topics will include how the aging workforce is slowing down technological progression in the industry, creating barriers to the adoption of new innovations. The session will also explore the risks AI presents, both in terms of job displacement and ethical considerations. On a more practical level, the session will address how AI is already being integrated with hardware in the field today, improving efficiency and safety on construction sites. The evolving vision of AI and robotics in construction, and what this means for the industry moving forward will also be discussed.

Speakers:

• Mahir Dheendsa, Program Specialist, Data Integration & Digital Transformation, Lafarge Canada
• James Faulkner, President, SiteMax