The Delta Hotels Winnipeg and Convention Centre in Winnipeg, the city that inspired the name for fabled character Winnie the Pooh,  hosted the 2026 Construction Specifications Canada (CSC) national conference, held May 20 to 24. With this year’s theme of “Collaborate, Innovate, Achieve,” attendees participated in a dynamic program that highlighted how the industry achieves its greatest results when those within it work together. The five-day event featured insightful technical sessions, lively panel discussions, and inspiring keynote presentations, all designed to strengthen connections and sharpen skills across the construction and design communities.

Led by conference co-chairs Greg Hofsted, FCSC, and Jesse Watson, RSW, the 2026 planning committee, along with Zeb Hudon, C.E.T, CM-Lean, CCCA, technical subcommittee chair; Kat Kreftsun, B.E.D, CSP, and Michael Sagriff, CT (Arch), C.E.T, CCCA, co-chairs of the companion program; Ken Rowson, FCSC, transportation committee and companion program volunteer; Mike Garlinski, FCSC, CTR, Connections Café/keynote speaker/advisor; and Tamara Maltman, B.Env.D. MID PIDIM, chair of the social committee, delivered a memorable and engaging experience for all in attendance. The committee ensured that delegates built meaningful, lasting professional relationships, exchanged ideas, and had ample opportunities to connect.

With their considerable pre-planning and effort, this year’s events gave participants insights into collaborating with colleagues, innovating to develop exciting, transformative products and solutions, and achieving their goals across the industry.

From the moment attendees arrived, it was clear this was no ordinary conference. Embracing the slogan “Collaborate, Innovate, Achieve,” the event adopted an espionage theme, cleverly branded “CIA.” Volunteers looked the part, patrolling the venue in classic secret-agent garb: crisp white shirts, black pants, matching ties, aviator glasses, and earpieces.

This theme was woven into the event’s DNA from the start, evident in the official delegate welcome letters. Styled to mimic a declassified intelligence briefing, the letters resembled a high-security dossier. Every detail reinforced the covert esthetic:

• Dossier styling—The text used an authentic typewriter font in a structured, mission-briefing layout.
• Themed terminology—Standard announcements were replaced with directive language, framing schedules as “operational objectives” and attendees as “operatives.”
• Playful redactions—Black bars covered words, mimicking redacted government files.
• Classified esthetic—Warnings and “NOTICE” stamps added a confidential, secret-agent feel, blending professionalism with secrecy.

By trading standard schedules for top-secret assignments, the organizers successfully gamified the experience. It was a brilliant, creative way to capture attention, break the ice, and remind everyone that true collaboration and innovation often require a bit of strategic insight.

Things kicked off on Wednesday, May 20, with a meet-and-greet for new members and first-time conference attendees, giving them a head start on making connections before the conference officially began. This was followed by the official Welcome Reception, sponsored by Duxton Windows. The next morning, Thursday, May 21, the conference’s program officially kicked off with a well-attended Welcome Breakfast.

Technical sessions were held throughout the conference, allowing attendees to tailor their experience by choosing from three specialized educational streams. Stream A focused on modern architectural design, sustainability, project collaboration, and community-centric construction. Stream B was highly technical, covering the fundamental building blocks of construction, compliance, and legal frameworks. Lastly, Stream C was devoted to professional development, project management methodologies, emerging digital workflows, and specialized building systems.

Throughout these three streams, attendees had the opportunity to attend a wide range of informative and compelling presentations.

In “NBC 2020 Changes to Firestop Requirements,” Nam Giao Le, P.Eng., senior field engineer at Hilti (Canada) Corp., provided an in-depth overview of 15 key updates to firestopping regulations for fire-rated assemblies and curtain walls under the 2020 National Building Code of Canada (NBC). “Solara Flats: 21-Storey Net Zero Highrise,” presented by Daneeka Abon, project manager, design and construction, UWCRC 2.0; Travis Defoort, partner/mechanical engineer, Epp Siepman Engineering; Mallory Briggs, architect, Cibinel Architecture Ltd.; and Anthony Militano, project manager, Bockstael Construction, explored a $77 million mixed-use Winnipeg development featuring building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) cladding and air-source heat pumps, offering adaptable insights for net-zero construction across Canada.

Chapters: Accolades for Individuals and Collectives

The President’s Chapter Awards of Merit recognize and encourage active, forward-looking chapters across categories including membership growth, educational programs, financial contributions, and meeting attendance. When it came time to select the best of the best for the Lloyd Boddy Chapter of the Year Award, the Toronto chapter was the winner for the second consecutive year. The award recognizes the chapter’s efforts towards the association’s goals through professional development opportunities, spirit, and participation in the local industry and in CSC committees. The chapters also present the Chapter Award of Merit to their outstanding members. This year’s recipients include: Atlantic—Harry Forbes, FCSC, and Abigail MacEachern, RSW, LEED AP, CDT Calgary—Darryl Langile, Conner Terris, and William Thompson Edmonton—Andrew Brassington, CTR, and Cherisse Zerbin Hamilton/Niagara—Brian C. Dobbins, CTR, and Steven Ioannides, CTR, CSP London—Josh Bowman, CTR, and Paul Gerber Montreal—Kaylen Bao and Simon Horman Okanagan Valley—Jase Marshall and Kevin Slater Ottawa—Michel D. Theauvette, CSP; Justin Tudor; and Maria-Cristina Villabla, CSP Regina—Garth Huber and Katrina Trowell Saskatoon—Devre Bristow Toronto—Kevin Becessar, Charles Boswoth, Natasha Brin, CSP, Kiyoshi Kuroiwa, CCCA, and Annette Lindy Vancouver—Hamid Sayyah, Nicole Seger, and Satinder Sidhu Winnipeg—Amy Frank, CTR; Julia McIntyre; and Jesse Watson, RSW

Presented by Rob McIntyre of Dale Carnegie Organization, “Communicate to Lead—Human Relations in Action” delivered field-tested human relations principles tailored to the construction industry, offering practical communication techniques to resolve conflicts, reduce jobsite friction, and boost team morale to drive concrete project outcomes. “Building Beyond the Blueprint—School Construction in Northern First Nation Communities,” presented by Jeff Moroz, MAA, OAA, AAA, LEED AP, BD+C principal, architecture, and Manitoba buildings operations leader, and by Souk Xoumphonphackdy, MAA, OAA, AAA, SAA principal, architecture, of Stantec, examined the complexities of northern school design, detailing how fly-in logistics, permafrost foundations, and deep community engagement intersect to create climate-resilient educational facilities that incorporate Indigenous worldviews.

Meanwhile, “Rising Together—Indigenous Business and Women in Construction,” by Nicole Chabot, Métis entrepreneur and vice president of L. Chabot Enterprises Ltd., examined the realities of Indigenous entrepreneurship and the evolving role of women in heavy civil construction, offering strategic insights into fostering genuine equity, elevating underrepresented talent, and building inclusive supply chains that go beyond mere regulatory compliance.

Andrew Brassington, CTR, technical sales manager for Western Canada at Owens Corning, and Stephen Oberlin, architect and senior design lead at Ironclad Developments, presented “Maximize Your Insulation,” examining building envelope design and demonstrating how thermal bridging and assembly interfaces reduce nominal R-values by 20 to 50 per cent. The session also offered practical detailing and material strategies to optimize thermal efficiency and carbon payback. “Collaboration with Digital Tools—The Process & Frequent Challenges,” presented by Daniel Kazado, manager partner at Professional Construction Solutions, demystified the evolving building information modelling (BIM) landscape through the lens of Manitoba’s Boundary Trails Health Centre Expansion, detailing how digital co-ordination, clash detection, and early stakeholder alignment enhance project lifecycle collaboration and risk mitigation.

“Different Paths to a Common Goal—How Contractors and Designers Navigate Toward Successful Projects,” presented by Rock Jerome, principal, FT3; Peter Grose, president and CEO, Westland Construction; Harald Schulz Sr., vice president of pre-construction, Concord Projects; Jerald Peters, principal, FT3; and Craig Derksen, executive director, Shared Health, addressed the persistent friction between design intent and construction budgets and explored collaborative strategies to bridge the traditional gap between contractors and designers.

Led by Pamela Gervais, regional business manager at Horton Automatics, “Accessibility in Canada and the Role of Automatic Openers” examined the history, codes, and selection criteria for manual and automatic entrance systems in commercial settings, equipping attendees with best practices for accurately specifying sliding, swing, revolving, and security doors to ensure safety, accessibility, and ANSI compliance.

In “Building Envelope Optimization to Ease into Passivhaus and Energy Efficiency Requirements,” Kaylen Bao, technical services manager at ADEX Systems Inc., detailed how continuously insulated cladding systems meet Passivhaus and National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (NECB) thresholds, and outlined practical design strategies to eliminate thermal bridging, simplify wall assemblies, and balance esthetic flexibility with cost-effective energy performance. “Lead Without Losing It: Staying Steady When the Site (or Life) Gets Messy,” presented by Jaime Mann of The Amaryllis Project, offered research-backed, practical self-leadership and behavioural science tools to help construction professionals navigate high-pressure environments, manage difficult conversations, and stay grounded amid project chaos.

During “Building Relationships with Owners, GC’s and Consultants to achieve the Best Roofing Results,” Ed Gallos, president and owner of Master Roofing Ltd., explored the critical role of collaborative partnerships in roofing projects and offered strategies to align with owners’ visions, navigate general contractor dynamics, and leverage consultants’ expertise to drive superior project outcomes.

In addition to these sessions, attendees throughout the week had multiple opportunities to expand their professional networks through four dedicated Speed Networking sessions, held between seminars and at the always-popular Connections Café in the exhibit hall.

At Thursday’s luncheon, the keynote address was delivered by Wade Miller, president and CEO of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League (CFL).

From local standout to Hall of Famer and elite executive, Miller embodies the competitive spirit and community dedication that define Manitoba’s sports culture. Appointed president and CEO of the Winnipeg Football Club in August 2013, Miller has transformed the Blue Bombers into a CFL flagship. Under his leadership, the club has captured consecutive Grey Cup championships, achieved nine straight double-digit-win seasons, and secured unprecedented financial stability, culminating in a historic stadium sellout streak.

This keynote presentation pulled back the curtain on the leadership principles and strategic vision required to build lasting success in high-stakes environments. Drawing on his 11-year playing career as the CFL’s all-time leader in special teams tackles and his prominent civilian career co-founding Pinnacle Staffing—Manitoba’s largest recruitment firm—Miller bridges the gap between athletic execution and corporate strategy.

Miller emphasized that long-term organizational success rests on culture, customer experience, and investment in people. Drawing on lessons from leading the Blue Bombers, Miller stressed that treating employees, players, and fans well—while embracing analytics, technology, and continuous improvement—builds resilient organizations capable of sustained success on and off the field.

Specifically, Miller urged attendees to go above and beyond for their customers.

“What’s the return on that investment? What are you doing differently to take care of your customers?” he asked.

However, he emphasized that this should also be applicable to employees.

“When you treat people right, they stay with you,” Miller explained. “You get a lot more done because you’re not retraining everybody all the time.”

As AI continues to serve as both a resourceful tool—and for some, an unknown disruptor—for the industry, Miller said he is confident it will never “replace humans” but instead make them more efficient.

Friday’s luncheon featured an important introduction to CSI-Dynamic Standards.

As technological advancements accelerate, traditional construction documentation frameworks must evolve to support modern project delivery. The session, presented by Construction Specification Institute’s (CSI) CEO Mark Dorsey, FASAE, CAE, and Keith Robinson, FCSC, FCSI, RSW, LEED AP, examined how foundational classification tools such as MasterFormat and OmniClass are adapting to meet the demands of model-based workflows, digital asset management, and integrated project delivery.

Dorsey and Robinson explained why updates to MasterFormat are becoming more frequent and how these changes fundamentally affect the broader industry ecosystem rather than disrupting individual projects. The presenters outlined
the mechanics of CSI-Dynamic Standards and demonstrated how it enables responsive stewardship of classification systems without destabilizing current field practices.

Finally, the presentation examined the growing integration between MasterFormat and OmniClass, highlighting how OmniClass tables serve as a vital crosswalk database. Participants learned that this digital alignment directly supports the development of building information modelling (BIM), digital twins, and lifecycle information exchange across the built environment.

For Friday’s fun night at the Manitoba Museum, attendees were transported from the hotel and then gathered in the expansive, state-of-the-art event hall.

The evening kicked off with high-stakes fun as the CSC’s executive council and the Winnipeg Chapter conference committee faced off in a spirited game of Family Feud. The executive council emerged victorious, while other attendees competed in a second match, with all winners receiving gift cards.

The dinner order for the buffet was decided by a digital roulette wheel, keeping the playful energy alive. After dinner, tables transformed into teams for a “mega-trivia” showdown. The game tested 1990s-inspired pop-culture knowledge and featured hilarious questions highlighting the infamous antics of outgoing CSC executive director Nick Franjic, CAE. The highest-scoring table won gift cards.

To wrap up the night, delegates explored the museum before heading to the Nonsuch Gallery. There, surrounded by a replica of a 17^th-century English fur-trading ship, a live DJ set the mood as attendees hit the dance floor to celebrate a memorable conference in style.

Saturday, May 23, began with organizational business, including the CSC Members’ Forum, where attendees could pose questions to the executive council, and the annual general meeting, which featured a chapter-by-chapter roll call.

The following evening, delegates gathered for the perennial highlight of the conference—the President’s Reception, sponsored by Reynobond, and the President’s Ball, proudly sponsored by Custom Tile Installation Systems. Before the formal program began, CSC president Kelly Sawatzky, RSW, CSP; president-elect Abigail MacEachern, RSW, LEED AP, CDT; immediate past-president Russell Snow, FCSC, CSP, CTR; CSI board chair William Sundquist, FCSI; and other executive members, along with their significant others, were piped into the ballroom.

The immediate past-president, Russell Snow, expertly emceed this year’s celebration, paying tribute to Sawatzky with perfectly paired wit and warmth, keeping the audience captivated, deeply moved, and fully entertained.

Immediately after her introduction, Sawatzky delivered her outgoing address and announced the recipients of the president’s award. This prestigious honour is bestowed on members who have provided exceptional support, guidance, mentorship, and assistance to the president. It recognizes individuals whose contributions have significantly helped the president fulfil their duties and advance CSC’s mission. This year’s recipients included Keith Robinson, FCSC, FCSI, RSW, LEED AP; Peter Semchuk, FCSC, RSW, CCCA; Don Shortreed, FCSC, RSW; Russell Snow, FCSC, CTR, CSP; and Abigail MacEachern, RSW, LEED AP, CDT. Also honoured were the Life Membership Award recipients, Mary J. Friesen, FCSC, RSW; Chris S. Johnson, FCSC, RSW; and Ken Rowson, FCSC.

Incoming president Abigail MacEachern, RSW, also delivered an inspiring message of gratitude to attendees. Reflecting on the association’s continued growth, MacEachern honoured her predecessor’s leadership and pledged to build on their foundation. She highlighted the vital contributions of CSC’s dedicated past and present volunteers, noting their ongoing role in driving the organization’s success. Looking ahead, MacEachern shared a vision for a bright future fuelled by collaboration, passion, and professional excellence.

Membership Longevity Awards

Recognizing excellence

The annual awards luncheon, sponsored by Penn-co, provided a meaningful opportunity to celebrate excellence within the CSC community. Emceed by Jonathon Greenland, CTR, CSC’s vice president of conference, awards, and legislative, the event honoured the outstanding contributions of members and associates whose dedication continues to strengthen the association and elevate the industry.

National Award of Merit

This award is presented to members in recognition of their contributions to the well-being of CSC beyond the scope of a Chapter Award of Merit, for exceptional effort, zeal, effectiveness, and time devoted to the benefit of CSC as a whole and to the betterment of the industry. This year, the National Award of Merit was presented to two individuals: Trevor Devnich of the Calgary Chapter and Don Shortreed, FCSC, RSW, of the Toronto Chapter.

Program Directors Awards

Program Directors’ awards are presented to those who have demonstrated commitment, dedication, and service to the betterment of the CSC and its beliefs, and who have made significant contributions to improving CSC programs. The respective Program Directors nominated the recipients.

Conferences

In recognition of their work in preparing to host CSC Conference 2026, CSC’s Winnipeg Chapter Organizing Committee received this award.

Technical Studies Committee

This award was presented to Alex Grams, CSP; Don Shortreed, FCSC, RSW; Jenny Irvine; Jesse Watson, RSW; Michael Sagriff, CCCA; Mila Legge, FCSC, RSW; Olufemi Awogboro, CCCA; Paul Gerber; Russell Snow, FCSC, CTR, CSP; Tom Newton, FCSC, CCCA; and Zeb Hudon, CCCA.

Education Certification Committee

In recognition of their dedication and efforts to advance the goals of CSC’s Education Certification Committee, this award was presented to Mila Legge, FCSC, RSW; Keith Robinson, FCSC, FCSI, RSW, LEED AP; and Russell Snow, FCSC, CTR, CSP.

F. Ross Browne Award

The F. Ross Browne Award recognizes editorial excellence in Construction Canada, honouring the author or authors of an article in the magazine. This year’s award was presented to Scott Schendel for his article, “Blindside Waterproofing and At-grade Transitions,” published in the March 2026 issue of Construction Canada. His colleague, Steve Weiterman, accepted on his behalf.

As director of product development at EPRO, Schendel has more than 15 years of building envelope experience, with expertise in below-grade waterproofing for new construction and restoration. His project experience spans large-scale civil infrastructure, elevator pits, and planters. He also regularly collaborates on waterproofing projects across North America.

Honorary Membership Award

Additionally, outgoing CSC executive director Nick Franjic, CAE, received the Honorary Membership Award.

The event also marked the final CSC conference for Franjic, who was honoured for more than three decades of service to the association. In an emotional address, Franjic reflected on the relationships, mentors, volunteers, and staff who shaped his time at CSC, describing the organization as an extended family and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to grow alongside it. He also shared stories from throughout his career, recalling lessons learned, lifelong friendships, and the many people who contributed behind the scenes to CSC’s success over the years.

Franjic’s remarks took a personal tone as he thanked CSC members and leadership for their support and reflected on the organization’s lasting impact on his life and career. Closing with the words, “Thanks for letting me grow,” Franjic acknowledged the significance of stepping away after decades of service while looking ahead to new adventures beyond CSC. The recognition concluded with a standing ovation, followed by the arrival of a giant retirement cake, complete with a gold CSC-themed topper and the message “CSC Loves You,” with plenty to go around for delegates gathered to celebrate his contributions to the organization and the broader construction specification community.

At CSC’s annual general meeting, delegates witnessed another special moment as Franjic was recognized as an Honorary Member of the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI), the Institute’s highest honour. The award was presented by CSI board chair William Sundquist, FCSI, who was joined by CSI chair-elect Jarrod Mann, FCSI, CCCA, CDT, PE, and CEO Mark Dorsey, FASAE, CAE. Although the award was officially bestowed on Franjic at CSI’s national conference in Cleveland, Ohio, last October, CSI leadership reprised the milestone before the CSC community, allowing delegates to celebrate Franjic’s exceptional achievements together. Sundquist praised Franjic’s “humble, steady, and people-focused leadership,” highlighting his commitment to “connecting people, organizations, and ideas” and to strengthening deep, ongoing relationships between the two associations.

With heartfelt tributes and milestones celebrated, the CSC community now turns to a new chapter in its leadership. Earlier this year, CSC welcomed Kevin Beaulieu as its new executive director. With more than 25 years of not-for-profit leadership, governance, and communications experience, including work with organizations of all sizes and a strong background in government relations, Beaulieu assumes the role as part of CSC’s newly established partnership with Association & Events Management International (AEMI). Under this partnership, AEMI will serve as CSC’s association management provider. Beaulieu will lead as executive director, and longtime CSC team member Clafton Fiola, CAE, will continue his invaluable work as programs and events manager on the AEMI team. This new structure ensures a seamless transition and ongoing support for CSC’s membership, leadership, and initiatives as the association moves forward.

Fellowship

This year, the College of Fellows formally inducted Cathie Schneider, CTR, from the Grand Valley chapter. George Heath, FCSC, served as chancellor and was joined at the induction ceremony by Colleen Barabonoff, FCSC, RSW, dean, and Kazim (Kaz) Kanani, FCSC, CSP, CCA, CDT, registrar. They were accompanied by many other Fellows and attendees who gathered to celebrate the occasion.

Cathie Schneider, CTR

Schneider has been an active member of the Grand Valley chapter of CSC for more than 25 years. In 2001, after earning her CTR designation, Schneider’s interest in the Grand Valley chapter deepened, leading to greater participation in its activities. This culminated a few years later, when she stepped forward as one of the members tasked with rebuilding and revitalizing the chapter.

Her volunteer role on the chapter executive included serving as chair and director for several years. During her term as chapter chair, the Grand Valley Chapter received the Lloyd Boddy Chapter of the Year Award, its first-ever win.

Schneider’s contributions to CSC during her tenure on the chapter executive have been numerous, including:

• Promoting CSC and its goals across all sectors of the construction industry.
• Organizing numerous annual Connections Cafés
• Promoting membership growth in CSC, both within the Grand Valley chapter and beyond.
• Participating in the organization and implementation of CSC Conference 2014 in Kitchener and CSC Conference 2022 in Niagara Falls.
• Participating in the creation and ongoing growth of the CSC Grand Valley chapter Student Design Challenge.

Her most significant contribution to CSC is her ongoing involvement with the Student Design Challenge, which she helped co-found with members of the Toronto chapter and continues to run in collaboration with other neighbouring Ontario chapters. The Student Design Challenge reflects Schneider’s belief in and commitment to promoting CSC among young and upcoming members of the construction industry.

She received the CSC National Award of Merit in 2016 in recognition of her significant achievements with the Grand Valley chapter and her commitment to the Student Design Challenge.

Schneider’s dedication to CSC has been further demonstrated by her decision to assume the registrar role, underscoring her willingness to serve the association where her contribution is most meaningful. Through these sustained efforts, she helps ensure CSC remains strong, connected, and resilient. In doing so, she embodies CSC’s spirit and values and is a worthy recipient of the honour of CSC Fellowship.

Members Old and New

Since 1954, CSC has been an active and respected association in Canada’s construction industry. The benefits of CSC membership are clear, as evidenced by the association’s overall member retention. This year, more than 174 members celebrated 10 to 60 years of continuous membership with CSC.

Eureka Club Award for Membership Recruitment

To qualify for this award, a member must sponsor at least three new members within a membership year. In total, 51 current members sponsored 35 new members. Of these, two members sponsored three or more: Trevor Devnich from the Calgary Chapter, who sponsored four, and Zeb Hudon, CCCA, from the Winnipeg Chapter, who sponsored 10 new members and received the Russell W. Cornell Award for the most new members sponsored.

Next Stop: London, Ont.

Conference 2027 will be held in London, Ont., at the Best Western Plus Lamplighter Inn & Conference Centre. The theme will be “Rooted in Education.” The conference committee includes Jeff Halashewski, RSW; Paul Gerber; and Kees Grover, with more to be announced. Conference planning is already underway. See you next year!