Ontario Construction News staff writer
After two years impacted by the pandemic, the Ontario General Contractors Association (OGCA) has brought together members, speakers and construction industry professionals at its bi-annual Construction Symposium.
About 680 OGCA members and supporters gathered at the Blue Mountain resort near Collingwood or its thirteenth symposium – and the first since COVID-19 restrictions barred in-person gatherings.
Most of the symposium’s extensive educational activities are today. Comedian Derek Edwards provided the after-dinner entertainment on Thursday. (The program concludes with some morning sessions on Saturday.)
Tonight, long-term employee Mary Wademan will be recognized as she prepares to retire next week after decades of work with the OGCA..
The symposium is focused on bringing the industry together and continuing to educate members about industry trends and best practices.
“It is a real pleasure to have our famous Construction Symposium as an in-person event. Our members, sponsors, and presenters make this event special,” OGCA president Giovanni Cautillo said in a statement.
“We tried to make this the most comprehensive construction event on the calendar and feature topics at the very cutting edge of the construction industry. I am so proud of everyone, especially Mary Wademan, who made this three-day packed Symposium possible.”
This year there is an expanded tradeshow, guest speakers, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities. The extensive list of sessions, many of which are accredited for continuing professional development (CPD), focus on innovation; health and safety; diversity and inclusion; geotechnical risk; surety; and the industry.
“This symposium is the true highlight of the OGCA calendar. This year more than ever it was such a pleasure to see members engaging with their partners in industry. Together with informative sessions, networking opportunities and a trade show, this event has everything a general contractor in Ontario could ask for,” said Bryan Arnold, chair OGCA executive committee.
The 2021 Ontario Builder Awards last night highlighted OGCA members’ latest and greatest projects, including professional office buildings, restaurants, department stores, wastewater treatment plants, hotels and recreational facilities.
“The OGCA symposium provides an opportunity for the top builders in the province to discuss the trends, innovations and challenges shaping the construction market. We love connecting with other members during this event, and as sponsor Travelers is proud to have supported each OGCA Symposium since its inception,” said Devon Maltby, field vice-president, Surety, Bond & SI Travelers Canada.