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Welcome to this edition of the Round Up News Magazine covering the latest industry news, blogs, videos and more.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa, whose construction began in August 1173, faced multiple halts due to wars, debts, and efforts to correct its tilt, ultimately aiding its survival by allowing the soil beneath to compress. Completed in the mid-14th century, this bell tower is part of Pisa's cathedral complex, showcasing the city's historical significance as a seaport involved in military and trade endeavors. Despite attempts to correct its lean, the tower remains famous for its tilt, caused by an inadequate foundation on soft ground. This week's top video is courtesy of Practical Engineering who give us a review of the contractors, restoration experts, and engineers who have kept the tower standing for the next few centuries, at least.
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Discover the Site Visit Podcast: Stories and Insights from Construction Pros
What began as just a way to talk about construction has turned into, to an acclaimed series of episodes telling of Construction stories, quickly turned to the audio channels of podcasting and thus, the Site Visit was created. The Site Visit Podcast is dedicated to the Construction industry and its many professionals. It delivers useful and relevant content that is sure to help you lead well in any Construction related endeavor.
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Exploring 2024 Construction Tech Trends with Procore’s Kris Lengieza
In a recent episode of The Construction Record Podcast, Warren Frey interviews Procore Technologies‘ Kris Lengieza about 2024’s construction technology trends. Lengieza highlights the rapid integration of AI, including ChatGPT and other large language models, for various applications and preserving institutional knowledge.
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The Real-Life Impact of Cost Overruns: A Lesson from the Buffalo Bills Stadium Project
In 2023, it was reported that the Buffalo Bills stadium project was projected to have $300M in cost overrun. The project, initially estimated at $1.4 billion, was more recently reported to be on track to cost close to 1.7 billion. A major concern is that the Buffalo Bills are contractually required to cover overruns. Here’s how Jonas’ integrated construction software helps mitigate cost overruns while protecting against profit fade.
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ASSE Seeks Working Group Members for Development of National Standard ASSE 1010
ASSE International is seeking working group members to update ASSE 1010, the standard covering performance requirements for water hammer arresters. The deadline to apply is March 29.
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Ontraccr Technologies Secures $1.2M Seed Funding
Ontraccr has raised $1.2 million in seed funding from investors including LAB Ventures and Buildtech Ventures. The company aims to transform construction and field service industries with its no-code platform, allowing for easy customization of operational workflows.
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RONA opens new store in Nova Scotia
The new store, featuring 5,025 sq. ft. of sales area and a 148,000 sq. ft lumber yard, currently offers a selection of lumber, building materials, and hardware products. More hardware products, as well as paint, plumbing, electrical, appliances, and seasonal products will be arriving in the coming months.
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Brian Metcalf Named Show Chair for 2025 Utility Expo
The Utility Expo announced Brian Metcalf, CEO of Ring-O-Matic, has been named show chair for the 2025 show. He will lead the exhibitions management committee, a volunteer group of utility construction industry executives for overall show planning.
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Report: Bidding Wars are Back in the GTA
Overbidding has returned to the Greater Toronto Area’s real estate market ahead of the spring selling season, with dozens of neighbourhoods entering overbidding territory last month, according to Wahi’s latest monthly Market Pulse Report.
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CCA Announces Francis Roy as Chair for 2024-26 Term
Roy brings a wealth of experience to his role as President and CEO of Groupe Humaco. Under his leadership, the focus will be on fostering a communicative and collaborative environment to support the CCA’s strategic goals, emphasizing innovation and engagement within the industry.
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How Medcor Treated 86% of Injured Workers Without Offsite Care
Medcor offers occupational health and safety services across North America, and our teams have a deep understanding of the regulations and requirements your worksites face. Learn more about how we can help your construction project improve safety and reduce costs.
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Stantec Transit Project: Centralizing Models and Designs to Enable Collaboration
Transit systems in large metropolitan areas are expanding to accommodate growing urban populations. A case in point is the Sound Transit system project in the greater Seattle area that involves a 25-year, region-wide system expansion program. During these types of projects, coordinating a wide variety of services and designs and managing a combination of modeling and design review tools is no easy task. To help overcome this obstacle, the Stantec team used Revizto to centralize models and designs and enable collaboration.
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Webinar: The Expanding Role of Artificial Intelligence in Energy
The Energy Management Association is teaming up AESP to host a free AIA-approved webinar where the speaker will present an overview of the advances and opportunities currently being experienced through Artificial Intelligence in the energy industry.
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Holistic Approach to Infection Control, Security, and Resilience for All Building Systems
The ASSE Series 12000 now provides a holistic approach for the entire building. Whether it is during construction, maintenance/repair, remodeling, or reopening a building, special considerations should be taken to protect the water and air within the building. Construction workers, engineers, and inspectors must be educated to work safely to protect those within the healthcare facility along with themselves.
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RAIC College Welcomes Five New Honorary Fellows
An Honorary Fellow of the RAIC College is an Honorary Member of the RAIC who has achieved international professional eminence or has rendered distinctive service to the profession or to the community at large, nationally or internationally. Nomination and advancement to Honorary Fellowship is administered by the RAIC College.
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HYSKY Society to co-locate with Commercial UAV Expo in 2024
Organizers of Commercial UAV Expo have announced a strategic collaboration to bring HYSKY Society hydrogen aviation education to Commercial UAV Expo in Las Vegas, NV, September 3-5, 2024. Commercial UAV Expo is the leading global commercial drone trade show and conference, and HYSKY Society produces the world’s largest hydrogen aviation event focused on zero-emission aviation.
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What Makes RONA a Top Employer in Montréal?
First organized in 2006 by Mediacorp, who also publishes Canada’s Top 100 Employers every year, this annual regional competition celebrates employers in the Greater Montréal are who stand out in their industry by offering an exceptional work environment.
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ConTech: Latest Trends and Innovations – No. 48
From exploring the latest in software solutions to groundbreaking building materials and pioneering research, our blog is a comprehensive resource for anyone keen on the technological advancements driving the future of construction. Stay informed and ahead of the curve with our in-depth coverage of all things construction technology.
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How Engineers Straightened the Leaning Tower of Pisa
The lean isn’t just a fascinating oddity; it is integral to the historical character of the tower. It’s a big part of why we care. Unlike the millions of photos of tourists pretending to hold the Pisa tower up, the contractors, restoration experts, and engineers actually did it (for the next few centuries, at least).
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Calgary Stampede Prepares for First Event at BMO Centre Expansion
The $500 million expansion of Calgary’s BMO Centre is nearing completion, with the Calgary Stampede gearing up the one million square feet space for summer events. This expansion, a collaborative funding effort by all government levels, features a 565,000-square-foot addition, with the first event, the Global Energy Show, scheduled for June. Learn more
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Brock University Researcher Engineering Bamboo as a Sustainable Construction Solution
Brock University's Associate Professor of Engineering, Amir Mofidi, is leveraging engineered bamboo as a sustainable construction material, funded by the NSERC Discovery Grant. Mofidi's research aims to address the construction industry's reliance on high carbon emission materials by developing bamboo into a practical, eco-friendly alternative. By engineering bamboo into advanced composite materials and exploring cold-resistant non-invasive bamboo species for local cultivation, Mofidi seeks to revolutionize sustainable construction and potentially benefit the Niagara farming community. Learn more
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Contractor Survey: Insights on Ontario Contractors in 2024
The 2024 Contractor Survey by the Ontario Construction Secretariat reveals a positive outlook among Ontario contractors, driven by a robust project pipeline and advancements in technology and innovation. While concerns about rising costs and labor shortages persist, a significant majority anticipate business growth, with investments in new technologies and a strong focus on apprenticeship training highlighting the sector's adaptability and optimism for the year ahead. Learn more and download
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Canadian Building Permits See Significant Rise in January
In a remarkable turnaround from December’s slump, January witnessed a substantial 13.5% surge in the total value of building permits across Canada, reaching $10.8 billion according to Statistics Canada. This uptick signals a robust beginning to the year for the construction sector, reflecting growing confidence and investment in both residential and non-residential projects. Learn more
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Sault College Bridge Building Competition: Inspiring STEM Education
Sault College, alongside PEO and OACETT, hosted its annual Bridge Building Competition to promote STEM education, drawing over 300 balsa wood bridge entries from grades 4-12 and an open category. The event, celebrated for its hands-on learning approach, was live-streamed to classrooms, with participants vying for cash prizes based on efficiency in design. Learn more
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FortisBC’s $50M Retrofit Pilot: Enhancing Energy Efficiency in BC
FortisBC Energy Inc. is spearheading a $50 million pilot project to enhance energy efficiency in British Columbia's older homes and multifamily units, aiming to meet the province's climate action goals. In collaboration with partners like Metro Vancouver Housing, the project involves deep energy retrofits on 20 homes and four apartment buildings, striving to cut energy use by half or more. This initiative, focusing on envelope-first improvements and efficient heating technologies, aims to establish effective, affordable methods to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in existing buildings, contributing to BC's net-zero future. Learn more
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Henriquez Partners Architects Expands with New Principal and Announces Major Toronto Projects
Henriquez Partners Architects, a prominent Canadian architecture firm known for inclusive and mixed-use designs, has announced the expansion with Jennifer Mallard joining as Principal of its new Toronto studio. Mallard, with her vast experience from Diamond Schmitt, brings expertise in civic, residential, and educational projects. The firm also highlighted its involvement in two major CreateTO projects aimed at addressing Toronto's housing crisis. Learn more
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Advancing Women in Construction: Key Research Insights
The Canadian Association of Women in Construction (CAWIC) brings to light critical research underscoring the urgent need for an inclusive and diverse construction industry. This research, pivotal for the industry’s growth, was conducted online with 1,500 members of the Angus Reid Forum, providing a comprehensive view of Canadians’ perceptions regarding construction’s workforce diversity. Learn more
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Feds announce new money for sustainable jobs training as legislation remains in limbo
Employment Minister Randy Boissonnault announced a $99 million Sustainable Jobs Training Fund to support worker training in green skills, aligning with Canada’s carbon reduction goals. This fund targets projects in areas like green construction, building retrofits, and electric vehicle maintenance. Applications are open until May 15. Learn more
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LaPrairie Works Inc. Expands with Carwald Redi-Mix Acquisition
LaPrairie Works Inc., a leader in highway maintenance and civil construction, has expanded its operations by acquiring Carwald Redi-Mix’s concrete and aggregate operations in Slave Lake and Wabasca, Alberta. This acquisition enhances LaPrairie Works' capability to source high-quality ready-mix concrete, asphalt concrete pavement, and aggregate products in-house while maintaining excellent service for Carwald's customers. The transition includes the integration of Carwald's skilled team and aims to foster future growth and success through this strategic expansion. Learn more
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Fast + Epp opens new office in Toronto
This strategic move underscores the company’s dedication to delivering innovative and bold structural engineering solutions throughout the continent. By establishing a presence in Eastern Canada, Fast + Epp aims to solidify its project delivery capabilities, focusing on sectors such as cultural, educational, sports, civic, and transportation. Learn more
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The Role of Technology in Improving Residential Construction Efficiency
Canada's residential construction industry remains notably fragmented compared to other sectors, limiting the potential for investment in research and development and efficient project management. However, the rise of technologies such as AI, blockchain contracts, 3D modeling, and building automation offers avenues for optimization, particularly for larger firms capable of harnessing these advancements. Learn more
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Building a More Adaptable Immigration Framework for Construction Industry
A new report by BuildForce Canada, supported by various industry stakeholders, calls for reforms to Canada’s immigration system to address skilled labor shortages in the construction industry amid rising demands and changing demographics. Highlighting the bias towards university-educated applicants in the current system, the report recommends four principles for reform, aiming to better match immigration policies with the construction sector's needs for skilled trades workers and technical professionals. Learn more
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Unveiling the Oasis: The 2024 Minto Dream Home for CHEO
The 2024 Minto Dream Home for CHEO, named "Oasis" by contest winner Jorge G., marks the fifth consecutive year Minto's Ottawa team has organized a naming contest for the CHEO Dream of a Lifetime Lottery grand prize. With over 630 submissions, "Oasis" was chosen to reflect the home's wellness-inspired design. Jorge was surprised and honored by his win, expressing pride in supporting the lottery for over a decade. The home, designed as a contemporary sanctuary, features a Belgian modern farmhouse style and is part of Minto's efforts to support CHEO families through the lottery. Learn more
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OAWA Alberta: Paving the Way for Women in Skilled Trades
Office to Advance Women Apprentices (OAWA) Alberta is dedicated to empowering women in the construction industry, striving to pave their path towards Red Seal certification. Celebrated on International Women’s Day, the Edmonton office’s grand opening symbolizes a significant step forward in this mission. Learn more
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Navigating Green Building Certifications and Surety Bonds in Construction Projects
There are complexities and risks associated with green building certifications, specifically LEED and their impact on surety bonds in construction projects. It outlines that contractors must possess deep knowledge and experience in sustainable construction practices, including sourcing local materials, specific handling, construction techniques, waste management, and recycling, to meet the stringent standards set forth by certification bodies like the USGBC and the CAGBC. Learn more
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Do you have an upcoming event to advertise in this section? Contact us for details
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March 25 - 27
Nashville
World of Asphalt is the leading asphalt trade show and conference. Industry manufacturers and service providers in the aggregate, asphalt, pavement maintenance, and traffic safety industry sectors come together to showcase their latest products and technologies.
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April 29 - May 2
San Diego
CxEnergy 2024 - the premier event in commissioning, energy management, and building analytics and diagnostics. The 30+ educational sessions, state-of-the-art expo hall, and professional networking opportunities take place April 29-May 2 at the Town & Country Resort in San Diego.
CxEnergy draws hundreds of the nation’s leading commissioning experts, energy management professionals, MEP engineers, HVAC testing professionals, facility managers and building owners.
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May 1 - 2
Sydney, Australia
Sydney Build is back on the 1st – 2nd May 2024 at the ICC Sydney. It is free to attend and co-hosted with the Sydney Infrastructure Expo. Now in its 9th year, Sydney Build is the best-attended Construction Event in the whole of Australia.
Sydney Build is the only event in Australia to offer 300+ accredited presentations, 500+ exhibitors and incredible networking opportunities for all of Australia’s construction, architecture, engineering and infrastructure industries.
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May 14 - 15
Scottsdale
The EWTS provides a unique opportunity to meet well-known experts from across the globe. Participants are able to discover ideas and approaches about emerging technologies that benefit drinking water and wastewater systems, improve efficiency, and preserve public health. Of particular interest is how these new technologies help cope with drought, reduce carbon emissions, and contribute to overall water sustainability.
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May 14 - 18
Vancouver
The RAIC 2024 Conference on Architecture is taking place May 14 to 18, 2024 in-person at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre in Vancouver, BC.
The program is tailored for professional and educational success and features high-quality learning opportunities that include interactive content, innovative ideas, and engaging discussions. Participants at all career phases will gain insights, inspiration, and ideas for practical application.
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May 22 - 24
Washington
There's no other event that brings together this unique set of individuals – government agencies, contractors, the private sector, architects, scientists and more – to improve the built environment. The conference will cover four topic areas in the built environment with expert-led sessions. Earn AIA LU credits, ICC credits, and certificates of attendance for conference attendance.
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June 18
Toronto
The next Green Building Festival will take place on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, and will feature both keynote speakers and panel sessions. For 17 years, Green Building Festival (GBF) programming has showcased the most inspiring forces driving sustainable and resilient buildings and cities, grounded in credible research and proven projects. In the run-up to the next Green Building Festival, we will be hosting a number of events and activities related to the topic of the nexus between buildings and infrastructure.
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July 1 - 2
Kuala Lumpur
Eco-Sustainable Construction Materials Conference aims to bring together leading academic scientists, researchers and research scholars to exchange and share their experiences and research results on all aspects of Eco-Sustainable Construction Materials. It also provides a premier interdisciplinary platform for researchers, practitioners, and educators to present and discuss the most recent innovations, trends, and concerns as well as practical challenges encountered and solutions adopted in the fields of Eco-Sustainable Construction Materials.
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October 22 - 23
Chicago
Chicago Build is the leading construction, design and real estate show for the Midwest and is officially supported by the Mayor of Chicago & Governor of Illinois. The show is free to attend and features: 25,000+ registered attendees, 250+ exhibitors, 400+ speakers, AIA / CES approved workshops, entertainment & multiple business networking opportunities.
Tracks include: Future Construction, Architecture, Sustainability, Digital Construction, Real Estate, Diversity & Inclusion, and more.
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November 6 - 7
Toronto
Waste & Recycling Expo Canada brings together all sectors of the waste, recycling and public works industries: from transportation, heavy equipment, composting and MRFs to construction, road safety, sustainability solutions and more.
Get Ready for More!
More Innovation! Manufacturers and suppliers from across Canada, Germany, China, the US, and more are unveiling the latest products and advancements at this edition. New vehicles, new software, new resources - Get in on the action.
More Education! Leaders across diverse fields are sharing their knowledge on the latest topics from new regulations, best practices key trends, and more.
More Opportunities! Engage in unparalleled exposure to untapped audiences, international markets, and potential partnerships.
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April 24 - 25, 2025
Montreal
Canada’s biggest Mechanical, Plumbing, Hydronics, HVAC-R, Electrical and Lighting Expo
MCEE trade show and conference attracts those involved in all areas of sales, design, specification and installation. They include contractors, wholesaler distributors, builders, engineers, architects, designers, renovators and maintenance personnel. The exhibitors are Canadian and U.S. Manufacturers. Visitors come on site to see new products, learn about the latest technologies and develop their network of contacts with various stakeholders.
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November 5 - 6, 2025
Vancouver
The Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating (CIPH) is thrilled to announce an exciting collaboration that will reshape the landscape of trade shows in Western Canada. The British Columbia Electrical Association (BCEA), Alberta Electrical Alliance (AEA), and CIPH have joined forces to present CIPHEX + Electrical Learning Expo West in Vancouver in 2025 and in Calgary in 2027.
CIPHEX + Electrical Learning Expo West will showcase the latest innovations in electrical, renewable energy, lighting, plumbing, hydronic, HVACR, and water quality industries.
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