As we approach Construction and Skilled Trades Month this April, it’s an ideal time to pause and celebrate the incredible work of more than 250,000 British Columbians in the construction industry. These professionals are the backbone of our province’s economy, contributing immeasurably to the infrastructure that keeps our communities thriving.

This month is an opportunity to not only recognize their achievements but also to reflect on the challenges that the industry continues to face. From skilled workforce shortages to soaring costs and economic and political uncertainty, builders are under tremendous pressure to deliver projects on time and on budget. At the same time, faltering public sector standards around inappropriate risk transfer, contracts, permits and procurement, and delayed payments have left many employers vulnerable to significant financial risk.

So although April is a month to celebrate, the at the same time will continue to address these critical issues. Payment certainty and U.S. tariffs and potential countermeasures are among the most urgent concerns for our industry today. Contractors continue to face financial strain due to delayed payments, making it even more important that we push for prompt payment legislation in B.C. This would ensure that employers and workers are paid in a timely and transparent manner, allowing them to focus on building our province rather than struggling with cash flow challenges.

In addition to payment uncertainty, the construction industry has also been affected by unpredictable U.S. tariffs and Canadian countermeasures. These tariffs, particularly on materials like steel and aluminum, add significant costs to construction projects. The BCCA, in collaboration with our partners, has worked diligently to provide resources and strategies to help construction employers navigate these economic challenges, but much more must be done as the uncertainty persists.

As we reflect on the progress made and the work still to be done, it’s important for us all to take a moment to celebrate our accomplishments and to recognize the support we’ve received from our Construction Month Title sponsor, LNG Canada and Platinum sponsors, Home Depot, Marks Commercial, and SkilledTrades BC, whose contributions help make Construction Month possible

BCCA continues to stand strong for B.C.’s builders, working in tandem with our regional partners – the Northern Regional Construction Association, Southern Interior Construction Association, Vancouver Island Construction Association and the Vancouver Regional Construction Association – to advocate for a better future. Together, we are working tirelessly to ensure that the construction industry remains strong, resilient, and capable of meeting the demands of our growing province.

We especially want to extend a special thank you to all the hard-working individuals who make B.C.’s construction industry the powerhouse it is. Your dedication and expertise are crucial to the ongoing success of this sector, and we are proud to represent and advocate on your behalf. As we celebrate , we do so with gratitude for all of you who make this industry what it is.

Let’s continue to advocate for the necessary changes that will help us build a better B.C., one where builders can thrive and contribute to the province’s future with certainty and support.

Sincerely,
Chris Atchison
President, BCCA