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The final session, a panel discussion titled “Basis‐of‐Design–What Does it Really Mean, How is it Used, Does the Project Delivery Method Make a Difference?” was a big hit with conference attendees. The highly anticipated session was so compelling that attendees filled the venue to capacity, leaving only standing room available. The panel comprised Don Shortreed, FCSC, RSW, principal DGS Consulting Services Inc.; Abigail MacEachern, M.Arch., RSW, NSAA, LEED AP, senior design manager and team leader, Pomerleau; Cam Munro, standards and specifications specialist, Alberta Infrastructure; and Russell Snow, FCSC, CTR, CSP, regional sales manager, product group manager, W.R. Meadows of Canada. Alexander Grams, P.Eng., MBA, CSP, LEED GA, C-NRPP, associate, Dialog was the moderator.
Attendees, carrying sponsored conference bags, had the opportunity to engage in “Speed Networking” sessions during intervals between seminars and at the bustling Connections Café in the exhibit hall.
At the Thursday luncheon, sponsored by Sika Canada Inc., the keynote speaker, Lisa “Longball” Vlooswyk, held the attention of delegates as she delivered an inspirational presentation emphasizing the pivotal role of commitment in determining one’s trajectory and level of success. Her powerful message conveyed how unwavering dedication to goals becomes the driving force behind one’s accomplishments and shapes the extent of their achievements. Over the past several years, CSC conference host chapters select a charity or cause to support. This year, the conference committee chose the Wheatland Crisis Society as the organization to receive funds.
At the next day’s luncheon, keynote speaker Henry Tsang, Ph.D., OAQ, MRAIC, LEED GA, WELL AP, principal, at Henry Tsang Architect and assistant professor at RAIC Centre for Architecture, Athabasca, Alberta, and Construction Canada recipient of two Emerging Leader Awards (ELAs), delivered an enlightening presentation on “Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Architecture: Designing for Underserved Communities.” Tsang’s expertise illuminated the challenges faced by the AEC industry in addressing discrimination, systemic racism, biases, and representation gaps. With captivating case studies, he unveiled his ground-breaking research and design endeavours, specifically focusing on underserved ethnic, indigenous, and rural communities in Canada. The audience was captivated by his innovative approaches and creative solutions, as he showcased how architects could reshape design processes to foster inclusive environments that embrace and welcome all individuals.
In the evening, attendees donned their finest western attire and were taken by bus to the Girletz Rodeo Ranch for a delightful time. Delegates and companions enjoyed the warm western hospitality with on-site catering, live music, and an entertaining wild west show featuring impressive trick riding, trick horse, and trick roping performances. Attendees actively engaged in line dancing, embraced the opportunity to ride a mechanical bucking bull, put their roping skills to the test on a mechanical calf roping setup, and showcased their strength on two robust bell ringers as part of the event’s vibrant offerings.
A highlight of the conference is always the President’s Reception and Ball (sponsored by Duxton Windows and Custom Building Products, respectively). With the evening’s co-emcees David Boyle, FCSC, CTR, and Abigail MacEachern, M.Arch., RSW, NSAA, LEED AP, the atmosphere was a perfect balance of earnestness and joviality. The duo infused a delightful sense of humor into the event, ensuring that attendees were both engaged and entertained throughout the proceedings. Delegates, companions, and special guests celebrated this year’s Life Award and President’s Award recipients (David Boyle, FCSC, CTR; Anwerali H. Chagani, RSW; Brian Colgan, FCSC, RSW; Steve Gusterson, FCSC, CTR; Abigail MacEachern, RSW; Donald Shortreed, FCSC, RSW; Russell Snow, FCSC, CTR, CSP; Sandro Ubaldino, FCSC, RSW; Nick Franjic, CAE; and Clafton Fiola, CAE) and listened to incoming president David Graham’s address which emphasized the importance of mentorship in personal and professional growth. He highlighted the benefits of mentorship, such as fresh perspectives, networking, and fulfillment, as well as the value of attending association events for expanding knowledge and making valuable connections. The speech encouraged AEC professionals to pursue these advantages through CSC involvement. After the formal program, a captivating Bollywood dance performance took place, motivating and inspiring everyone to join in on the dance floor.
