Pursuing new heights in Calgary at 2023 CSC Conference

by arslan_ahmed | July 21, 2023 11:00 am

[1]By Jason Cramp

[2]The Westin Calgary Hotel lived up to its name as attendees of Construction Specifications Canada’s (CSC’s) national conference experienced some warm western hospitality during the week-long event (May 24 to 28) in Calgary, Alberta. The theme of this year’s conference, “Pursuing New Heights,” was apt, not only because of the picturesque Rocky Mountains surrounding the city but also due to the remarkable content and networking opportunities offered throughout the conference. Participants were treated to a diverse range of informative sessions, engaging panel discussions, and thought-provoking keynote speeches that propelled their knowledge and professional growth to new heights.

Hosted by the Calgary chapter, the organizing committee ensured attendees had ample opportunities to connect, exchange ideas, and foster meaningful connections within the construction industry, making this year’s conference experience truly memorable. Attendees were inspired and armed with valuable insights and connections that will undoubtedly propel them to reach new heights in their careers and contributions to the industry.

The event kicked off with a new member and first-time conference attendee meet-and-greet shortly before the Welcome Reception (sponsored by Soprema Inc.), followed the next day by a hearty Welcome Breakfast for delegates and guests.

The technical discussions continued through the week and attendees had a choice of three educational streams each day. The sessions included thematic presentations such as “Acoustics in Healthcare Facilities,” which was presented by Aercoustics Engineering Ltd.’s acoustic engineer Kiyoshi Kuroiwa, B.A.Sc., CCCA, and vice-president of architecture Amanda Robinson. Other topics included “Designing Visually Dynamic Facades with Coil and Extrusion Coatings,” by Robin Bartelman, associate AIA, ASID, NCIDQ certified coil coatings, architectural manager for Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings; “Embracing Complexity and Paradox to Foster Inclusion, Collaboration, and Innovation,” with Reva Bond, Ed.D., MBA, BSc., Dean, School of Construction, Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT); and “Glass Specifications: Clearly Defined Performance Requirements,” with Keith Robinson, FCSC, FCSI, RSW, associate research and development specifications for Dialog.

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Seats were full for sessions on “Design Considerations for Current Construction Trends” and “NBCC 2020 Changes to Firestop Requirements for Penetrations, Joints and Curtain Walls.” The former was presented by Mark Hagel, BSC., PhD., masonry design engineer with the Alberta Masonry Council, while the latter was presented by John Valiulis, B.Eng., MSc., director, codes and standards with Hilti Inc.

Sessions on “Misguided Guide Specs–Are Your Product Specs Really Helping the Specifier?” by Ron Geren, FCSI, AIA, CCS, CCCA, CDT, SCIP of RLGA Technical Services LLC and “Acoustic Ceiling Design/Specification Myths Dispelled–The New Way Forward,” by Gary Madaras, MBA, Ph.D. of Rockfon LLC were also popular with attendees.

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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.

Chapters: Accolades for individuals and collectives

The President’s Chapter Awards of Merit encourage and recognize active, forward-looking chapters in categories ranging from membership growth and education programs to financial contributions and meeting attendance. When it came time to decide the best of the best and hand over the Lloyd Boddy Chapter of the Year Award, the Calgary chapter was the winner. The award recognizes the chapter’s efforts towards the goals of the association through professional development opportunities, spirit and participation in the local industry, and CSC committees. The chapters also presented Chapter Awards of Merit to their own outstanding members. This year’s recipients include: • Atlantic—Harry Forbes, FCSC and Adam Strachan, RSW • Calgary—Colleen Barabonoff, RSW, Corinne Golding, FCSC, RSW, and Jonathan Greenland, CTR • Edmonton—Mike Ewaskiw, CTR; and Jessica Prosser, CTR • Grand Valley—Matthew Schiedel; and Cathie Schneider, CTR • London—Jeff Halashewski, RSW; and Allan Taylor • Montreal—Isabelle Blain; and Magali Tremblay • Ottawa—Craig Cosgrove, CTR • Okanagan Valley—Ashley Foster; and Herb Guhl, FCSC, RSW • Quebec City—Marie-Josée Maheux • Regina—Garth Huber • Saskatoon—Amanda Cross; and Brad Smith, CCCA • Toronto—Russell Ibbotson, CTR; Shamanna Kelamangalam, CTR; Terry Klingspohn; and Kenny Tam, CCCA • Vancouver—John Alley; and Tammy Diniz, CTR • Winnipeg—Ryan Epp All images from top right to bottom left: CSC president Kazim (Kaz) Kanani, FCSC, CSP, CCCA, CDT, presents the Chapter Award of Merit certificates. [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10] The Calgary chapter was this year’s winner of the Lloyd Boddy Chapter of the Year Award.

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Recognizing excellence

Sponsored by Owens Corning Canada, the annual awards luncheon was emceed by Trevor Devnich, chair of the Calgary chapter, providing CSC with an opportunity to honour and recognize its outstanding members and associates.

CSC Life Award

The CSC Life Award is the highest accolade the association bestows on individuals in recognition of their service. This year, CSC members honoured Steve Gusterson, FCSC, CTR, and Peter Hiebert, FCSC, CTR, with the organization’s prestigious Life Award.

For more than 40 years, architects, contractors, and installers have turned to Gusterson for support with their architectural aluminum product selections and specifications. He has held numerous roles in his many years with Alumicor, and currently serves as vice-president, pre-construction, Canada.

Gusterson has been a member of CSC for more than 20 years, a certified technical representative since 2000, and has continuously been an active member of the Toronto chapter, serving in various positions and capacities since 2007, most recently as chapter director in 2020. He has been an instructor for the technical representative (TR) course and TR panel judge since 2012 as well as a long-standing instructor for CSC’s technical representative program since 2012.

His dedication has been recognized with several awards over the years and he was inducted into the CSC College of Fellows amid the pandemic in 2021.

He firmly believes in giving back to the design and construction industry. Outside of his involvement with CSC, Gusterson has been an active member of the Ontario Glass and Metal Association (OGMA) where he currently serves as acting vice-president. He assisted with the creation of the Ontario version of the “British Columbia Glazing Systems Specifications Manual,” which became the basis of the 2010 national version that is still referenced today. He also serves on the Architectural Technology Program Advisory Committee for Durham College. Prior to moving from Whitby, Ontario, to Pickering, Ontario, he also served on the Town of Whitby’s Local Architecture Conservancy Committee.

Gusterson is a person of high integrity and is dedicated to everything CSC. Since his first volunteering days he has demonstrated a capacity to accomplish any project with a quiet confidence that attracts many people to join in and work with him. He has the future successes of the association, at heart, and contributes to its betterment whenever possible.

Hiebert started life in humble beginnings, in a very religious home, with morals and ethics an integral part his upbringing, and intrinsic in forming who he is today. Growing up in a carpenter’s home, learning the construction industry was a regular part of his life, and his involvement in the construction industry now spans more than 40 years. Hiebert is a dedicated member of the Calgary chapter and is currently the general sales manager for Canada at Construction Specialties.

He has been a member of CSC for more than 25 years, a certified technical representative for over 20 years, and was inducted into the CSC College of Fellows in 2018. From early on he recognized not only what CSC could do for him, but how he could give back. He is a firm believer that what you put in will come back positively exponentially. The number of awards he has received, and the number of committees on which he has served and continues to serve, is evidence of his commitment, and contribution to the association at both the chapter and association levels.

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Hiebert continues to actively support the association in so many ways—by way of his involvement as a mentor at the chapter level, to committed involvement in chapter activities including student design competition, Connection Cafés, and conferences, to teaching the technical representative course (virtual workshop) and encouraging his staff to become certified technical representatives. He does not coach from the sidelines; he is truly and deeply committed to CSC.

National Award of Merit

This award is presented to members in recognition of their contributions to the well-being of CSC beyond that of a Chapter Award of Merit, for exceptional effort, zeal, effectiveness, and time expended for the benefit of CSC as a whole and towards the betterment of the industry. This year, the National Award of Merit was presented to five individuals: Mike Ewaskiw, CTR, Harry Forbes, FCSC, Jeff Halashewski, RSW, Hugh Lim, and Matt Roberts, RSW.

Program Director Awards

Program Director Awards are presented to those who have provided commitment, dedication, and service towards the betterment of CSC, its core beliefs, and have assisted greatly towards the betterment of CSC programs. The award recipients have been nominated by the respective Program Directors.

Conferences

In recognition of their work in preparation to host CSC Conference 2023, members of the 2023 Conference Committee received the Conference Program Director’s Award:

• Colleen Barabonoff, RSW
• Trevor Devnich
• Sylvie Dzikewich, CTR
• Corrinne Golding, FCSC, RSW
• Jonathon Greenland, CTR
• Peter Hiebert, FCSC, CTR
• Kristen Janes

Technical Studies Committee

This award was presented to Mila Legge, FCSC, RSW, Don Shortreed, FCSC, RSW, and Jesse Watson, RSW, for the countless hours they put forth as the CSC representatives to the development and updating of CCDC documents.

Education Certification Committee

For their continued efforts to streamline and improve CSC education offerings and the certification/registration process, the following Education Certification Committee members received Program Director’s Awards:

• Rick Adams, RSW
• Colleen Barabonoff, RSW
• Grace Bergen, CCCA
• Bob Friesen, CCCA
• Steven Ioannides, CTR
• Michael Schneider, FCSC, CCCA
• Adam Strachan, RSW
• Jesse Watson, RSW

Membership Communications and Legislative

In recognition for her efforts in creating and maintaining an avenue of communications among chapter chairs to facilitate the exchange of information to better the chapters, this award was presented to:

• Jennie Lamoureaux, CTR

For his continued efforts to better communicate the benefits of CSC membership to the industry, this award recognized:

• Jonathon Greenland, CTR

[11] In recognition of their hard work and efforts to launch and maintain the CSC Okanagan Valley chapter, this award was presented to:

• Ashley Foster
• Herb Guhl, FCSC, RSW
• Tim Simpson
• Spencer Todd, CSP

Publications Award

For their service on the Editorial Advisory Board (EAB) of CSC’s flagship publication, Construction Canada, the recipients of Publications Program Director Awards were:

• Colleen Barabonoff, RSW
• David Egan, FCSC, RSW
• Sandro Ubaldino, FCSC, RS

[12]F. Ross Browne Award

The F. Ross Browne Award recognizes editorial excellence in Construction Canada, highlighting the author or co-authors of an article in the magazine. The winner of this year’s F. Ross Browne Award was Chris Bennett, iSCS, CDT, and Aurora Jensen, for their article “Rethinking Rebar: Reinforcement Goes Green,” which appeared in the October 2022 issue of Construction Canada.

Bennett is the CEO of a North American concrete consultancy specializing in sustainable solutions and project management. With involvement in National Research Council Canada’s (NRCan’s) National Master Specification (NMS) and various commercial projects across North America, he brings extensive expertise to the industry.

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Jensen, a project manager at Brightworks in New York, specializes in measuring and reducing embodied carbon. With expertise in carbon modelling and evaluating strategies, she assists clients in making informed decisions. Her involvement includes the Carbon Leadership Forum and teaching at Parsons, with a master’s in design studies from Harvard University.

Fellowship

This year, the ranks of the College of Fellows rose by three with the induction of Russell Snow, CSP, CTR; Ted Katsoris CCCA; and Terrance Bergen CCCA. Chancellor Mike Garlinski, FCSC; Dean John Lape, FCSC, FCSI, CCS, AIA; and Registrar Corinne Golding, FCSC, RSW, were joined by many other Fellows at the induction ceremony.

Russell Snow, CSP, CTR

Snow is a dedicated supporter of CSC, actively working to improve the organization at various levels. With a 25-year membership, he has been involved in the Toronto, Edmonton, and Grand Valley chapters, currently holding the position of vice-president technical studies, and set to become CSC president-elect in 2024. Snow’s contributions extend to multiple CSC committees and subcommittees, earning him well-deserved awards such as the esteemed F. Ross Browne Award in 2013. Notably, Snow’s leadership shone through when he chaired the CTR sub-committee during his involvement with the EMTT, where he not only guided and motivated the team but also took on neglected tasks. This can-do attitude was further evident when he wholeheartedly supported the struggling Grand Valley chapter, assisting them in becoming an engaged and active group. Snow consistently offers valuable insights and assistance to those in need, demonstrating his friendly and respectful nature. He actively listens to different viewpoints, seeks to understand issues, and provides thoughtful responses. Snow’s interactions with peers exemplify true friendship and gentlemanly behaviour, emphasizing his non-judgmental and supportive approach. Overall, Snow’s commitment, leadership, and dedication make him a highly regarded and influential member of CSC.

Members Old and New

Since 1954, CSC has been an active and respected association in Canada’s construction industry. The benefits of membership in CSC are clear as evidenced by the association’s overall member retention. This year, the organization saw more than 144 members celebrating anywhere from 10 to 55 years of continuous membership in CSC. Eureka Club Award for Membership Recruitment To qualify for this award, a member must sponsor at least three new members during the membership year. A total of 44 new members were sponsored by 36 current members, two members sponsored three or more that being Jonathan Greenland, CTR, with three and the other member recipient of the Russell W. Cornell Award for most new members sponsored with four new members was Rick Hadubiak of the Regina chapter. Membership Longevity Awards 10 Years Todd Beaumaster David Boudreau David Burdz Amber Burt Keith Byers Tim Cameron, CTR James Chan Andrew Cole Emadeddin Delavari, CCCA Larry Doerksen Jim Dupasquier, CTR Kevin Falakfarsa, CCCA James Fulcher Nicole George Naomi Gross Scott Haddy, CTR Scott Hoeg Calvin Hollett, CCCA Chris Johnson Nitish Joshi Sandeep Khanna Ronald Kinash Darryl Langille Stephane Laroye Sharon Lui Jennifer McAskill, CCCA Ken McGowan Dana Odding, CCCA Parimal Patel Wes Penteliuk Kevin Pickwick, CCCA Douglas Pinnell Eric Poxleitner Ann Rocha, RSW Laura Roche, CTR Scott Ruffett, CTR Joel Scott Malcolm Smith Iain Stuart, CTR Crystal Vandermey Jennifer Vanek, CCCA Dan Weber, CCCA Paul Zanetti Mark Zettler, CSP   15 Years Stephen Attfield Jean-Pierre Baril Bretan Baumgardt, CCCA Brent Cherwinski, CTR Bernie Duquette John Garbin Jean Gelinas Gary Goldberg John Greco Monica Guzman Garret Hamm Derek Januszewski Rodway Jung Paul Ledaire Lou Lima, CCCA Leslie Maksymowicz Jamie Mantle Colin McIntosh Ashley McKay, CSP, RSW, CCCA Veronica Mendoza, RSW Kris Norman Mark Owen Sofia Racanelli, CTR Paul Schmidtke, RSW Pete Stevens, CCCA Adam Strachan, RSW Trevor Stupack Allan Taylor David Vella 25 Years Derrill Ayotte Gary Bearham Brent Belanger, CTR Mike Boldt Don Delaney Donna DeVloo Imtyaz (Emme) Kanji, CCCA Dean Karachi James Kwan, CTR Billy Lai John Mainer Nancy McPherson, CTR Marvin Megley Thomas Piskor, CTR Don Poon, CCCA Ruth Shannon, CTR John Slowski Russell Snow, CTR, CSP Grant Stuempfle, CTR Michael Thornber Kris Zielonka Frank Zrim       20 Years Brian Abbey Jason Armstrong Douglas Ault, CCCA Kelly Clarke, CTR Brenda Dejaegher, CCCA Gene Dejneka Wyatt Eckert J.D. Eckmire Cathy Garrido Karen Griffith Jack Gustafson, CCCA John Hendriks, CCCA David Johnston Michael Kresin Matthew MacDermid Tony Martinelli, CCCA Bob Matich, CTR Cam Munro, CTR Tyler Pochynuk Mario Rovina David Shields Larry Shoesmith, CTR Robert St. Louis, CCCA Shandra Vedress, CSP Agnes Vermes Scott Waechter Heather Ziober, CCCA 30 Years Brian Colgan, FCSC, RSW James Dykes Ken Rowson, FCSC 35 Years Wes Anderson Steve Clayman Manfred Grote Glenn Reinders Michael Schneider, FCSC, CCCA 40 Years Kevin Gerencser Ronald Johnson David Lawrence, FCSC, CTR Stephen Revay, FCSC Peter Solu 45 Years Jon Gravell Kenneth Halldorson, FCSC, RSW Gerry Wilson, FCSC, RSW 50 Years David Brookes, RSW 55 Years Ian Bartlett, FCSC, RSW Jean D’Haese, RSW

 

Ted Katsoris, CCCA

Katsoris brings more than 25 years of experience in contract administration and building science within the construction industry. He has been an active member of CSC since 2000, holding various positions on the Toronto chapter executive, including chapter chair and professional development officer. In his role as professional development officer, Katsoris developed a highly effective course delivery program, promoting efficient learning. Throughout his professional career, Katsoris has consistently encouraged CSC membership and engagement, regularly participating as a panel member for CTR exam presentations. His longstanding contributions to CSC have been recognized with the Chapter Award of Merit in 2006 and 2008. In 2021, he received the Program Director’s Award for Technical Studies for his valuable input and critique of CCDC documents. Additionally, he was honoured with the National Award of Merit for his extensive teaching contributions, commitment to maintaining high learning standards, and continuous updates to course materials. Katsoris was also among the first CSC instructors to embrace and offer virtual courses in collaboration with the association office. Katsoris’s true passion within CSC lies in education and certification. He has dedicated more than 15 years as a professional development courses (PDC) instructor, prioritizing professional development and mentoring others. This dedication extends beyond CSC, as he shares his experiences and knowledge while serving as a principal and senior building science consultant at Morrison Hershfield, providing guidance to his associates and colleagues.

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Terrence Bergen, CCCA

Bergen became a member of CSC in 2003 and has actively served in the Vancouver and Vancouver Island chapters for 20 years. During his time as Vancouver chapter director, Bergen realized the challenges of commuting from Vancouver Island to attend CSC meetings and recognized that industry participants on the island were missing out on CSC membership benefits due to transportation limitations. To address this, he proposed the formation of a new chapter on Vancouver Island. Bergen organized events and meetings to demonstrate the interest in CSC and recruited individuals interested in establishing the chapter’s executive committee. He presented his proposal to the board of directors and the CSC executive council, showcasing the necessity and viability of a new chapter. As a result of his vision and determination, the Vancouver Island chapter received its charter on September 10, 2010. Throughout his involvement, Bergen has shown unwavering commitment to CSC’s vision, mission, and values. He is particularly passionate about education within CSC and has encouraged numerous individuals to take PCD and CCCA courses. He generously offers space in the RJC office to host courses, helping to minimize costs for students. Bergen’s participation, contributions, and leadership in various CSC committees and subcommittees have earned him the National Award of Merit in 2019, TSC Program Directors award in 2021, as well as Chapter Awards of Merit in 2013 and 2016.

Bienvenue à Montréal

Despite the unfortunate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, CSC had to cancel the 2020 Montreal conference. However, CSC is delighted to announce the Montreal chapter will be hosting the 2024 CSC Conference at the Hotel Bonaventure Montreal. Co-chairing the conference committee will be Yvon Lachance and Pierre-Luc Baril. The committee, along with the subcommittees, have already been formed, and planning for the conference is well underway.

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