THE TRADES
BRAIN DRAIN
This session will focus on the impact that the current market slow down has on trades working in the residential construction industry.
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With the market slow down, trades are having to leave the industry to seek employment elsewhere. Some have moved into completely different careers, leaving the trade altogether
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Once the market improves, will there be enough trades to handle the demand? Is there still interest in joining the trades? Are there opportunities for apprenticeships available? How can the industry work with high schools and Durham College to ensure that trades are available to build homes?
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In light of recent layoffs, how do you get trades to come back once the market picks up again?​
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Are there any government incentives available to entice people into getting into the trades/or to entice workers from other provinces/countries?
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What are unions doing about being able to attract/retain talent?
SPEAKER

Steve Vanharten
Durham College
Steve is a red seal carpenter with over twenty years’ experience in home building and the renovation field. He has trained in and graduated the apprenticeship program with Local 27, and has experience in residential and ICI sectors of construction. Steve now works as a professor at Durham College, teaching skills and craftsmanship to the next generation of carpenters.

SPEAKER
Jeffery Mackenzie
Company
Bio

SPEAKER
Paul De Beradis
RESCON
Paul has a diverse background in civil engineering, with experience in the design, construction and restoration of various building types. As a technically minded thinker, he spearheads innovative construction techniques and building science research to help guide the way homes and condos are built in the GTHA. Paul works closely with members and stakeholders to identify and overcome regulatory barriers which affect the residential development and construction industry. He also co-ordinates and chairs the RESCON Technical Council which provides strategic direction and advice to members, government and industry stakeholders on matters relating to technical regulations and construction practices.

SPEAKER
Dan Guest
Guest Plumbing & HVAC
Daniel Guest is an award-winning entrepreneur recognized for his business achievements and vast community contributions.
Daniel launched his business, Guest Plumbing and Heating, just two years after graduating in his mid-twenties. By 2018 and 2019, his business became one of the fastest-growing companies in Hamilton, Ontario. In 2020, he launched a separate company, Guest Heating and Air Conditioning. Together, the two companies offer 24-hour service in the residential and small commercial sectors, along with high-end design-build services.
Giving back to the community is a staple of Daniel’s businesses, supporting a number of organizations tackling issues of domestic violence, hunger, and cancer research. His mission to be the largest philanthropist in his community is even embedded in his companies’ vision statement. Daniel also dedicates his time to supporting Mohawk apprenticeship and co-op students, as well as volunteering his time to the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program.
Daniel received the 2021 Mohawk College Alumni of Distinction Award in the Apprenticeship category. In 2020, He was the recipient of the Kevin McIntosh Memorial Award for his community involvement. The Hamilton Chamber of Commerce also recognized him as a Young Entrepreneur in 2017. These days you can also find Daniel connecting with local entrepreneurs on his “Guest Life” Podcast.
MODERATOR

Mike Memme
Mountainview Homes
Mike Memme is the Operations Manager at Mountainview Building Group in the Niagara Region. They have been building low rise homes in the Niagara Region since 1979 and over the last seven years have branched into the midrise market as well. Mike has a Civil Engineering degree from the University of Waterloo, has been president of the Niagara Home Builders’ Association, and Chair of the Ontario Home Builders’ Association and is currently an Ontario Home Builders’ Association board member. Mike was previously Chair of the OHBA Tarion Liaison committee, Building Code Committee, and Builder Developer Council, and has contributed to the development of the Tarion Construction Performance Guidelines.
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