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We Need More Women in the Trades A looming shortage of apprentices means lost profits and paycheques for Ontarians

The trades in Ontario – and across all of Canada – have been experiencing the crunch that comes from not having enough people to fill vacant positions. This means that companies are turning away business opportunities because there simply enough people to get the job done. This week’s Blog, takes a look at one of the solutions to bridging the workforce gap; that is encouraging industry to work together in bringing more young people – women in particular – into the skilled trades..
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Leaning Into a Culture of Continuous Improvement

Companies interested in applying lean to their operations, must first implement the right tools and instil the belief of lean principles into their organization’s culture. This takes a commitment in providing the tools and training that will allow your organization to succeed, as well as the leadership to see the process through. This week’s Western Exteriors Blog from Chandos Construction, takes a look at what’s required for the adoption of lean and the benefits in doing so from a company that has experienced this transformative manufacturing process.
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Set in Stone – Royal Building Products launches Atlas Stone Composite Stone Panels by Royal

Kicking off its kick off 50th anniversary, Royal Building Products has just announced its new Atlas Stone Composite Stone Panels by Royal, an innovative and durable, lightweight and stylish composite panels authentically replicate the look of stacked stone. This week’s Blog takes a look at this amazing product, as well as its features and benefits.
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Trade Uncertainty and Commodity Pricing Temper Optimism

Check out Western Exteriors new industry-specific Blog! Interested in contributing, get in touch! Share with your friends! Turner & Townsend has recently released its 2020 Canadian Market Intelligence Report, examining economic conditions and outlooks across the country for the construction sector. This week’s Blog breaks down this report and then talks about what it means for the construction industry going forward across Canada.
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The Abuse of Apprentices Stops Now

The legacy practice of mistreating and degrading apprentices needs to end, and it is the contractors first — and the union second — who have to start taking a stand. This week’s Blog by noted business advisor Mark Breslin takes a hard look at how the construction industry is treating and shaping its current generation of apprentices and makes the case for change.
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Friendship Can’t Matter

Written by Mark Breslin Maintaining authentic and caring friendships on the jobsite has inherent challenges when you’re the leader. And without clear expectations, healthy boundaries, and fair treatment, you can invite chaos, misunderstandings and resentment. For foremen and superintendents it is a critical line to be established and adhered to. Friendships in the workplace are […]
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Designing Mt. Douglas – How Students Transform Their School

In regard to academic initiatives and supporting up-and-coming designers with easy access to design software, Vectorworks typically refers to its efforts with universities, its lab donation program, and its Design Scholarship. This week’s Western Exteriors Blog, however, takes a look at how Vectorworks is being used below the college level – at a digital design program at Mt. Douglas Secondary School in Victoria, B.C.
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Fly South to Sunny San Diego for the CCA’s Annual Conference

Clear Vision 2020 is the theme for this year’s Canadian Construction Association’s annual conference happening in San Diego, March 15-18. This week’s Western Exteriors Blog takes a look at what the conference has to offer and why you really need to book your tickets to this premier event that caters to construction industry members from across Canada.
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Why You Should Attend BUILDEX Vancouver 2020

For more than 30 years BUILDEX Vancouver has played an important role in advancing Vancouver’s building industry by providing a platform for industry dialogue, and the event this year will be no exception. This week’s Western Exteriors Blog takes a look at what BUILDEX Vancouver 2020 has to offer its participants and speaks about why you really need to attend.


