Online Tools for Wood Construction – CodeCHEK, FRR & STC & EMTC Calculator
Course Overview This presentation highlights the Canadian Wood Council’s suite of free, web-based fire design tools, CodeCHEK, FRR & STC Tool, and Exposed Mass Timber Calculator. CodeCHEK enables project teams to evaluate code-compliant opportunities for wood construction by assessing key building characteristics, such as height, area, sprinkler presence and more, highlighting potential pathways for alternative solutions, and clarifying where wood elements may be permitted in buildings otherwise required to be of noncombustible construction. The FRR & STC (fire-resistance rating & sound transmission class) Tool helps designers in the determination of generic fire-resistance rating designs of lightweight wood-frame wall, floor, and roof assemblies using the Component Additive Method described in Appendix D of the NBC, which is referenced as an acceptable solution in Section 3.1 of the NBC and can be used for Part 3 and 9 buildings. In addition, the tool provides the sound transmission class (STC) value that is associated with each wall or floor assembly for which STC information is available. The Exposed Mass Timber Calculator helps users assess whether mass timber compartment exposure/encapsulation designs align with the 2025 National Building Code of Canada provisions by evaluating compartment inputs against applicable criteria and generating warnings when configurations are not code-consistent, positioning it as a practical screening and learning aid that complements (but does not replace) detailed code analysis and professional judgment. Learning Objectives Evaluate code-compliant opportunities for wood construction using the CodeCHEK tool by analyzing key building parameters (e.g., height, area, and sprinklering) and identifying potential pathways for alternative solutions. Apply the FRR & STC Tool to design compliant assemblies by determining fire-resistance ratings and sound transmission performance of lightweight wood-frame wall, floor, and roof systems using the Component Additive Method. Assess mass timber exposure and encapsulation strategies using the Exposed Mass Timber Calculator to verify alignment with 2025 National Building Code of Canada provisions and support early-stage design decision-making. Course Video Speakers Bio Noah Fetterly Technical Specialist, Codes and Standards-Fire Canadian Wood Council Noah Fetterly is a Technical Specialist, Codes and Standards – Fire at the Canadian Wood Council (CWC), where he contributes technical expertise to national code development, fire safety research, and guidance for wood and mass timber construction. He holds a background in Fire Protection Engineering Technology, having graduated from Seneca College, and began his career working with fire alarm systems inspections and testing. At CWC, Noah supports technical communications, research initiatives, and industry tools related to fire performance and encapsulated mass timber construction, helping ensure alignment with the National Building Code of Canada and related standards. He is an active contributor to technical discussions involving fire safety, mass timber design, and regulatory compliance.
Offsite Manufacturing: Driving Efficiency, Quality, and Sustainable Construction
Course Overview Offsite construction is transforming the building industry by shifting key processes from traditional sites to controlled factory environments. This approach enhances productivity, quality, and sustainability, addressing challenges like labor shortages and environmental impact. The delivery process emphasizes early collaboration, integrated design, and robust project management to optimize efficiency and risk management. Durability and energy efficiency are achieved through advanced material selection, moisture management, and airtight, highly insulated assemblies. Construction logistics, quality control, and commissioning are tailored for offsite methods, ensuring rapid, reliable project delivery. Life cycle analysis shows offsite construction can reduce embodied carbon and waste, supporting climate goals. Canada’s evolving policies and market trends position offsite construction as a key solution for affordable, sustainable housing. Learning Objectives Explain the difference between predesigned and custom steel hangers, and describe situations where a custom connection offers practical advantages in mass timber construction. Describe in plain terms how structural loads travel through a steel hanger assembly, from the supported beam through to the primary supporting member. Recognize why eccentricity occurs in hanger connections and understand, at a conceptual level, how it affects the design of the surrounding structure. Understanding the role the Ontario Structural Wood Association plays in advancing offsite construction in Ontario, including industry coordination, advocacy, and best practices. Course Video Speakers Bio Cassandra Lafond Senior Scientist and Project Leader FPInnovations Cassandra Lafond is a Senior Scientist and Project Leader at FPInnovations, specializing in wood construction systems and industrialized building solutions. Her work combines applied research, innovation, and industry practice to support the advancement of sustainable wood construction. She is particularly focused on the development of practical building solutions that help accelerate the adoption of efficient and scalable offsite construction approaches. Dorian Tung Manager of Technology Assessment FPInnovations Dorian Tung is currently the Manager of Technology Assessment at FPInnovations. Prior to this, he worked as a structural consultant in Canada and the US. As a manager, he has been working with scientists on projects related to structure, seismic, durability, energy, fire, acoustic, and vibration. With the evolving ecosystem, Dorian is active in many working groups to facilitate discussions, remove duplicates, accelerate processes, with the goal to maximize impacts for the forest industry NOW using research data. He is also the editor of the Offsite Wood Construction Handbook published by FPInnovations. Sadegh Mazloomi Senior Scientist FPInnovations Sadegh (pronounced Saa-dek) is a Senior Scientist at FPInnovations working on different timber engineering topics, including building vibration and acoustics, as well as non-destructive testing of mass timber structures. He is also experienced in the development of sampling and testing plans for lumber and engineered wood products.
From Forest to Form: Sourcing Local Wood for BC Projects
Course Overview Wood and mass timber are increasingly being specified for all kinds of buildings and spaces in BC, including mid-rise and taller residential apartments, schools, and healthcare facilities. Does this mean BC will cut down more trees? On this panel, hear BC’s Chief Forester discuss the province’s forest management practices and wood supply. Learn from a recently completed project that effectively sourced local wood materials and discover the tools and resources available to assist in procuring wood products from BC’s forests. Learning Objectives Explain how British Columbia’s forest management framework governs timber supply, old-growth protection, and sustainable harvesting for wood construction projects. Identify key challenges and opportunities in sourcing local wood for BC buildings, including certification systems, Indigenous rights, supply-chain transparency, and societal expectations. Recognize strategies designers and project teams can use to responsibly procure BC wood, including collaboration with vertically integrated suppliers, community forests, and forest stewards. Course Video Speakers Bio Helen Goodland Principal, Head of Research and Innovation Scius Advisory Inc. Helen Goodland is an architect registered in the UK and has an MBA from the University of BC. As head of research and innovation for Scius, she brings over 30 years of experience working on transformative solutions for the real estate and construction industries in Canada and around the world. Helen is firmly committed to achieving truly sustainable buildings within the next decade. She is also passionate about advancing leadership opportunities for women in construction technology. To this end, she participates on numerous boards and committees. Currently she serves on the Board of Directors of Building Transformations (formerly CanBIM), the BC Digital Advisory Council, the BCIT Mass Timber Education Advisory Board and the University of Victoria’s Green Civil Engineering Advisory Council. She is also past chair of the UN Sustainable Buildings Initiative’s Materials Technical Committee. Shane Berg Assistant Deputy Minister and Chief Forester Ministry of Forests, Province of British Columbia Shane Berg is an Assistant Deputy Minister, and the Chief Forester, for the Province of BC with the Ministry of Forests. Shane obtained his BSc. in Forestry from the University of Alberta and has more than 35 years of experience working within BC’s Public Service. Shane is a registered professional forester (RPF) and has worked throughout the province, beginning as a silviculture technician in Invermere, a silviculture forester in Grand Forks, a forest planning manager in Squamish, and eventually taking on district manager roles over a span of 14 years with the BC Forest Service in northern BC (Hazelton) and the southern interior (Kamloops). He spent six years working as a regional executive director with the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation until he returned to FLNR as an executive director and the deputy chief forester in 2017, a role that he held until has appointment as BC’s 18th chief forester in June of 2022. The mantra for the Office of the Chief Forester is “Caring for BC’s Forests”…and Shane’s goal as chief forester is to promote BC as a world leader in sustainable forest management. Ayme Sharma Associate Principal ZGF Architects Ayme leads ZGF Vancouver’s Building and Project Performance Team, drawing on almost 20 years of professional experience in architecture centered on building performance and environmental stewardship. Trained as both an ecologist and an architect, Ayme brings deep expertise in embodied carbon, healthy materials, high-performance envelope design including Passive House and LEED certification. Her current research delves into linking the biogenic value of wood to sustainable forest management practices in BC to understand carbon and ecosystem benefits. Ayme has cultivated an extensive network of wood industry partners that spans the entire supply chain-from First Nations forest stewards to both small- and large-scale product fabricators. Ayme brings expertise in designing one of the first CLT elementary schools in British Columbia that promotes student health and well-being. Rebecca Holt Senior Director, Sustainability hcma Rebecca Holt is an urbanist and passionate advocate for our planet. She spent her career collaborating with design teams, organizations, and researchers on strategies for high-performance buildings, neighborhoods, and cities. She leads hcma’s Impact Team, shaping how we practice, operate, and advocate. A subject matter expert with a foundation in building performance assessment and climate-responsive design, Rebecca brings decades of experience in design guidance. She is a strategist and steward of process dedicated to outcomes that respect the planet and include everyone.
Scaling Housing With Prefabricated Timber: Regulations-Ready Mid-Rise Prototypes
Course Overview British Columbia faces an urgent housing shortage and mounting pressure to accelerate delivery of multi-unit housing. Recent code changes enabling mass timber up to 18 storeys create a unique opportunity to rethink how housing is designed, permitted, and built. This session will present findings from the Housing Growth Innovation Program’s Prefabricated Timber Housing Systems project. Attendees will learn how pre-engineered, regulations-ready modular timber prototypes can streamline design and approvals, reduce embodied carbon, and speed construction through off-site manufacturing. The session will share strategies for integrating computational design, compliance analytics, and supply-chain insights to create adaptable, scalable mid-rise housing solutions. Geared to architects, developers, policymakers, and builders, participants will gain insight into how prefabrication and digital tools can de-risk projects, reduce permitting delays, and accelerate the delivery of sustainable, affordable homes in B.C. and beyond. Learning Objectives Explain how pre-engineered, regulations-ready prefabricated timber systems can support faster delivery of mid-rise, multi-unit housing under recent B.C. code changes. Identify key structural, building-services, and envelope strategies used in modular mass timber housing prototypes to improve constructability, adaptability, and permitting certainty. Recognize how digital tools, computational design, compliance analytics, and supply-chain benchmarking, can de-risk housing projects and support scalable, low-carbon construction. Course Video Speakers Bio Adrian Watson Principal, Design Director Perkins&Will Adrian Watson is Principal and Design Director at Perkins&Will, where he leads complex, high-profile projects that integrate sustainability, innovation, and design excellence. With over 30 years of experience, Adrian has shaped award-winning buildings and master plans across sectors, including higher education, infrastructure, civic, and housing. In his role as Design Director for the Vancouver and Calgary studios, Adrian leads a team of over 160 architects and designers. He is committed to the development design processes that look to the future, whilst believing that design excellence is attained by doing simple things very well. Yann Tregoat Architect Perkins&Will Originally from France, Yann’s early career was spent in Amsterdam and Paris, working on the Paris 2024 Olympic Games Aquatic Centre. Through urban environment and professional exposure, he has developed a strong interest in mass timber and parametric design, as well as innovative sustainable building solutions. Since moving to Vancouver in 2021, he has worked on various mid-to-large-scale projects, from private development to civic buildings. He brings his own life and professional experience from Europe to his work while learning and further expanding his design expertise at Perkins&Will. Yann has two master’s degrees in both Architecture and Structural and Civil Engineering from the Institute of Applied Science of Strasbourg, France. Solomon Fung Associate Principal Introba Solomon Fung is an Associate Principal at the multidisciplinary engineering firm Introba. Based out of their Vancouver office, he brings 15 years of experience to the mechanical team with a diverse project portfolio including mid- and high-rise mixed-use residential buildings, affordable housing, commercial & office buildings, passive house design, and healthcare. With a keen interest in innovation, Solomon leads his team in pursuit of simple solutions that are replicable for the industry. Brent Olund Partner, Principal Credos Brent Olund is a Professional Engineer, a Gold Seal Project Manager, and holds an MBA from the Richard Ivey School of Business. Brent’s 28 years in the construction industry to date started with industrial, commercial, and marine construction and included many years of focus on residential concrete high-rises, educational buildings, and mass timber construction. Brent is a nationally recognized expert and thought leader in the field of planning and control of mass timber structures, has worked with design teams through validation of several upcoming mass timber building assembly systems, and has designed and patented a new lateral structural system for use in these buildings. Brent believes that the highest purpose of his efforts is helping solve the housing crisis by implementing building systems toward improved productivity of construction. Andrew Blackie Structural Designer ASPECT Structural Engineers Andrew enjoys a diverse engineering background, ranging from adaptive reuse of heritage buildings through to the development of modular construction systems. As a common thread across his body of work, he brings expertise in digital workflows and parametric design to deliver an efficient, modern form of building design. Andrew graduated with a Master’s in Structural & Architectural Engineering from the University of Strathclyde in 2016 and has since gained almost a decade of experience between the UK and Canada. He joined ASPECT in 2025, where he has been developing strategies to deploy mass timber at scale and at pace. Andrew’s focus is bridging the gap between conventional and off-site construction, easing the transition away from carbon-intensive materials through a kit-of-parts approach to building structures. Halil Erhan Professor of Interactive Systems and Design Director of Computational Design Lab SFU School of Interactive Arts and Technology Dr. Halil Erhan completed his undergraduate studies at Middle East Technical University (METU) before earning a master’s degree at Clemson University, where he specialized in integrating 3D models into building design. He received his Ph.D. in Design Computation from Carnegie Mellon University, with a focus on generating design requirements. Currently, Dr. Erhan serves as a professor at Simon Fraser University and leads the Computational Design Laboratory. His interdisciplinary research approaches design as a cognitive and collaborative problem-solving process, aiming to develop effective tools that enhance the capacities of creative practitioners. He and his team create and test innovative, human-centered computational design tools. Dr. Erhan founded a research initiative called “Design Analytics,” which uses data from Performance Predictions to facilitate design space exploration through interactive visualizations. He collaborates with industry partners to encourage the adoption of new tools in the AEC sector.
Challenging Convention With Innovative Timber Applications
Course Overview This dynamic session explores cutting-edge applications of mass timber in Canadian construction through three compelling case studies that showcase how timber is revolutionizing the building industry. Attendees will discover Spearhead’s visionary approach to next-generation manufacturing through their innovative glulam facility in British Columbia. This groundbreaking project challenges conventional thinking and reimagines timber production processes, setting new standards for what’s possible in wood manufacturing. The session will also feature Intelligent City’s remarkable achievement—Canada’s first tall timber Passive House facade. This case study reveals how mass timber building envelopes can deliver exceptional environmental performance while meeting the most demanding energy efficiency standards, creating sustainable structures that perform as beautifully as they look. Finally, the session will present ETRO’s 837 Beatty project, where heritage preservation meets modern timber innovation. This thoughtful integration creates a harmonious dialogue between historical architecture and forward-thinking construction methodologies, demonstrating timber’s versatility across different building contexts. Learning Objectives Describe innovative timber applications across three case studies, including prefabricated mass timber envelope systems on tall wood buildings, next-generation glulam manufacturing, and heritage adaptive reuse with new timber additions. Identify key technical considerations for prefabricated timber building envelopes—panel sizing, air/water tightness strategies, moisture risk reduction through rapid enclosure, and crane sequencing/logistics constraints. Recognize construction and detailing approaches highlighted in the case studies, including NLT and glulam integration, concealed connection strategies (e.g., glued-in rod concepts as discussed), and coordination methods that support efficient, low-carbon timber delivery. Course Video Speakers Bio Shaun St-Amour Retrofit (Revive) Manager ETRO Construction Shaun brings a unique combination of expertise, leadership, and passion for high-performance buildings. With extensive knowledge of high-performance building standards and hands-on experience with sustainable materials and methods, he bridges the gap between design intent and construction execution. Beyond ETRO, Shaun contributes to the Passive House Accelerator, organizes Zero Carbon Building Tours with ZEBx, and hosts building science meet-ups. His expertise plays a key role in driving decarbonization, resiliency, and efficiency in both new and existing buildings. Josh Hall Partner, Director of Business Development Spearhead Josh is a Partner and Director of Business Development at Spearhead, where he helps shape the company’s vision and strategic direction. With over fifteen years of experience spanning architecture, digital fabrication, and commercial construction, his knowledge of design, process, and project delivery plays a key role in guiding Spearhead’s continued growth and evolution. Josh holds a Master of Architecture from the University of British Columbia and a Bachelor of Architectural Science from the British Columbia Institute of Technology. Shawn Keyes VP, Strategic Growth & Business Development Intelligent City Shawn is a structural engineer and commercial executive with more than a decade of experience leading innovation in mass timber and industrialized construction. As Vice President of Strategic Growth at Intelligent City, he leads commercialization, market strategy, and partnerships to scale the company’s prefabricated housing systems. Previously, Shawn served as Executive Director of WoodWorks BC, where he led a strategic transformation that strengthened partnerships, technical leadership, and influence across the development, AEC, and policy sectors. Before that, he spent over six years at Fast + Epp, developing deep expertise in mass timber and hybrid structural systems. Shawn’s teams have supported more than 150 mass timber projects across Canada, and he has served on advisory councils for BC Housing, BCIT, and the BC Office of Mass Timber Implementation. He holds an MBA from UBC Sauder, a Master of Engineering from Carleton University, and is a licensed Professional Engineer in BC and Ontario.
Tall Timber and Affordable Housing: A Case Study
Course Overview As cities face growing pressures around affordability, climate resilience, and livability, innovative projects like Catalyst’s 18-storey CLT rental development in North Vancouver offer necessary solutions. Targeted toward architects, engineers, developers, and municipal leaders, this session explores sustainable mass timber construction and affordable housing. Attendees will gain insights into using CLT in construction and the unique challenges. In-depth review of challenges such as structural grid constraints, moisture protection, and prefabricated balcony systems, and how the team transformed these into creative solutions. Furthermore, it will provide insight into integrated mixed-use programming, BIM-enhanced coordination, and the permitting process for tall wood buildings, with practical takeaways for implementing similar projects in other cities. Learning Objectives Identify how and why hybridization is commonly required at height when it comes to mass timber buildings. Explain key technical constraints and solutions for tall CLT buildings, including structural grid/panelization limits, diaphragm load paths to the core, rolling shear considerations, and balcony-to-envelope integration strategies. Apply practical construction and coordination lessons for tall mass timber—moisture management, prefabricated enclosure sequencing, BIM-based clash detection, and early supplier/contractor involvement—to reduce risk and protect the CLT during construction. Course Video Speakers Bio Rhys Leitch Principal Integra Architecture Inc. Rhys Leitch has been a principal at Integra since 2018, he has worked on award-winning projects ranging from sustainable design, high-end single-family, multi-family, and mixed-use residential developments. Originally from Australia, Rhys brings a unique approach to contemporary west coast architecture, paying special attention to the way materials, massing, and design respond to the context of a site. Recently his focus has been CLT mid and high rise projects, pushing the boundaries in different mass timber housing typologies. Sean Binns Project Director Kindred Construction Sean is a proven construction leader with over 20 years of experience delivering major residential and commercial projects across the UK and Canada. As Project Director at Kindred Construction, he leads complex builds and champions innovation in mass timber, Passive House, and modular construction. A mentor and speaker, Sean fosters industry talent through strong partnerships with local universities. Harrison Glotman Principal Glotman Simpson Consulting Engineers Harrison Glotman is a Principal at Glotman Simpson with several years of experience working on complex projects across Canada and the U.S. Prior to joining Glotman Simpson, Harrison worked on high-end homes and retrofits in some of the most iconic buildings in New York and San Francisco. He completed his Master of Science in Structural Engineering with a full scholarship to Stanford University where he specialized in seismic engineering. The knowledge gained through this degree has proven to be incredibly valuable in building design on the West Coast.
The Business Case for Mass Timber
Course Overview Mass timber is redefining how we design and deliver buildings. This session spotlights two projects at the forefront: The Exchange office building in Kelowna and a planned residential tower in Vancouver. Alongside these case studies, the speakers will present a business case analysis, breaking down costs, risks, and opportunities. Together, the speakers will share how mass timber is being applied today, the lessons learned, and why it is becoming a viable choice for development in today’s market. Learning Objectives Explain how mass timber systems are being applied in commercial and residential projects to achieve cost competitiveness with concrete construction. Identify key design, supply chain, and construction decisions that influence risk, schedule, and cost outcomes in mass timber buildings. Evaluate the business case drivers – cost, schedule, risk, and market acceptance – that affect developer decision-making for mass timber projects. Course Video Speakers Bio Annabelle Hamilton Executive Director WoodWorks BC Following the completion of her postgraduate degree from Ulster University in Northern Ireland, Annabelle has worked for several multi-family development companies, overseeing various multi-million dollar projects through the project lifecycle from acquisitions and municipal approvals to construction completion. Graham Brewster Director of Development Wesgroup Properties Graham is Director of Development at Wesgroup Properties, one of Western Canada’s largest private real estate organizations. Graham is leading Wesgroup’s mass timber exploration and execution, with an eye to not only build better buildings, but building the understanding to build a robust and sustainable industry in BC. Tim McLennan CEO Faction Projects As co-founder and CEO of Faction Projects Inc., Tim oversees a vertically integrated group of companies including Faction Architecture Inc., Faction Construction, and multiple subsidiaries—delivering full-spectrum project services from concept to construction. He leads the company’s long-term strategy, corporate governance, and financial stewardship. His leadership drives innovation across the group’s project delivery platforms—anchoring Faction’s reputation for integrated, regionally responsive, and technically advanced solutions. Neil McGowan Partner, Senior Advisor BTY Group Neill is a Partner at BTY and is responsible for providing planning and cost consulting services to financial institutions, government agencies, real estate developers and contractors. He has over 35 years of experience in British Columbia providing cost and risk advisory services. Neill is a sustainability leader and has led BTY’s team on a wide variety of projects advancing the understanding of capital and life-cycle costs of energy conservation and GHG-reduction measures for government and institutional clients.
Custom Steel Connections for Mass Timber: Understanding the Basics Step by Step
Course Overview As mass timber construction continues to grow in popularity, understanding how structural connections work is essential for anyone involved in the design and construction process. This course introduces custom steel hangers as a practical and flexible solution for connecting timber beams and columns, explaining why they are sometimes preferred over off-the-shelf options. Using clear, visual examples, participants will be guided through how forces travel through a connection, what needs to be checked to ensure safety, and how factors like fire performance and moisture are considered in real projects. No advanced engineering background is required to follow along and gain valuable insight into this important aspect of mass timber design. Learning Objectives Explain the difference between predesigned and custom steel hangers, and describe situations where a custom connection offers practical advantages in mass timber construction. Describe in plain terms how structural loads travel through a steel hanger assembly, from the supported beam through to the primary supporting member. Recognize why eccentricity occurs in hanger connections and understand, at a conceptual level, how it affects the design of the surrounding structure. Identify key real-world considerations for custom steel connections in mass timber, including fire protection strategies and the importance of accounting for wood shrinkage. Course Video Speakers Bio Patrick Geers Senior Structural Designer & Head of Quality Control Western Archrib Patrick Geers brings over 24 years of expertise in mass timber engineering to his role at Western Archrib, where he leads the design of innovative structural systems and maintains the company’s exceptional quality standards. A passionate carpenter with degrees from both Canadian and German institutions, Patrick combines hands-on craftsmanship with advanced engineering knowledge. His international career spans positions in Austria and Germany, providing him with unique cross-cultural perspectives on structural design and community-centered architecture. Patrick currently serves on multiple technical committees including the CSA 086 Committee for Wood Design Standards and acts as an industry advisor to the ARTS group at the University of Alberta. His work focuses on creating sustainable structures that navigate challenging environments while connecting communities. Through his leadership in both technical innovation and quality assurance, Patrick continues to advance the possibilities of mass timber construction for buildings that serve as community anchors and exemplars of sustainable design.
Building Canada’s Future With Wood
Course Overview This session will feature thought leaders in a podcast-style conversation exploring the evolving role of wood in Canadian construction. Through a series of rotating interviews, the discussion will highlight key themes including the rise of mass timber and tallwood buildings, the shift toward offsite construction, and wood’s potential to address the housing affordability crisis. The session offers a forward-looking yet grounded perspective on the opportunities and complexities shaping the industry. Learning Objectives Understand how mass timber and tall wood construction are transitioning from niche applications to mainstream use in Canadian mid- and high-rise buildings. Understand how prefabrication, modularization, and early team integration influence cost, schedule, and risk outcomes in wood construction projects. Explain how mass timber can support institutional, residential, and mixed-use project goals related to sustainability, constructability, and housing delivery. Course Video Speakers Bio Russell Hixson Editor SiteNews Russell Hixson is an award-winning investigative journalist who began his career covering crime and courts in the United States before transitioning into Canada’s construction sector. He spent eight years at the Journal of Commerce, where he developed deep expertise in the industry and its key issues. He has also reported on the federal budget from Ottawa and documented the early impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic while working remotely. Hixson has developed a strong interest in the construction industry and is passionate about sharing its stories through SiteNews, with the goal of engaging and informing a broader audience. Jana Foit Principal, Higher Education Practice Lead Perkins&Will, Vancouver Jana Foit is a Principal and Higher Education Practice Lead at Perkins&Will’s Vancouver studio. With over two decades of experience, she has led numerous mass timber projects, including the Earth Science Building and Gateway Building at the University of British Columbia, as well as the BCIT Tall Timber Student Housing project. She is a frequent speaker and panelist on mass timber design and contributes to several industry publications, including the Nail Laminated Timber Design and Construction Guide, the Survey of International Tall Wood Buildings, and the Technical Guide for the Design and Construction of Tall Wood Buildings in Canada. Robert Malczyk Principal Timber Engineering Inc. Robert Malczyk is one of a small number of university-trained specialized timber engineers. After completing his master’s degree at Warsaw University of Technology, he moved to Canada to study under the renowned Professor Borg Madsen at the University of British Columbia. In 1997, he co-founded Equilibrium Consulting Inc., contributing to award-winning projects such as the Art Gallery of Ontario’s Galleria Italia designed by Frank Gehry. In 2021, he co-founded Timber Engineering Inc. He currently works on projects across Canada, the United States, and Asia. His expertise focuses on a systems-based approach to mass timber design, with an emphasis on structural efficiency and energy performance. Andrew Stiffman Vice President, Construction Services Kalesnikoff Andrew Stiffman brings diverse project experience across single-family homes, large-scale passive house developments, and low- to mid-rise mass timber construction. At Kalesnikoff Mass Timber, he oversees the full project lifecycle of prefabricated and mass timber projects, from early-stage discussions through to completion. His background in building science, development management, and hands-on high-performance construction enables him to combine technical expertise with practical delivery, leading multidisciplinary teams to successful project outcomes.
Scaling Affordable Rental Housing with Tall Mass Timber
Course Overview As cities face growing pressures around affordability, climate resilience and livability, innovative projects like Catalyst’s 18-storey CLT rental development in North Vancouver offer necessary solutions. Targeted toward architects, engineers, developers and municipal leaders this session explores mass timber construction as an affordable housing solution. Attendees will gain insight into the use of CLT in construction and the associated challenges, including structural grid constraints, moisture protection, and prefabricated balcony systems. The session will also highlight how the project achieved near cost parity with comparable concrete buildings, integrated mixed-use programming, and leveraged BIM to support coordination and the permitting process. Participants will leave with practical takeaways for applying these approaches to similar projects in other cities. Learning Objectives Understand how tall mass timber hybrid systems can support affordable and mixed-use housing Identify key architectural, structural, and construction challenges unique to CLT buildings Learn practical strategies for permitting, procurement, coordination, and construction Course Video Speakers Bio Annabelle Hamilton Executive Director WoodWorks BC Harrison Glotman Principal Glotman Simpson Consulting Engineers Rhys Leitch Principal Integra Architecture Inc. Sean Binns Project Director Kindred Construction
FRAMEWORK for Success: Prefabricated Wood Systems and Design Innovation
Course Overview This presentation explores the transformative impact of prefabricated light wood frame construction systems in multi-residential development, focusing on VanMar’s FRAMEWORK methodology and its application in the new 150 Wissler Road project in Waterloo. FRAMEWORK is a highly efficient, panelized light wood frame system designed for buildings up to six storeys, delivering rapid, sustainable, and cost-effective construction that meets and exceeds energy and greenhouse gas reduction targets. The session will highlight VanMar’s extensive experience in affordable housing, the advantages of offsite prefabrication, and the collaborative process that accelerates project delivery. Learning Objectives Participants will understand the benefits of prefabricated wood frame construction for multi-residential buildings. Participants will understand the FRAMEWORK system’s approach to speed, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. Participants will be shown how collaborative offsite construction methods accelerated the 150 Wissler Road project. Participants will learn strategies for overcoming design challenges and achieving efficiencies in fire walls, shafts, and acoustics. Course Video Speakers Bio Jordan Zekveld Director of Preconstruction VanMar Constrcutors ON Jordan is a construction and development professional with deep experience in estimating, preconstruction, and cost strategy for multi-unit residential projects. At VanMar Constructors, he helps developers, REITs, and non-profits bring condominium, rental, and affordable housing projects from concept to construction. Drawing on VanMar’s integrated design-build expertise, Jordan leads collaborative preconstruction processes that align design intent, feasibility, and cost efficiency. His experience spans concrete high-rise and innovative mid-rise wood-frame developments, including the Framework system — VanMar’s sustainable, fast, and cost-effective building solution. With a focus on clarity, constructability, and long-term value, Jordan works at the intersection of planning, design, and execution to help deliver housing that’s efficient, affordable, and built to last. Mike Philips Executive Director Ontario Structural Wood Association (OSWA) Mike Phillips has served as Executive Director of OSWA since 2008. Under his leadership, the association has evolved from a truss-fabricator-focused group into Ontario’s leading voice for structural wood component manufacturing. Today, the province is home to 70 certified truss plants and 40 wood-panel manufacturers, with engineered wood products now the preferred choice for floor systems. At the same time, Ontario’s building code has never been more prepared to accommodate advanced wood-construction methods. Mike is a strong advocate for the industrialization of construction and the expanding role of off-site building systems—critical drivers of wood construction’s future growth. Paul Marchesani Operations Manager Panelized Building Solutions Inc. Paul Marchesani is the Vice President of Panelized Building Solutions Inc., a family run business where he plays a key leadership role in driving operational excellence, strategic growth, and project execution across the company. Known for his strong work ethic, hands-on approach, and deep industry knowledge, Paul oversees day-to-day operations while supporting long-term planning that aligns with the company’s vision. Before joining Panelized Building Solutions, Paul held key roles in project management and operations within manufacturing and construction environments, where he oversaw production teams, implemented process improvements, and helped streamline workflow efficiencies. His ability to manage both people and complex technical projects made him a natural fit for leadership. Respected by colleagues, clients, and trade partners alike, Paul combines technical expertise with strong leadership, making him an essential pillar of the company’s continued success.
