Covid-19 todaY, tomorroW and into 2021: a panel discussion With epidemiologists - Saskatchewan Construction Association
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issue 2—summer 2020
building on: perseverance & strength
in turbulent times
COVID-19 TODAY,
TOMORROW AND
INTO 2021: A PANEL
DISCUSSION WITH
EPIDEMIOLOGISTS
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306-934-0141t'BY
In this issue of
6 President's Message
320 Gardiner Park Court
Regina, SK S4V 1R9
8 SCA Board of Directors P: 306-525-0171
E: sca@scaonline.ca
W: www.scaonline.ca
features 2020 SCA Board of Directors
Miles Dyck, Chair
10
COVID-19 today, tomorrow and into 2021: shaun cripps, vice-chair
cory richter, Past Chair
A panel discussion with epidemiologists
brad barber
16 Maintaining vigilance in safety amidst COVID-19 jon boutin
bryce chelsberg
20 The Saskatchewan economy during COVID-19: brent cherwinski
Where do we go from here? duane galloway
jeff hagerty
justin hoyes
THE EXPERTS sean mcgregor
colin olfert
24
You can't pour from an empty cup: kim sutherland
Mental health resiliency in turbulent times
President & CEO—Mark Cooper
26 Doing business differently: Director of Operations—Amanda Thick
What construction companies should consider next
Executive Coordinator—Megan Jane
Administrative Assistant—nicholas mccafferty
SCA Editor—shayna wiwierski
© 2020 DEL Communications Inc.
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PRINTED IN CANADA 06/2020
4 SASKATCHEWAN CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATION
president’s MESSAGE
Mark Cooper, President & CEO,
Saskatchewan Construction Association
By the time this issue hits your desk, Bridges Health. We also have a great safety and the health conversations
we will have crossed the 100-day article from Brent Banda of the Banda will be released online through the
mark since the beginning of the Marketing Group on what construction SCA’s YouTube channel, our
economic and societal shutdown due companies should consider doing next social media platforms, and our
to COVID-19. We will likely be on in order to bolster your business amidst COVID-19 information portal:
the verge of starting Phase 4 of the COVID. www.covid19sk.com.
provincial government’s five-phase Re-
Finally, we have three feature articles If you’re a regular reader of We Build,
Open Saskatchewan plan.
in this issue that I think are truly you’ll notice that this issue is shorter
It is comforting to know that superb. We leveraged technology than most. That’s on purpose, for a few
Saskatchewan has, to date, weathered to hold video interviews with local reasons.
COVID-19 successfully from a health experts in the areas of health,
perspective at least. Swift and decisive safety, and economic development. First, early on in the pandemic we
action on the part of our governments, Then, we combed through those asked our publisher to stop selling
coupled with widespread compliance video interviews and turned them advertising for this issue. We didn’t
by citizens, enabled the spread of the into articles that summarize the want our members being asked to
virus to be contained. Now the task discussions. You’ll be able to hear from advertise during such a difficult time.
before us is to re-open our society, re- the best in the business about what we As a result, we have to publish the
ignite our economy, and re-double our can expect from COVID in the coming magazine based on the revenue raised
vigilance with respect to managing the months, how we need to prepare to by the advertisements sold to that date.
spread of the virus. tackle the virus, how on-site safety and To our advertisers, I want to say thanks
our company cultures are adapting to for investing. Your money enables us to
This issue of We Build is all about
better manage, and how the economy continue to deliver important messages
bringing expert perspectives to you
can and will recover through our to the construction community across
in terms of how to build perseverance
collective efforts to continue growing Saskatchewan, for which we are
and strength in turbulent times. In this
Saskatchewan. You won’t want to miss extremely grateful.
issue you’ll read about some essential
these articles.
best practices for overall wellness and The second reason the issue is shorter
mental health from our partners at The complete videos for both the is we know you are pulled in so many
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different directions right now. We about any of the infrastructure that in the future and will be happy to
wanted to give you the fewest and best programs, or you’d like to know more, help you find answers to any of your
articles we could. I think we’ve met please reach out to me and let me questions, while always working to
that goal. know. make sure that government programs
are structured in such a way as to
Finally, I want to chat briefly about On the SCA’s YouTube channel you
the economic stimulus coming from ensure your continued business
can watch the replay of our virtual
governments in the form of new success.
Town Hall with provincial officials
infrastructure dollars. Last month where they answered your questions As we move into the summer months,
the province announced an historic
about their investment plan. We will I want to wish you well. Take care and
level of stimulus funding designed
be holding more conversations like stay safe.
to jumpstart a wide array of public
infrastructure projects across all
categories of construction. This
included considerable money for
municipal projects. While funds for
most of these projects haven’t begun
to flow yet, they will soon. We will
see many new design projects out for
competition within weeks, and the
same for construction projects, with
a particular focus on maintenance
and renovation work that can come to
market quickly.
As part of the province’s commitment
to stimulus, a big focus of their
investment is on improving the flow
of dollars to local companies, ensuring
that local workers do the work. The
SCA is working with the provincial
government to refine the mechanisms
they can use to make it easier for
local companies to access information,
improve their performance during
competitions, and win more work.
I would say that our members can
expect more news on this theme soon.
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to announce more funding for
stimulus-focused infrastructure,
perhaps through a new stream of the
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building on: perseverance
SK S4P 3C2 & strength in turbulent times 7
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2020 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
SHAUN CRIPPS MILES DYCK CORY RICHTER
Vice-Chair Chair Past Chair
BRAD BARBER JON BOUTIN
BRYCE CHELSBERG BRENT CHERWINSKI DUANE GALLOWAY JEFF HAGERTY
JUSTIN HOYES SEAN McGREGOR COLIN OLFERT KIM SUTHERLAND
8 SASKATCHEWAN CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATION
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We Build – summer 2020 – building on: perseverance & strength in turbulent times 9
Feature
Want to access the full
COVID-19 Today, Tomorrow and into 2021: conversation? Visit
covid19sk.com
A Panel Discussion to download the audio file
or watch the video!
with Epidemiologists By Brook Thalgott
Dr. Cory (Cordell) Neudorf, Dr. Bonnie Janzen, Associate Dr. Bruce Reeder, Emeritus Dr. Anne Leis, Professor and
Professor, Community Health Professor, Community Health Professor, Community Health Department Head, Community
& Epidemiology, University & Epidemiology, University & Epidemiology, University Health & Epidemiology,
of Saskatchewan’s College of of Saskatchewan’s College of of Saskatchewan’s College of University of Saskatchewan’s
Medicine. Medicine. Medicine. College of Medicine.
have been other countries that were influenza. So, for these reasons, it's
hit harder, faster. We in Saskatchewan worse than the seasonal flu.”
were late to the game in seeing cases
and Canada was even behind other Peaks and valleys
We Build caught up with experts
countries. We have benefited from While Saskatchewan has avoided a
from the department of Community
being able to watch what others have major onslaught of cases, Cooper asks
Health & Epidemiology, University of
done, how the virus has behaved in the panel where we are in the curve,
Saskatchewan’s College of Medicine
other countries, and therefore can and what we can expect going forward.
to talk about COVID-19 and its
take our cues from that. What other
implications on the health of our “Globally, the spread of the virus is
countries have shown us is how many
province. We spoke to Dr. Anne Leis, quite different from place to place right
people can get it, how quickly, how it's
Professor and Department Head; Dr. now—just because of the nature of how
spread, and how quickly the hospitals
Cory (Cordell) Neudorf, Professor; Dr. it gets into different populations. We're
can get overwhelmed if it's left
Bonnie Janzen, Associate Professor; seeing it at different stages in different
unchecked, completely overrunning
and Dr. Bruce Reeder, Emeritus countries,” says Dr. Neudorf. “Once it
a hospital and causing many, many
Professor. SCA President and CEO gets a hold in an area, it tends to take
deaths and a lot of severe sickness.”
Mark Cooper moderated the discussion. off very quickly. By changing our
Dr. Reeder also points out the behaviour [we] can slow that spread
Cooper begins by asking about
comparisons being made between very quickly as well.”
Saskatchewan’s relatively low rate of
influenza and COVID-19. “It tends to
community spread and lack of major Every pandemic has multiple waves,
spread more quickly than influenza.
outbreaks and why we should take and Dr. Neudorf sees the COVID-19
It's considerably more deadly—that is,
COVID-19 as a serious threat. pandemic as no different. He notes that
it has about 10 times the case fatality
the length of waves and troughs are
“All you have to do is look around the rate. It appears to spread a considerable
yet to be determined.
world to see why we need to take this amount before symptoms develop.
seriously,” says Dr. Neudorf. “There And, that is not so prominent with the “If we can have a reasonable response
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to the gradual reopening, close will end up right back to where we vaccinating those more susceptible first
monitoring for new infections, and were in March in no time at all. The is a good course of action. Otherwise,
contact trace very aggressively, we can key is balance—where the public and Reeder notes, we would have to accept
make that trough between the waves institutions understand what can be ongoing disease until we reach a level
very long,” says Dr. Neudorf. “On resumed and what safety measures of herd immunity.
the other hand, if behaviour relaxes need to be maintained so that when
Dr. Neudorf sees some behaviour
too quickly while there's still virus the second wave comes, we can keep it
changes becoming permanent. “There
circulating in the community, that small like we did the first time.
are some things that we may stop and
second wave can come just weeks after
go back… to normal and other things
the first wave.” How much longer?
that may need to stay. And that does
Cooper asks how long we can expect not just apply to the social distancing
The province is dependent on the
to modify our behaviours, especially as and handwashing,” says Dr. Neudorf.
public to do their part to spread out
cases decline. “The proper answer is we Beyond handwashing, governments
the waves and avoid major peaks. “All
don't know,” says Dr. Reeder. He sees and businesses have made policy
of these changes we've made to social
the next six months, and the second changes that may last. “We've seen
distancing, reducing meeting in groups,
wave will tell the story. He notes that changes to employment insurance
hand washing and mask wearing…
colleagues in B.C. and at the University and other economic emergency aid,
these things have got us to where we
of Toronto have done modelling that the need for paid sick leave for more
are now, which are very low levels.”
indicate that if we went to a level of 60 types of employees, clear criteria for
However, this can lead to a false sense per cent of our normal social contact, what types of job safety is needed,
of security. Dr. Neudorf warns that we’d see a blunt, low return in six to reduced crowding, changes to work
if we go back to normal now with a eight months. Keeping lower social hours, separate hours for shopping
small amount of virus circulating, we contact until a vaccine is available and for vulnerable people, and curbside
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pickup and delivery. A lot of these The panel also discusses how things needs to recognize that that's a good
responses we've seen I expect are going can change as new information thing.”
to gain traction and perhaps need to be becomes available.
maintained into the future.” The jab
“As we discover more about the virus
Cooper moves onto the inevitable
Fake news and its transmission and what we
question—a vaccine. Dr. Neudorf
need to do, our recommendations
Cooper brings up misinformation notes that work has been happening
change. I think the public is not so
being shared, and how we get the right on Coronavirus vaccines since 2003,
accustomed to that,” says Dr. Reeder.
information to people. so researchers are not starting from
“But, as we understand from the
zero. Early studies show that 60 to 80
“We have to combat this global experience, understand the
per cent immunity will be required to
misinformation and provide the right virus and its transmission better, then
protect the population. Also, because
information from trusted sources,” recommendations change.” Saskatchewan has had such a low
says Dr. Leis, adding that she sees how
Politicians, scientists, and the health infection rate, “we'll need a high degree
difficult it can be for the public to know
community need to be transparent of immunization coverage with a very
where to get the best information.
about what is known and not known. effective vaccine to really protect the
“We’re working with the Saskatchewan
whole population.”
Health Authority, sifting through the Dr. Reeder points out the change of
best information… helping them make opinion regarding masks from Dr. Dr. Neudorf says the typical vaccine
decisions… at the university level or Theresa Tam. “One of the premiers development can take five to 10 years.
at the government level to know how chastised her for changing over the However, the H1N1 vaccine took
to proceed with, for example, opening course of two months. But, she and less than a year, and Neudorf sees
up businesses and still containing the others like her need to change when nine to 12 months for initial doses
virus.” the evidence changes and the public for a COVID-19 vaccine. Dr. Reeder
We Build – summer 2020 – building on: perseverance & strength in turbulent times 13Feature
"Saskatchewan, says there are about 30 promising
candidates in development and four to
Let’s get moving
I think, has done quite five viable vaccines are likely.
Cooper asks the panel about opening
Saskatchewan, and whether we’re on
a good job comparing “The more vaccine candidates, the the right track.
more companies and countries
it to other provinces." producing, the better. You would want
“Saskatchewan has had, [what] was
referred to a less severe outbreak to
vaccines of comparable quality and
this point. It has had small flareups and
efficacy, but having many groups work
learned from those flareups,” says Dr.
on it is a good thing,” says Dr. Reeder.
Reeder. As well, we have not had major
outbreaks in long-term care, and many
measures to protect long-term care
residents are in place. “Saskatchewan,
I think, has done quite a good job
comparing it to other provinces. As we
go forward though, we do need to open
up.”
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Dr. Leis says time will tell. “It won't
be like before; we are not going back.
I think we have learned things that
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Great expectations Dr. Leis also sees how people have political party is out there, this is a good
learned about themselves. “This kind reminder of the value of government…
Finally, Cooper asks the panel what
of a pandemic forced the whole society and to make sure that we're set up in a
we can expect into 2021, what can we
to pause,” says Dr. Leis. “We had time to way that invests in the strength of our
prepare for, and what lessons have ‘separate together.’ We can press pause social programs, our health programs,
been learned. and say that we don't have to be that prevention and preparedness, and the
“The first thing is staying vigilant. It's busy, we don't have to travel, we don't wellness of our communities.”
have to be all stressed and we can just
easy to become complacent, especially
rediscover ourselves, our friends, our Dr. Janzen ends the panel with some
during this time when we've had the
family, and so on.” poignant final thoughts about how we
success of flattening that curve and
see the people around us that we may
keeping the virus at low levels in our Dr. Neudorf notes how we’re learning
take for granted. “I think one of the
province,” says Dr. Neudorf. “What we that we’re responsible for ourselves
positive things that I've seen is greater
want to avoid is a double hit of severe and our communities. “Invest in
awareness of people at the lower rungs
restrictions.” prevention and preparedness to invest
of the socioeconomic ladder who
in our community's health and in our
Dr. Janzen agrees. “Have that social programs because those… things are out there working. There really
community mindedness and really have enabled us to weather this,” says does seem to be more awareness of
think what you do and how it affects Dr. Neudorf. “There are some really that group and the importance of the
others,” she says. “Keeping that in good lessons learned on how quickly work that those people do, and also
the forefront, always thinking about government can mobilize and do things the awareness of how people have
community health, as well as your to help us as citizens to weather these struggled economically during this
individual health.” types of crises. And regardless of what time.”
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We Build – summer 2020 – building on: perseverance & strength in turbulent times 15Feature
Want to access the full
Maintaining Vigilance in conversation? Visit
covid19sk.com
Safety amidst COVID-19
to download the audio file
or watch the video!
By Megan Jane, Executive Coordinator, Saskatchewan Construction Association
In mid-May, we sat down with
construction safety experts to talk
about maintaining vigilance during
COVID-19, and how to navigate the
waters today and tomorrow.
The on-site impacts of COVID-19
bring new challenges
While it’s true that construction
professionals are well versed in
Although they had a lot According to SCSA’s
of safety procedures in Advisory Services Manager, following carefully tailored procedures
place, Dana Paidel, Loy Levesque, very few for site safety work, no one was fully
President at ICON Construction, small builders had any
says that they had nothing for a pandemic. sort of pandemic response prepared for a world-wide pandemic.
plan in place, and even the larger companies
were very reactive in the beginning. “We had all these safety procedures
in place; for fire, earthquakes,
even tornadoes…but nothing for a
pandemic!” says Dana Paidel, President
at ICON Construction.
Paidel wasn’t alone. According to
SCSA’s Advisory Services Manager,
Loy Levesque, very few small builders
had any sort of pandemic response
plan in place, and even the larger
companies were very reactive in the
Keith Bird, Internal Operations Manager at Ryan Smotra, regional safety manager for beginning.
RNF Ventures in Prince Albert, says that Graham Construction in Regina, says that how
COVID has brought a new level of awareness they schedule work has changed in a big way. Understandably, this generated a lot
to safety. The new phasing of staggered shifts has had a
massive impact on project management. of uncertainty for workers, and not
just in construction. Ray Anthony,
Executive Director with Occupational
Health & Safety – Saskatchewan, states
“in the last month alone we’ve seen
Ray Anthony, Executive Director with Occupational Health & [many] refusals to come into work”
Safety – Saskatchewan, states that “in the last month alone we’ve across all business in Saskatchewan.
seen [many] refusals to come into work” across all business in
Saskatchewan.
However, construction companies are
made of tougher stuff, and despite
these unknowns, workers were
quick to embrace enhanced safety
procedures. “Our guys didn’t balk at
16 SASKATCHEWAN CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATIONFeature
it,” says Keith Bird, Internal Operations Manager at RNF Maintaining a sense of comradery during a
Ventures in Prince Albert. “COVID has brought a new level of pandemic is a new feat
awareness to safety.”
Lunches and coffee breaks have always been a relaxed place
From new and improved PPE, handwashing stations, daily to build comradery amongst teams, but now those need to be
pre-screening, and separated work zones – seemingly staggered to ensure physical distancing.
overnight construction companies have pivoted operations.
“Our guys miss that,” Bird says. “No one wants to feel lonely
Ryan Smotra, Regional Safety Manager for Graham
at work.”
Construction in Regina, talks about the number of people on
site now being under strict control. “How we schedule work Levesque recommends allowing some flexibility in the work
has changed in a big way. The new phasing of staggered schedule to maintain productivity. In team meetings, ask not
shifts has had a massive impact on project management.” only how work is going, but how is the family doing? “The
This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, Smotra points out, as more biggest challenge has been accomplishing the same level of
time spent in the planning stages has presented opportunities work that you would in the office, at home. If people need to
for efficiencies. work in the evenings due to being busy with the kids during
Getting information from the federal and provincial health the day, I’m fine with that.”
bodies isn’t the problem, keeping on top of it can be. Paidel recommends calling anyone working from home for a
“Every morning starts with toolbox talks and temperature one-on-one check in.
checks,” Paidel explains. Within days, construction companies Bird has found that sending out messages that convey a
had plans up and running on sites that ensured the safety of sense of hope go a long way in shining a light at the end of
their workers and the community they serve. the tunnel.
Another challenge is the lack of social interaction. Anthony “We’re making touch points with more employees
shared that while his staff working in northern communities more often,” says Bird, who adds that he has shared his
are used to working independently, it can be lonely work. associations e-newsletters containing valuable information
“Our regular Monday meetings now happen via Zoom, and on tax changes, financial supports, and industry updates. “It’s
you can see the lack of social interaction affecting people,” solicited some really heartwarming feedback in return about
says Anthony. our culture.”
We Build – summer 2020 – building on: perseverance & strength in turbulent times 17Feature
Mental health awareness is important now more than ever The lasting impacts of COVID-19 to be aware of
Financial pressures, downsizing of companies, job security, Anthony predicts that social distancing will be here to stay
and so on has put a lot of pressure on employers and for the foreseeable future, as well as strict control over
employees. where and how travel can occur. Major projects are likely
“‘How are you doing?’ has a whole new context now,” says to be spread throughout the year, which could change the
Bird, adding that this newfound attitude has helped negate seasonality of work.
the negative stereotype that construction is a ‘macho’ world. Smotra points out that construction is adapting on the
“It’s okay to ask for help or say you’re not okay.” fly. “Technology will be thrust upon construction in a big
Smotra and Anthony both reminded their staff to use their way.” Paidel agrees. The attitude towards embracing new
company Employee Assistance Program if needed. “People technology isn’t the only thing that’s changing. “Cleanliness
worry that they’re overreacting, or underreacting,” Smotra and safety cultures are being strengthened,” Smotra says.
says, “but the truth is if you’ve got a spouse at home with no “People will actually use their sick days. People are thinking
income, or suddenly you’re a CEO and a teacher to your kids, about others and not just themselves when it comes to safety
that’s a lot of pressure to be dealing with.” now.”
Anthony has looked at mental health training offered The mental health conversation is gaining more traction now
through various universities to help spot the signs of than ever before.
stressed-out employees.
“There’s more awareness for your fellow worker and
You can’t take care of your team if you don’t employees,” says Bird.
take care of yourself first Finally, “people have no choice but to make room for safety
• Take time off, even if you don’t think you need it; we all on their jobsites,” Levesque explains.
need a break. Anthony notes that the enhanced safety protocols
• Take a nap to reboot or prepare yourself to ‘switch hats’. implemented will likely be here to stay.
• Go outside and do something labour intensive, such as
“At the end of the day, we should come out of this stronger
gardening.
than we were before,” Anthony says, noting that regulations
• Do things that bring you joy; listen to music, play with your
around providing handwashing stations and sanitization
pets or children.
protocols will improve future sick leave statistics. “There are
• Focus on what you can control and try not to go down the
advantages to overcoming these problems.”
rabbit hole of the unknown.
• Take up a hobby, such as learning to play the guitar. We might face COVID-19 again, but then we’ll be ready.
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Trade Journey Trade Journey
Changing the Face of Industry Changing the Face of IndustryFeature
The Saskatchewan
Economy during COVID-19:
Where Do We Go from Here?
By Brook Thalgott
Kent Campbell, Deputy Minister, Verona Thibault, CEO, John Lee, CEO, Economic Steve McLellan, CEO,
Ministry of Trade and Economic Saskatchewan Economic Development Regina, says Saskatchewan Chamber
Development, notes that while Development Alliance, sees the that pre-pandemic he saw of Commerce, notes the
there has been a significant need for more preparation for economic momentum in importance of embracing new
increase in unemployment from the unexpected and is more southern Saskatchewan and in models and revenue streams,
February to April, and other conservative on the economic the Saskatoon region, based on such as retailers moving online
economic indicators are still being outlook. entrepreneurship. and manufacturers making new
reported, the province appears goods, as well as local economic
to be better off than many other development.
jurisdictions.
We Build had a virtual discussion Ministry of Trade and Economic to most provinces right now, I think
with some key players working in Development). we're doing probably better than most.”
Saskatchewan economic development
to talk about how Saskatchewan Optimism or pessimism Thibault recently returned from a rural
tour and had her own thoughts on the
emerges economically from the Cooper began by asking about the state of the economy pre-COVID and
COVID-19 pandemic, what the state of the economy. Campbell notes what the pandemic has done. She was
province’s business community is that while there has been a significant glad Campbell was sounding positive,
facing, and how government and increase in unemployment from but has her own concerns.
organizations can support and grow February to April, and other economic
the economy going forward. indicators are still being reported, the “I just feel that our resilience quotient
was probably pretty low before COVID.
province appears to better off than
SCA President Mark Cooper led the And, I'm just concerned that from an
many other jurisdictions.
discussion on May 22 with Verona industry and community perspective,
Thibault (CEO, Saskatchewan “We've been significantly challenged as we're still not ready for the next…
Economic Development Alliance), have economies across the country and waves of this or waves of something
Steve McLellan (CEO, Saskatchewan around the world, and it's probably the else.” She sees the need for more
Chamber of Commerce), John Lee most significant economic challenge preparation for the unexpected and
(CEO, Economic Development Regina), we've faced since the 1930s,” says is more conservative on the economic
and Kent Campbell (Deputy Minister, Campbell. “But I would say that relative outlook.
20 SASKATCHEWAN CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATIONFeature
Thibault flags concerns for the now they've been challenged even and support the business community.
province’s tourism and hospitality more.” While McLellan sounds more McLellan says that while it will be hard
sector, which she feels was weak before pessimistic than he normally is, he on Main Street for a while, there are
the pandemic hit. She also sees a lack does see a way to help see the province things the province can do to see itself
of planning, investment, and attention through. “One of the tasks we all have through.
paid to local businesses, particularly to take [on]… no matter how bad it is
“We have to generate exports,” he says,
in smaller centres. And, there needs to looking forward, is helping to increase
noting the importance of embracing
be recognition that communities and consumer confidence… we need to
new models and revenue streams,
businesses need one another. make sure that all businesses play by
such as retailers moving online and
the rules… to get us through this.”
“One thing that's come out of this manufacturers making new goods, as
whole issue is even though we all know Lee leans more into Campbell’s cautious well as local economic development.
that business and community are optimism. “We have to do all those things that
interdependent, I don't think it's been keep us moving.”
“I think we need to acknowledge and
really acknowledged. I think it's time celebrate the fact that Saskatchewan… Thibault agrees and mentions the
to play that up. And I think that's what is a fairly diverse province where need for collaboration. She was
we're all doing.” we are definitely doing better than recently involved in the signing of
many of the other provinces,” says a Memorandum of Understanding
McLellan echoes Thibault’s sentiments.
Lee. Pre-pandemic he saw economic between nine rural municipalities
While the first quarter of 2020 seemed
momentum in southern Saskatchewan to develop a regional economic
okay, the actual impact of COVID-19
and in the Saskatoon region, based development plan – the Deep South
will not be seen until the end of the
on entrepreneurship. He also notes Economic Partnership. This group
second quarter.
that many businesses answered the has now secured an experienced
“It's hard to think three, four, or five challenge of the pandemic with quick development specialist to support
months [back], but we weren't in a pivots into new models. them in moving forward, of which
strong economy… we didn't have the response was overwhelming. She
resilience built in. Our balance sheets Green shoots also notes that remote working is
were not strong across the province Cooper asks the panel how we can presenting an opportunity for rural
in terms of our businesses. And embrace optimism for the economy communities, too. Thibault also sees
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Super Save Construction Ad.indd 1 2017-09-14 3:46:04 PMFeature
opportunities in the digital marketplace The IT crowd even security issues to be diminished.”
that should be prioritized. With those issues resolved, McLellan
The conversation turns to the Internet,
sees economic activity rising
Campbell notes that the framework for and how vital it is to business. Demand
dramatically.
business and government to stay safe is on the Internet became extreme as
key to recovery. people shifted to working from home, Lee also sees the tech sector in
students moved online, and businesses the province as a vital part of
“Governments and industry leaders
pivoted to the web. Thibault says it Saskatchewan’s recovery and growth.
are doing what they can to ensure
may be time for investments to meet
that people feel safe and confident “There's a huge opportunity on the
the increased, sustained demand for
in going out and engaging again in digital technology side… and the reality
reliable Internet access. “It may be time
ways that are safe. I think those are is Saskatchewan is behind most other
to look for more strategic partnerships
some pretty important things we jurisdictions. So that means there
in order to serve the demand,” she says.
can do on the consumer confidence is a huge upside and opportunity… I
side,” he says, noting that he sees the McLellan agrees. “I like the Internet think we need to embrace that,” says
push in technology and digitization as an example because everybody in
Lee. “Technology is emerging as an
accelerating. the last hundred days has realized
opportunity, and in the last three
how critical it is to us… it's not good
Lee sees unique opportunities in the years, more financial capital [has] come
enough and we need it for education.
AgTech and food production spaces and into the market for Saskatchewan
We need it for that individual who
notes the importance of brand. companies.”
wants to work from Arcola and has to
“We've all done a poor job of branding… have constant access. We need it for Local ideas, local growth
and the challenge we have is Alberta the cattle rancher who is looking for
Not only is Internet infrastructure
and Manitoba spend millions and we've real-time prices, and so on. If we as a
got to compete with that,” says Lee. community through the government, pointed to as an opportunity, but so are
“And unless we start to get our stories private sector, federal, provincial, other major infrastructure projects in
out and around Saskatchewan and municipal get Internet to the point the idea phase. McLellan brings up the
all the unique things happening here, where it's not an issue because it's longstanding idea of building a canal
we'll always struggle. I think we need just excellent everywhere, that will from Diefenbaker Lake to Buffalo
significant investment in that.” facilitate economic, educational, and Pound—an idea that has come up again
recently as a significant, signature
infrastructure project that would
benefit many sectors and regions of the
Performance Floors and Walls for Schools and Sports province.
“It gives us better water quality. It
gives us guaranteed access for protein
plants… imagine 75 people working in
Broadview on a pea plant that needs
ERV PARENT as much water as a medium-sized
city.” McLellan also points out the local
Tarkett iQ Vinyl Flooring industries that need more attention at
Tarkett xf2 Linoleum home. “The largest in-province user of
Saskatchewan grains is our distilled
Altro Safety Flooring
products. So why is it I didn't know that
Mondo Sport Rubber Wall before?”
Protection Systems
Campbell also sees the opportunity in
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abroad.
22 SASKATCHEWAN CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATIONFeature
“We have some pretty natural “I go back to the digital platform. I feel Finally, Campbell concludes the
strengths… not just the fact that we could really ramp up small business discussion with some heartfelt words
we have 40 per cent of Canada's with supporting them in that regard… about Saskatchewan.
agricultural land, but also that we we've made some recommendations to
“People should be very, very proud of
do have… some pretty significant
government, whether that's supporting the work they're doing to create wealth
companies and a research base on
them with digital squads that will help and grow the Saskatchewan economy,”
which to build off. As the world
business get tech savvy, or whether he says. “They should be very proud of
recovers from this, I think demand
it's actually establishing an online what they're going out and doing every
for food is going to be significant. We
just need to make sure that we're marketplace to give them the lift,” she day in terms of contributing to that
attracting as much investment here as says. recovery.”
we can, supporting our producers and
the communities through research,
competitive operating environment,
and all of that.”
Recipe for success
Cooper asks the panel about how we
pave the way for the future. www.tsask.ca
“I think if we strategically think about
Regulatory Safety Services:
investing in opportunity zones or
Boiler and Pressure Vessels
regions… we can fast track things and… Elevators and Amusement Rides
recognize where our core strengths are Power Engineers and Pressure Welders
inside of the province and then invest
in helping those sort of opportunity Certification - Licensing - Inspections
zones move forward,” says Lee.
“Show it. Don't tell it. The local Inspiring and Shaping Excellence in Public Safety
products, the things that we're doing,
we need to show it,” says McLellan.
“We need to do it more often. Local
products, the local heroes that we've
got. We need to celebrate those people FNPA and its Board of Directors would like to welcome Mr. Guy
to inspire more people to do those sorts Lonechild to the position of Chief Executive Officer.
of things.” Mr. Lonechild brings a wealth of experience, leadership capacity
and network which will greatly benefit our General and Industry
“In the short term we all have to Members seeking renewable energy projects.
focus a little bit on sort of economic
FNPA and its Board of Directors would like to welcome Mr
The Renewable Energy sector will redefine Canada’s energy landscape - representing a significant econ
FNPA is a 100% opportunity
Indigenous-led advisor
to Canada’s
Lonechild and
tofacilitator,
Indigenous representing
people. New
the position both Indigenous
green infrastructure
of Chief and businesses,
will drive new
Executive Officer.investments,
stabilization, public safety, and and training for all Canadians and hold the potential to redefine the economic landscape for many Indige
industry leaders in the development of environmentally preferred power generation projects.
communities. These communities will be impacted by renewable energy developments throughout their Res
the reopening of the economy in a
With over 1,300 MW
Treatyofand
projects underterritories;
traditional development nationally,
proactive FNPAis and
engagement its membership
essential to supporting necessary approvals
very practical way,” says Campbell. Mr. Lonechild
maximizing economic outcomes—forgingbrings a wealth
our pathway ofopportunities.
to powerful
provide extensive power development expertise with a mandate to promote, develop, and
experience, leadership ca
“Companies have to make assessments and network
implement capacity for Indigenous which
business interests in will greatly
theofenergy
In the spirit
benefit
sector.
partnership with FNPA,
our General and In
in terms of what the next few months Membersdiscoverseeking renewable
the possibilities energy
and become projects.
a Member today!
Please
To help power the pathway to acontact ourfuture,
greener Membership
become Manager to discuss
a Member your project needs
today!
looks like and the growth opportunities ContactThe
our Membership Manager at ragecoutay@fnpa.ca.
Renewable Energy sector will redefine Canada’s ener
they have.” FNPA Team: Contact us:
FNPA Team: opportunity to Canada’s Indigenous people. New green infra
Guy Lonechild - Chief Executive Officer Contact
Phone: us:
1-855-359-3672
Rebecca Agecoutay - Membership Manager – Membership Manager Phone: 1-855-359-3672
Thibault sees that the digital space and Guy Lonechild – Chief Executive
and training for all Canadians and hold the potential to re
Officer Rebecca Agecoutay
Jenna Gall - Community Energy Project Manager
Jenna Englot – Community Energy Project Manager Darren Huculak – Business Manager, Alberta
Email: info@fnpa.ca
Email: info@fnpa.ca
Darren Huculak - Business Manager, Alberta www.fnpa.ca
small business have a lot to offer and Christina Swan – FinanceJai communities.
& Operations
Roberts - Coordinator These
Tanya Project
Renewable Energy Grondin communities
– Administrative
Manager Coordinator will be impacted by renew
www.fnpa.ca
need support to reach their potential. Treaty and traditional territories; proactive engagement
Christina Swan - Finance & Operations Coordinator
maximizing We Buildeconomic outcomes—forging
– summer 2020 – building our pathway
on: perseverance & strength in turbulent times 23 to pow
In the spirit of partneTHE EXPERTS
You Can’t Pour from an Empty Cup:
Mental Health Resiliency
in Turbulent Times
By Kyle Anderson, M.A., Mental Health Workshop Facilitator, Bridges Health
“You’re either in a problem, just left The current pandemic has forced 1. Make Connections – Having positive,
one, or are headed towards one.” This us to develop resiliency in business, supportive social relationships
quote from Les Brown sums up the relationships, and overall wellbeing. ensures we do not feel alone during
inevitable challenges and setbacks Within the workplace, we are at challenging events. While some
that we face on a regular basis times faced with challenges such as individuals have a natural reaction
throughout our lives. It is said that organizational change, deadlines, to withdraw and isolate amidst
the only constant in life is change, conflict with co-workers, and business difficult times, particularly males, it is
and there is no better example of this competition. important to accept help and support
than the current COVID-19 pandemic, from those who care about you.
Resiliency is not a passive quality Displaying vulnerability and asking
which has caused momentous changes
that some individuals have, and for help is a sign of strength, not
in the way we live our lives. With
others don’t, but rather a skill that weakness, especially in managers and
this in mind, how do we endure the
can be actively learned and improved leaders within the workplace.
unavoidable storms of life?
over time. When considering how
Resilience is the process of adapting to improve resilience, here are a 2. Move Toward Your Goals – When
looking at a broad long-term goal,
and overcoming adversity and can be few elements that are important to
it can often appear daunting and
applied to all areas of our lives. consider:
overwhelming. Split the end-goal
into more manageable short-term
goals and act. Do something regularly
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24 SASKATCHEWAN CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATIONTHE EXPERTS
Aon
Construction
matters that you have control over, Having trusting relationships within
such as your attitude, your effort, and the workplace is imperative, so take
problem-solving solutions. an interest in peoples’ lives outside of
work, as this drives connection.
Services
4. Nurture a Positive Self-View – Often
we are our own harshest critic, Be aware of the different personalities
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5. Maintain Boundaries – It is
times of crisis.
important to set and maintain experience to negotiate
healthy boundaries, particularly for Finally, host regular group check- the best terms for
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surrounding physical space, time, and individuals the opportunity to Call today.
emotional energy. Not having healthy identify areas they require support.
boundaries in place can cause us to Regular individual check-ins are also Michael Sali, Regina
become overwhelmed and burnt out, important, as it provides employees 306.569.6704
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with the entire group. John Spooner, Saskatoon
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look after yourself and recharge, so basis, so that when we are in a crisis
that when setbacks inevitably occur we will be better equipped to handle
you are better positioned to respond the challenge. Try getting in the habit
effectively. Exercise, healthy eating,
of checking-in with yourself each day
meditation, and hobbies are a few
by asking, “how do I feel right now?”
general areas of self-care, but at the
This increases self-awareness and
end of the day do what works for you!
helps you identify when problems
are occurring, allowing you to make
Employer support
appropriate adjustments to improve
It is important that we engage in
your mental wellbeing before the
these practices within the workplace,
situation worsens.
and employers, managers, and team
leaders set the tone. When leaders For more information on improving
can display vulnerability, disclosing psychological health and safety within
when they are having a tough time or yourself, organization, or community,
require support, employees will feel please contact Bridges Health at
encouraged to do so as well. info@bridgeshealth.com.
We Build – summer 2020 – building on: perseverance & strength in turbulent times 25You can also read
