Welcome to the first edition of the National Construction Council “Briefing”. 

One of the key benefits of NCC membership is that its multi-trade members can access jobs on projects across Canada. We’re proud to be UBC’s “National Local”, bringing new work, new contractors, and new career opportunities to all 75,000 members across our country. 

Here’s what that means to our members. 

If you’re in a typical union with access to one local hiring hall serving 1-3 trade disciplines in a single province like Alberta, you generally have access to about 630 jobs -- out of 1.6 million jobs across the country.  Now, that 1.6 million is a rough number, but it’s accurate enough to demonstrate why NCC is emerging as a powerhouse partner for UBC and contractors.  

We consolidate job offerings nationwide into one hiring hall and across all trades. This is how we offer actual agency and mobility to all UBC Members.   

NCC also ensures more stability for members as we strategically pursue emerging industries instead of relying on declining industries such as those that are carbon-intensive.  

That doesn’t mean current opportunities in Canada's industrial, construction and maintenance markets aren’t bright. They are.   

As mentioned, there are 1.6 million construction and maintenance positions in Canada, up (net) 3.5% from 2021 levels. Western Canada, Ontario, and Atlantic Canada all have a robust mix of industrial, commercial, and institutional projects underway and planned. 

As the construction industry grows and evolves, union jobs are becoming more critical than ever. Union jobs offer fair pay, benefits, pension, and representation for members who build and maintain infrastructure, communities and the economy. Union jobs also ensure members have a voice in their workplace and can advocate for their rights and safety. 

However, union jobs are also facing many challenges. Competition from non-union contractors, changes in labour laws and regulations, and the impact of new technologies and innovations affect the demand and supply of union jobs.  

I never stop thinking about how NCC can ensure that union jobs remain viable and attractive for members and employers in the future. 

UBC and NCC are investing in training and education for members. We know we can increase employability and effectiveness by providing members with the skills and knowledge they need to adapt to changing industry standards and contractor expectations. Training also helps members upgrade qualifications and certifications, opening new opportunities and markets for NCC and UBC jobs. 

We anticipate 245,000 Canadian tradespeople will retire in the next ten years. There will be plenty of work. The question will be, how many of those replacement jobs will be union jobs with fair pay, benefits, pension and representation? We need to be there to continue to evolve and protect the dignity of work for working families and job creators. 

The NCC team is so proud to represent you, our members. We are dedicated to ensuring that you have the work, the compensation, and training you need to care for your family and live a rewarding, respected, proud career as a Canadian tradesperson. 

Sincerely, 

Sam Kemble, Chief Operating Officer