b'FROM THE CEOA MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO, CLIFFORD KSHYKClifford Kshyk CEO, SICAs SICAs CEO, it is my pleasure to assumeTo reduce gender and diversity barriers, there needs to A responsibility for the associations activities andbe more targeted strategies to gain interest and promote operations, and for representing SICA at the manythe industry as inclusive. SICA, along with its partners, stakeholder tables we collaborate with. To familiarize yourselfcontinually fosters cultural change to enhance diversity with SICAs activities, I encourage you to pursue our websiteand acceptance in the industry. Defying standard industry at sicabc.ca. practices, innovators set out a bold vision and create a Our industry is amid significant challenges; however, withculture undaunted by tradition to attract the best talent the impact of technology, this also means new and excitingfrom very different fields. Culture can be a talent magnet opportunities. Recruiting and retaining skilled qualified construction companies need to implement a corporate workers ranks high, if not highest, on that list of challenges.culture that challenges the status quo to wholeheartedly As a new generation enters the workforce, combined withembrace innovation and inclusivity.retiring professionals, the industry must be deliberate about attracting, acquiring and retaining new talent.SICAs programs, affiliations and partnerships are poised for the challenge of bridging the labour gap.We are working There is a disconnect between the perception of constructionto create greater accessibility and opportunities for youth and the reality of working in the industry. Surveys show thatto explore their interest in a successful career in the skilled there is an appreciation for skilled trades, but few individualstrades. Connections with schools, educators and parents are pursuing construction careers.The construction industrywill lessen barriers, especially with stimulating mentor-improves neighbourhoods, brings people together andbased school programs. SICA is increasing its training empowers the lives of those in the community. Ratheropportunities to Indigenous organizations and other labour than seeing the entrepreneurship opportunities of trades as diverse, innovative and exciting, career seekers shy awaypools with the expectation that these opportunities will lead because of skewed perceptions. Workforce development willto full-time apprenticeship candidates.continue to be of paramount importance for SICA and the constructionindustry.Leaders in our industry are succeeding with cultural change, and the industry will thrive by following this path. Success The image of the construction industry can be changedmagnifies when the industry, government, local authorities through fostering conscientious effort and dedication in itsand education system work in a collaborative way, led by one members. This image improvement depends on the industrysoverarching organization, and SICA seems to be the most commitment to promoting quality products, management,viable option to take on this mantle with its partners.We education, safety and training programs. Our industry mustinvite you to be part of the solution by engaging with us.continue to focus image enhancement efforts on the way it delivers services to its clients and employees. Corporate social responsibility provides a platform that can be used to build aClifford Kshyk strong, positive image of the industry.CEO8 SOUTHERN INTERIOR CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATION'