b"FROM OUR CHAIRWCAs First Female ChairIt is truly an honour and a privilege to step into the shoes of our now past chair, John Ennsprobably forever known as our virtual chair.John, your calm and steady leadership over the last two difficult years has been appreciated and has helped guide WCA through truly unpredictable times. Helping us navigate through lockdowns, re-openings and new restrictions has been exhausting and time consuming, but your commitment and enthusiasm for WCA never seemed to waiver. Not only have you been enthusiastic and passionate about WCA, but you have been one of my most vocal supporters as I have taken on the role of being the first female chair of WCA.For WCA, having a female in this important role represents an acceptance of women in the construction industry and at any table. It represents an awareness of women, in the field and in the office, sharing a passion and enthusiasm for what the industry provides. Women are now truly represented, and as chair, I am committed to ensuring everyone has a voice.Our board has a few challenges to face in the next two years.What does navigating a post-COVID-19 world look like for the construction sector? Will any pandemic measures stay in place, will we see the landscape change for sick time, and will the federal government provide additional benefits? WCA will continue to be on top of this topic, providing the same essential and up-to-date information it has been providing throughoutthe pandemic.We also see supply chain issues continuing, and we will work with our key stakeholders to help minimize the risk.Recently, we have seen that the Manitoba government is intent on working towards prompt payment legislation. This is an important piece to our industry, and as chair, I'm committed to continuing to work collaboratively with all stakeholders for the best legislation possible. We are also anticipating upcoming electionsboth civic in October 2022 and provincial scheduled for October 2023. WCA has always been, and will continue to be, a leader in providing its members with key information that will help us all select thebest candidates.Even with these challenges ahead, we see some great opportunities. Never before have we seen so many projects on our platform. Governments are investing dollars into infrastructure, both horizontal and vertical. This will encourage private investors to begin projects they have had on the back burner for the last two years.As we look forward with hope and optimism that the pandemic is winding down and restrictions are lifting, we also look forward to an industry that exemplifies Manitobastable, supportive and diverse.Ellowyn Nadeau, ChairIssue 1 Spring Edition 2022 BUILD MANITOBA 7"