The Truth About Trades: Leadership, Education & Advocacy with Donna Grant, President of the Vancouver Regional Construction Association | EP78

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In this episode, James and Christian are joined by Donna Grant, President of the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA).

Their wide-ranging conversation highlights everything from education around small business ownership and the financial upside of a career in construction to supporting individuals in the trades who struggle with traditional learning methods, something that could be applied to many forms of secondary education, to challenges around mental health and the need for increased representation of the right people, both women and men, in the field. Donna shares a specific story about a recent VRCA event which hosted 180 women in construction and saw nearly every role in the field and the office, from trades to administration, represented. This conversation is recommended for anyone interested in leadership, education, and advocacy in the construction industry. The truth is, construction isn't just about playing in the dirt; a career in the trades now looks as good as ever.

Donna Grant is a well-respected construction industry figure with over a decade of experience as a board member, director, manager, and volunteer in various organizations. In June 2021, she was appointed the President of the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) after an extensive hiring search. Donna is known for her advocacy work for mental health in the industry and her participation in many VRCA and industry events as a keynote speaker and panellist. She also served as the director of community for the Canadian Construction Women's Association. As the president of VRCA, Donna is committed to advocating for the needs of the construction industry in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, Canada and providing meaningful support to its members. 

The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) is the go-to resource for businesses in British Columbia's construction industry. With over 750 members, VRCA represents diverse professionals, including general contractors, trade contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, and professional service providers. As a union and open-shop employer, the association represents the industrial, commercial, institutional, and high-rise residential construction industry. The association provides valuable networking opportunities, educational programs, and events that bring together professionals from all aspects of the construction industry.

EPISODE LINKS:
Donna Grant LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-grant-86993474/
VRCA Website: https://vrca.ca/
VRCA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vancouver-regional-construction-association/
VRCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanconstruct/
VRCA Twi

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