Happy New Year to all. A new year brings optimism for better days ahead. Let us hope we are in the FINAL Covid wave! One of the first nations, South Africa, to be hit with the Omicron virus has now reported a steep decline in new cases. Let's hope for a similar trajectory in Alberta and the rest of the world!
State of the Industry: October 2021
It is hard to believe that that we have been living with COVID-19 for a year and a half. We have endured three waves of the disease thus far and have yet to reach the peak of the worst fourth wave. Although we have a ticket to freedom from lockdowns; ironically, many eligible Albertan’s are still reluctant to accept the vaccine. As our hospitals fill to the brim and more ICU beds are added, the cracks in our health care system are evident. Our government had no alternative but to act. Like it or not, we must protect our health care system and our economy – they are intertwined. Navigating the more aggressive variant has proven to be economically disruptive and socially and politically divisive. Provinces that have managed to better control the infections will be rewarded with a healthier workforce, a more productive economy, and will be better positioned to attract labour, investment and tourism.
Project Profile: Camp Warwa
Camp Warwa is a non-profit organization that has been providing unforgettable outdoor experiences for youth since 1980. A new dining hall was the key to expanding their level of community service and sustaining it for generations to come. The new dining hall and multi-use building will allow them to serve 10,000 children each year.
Project Profile: Wood Buffalo Housing Project
The municipality of Wood Buffalo, located in northeastern Alberta, is the second largest municipality of Alberta (by area), with Fort McMurray being the largest urban centre. While the region covers an expansive area with scattered remote towns and villages, Wood Buffalo Housing (WBH) has been able to assist more than 10,000 people over the past 20 years to find suitable and affordable housing.
What's New: AIA and GBCI approved courses are now available for free on Metl-Span’s Education Portal
What's New: R-Boost Elevated Roof Insulation System
Boost your cost savings with R-Boost thermal roof system.
An economical solution to achieve increased thermal performance to meet today’s rigid energy codes.
Able to meet the requirements of IECC 2018 (Climate Zones 1-8) and ASHRAE 90.1-2016 (Climate Zones 1-8) for United States.
R-Boost is designed to work with Nucor’s standing seam roof system, CFR.
Executive Director Report: Fall 2021
What an unprecedented time the world has just gone through! After close to 18 months of battling COVID-19, Canada is starting to see a light at the end of the tunnel. On July 1st, Alberta removed the majority of the health restrictions. However, the dark cloud of variants still lurks. The key weapon in the battle is vaccination and thankfully Alberta's vaccination numbers improve daily. Alberta still very much relies on the energy sector. With oil prices breaking $75/barrel there is new optimism in the oilpatch. As the various energy companies return to profitability we will see dollars reinvested, creating jobs and economic growth. At the same time natural gas pricing has recovered. Supply is at low levels and demand has been growing. The hydrogen sector is heating up and attracting both government and private sector investment. Combined they will be a significant economic driver for Alberta. The demand for construction services should start to see some tangible increases.
Message from the Chair: Fall 2021
What's New: Solar Power, the Key to a Clean Energy Future
A standing seam metal roof, combined with Photovoltaic arrays, makes great economic ‘cents’. With a 30-year power source, on a 40-year roof, you can lower your carbon footprint while reducing your operating expenses. The PF Flush-mounted bracket saves installation time and your initial investment cost.
Visit atbest.ca/roof-solar-mounting-systems/ to learn more about this innovative solution.