CMM Contributes to Industry Capacity Building at National Conference
The Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq (CMM) participated in the process of strengthening the technical capacity of its communities in construction industry, at a national-level conference.
CMM staff were part of more than 130 participants at the First Nations National Building Officers Association (FNNBOA) National Conference in Dartmouth, an opportunity for experts across the construction industry to share insights, experience and knowledge, in their chosen fields, from pouring foundations and raising studs, to technical best practices for insulation against the rigors of the Canadian winter.
The above were a small selection of the many housing and construction related topics affecting First Nations communities and building professionals across the province, discussed through plenary talks and roundtable discussions.
“The conference was a meaningful success, bringing together Indigenous leaders, community members, and housing experts to share knowledge, strengthen partnerships, and advance culturally grounded housing solutions that support long-term community wellbeing,” said CMM Housing Inspector Greg Smith, with the Department of Community and Infrastructure Services (DCSI).
Greg attended the event with DCSI Director Trina Khattar, and CMM Elder in-Residence Don Julien.
The general cohort attending the event at the Delta Dartmouth hotel included Band Chiefs, technical organizations, industry stakeholders, councilors, housing specialists, contractors, builders and suppliers.
According to FNNBOA President Robin Cayer Stephens, attendees traveled from as far away as the Yukon and British Columbia – in addition to Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario Quebec, and the other Atlantic provinces – to attend the three-day event from July 1st to 3rd.
Thirteen exhibitors also attended the conference, showcasing services and innovations supporting First Nations housing, building inspection, construction and infrastructure development.
The focus of the conference ranged from a thorough training session on construction project management, tenders, contracts and bonds, to building codes, energy retrofits and life cycle assessment and infrastructure.
The advancement of building safety, housing capacity, technical training and professional development for First Nations building officials, housing managers and technicians were also explored during the three-day event.
“The event provided an important opportunity for participants to network, share experiences, discuss common challenges and exchange best practices that support safe, sustainable, and culturally appropriate housing and infrastructure in First Nations communities across Canada,” Robin explained.
The event also saw FNNBOA introduce its new Executive Director, Scott Smith, with strategic planning sessions with FNNBOA’s board of directors, guiding its future direction.
The panel speakers came from a variety of backgrounds in First Nations and private sector entities across Canada – including Unama’ki (Cape Breton)-based housing and infrastructure experts Justin Googoo and Wasuek Googoo, with the Union of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq (UNSM).