VICA announces new leadership for 2023/2024

VICTORIA – The Vancouver Island Construction Association (VICA) has announced its new board of directors for the 2023/2024 term.

This decision was made during the association’s 2023 Annual General Meeting, which took place earlier this month at the Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse in Saanichton, B.C.

Ten nominees from across Vancouver Island were considered, with three incumbents being re-elected.

Stuart Cuthbert of Slegg Building Materials, Morley Wilkins of Method Chartered Professional Accounting, and Scott Torry of AFC Construction will continue their roles on the board.

Cuthbert steps into the role of board chair, with Barclay Ellis of Trades Labour Corporation Victoria serving as vice-chair.

Torry is the new treasurer and Wilkins will serve as secretary. Kate Ulmer of Herold Engineering moves into the position of past-chair.

Cuthbert brings nearly two decades of experience in both domestic and international construction to his role as chair. His diverse background in supply, subcontracting and manufacturing offers a broad perspective on the needs and priorities of VICA members.

Chris Lyons of Omicron Construction, the outgoing past-chair, was acknowledged for his contributions, including his involvement in the founding of VICA’s Young Builders Network and the Tailgate Toolkit Program. His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and his role in VICA’s youth employment initiatives were also highlighted. Lyons now joins the BC Construction Association’s board of directors.

Rory Kulmala, CEO of VICA, expressed confidence in the new board’s ability to meet the high demand for construction services, emphasizing the importance of addressing housing and public infrastructure needs in Vancouver Island communities.

Cuthbert expressed gratitude for his election and his commitment to continuing the work of the previous board, with a focus on advocacy, professional growth, effective governance and enhancing member benefits. 

Ulmer reflected on her tenure, noting the collective achievements and challenges faced by the Vancouver Island construction sector.

VICA, with roots dating back to 1912, represents various sectors within the construction industry on Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands and other coastal areas of British Columbia.