MAPLE RIDGE, B.C. — It was a meeting of the minds for this year’s Future of Work 2025 event, which was hosted at Pitt Meadows Plumbing’s Shop XL in partnership with Houle Electric.
Construction leaders, trades and innovators gathered for two days of conversation, learning and connection with one key focus: how the industry must evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world.
The two-day format included an industry mixer on the first night followed by a full conference day packed with panels, keynote presentations and sponsor activations.
Throughout the event, a clear message emerged: “Real collaboration stems from culture, trust, and early engagement. It’s not just about tools — it’s about empowering people and aligning teams from day one,” states a release.
“At a time when the sector faces unprecedented challenges, from skilled labour shortages and shifting delivery models to the pressures of technology and productivity, Future of Work offered something rare: an honest, practical, and forward-looking platform that centered real builders and real solutions.”
Five panels and two keynote presentations tackled critical themes such as:
- Collaborative project delivery models and new ways to align project teams
- Technology integration that moves beyond tool adoption to operational change
- Workforce development and reshaping public perception of the trades
- Leadership, innovation and collaboration as the industry’s most valuable assets
“We didn’t build this event to mirror other conferences,” said Matt Bewsey from Houle in a statement. “We built it because construction deserves a conversation that is grounded in experience, elevated by innovation, and led by the people doing the work.”
The event also included a community-driven initiative. Gently used PPE donations were collected onsite for the Working Gear Clothing Society, which helps equip individuals entering the skilled trades.
According to the release, one of the most powerful moments of Future of Work 2025 came during the final session. Dr. Irish Horsey urged the industry to take collective responsibility for its future, encouraging every construction professional to mentor others, volunteer their time and help open doors for the next generation entering the trades.
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