08/13/2026
Important conversations are taking place about the future of Canada’s defence infrastructure and the skilled workforce needed to deliver it.
With significant defence investments happening here in Nova Scotia and across Atlantic Canada, the skilled trades will play an important role in building the infrastructure Canada needs while creating opportunities for workers, apprentices, and communities.
We’re proud to see the Building Trades at the table as Canada strengthens its defence capacity and invests in the future of our region.
Yesterday, our Executive Director, Sean Strickland alongside members of Canada's Building Trades Unions Executive Board met with the Minister of National Defence, David McGuinty and fellow senior staff to discuss the National Defence Building Strategy. We reviewed infrastructure priorities for projects along Canada’s coasts and in the Arctic while examining the role unionized construction can play in advancing defence objectives. Together, we explored opportunities for closer coordination on workforce planning, security‑clearance processes, and long‑term training models. As Canada begins to rebuild, rearm, and reinvest in the Canadian Armed Forces, our members are ready to work with the department and deliver on these important national defense projects.
"The work of defending Canada is the work of building Canada." - Prime Minister Mark Carney
IBEW Canada, International Union of Painters & Allied Trades, LiUNA Canada, Canadian Ironworkers, OPCMIA, BAC, IUOE, Sheet Metal Workers & Roofers - SMART Canada, UA Canada Insulators Union
