Celebrating Excellence: The Toronto Construction Association’s Best of the Best Awards
In the bustling heart of Toronto, a unique occasion took place recently—the Toronto Construction Association (TCA) Best of the Best Awards. This prestigious event, highlighted by the presence of TCA President and CEO John Mollenhauer, celebrated the individuals, companies, and innovative projects that have made significant contributions to the construction industry.
Recognizing Excellence in the Industry
The Best of the Best Awards are not merely accolades; they signify a commitment to excellence, innovation, and integrity within the Toronto construction sector. Presented during the TCA’s annual general meeting on February 20, the awards highlighted the remarkable achievements of those who consistently strive for quality and performance in their work.
“It’s a really exceptional group of people that we have the opportunity to recognize at the awards and AGM,” Mollenhauer remarked. “I think it’s nice for others to see who these extraordinary people are.” This sentiment underscores the importance of recognition in fostering a collaborative spirit and motivating industry professionals to aspire toward excellence.
The Prestigious Donald P. Giffin Sr. Award
At the pinnacle of the ceremony was the Donald P. Giffin Sr. Construction Industry Achievement Award, which honors individuals who have profoundly impacted the industry. This year, Glenn Ackerley, Chair of the Construction Practice Group at WeirFoulds LLP, was the deserving recipient. Ackerley’s extensive involvement with various construction associations, including his past role as TCA chair and his current position on the Canadian Construction Association, highlights his dedication to the field.
Mollenhauer praised Ackerley for his selfless contributions, stating, “I can’t think of anybody that has given more of his time and had a more genuine influence on doing things selflessly for the greater good of the industry than Glenn.” For Ackerley, receiving the Giffin Award was a true honor and a reflection of his philosophy: “It’s important for those of us who work with the industry to get engaged in different ways on boards, associations, working groups, task forces, committees to try and make the industry better.”
Celebrating Project Excellence
The Best of the Best Project Achievement Awards recognized outstanding projects across three categories: small, medium, and large. This year, the small category saw a tie between Parklane Mechanical Acoustics for a multi-source retrofit noise abatement project and Brook Restoration for the rehabilitation of a concrete stack at the Commissioners Street transfer station.
In the medium category, PCL Constructors Canada Inc. was honored for the Royal York Hotel lobby renovation, while Toddglen Construction Management Inc. triumphed in the large category with the Residences of 488 University Ave. Mollenhauer noted that all awarded projects faced unique challenges, showcasing the strength and resilience of the teams behind them.
Highlighting Educational Impact and Young Leaders
In addition to project accolades, the TCIC-Chancellors Award of Excellence was awarded to Clint Kissoon of FENAL Estimating Services for his transformative contributions to education within the TCA. Moreover, Christine Kellowan of Goldman Sloan Nash & Harber LLP received the Sean P. McKenna Young Construction Leaders Award, acknowledged for her enthusiastic participation and commitment to the young leaders’ group.
Mollenhauer’s comments reflect the significance of nurturing future leaders within the industry: “She has been awesome… a great asset to the young leaders’ group.”
Recognizing Commitment and Dedication
Blair Davies of Facade Systems Inc. was awarded the Distinguished Volunteer Award, celebrated for his passion and enthusiasm in modernizing the TCA’s membership and value proposition. Other notable awards included the Community Leader Award, which went to Group AGF Inc., the Innovation Award presented to Giatec Scientific Inc. for their wireless concrete sensor, and the Trade Contractor Award awarded to Verdi Alliance. Ties for the Outstanding Safety Culture Award reflected a shared commitment to safety excellence between Modern Niagara and Alberici Constructors.
Acknowledging Contributions
As the ceremony drew to a close, Mollenhauer took a moment to honor three board members stepping down—Joel Baker, Paul Boylan, and Jim Vlahos—each having made invaluable contributions throughout their tenure. “We have been very well served having each of them on our board,” he stated, acknowledging their dedication and impact on the TCA.
Conclusion
The TCA’s Best of the Best Awards serve as a reminder of the talent, commitment, and innovation thriving within the Toronto construction industry. Recognizing both seasoned professionals and emerging leaders fosters a culture of excellence that inspires others to follow in their footsteps. As Mollenhauer aptly noted, seeing these extraordinary individuals and their contributions is a celebration of the spirit and resilience that drives the construction community forward.
