CANS expanding industry recognition program with five new awards
The Construction Association of Nova Scotia (CANS) is proud to launch five new awards that recognize the outstanding contributions of individuals and companies shaping the future of our province’s construction sector. These awards highlight leadership, innovation, community spirit, and the advancement of women in the industry. These additions build on CANS’ longstanding recognition program, which honours members for their sustained commitment and contributions to the industry, including Long-Term Member Award, Bowman Award, Building Futures for Youth awards, and Honourary Life Member Award.
New for 2025
This award honours an individual whose contributions, leadership, and active engagement have created meaningful and lasting impact in their community. The Community Leader Award recognizes individuals who dedicate their time, energy, and resources to building stronger, healthier, and more connected neighbourhoods across Nova Scotia.
This award recognizes an organization that demonstrates exceptional commitment to workplace health and safety. Successful candidates will showcase excellence in safety program development, workforce training, industry engagement, and a strong safety record.
Trailblazer Award: Celebrating Women in Construction
This award honours a woman in the construction industry who demonstrates outstanding leadership, drives innovation and inclusion, and actively shapes a more equitable future for all. The recipient is a role model whose influence extends beyond her organization and into the broader industry and community.
Excellence in Innovation Award
This award recognizes a company that has demonstrated creativity and forward-thinking by implementing innovative construction practices within the past two years. Whether through new approaches to project delivery, process design, workforce development, mentorship, digital technology, or environmental sustainability, the winning company will exemplify a commitment to improving the construction industry through bold and effective change.
Champion in Education & Training Award
Recognizes a CANS member company that has shown exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing education, training, and professional development in Nova Scotia’s construction industry. This award celebrates companies that are actively building the capacity, knowledge, and expertise of their teams as a core part of how they do business.
Nominations for CANS 2025 awards program — coming soon!
Honourary Life Member Award – NOW OPEN!
Nominations for CANS new slate of awards is coming soon! Watch here for updates.
Important information for Nominators and Nominees
Who can nominate?
Nominations are open to both self-nominations and third-party submissions. We encourage colleagues, supervisors, and community members to nominate deserving individuals or companies.
Who is eligible?
All nominees must be affiliated with a CANS member company in good standing. Additional eligibility details are listed within each award’s criteria.
What should the nomination include?
Each award has a clear set of submission requirements, including supporting documents, and optional materials such as letters of reference, media coverage, or photos. Be sure to carefully review criteria to guide your submission.
How are submissions judged?
A panel of industry professionals will independently review all submissions. Each nomination is scored using a transparent and standardized rubric based on the criteria provided. All judges will be required to declare any potential conflicts of interest before scoring begins. Top-scoring submissions will be shortlisted, with winners selected based on merit and overall impact.
What do winners receive?
In addition to province-wide recognition and a featured award presentation at the CANS 163rd Annual General Meeting, winners will receive a commemorative plaque, media coverage through CANS channels, and the opportunity to be profiled in future CANS publications.
Timeline
Submissions open: July 16
Submission deadline: August 13
Judging period: August 20 – August 29
The winner will be notified of the outcome in September 2025. The award will be presented at CANS 163rd Annual General Meeting on October 7.
Tips for a strong submission
- Be specific: Use concrete examples, data, and stories to show impact.
- Follow the rubric: Address each question clearly and stay within the word limits.
- Support your case: Where applicable, include reference letters, photos, or documentation that strengthen your submission.
- Start early: Gathering strong content and supporting materials takes time — plan ahead.
Questions? For more information or help with the process, contact Taylor Shaw.
FAQ
1. There is no cost to nominate
Submitting a nomination is completely free. CANS encourages participation from across all member firms, regardless of size, trade, or region.
2. Multiple nominations are welcome
You may nominate more than one person or company, and you may submit for more than one award, provided each submission is tailored to the specific criteria.
3. Collaboration is encouraged
Multiple colleagues can contribute to a single submission—especially if pulling together program descriptions, photos, or reference letters. The submission should reflect the impact of one person or company.
4. Judging is confidential and impartial
Each award will be reviewed by an independent committee made up of industry representatives and subject matter experts. All judges will be required to declare any potential conflicts of interest before scoring begins.
5. Winners and finalists will be celebrated publicly
Beyond the awards presentation, CANS will highlight winners and finalists in industry newsletters, website profiles, media releases, and social media channels. Being nominated is a recognition in itself—and a valuable boost to your firm’s visibility and reputation.
6. Individual deadline extensions will not be granted
Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered, so please review requirements carefully and submit on time. We recommend starting early to gather strong content.
7. Awards are open to all CANS members across the province
Whether you’re based in HRM, CBRM, or elsewhere in Nova Scotia, we want to hear from you. The awards are designed to reflect the full diversity of roles, regions, and experiences within the construction sector.
8. These awards support broader industry goals
These five new awards are not just about recognition—they are part of CANS’ ongoing commitment to leadership development, workforce diversity, community engagement, and innovation. Your participation helps highlight the progress being made across the sector.