Call for Nominations: CANS 2025 Champion in Education & Training Award

Submission Requirements:

All nominations must include a written submission of no more than 1,200 words that clearly address the following five criteria. Supporting materials are welcome and encouraged.

1. Commitment to Workforce Training (maximum 25 points)

Clearly explain how your company demonstrates an ongoing commitment continuous learning and skill development for employees. Examples may include:

• Investments in upskilling, leadership development, or trade-specific certifications
• Reimbursement programs for external courses or certifications
• In-house learning, cross-training, or skill-sharing efforts
• Encouraging leadership development at all levels

2. Innovation in Education and Learning (maximum 15 points)
Describe any creative, innovative, or customized approaches your company has used to make learning more accessible, engaging, or relevant. This could include:

• In-house learning platforms or mentorship programs
• Tailored courses for specific workforce needs
• Innovations that increase accessibility or engagement in training
• Offering flexible learning opportunities (e.g., during work hours, online options)

3. Support for Career Advancement (maximum 25 points)
Outline how your company supports people entering or advancing in the industry, such as:

• Completion incentives or retention supports
• Support for employees to pursue Gold Seal certification
• Financial or scheduling support to pursue non-mandated credentials
• Providing mentorship or peer learning opportunities
• Offering leadership pathways for skilled workers moving into supervisory or management roles
• Collaborating with schools, colleges, or workforce programs to introduce people to construction careers

4. Industry Leadership and Sector Engagement (maximum 20 points)
Explain how your company has contributed to strengthening workforce development across the sector. Examples may include:

• Engagement in non-mandated workforce training
• Speaking at education or training conferences
• Participating in industry-related advocacy, boards, or advisory groups
• Working with partners or associations to promote workforce development initiatives

5. Measurable Results and Impact (maximum 15 points)
Provide examples of measurable or meaningful outcomes that have resulted from your commitment to education. Describe the results of your efforts. Examples may include:

• Data, metrics, or testimonials that demonstrate success, such as Gold Seal certifications, increases in certifications, completion rates, or upskilling
• Worker retention or promotion linked to training
• Any unintended positive outcomes or lessons learned

Supporting Materials

Nominees are encouraged to include up to three additional supporting documents to strengthen their application, such as:

• Letters of support or recognition from colleagues, clients, or partners
• Internal policy documents
• Photos or social media content of safety activities
• Program brochures, news articles, or media features

All supporting materials should be clearly labelled and referenced in your written submission. Appendices should be included at the end of the nomination package.