Connect. Support. Inspire.
CANS 2026 Stanhope Simpson Insurance Women in Construction Forum
Thursday, September 24, 2026 | Cedar Event Centre (Halifax, NS)
You’re Invited to CANS Women in Construction Forum
Join us for the CANS Women in Construction Forum
The CANS Women in Construction Forum brings together professionals from across Nova Scotia’s construction industry to connect, learn and grow. While spotlighting the experiences, accomplishments and perspectives of women in construction, the forum welcomes participants of all genders who are committed to building a stronger, more inclusive industry.
More than a conference, this event is an opportunity to build meaningful relationships, expand your professional network and gain insights from industry leaders and subject matter experts. Through inspiring presentations, interactive networking sessions and engaging conversations, attendees will leave with new perspectives, practical takeaways and valuable industry connections.
Event Information
- Date: Thursday, September 24
- Time: Check-in opens at 9 a.m.
- Location: Cedar Event Centre, Halifax
- Registration: Opening in mid-July!
- Sponsorship: Interested in supporting this event? Contact Justin Blakeney, Sponsorship Lead, to learn more about available sponsorship opportunities.
Pricing
Your registration includes full-day forum access, a welcome mocktail, plated lunch, networking opportunities and access to the exhibitor showcase.
- Members: $375 + HST
- Non-Members: $487.50 + HST
Ticket Cancelation Policy: A minimum of 10 working days’ notice is required to be eligible for a 75% refund of registration fees.
Keynote Speaker
Dr. Ashley Margeson
Dr. Ashley is a nationally recognized expert who equips teams, leaders, and organizations with the science-backed strategies they need to manage stress, optimize performance, and sustain energy—because success shouldn’t come at the cost of burnout.
A sought-after speaker, Dr. Ashley Margeson specializes in evidence-based strategies and delivers engaging, actionable talks that empower leaders and organizations to integrate sustainable self-care into their busy lives. She debunks the myths of work-life balance to improve productivity and foster long-term well-being.
Networking Facilitator
Jennie West-Correia (West Reach Development)
Jennie brings over 25 years of experience and deep passion, energy and expertise in leadership development, employee engagement, and collaboration. Jennie has been helping leaders of all levels enhance how they approach leading others. As an executive coach, facilitator, and trainer, she has become well respected and highly sought for her creative, engaging, and practical approach.
Presenters
Kelly Bennett (Abacus Data)
Kelly is a pollster with personality plus. She loves a challenge and always digs deep. A proud Bluenoser, Kelly leads Abacus Data’s work in Atlantic Canada and supports clients across the country. Over her fifteen-year career, she has asked thousands of research questions to help organizations understand people’s experiences, priorities, and decisions.
Allison Godwin (BOYNECLARKE LLP)
Allison Godwin is a Partner with the Business Litigation team at BOYNECLARKE LLP, with a practice focused primarily on civil, commercial, and construction litigation. Recognized in Best Lawyers in Canada for Corporate and Commercial Litigation and Construction Law, she has appeared at all levels of Court in Nova Scotia throughout her more than decade-long legal career. Allison is also Chair of the firm’s Articling Committee and is passionate about mentorship, workplace culture, and professional development.
Tracy Smith (BOYNECLARKE LLP)
Tracy Smith is a Partner and Team Lead of BOYNECLARKE’s Business Litigation group, with a practice focused on construction, commercial, and estate litigation. She advises clients on complex construction disputes and has been recognized by Best Lawyers since 2024 and as a Thomson Reuters Stand-Out Lawyer since 2025. Throughout her leadership roles at the firm, Tracy has been a strong advocate for mentorship and has helped shape and evolve mentorship programs from both mentor and mentee perspectives.
Agenda
9:00 a.m. Registration, Welcome Mocktail & Exhibitor Showcase
10:00 a.m. Opening Remarks
10:15 a.m. Session One: Making the Invisible Visible: What Women Carry and the Support We Need
11:15 a.m. Break & Exhibitor Showcase
11:25 a.m. Session Two: (Wo)Men-toring: Navigating mentorship in a male dominated profession.
12:00 p.m. Networking Lunch
1:05 p.m. Session Three: Professional Presence and Networking with Purpose
2:05 p.m. Keynote Address: Built To Last – Building the Foundation for Lifelong Wellbeing
3:05 p.m. Networking & Exhibitor Showcase
3:45 p.m. Prize Draws
4:00 p.m. Closing Remarks
Who’s Invited?
CANS Women in Construction Forum welcomes everyone, regardless of gender.
CANS is committed to fostering an inclusive industry and building supportive networks that extend beyond the confines of this event. Anyone interested in encouraging and supporting women in the industry is welcome to attend.
Getting There
Parking: Complimentary parking is available on-site at the Cedar Event Centre. The venue offers a large, paved parking area at both the front and rear of the facility, with space for up to 164 vehicles (subject to availability and posted regulations).
With Thanks to Our Partner
Looking Back at Previous Women in Construction Events
See how the construction industry comes together to celebrate, support and elevate women across the sector.
Explore photos from previous events:
Questions?
Event Information
Britney MacPhee
Events Lead
902-499-2939
bmacphee@cans.ns.ca
Sponsorship Information
Justin Blakeney
Sponsorship Lead
902-818-6530
jblakeney@cans.ns.ca