2008 was a year of dramatic change in our industry. I look forward to what 2009 will bring and I am optimistic about Alberta’s outlook in the coming year. Through these slower times it is important to take the opportunity to improve practices and processes and continue working toward common goals across the province. Some of the common issues we have strived to work on are improving relations with our government, developing a skilled workforce and improving building methods.

Building strategic relationships with the provincial government on issues that impact the daily business of our members is one of the most important areas we can allocate our resources to. Since our association began focusing on provincial government relationships in 2006, we have seen an exponential increase in occurrences where our industry’s input is being requested and taken seriously. When a subject arises at the provincial level that affects your business, your voice is heard in a professional, respected and credible way.

In addition to building relationships, we have worked hard to provide members with information on changes to the National and Alberta Building codes, new building technologies and construction techniques that contribute to member’s ability to operate successfully. Being kept up to date with the latest information allows members to improve their building processes more efficiently and effectively. Recently, the association was asked to consult with the Alberta Government on many building technology issues. As discussing changes in how new homes are constructed is an ongoing effort, it is important to have resources dedicated to this area to ensure the voice of our members is heard and has influence on what decisions are made.

To continue to be heard and to influence decisions, it is important that those in our industry across the province are united. We are pleased with the work being done to unite the industry with the newly formed CHBA-Medicine Hat Region. We wish them a successful first year. Another aspect of building our membership is developing a skilled workforce. Change in this area takes time, but progress is being made. The connection between a skilled workforce and other issues such as addressing building envelope concerns and residential building practices is undeniable. If we can provide training and education to improve the skill and precision in which residential homes are built, we will see quality increase, costs decrease and consumer confidence increase. Better skills lead to better homes, which leads to better business results for everyone involved in the home building industry.

Focusing on these areas increases professionalism in our industry which springboards into improved perception of residential construction. Tougher markets mean making the appropriate adjustments. Keeping BuiltGreen healthy and strong, increasing the visibility of our industry and the value of home ownership, working with government on initiatives dealing with green building practices, waste and disposal practice, fire and building code changes and industry training are things we can all work together on at all levels to keep moving forward on the priorities that are important to our members.

Bruce Galts

President