Attending BUILDEX Vancouver 2025 was another milestone event for A Few Good Lads. As a Platinum Sponsor, we were thrilled to continue our commitment to supporting and shaping the construction industry in Canada. This year, we took things even further—sponsoring the Central Bar and attending the exclusive CEO Breakfast, all while handing out our now-iconic orange tote bags and having countless conversations about the future of skilled labour.
The CEO Breakfast: Connecting with Industry Leaders
Being part of the CEO Breakfast was a standout moment. It’s not often you get to sit down with the top minds in the industry to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping construction today. Workforce shortages, immigration pathways, and sustainable labour solutions were all key topics of discussion, reinforcing our mission to bridge the gap between businesses and skilled international workers.
This year’s discussion featured Bob Rennie, founder of rennie, leading a conversation with CNN’s John King on the U.S. Presidential Election—what happened and what’s next. King, CNN’s chief national correspondent and anchor of Inside Politics, shared his insights on the election’s impact on the U.S., Canada, and global markets, drawing from his extensive experience covering past elections and political shifts.
The session provided a unique perspective on the broader economic and political landscape, adding valuable context to the challenges facing the construction industry today.
BUILDEX Exclusive: The A Few Good Lads Candidate Board
We were thrilled to bring the A Few Good Lads Candidate Board back to BUILDEX Vancouver 2025!
The Candidate Board is a curated platform showcasing skilled, ready-to-work international and domestic talent, connecting Canadian businesses with professionals who can meet their project needs.
Access to the Candidate Board was exclusively available to BUILDEX attendees—offering an invaluable resource for companies looking to find the right talent in an industry facing ongoing workforce shortages.
Sponsoring the Central Bar: Bringing People Together
One of the highlights of BUILDEX 2025 was our sponsorship of the Central Bar, a hub for networking and collaboration. Designed by Hyland Landscapes and built by our team, the space was more than just a bar—it was a place where connections were made. Attendees from all corners of the industry gathered here to share ideas, exchange business cards, and discuss the future of skilled trades in Canada.
Being a Platinum Sponsor at an event like BUILDEX isn’t just about visibility—it’s about impact. We’re committed to helping businesses find skilled workers through LMIAs and other programs, ensuring that companies aren’t just filling positions, but hiring the right people for the job. Our sponsorship is a reflection of that commitment, putting us at the centre of the conversations that matter most.
The Orange Tote Bags: A BUILDEX Staple
If you were at BUILDEX, you definitely saw them. Our bright orange tote bags were everywhere—on shoulders, at booths, and filled with materials from vendors across the event. More than just a giveaway, they were a symbol of our presence, reminding attendees that A Few Good Lads is here to support and strengthen the industry.
Conversations That Matter
Beyond the sponsorships and branding, what made BUILDEX 2025 truly meaningful were the conversations we had. We connected with hundreds of vendors, business owners, and industry professionals, all looking for solutions to the same challenges—labour shortages, workforce retention, and access to skilled talent. Each conversation reinforced why we do what we do: helping businesses thrive by connecting them with the right people.
Looking Ahead
BUILDEX Vancouver continues to be a cornerstone event for us, and this year was no exception. From the CEO Breakfast to the Central Bar, from our sponsorship to the countless meaningful conversations, it was an event that solidified our role in the industry. A massive thank you to everyone who stopped by, grabbed a tote, or shared a moment with us. We’d also like to extend our gratitude to ICBA and Informa and the entire BUILDEX team for putting on such a fantastic event and working with us to make it a success. We’re already looking forward to next year!