BUILDEX Vancouver 2026: VRCA returns with Connector Lounge, industry panels

VANCOUVER — The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) has announced its return to BUILDEX Vancouver 2026, which takes place Feb. 11 to 12 at the Vancouver Convention Centre.

For its third consecutive year, the association will host the VRCA Connector Lounge on the trade show floor.

The lounge serves as a gathering place and connection hub for builders, contractors, industry leaders, innovators and emerging professionals, states a release.

“BUILDEX is an important opportunity for the industry to come together, and VRCA is proud to play a role in fostering those connections,” said Jeannine Martin, president of the VRCA, in a statement. “The Connector Lounge, as well as our industry panel programming, reflects VRCA’s commitment to collaboration, advocacy, and leadership within the construction community.” 

The VRCA will also be hosting a series of educational sessions, including industry panels and a construction keynote session.

This year’s programming includes: 

The Builders’ Bench Live: Where Politics Meets Construction – Construction Keynote 

Wednesday, Feb. 11 at 10 a.m., BUILDEX Main Stage 

This panel will tackle political and economic issues that shape B.C.’s construction industry – from housing mandates and permitting reform to infrastructure investment and workforce challenges. 

Building a Pipeline for the Future 

Wednesday, Feb. 11 at 11 a.m., VRCA Connector Lounge 

Explore how the Vancouver School Board’s Youth Work in Trades program opens early apprenticeship pathways for students and helps grow the next generation of skilled talent.

Meet the VRCA Board of Directors Mixer/Happy Hour 

Wednesday, Feb. 11 at 3:30 p.m., VRCA Connector Lounge 

Connect with the leaders shaping VRCA’s and the industry’s direction.

The Builders’ Bench Live: The Municipal Election & the Future of Construction 

Thursday, Feb. 12 at 10:30 a.m., BUILDEX Main Stage 

Municipal governments make the decisions that shape our industry every day – from zoning bylaws to permitting timelines and procurement practices. With municipal elections ahead in 2026, the stakes for construction have never been higher.  

Empowering Entrepreneurs Mixer & Panel 

Thursday, Feb. 12 at 2 p.m., VRCA Connector Lounge 

An engaging panel on entrepreneurship in construction, followed by a high-energy mixer built for connection and collaboration.

“From workforce development to public policy and entrepreneurship, our BUILDEX programming reflects the real conversations happening in construction today,” added Martin. “By bringing these discussions to the show floor, VRCA is helping ensure our industry is informed, engaged, and prepared for what’s ahead.” 

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