Presented by The GVCA & the Leaders in Construction Committee
A Vision Rooted in Community and Opportunity
The Grand Valley Construction Association (GVCA), through its Leaders in Construction (LinC) Committee, is making remarkable strides in developing the next generation of skilled trades professionals through the Legacy Builders Program. Launched in September 2022, this initiative was designed to introduce students to the vibrant possibilities within the construction industry.
Turning a Great Idea into a Movement
When GVCA’s LinC Committee first helped bring Legacy Builders to life, the goal was to reach 300 students in our first year. The results blew that goal out of the water. Together, we reached 1,440 students in just ten months—and had a waiting list of 300 more eager to participate the following school year. That’s the power of collaboration.
What GVCA Brings to the Table
Industry Leadership & Volunteer Power – GVCA member companies and LinC Committee volunteers share their own career journeys with students, showing them the diverse paths into construction.
Hands-On Learning – Through Legacy Bidders, students step into the shoes of project managers, navigating the challenges of a real construction project in a fun, interactive way.
Career Resources – Every student leaves with our Careers in Construction booklet—packed with job profiles, salary info, training options, and contact points for apprenticeships.
Lasting Impressions – Branded Legacy Builders caps and hoodies help students walk away feeling connected to the industry and proud of what they’ve learned.
Impact You Can See
One of our favourite stories from the program came from a Grade 8 class where, before the session, no one had considered a career in construction. By the end? Nine students—over a third of the class—raised their hands, excited about the possibilities. That’s the kind of change GVCA helps make happen.
Building the Industry’s Future
Ontario will need over 100,000 new skilled tradespeople in the next decade. Through their leadership, resources, and deep industry connections, GVCA’s LinC Committee is helping us plant the seeds for that workforce now—one classroom, one conversation, and one inspired student at a time.
From all of us at Legacy Builders: thank you, GVCA and the Leaders in Construction Committee, for being champions of the next generation.
Get Involved
GVCA welcomes support in two meaningful ways:
Sponsorship Opportunities: Put your company logo in front of families and communities—booklets, websites, and more provide excellent visibility.
Volunteer Instructors: Bring your own story to the next generation and inspire students to consider rewarding careers in construction.
By combining personal stories, gamification, and career resources, the GVCA and LinC Committee—with help from the Business & Education Partnership of Waterloo Region—have created a program that’s reshaping both perception and opportunity.
If you'd like help reaching out to volunteer, sponsoring future sessions, or covering this initiative further, I’d be happy to assist!