Legacy Builders Construction Careers Association Officially Launches as a Non-Profit
After four years of empowering students to discover meaningful, hands-on careers in construction, Legacy Builders is proud to announce its next big milestone: the official incorporation of the Legacy Builders Construction Careers Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening youth awareness and engagement in the skilled trades.
Originally launched as an educational initiative through the Grand Valley Construction Association (GVCA), Legacy Builders has evolved from a small pilot project into a growing movement. Through dynamic school programs, interactive workshops, career-day events, and in-class construction challenges, the program has helped thousands of students learn that the construction industry is filled with opportunity, innovation, and purpose.
Now, with incorporation complete, Legacy Builders is expanding its mission—and its reach.
Building Purpose: Why We Incorporated
The demand for skilled trades and construction professionals has never been greater. Ontario’s construction sector is growing rapidly, and the workforce of tomorrow must include young people who understand the pathways available to them. That’s where Legacy Builders comes in.
As a non-profit, our purpose is clear and community-driven:
Inspire youth to explore trades and construction-related careers
Educate parents, teachers, and students about real job opportunities
Provide hands-on programming that brings the industry to life
Create accessible, engaging resources aligned with curriculum needs
Build partnerships between schools, industry, and community leaders
Support workforce development through research and youth-engagement data
Raise funds to expand programming and bring construction education to more classrooms
The incorporation strengthens our ability to grow, collaborate, and deliver meaningful experiences across the province. We aim to prove that there is a place for everyone in construction!
Our Programs: Hands-On, Impactful, and Built for Students
Legacy Builders will continue to expand its suite of youth-focused initiatives, including:
In-School Workshops & Presentations
Interactive sessions led by industry professionals, introducing students to career paths such as carpentry, electrical, HVAC, project management, engineering, and more.
Hands-On Demonstrations & Events
From tool talks to mock bidding challenges, we offer activities that spark curiosity and build confidence.
Digital Career Resources & Curriculum-Aligned Tools
Videos, activities, lesson plans, and online content designed to support teachers and engage learners.
Community & Industry Partnerships
Connecting schools with construction companies, tradespeople, associations, and community groups.
Research & Workforce Insights
Collecting data to better understand youth awareness, the labour gap, and emerging opportunities.
Our goal is simple: show students what’s possible—and help them get there.
Meet the Team Leading the Movement
Behind Legacy Builders is a dedicated group of leaders who believe deeply in the future of the skilled trades.
Christina Rauchfleisz-Shantz — President & Founder
Beth Marchant — Vice President
Our Board of Directors
Jeff Shantz of Melloul-Blamey Construction
Jason Church of Hewson Brothers Building Supply
Susan Carey of BuildSafe
Together, this team brings the insight, experience, and dedication needed to guide the association into its next chapter.
What’s Next for Legacy Builders?
With incorporation complete, Legacy Builders is entering a period of exciting growth. In the coming year, we will:
Expand into more classrooms and school boards
Launch new digital tools and educator resources
Grow our partnerships with construction companies and industry associations
Host more community events, demonstrations, and networking opportunities
Increase sponsorship opportunities to sustain and scale our programming
Our commitment is to reach even more youth across Ontario—helping them see the construction industry not just as a career option, but as a pathway filled with innovation, stability, creativity, and pride.
A special thank you
We want to express how incredibly grateful we are to our 2 industry partners who have backed this program with unwavering support and are ready to help us take it to the next level.
A special thanks to Melloul-Blamey Construction, and Hewson Brothers Building Supply for consistently believing in the importance of inspiring youth in construction. We couldn't do it without them.
Join Us in Building the Future Workforce
Legacy Builders Construction Careers Association is excited to build deeper partnerships with schools, families, industry leaders, and community champions who share our passion for empowering youth.
Whether you are an educator, an employer, a trades professional, or a parent—we invite you to be part of this movement.
We currently offer three sponsorship tiers for businesses, and we’re excited to introduce a fourth category for individuals who wish to support our mission on a personal level. These contributors will be recognized on our Honour Roll of Supporters as a meaningful part of the Legacy Builders community.
