Training begins this week through the renowned Be More Than a Bystander (BMTAB) program that will equip Mission Possible staff and other social organizations with practical skills to respond to incidences of harassment and violence, strengthen respectful workplace practices, and create safe environments for employees and the broader community.

This exciting collaboration reflects the BCMEA and its members’ dedication to violence prevention, respectful workplace education, and meaningful community partnerships. For more than two decades, the BCMEA has proudly supported Mission Possible and its employment and community initiatives, helping to strengthen a neighbourhood where many of its members operate — and where the Association’s head office and Dispatch Hall have been located for more than 50 years.

This partnership is grounded in a shared belief that strong and resilient neighbourhoods are built when individuals are empowered with opportunity, treated with respect, and supported with dignity. 

Guided by these same values, the BCMEA and its members made a milestone investment in 2021 to bring the BMTAB program to B.C.’s waterfront workforce through a partnership with EVA BC, the BC Lions, the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada, and the Government of Canada. The program provides gender-based violence and harassment prevention education and equips waterfront workers with practical bystander intervention skills. Recognizing the importance of this work, the BCMEA and its members became Presenting Partners of BMTAB, helping the program’s continued delivery to high schools across the province, where BC Lions players engage thousands of students in conversations about respect, healthy relationships, and violence prevention.

Building on this momentum, the BCMEA is now bringing BMTAB training to Mission Possible and other social organizations serving Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. Staff will participate in training designed to provide practical tools to support safe environments, including bystander intervention and de-escalation strategies.

“Through our valued relationships with EVA BC and Mission Possible, the BCMEA and our members recognized a natural opportunity to unite their expertise and shared commitment to creating safer, more inclusive communities.,” said Mike Leonard, BCMEA President and CEO. “This exciting new partnership bridges workplace education with community impact, so everyone feels safe, valued, supported, and empowered to act – at work and in their communities.”

“At Mission Possible, we believe everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and supported in the workplace and in the community,” said Matthew Smedley, Chief Empowerment Officer, Mission Possible. “Partnering with BCMEA and Ending Violence Association of BC strengthens our ability to foster a culture of empathy, accountability, and care while equipping our teams with practical tools to support one another.”

Ending Violence BC welcomed the partnership as an important opportunity to broaden violence prevention education into new workplaces and communities.

“Long-term partnerships are essential to creating meaningful and lasting change,” said Ninu Kang, Executive Director, EVA BC. “We are proud to continue working with BCMEA and to see Be More Than a Bystander expand into community organizations like Mission Possible Vancouver that are deeply committed to creating respectful, safe, and inclusive spaces.”

Delivering BMTAB training to organizations serving some of the most vulnerable populations in B.C. reinforces the BCMEA and its members commitment to ensuring dignity, inclusion, and well-being for communities beyond the waterfront.  

About the BC Maritime Â鶹 (BCMEA)
The BCMEA represents 48 maritime employers, including terminal operators, ocean carriers, and ship agents. The Association is responsible for the training, safety, dispatch, and administration of wages and benefits for 9,400 waterfront workers. Canada’s West Coast ports support the safe and efficient movement of approximately $1.1 billion worth of goods every day, moving nearly 50% of Canada’s total trade with partners beyond North America.

About Ending Violence Association of BC (EVA BC)
 The Ending Violence Association of BC (EVA BC) is a provincial organization that supports and strengthens survivor-serving anti-violence programs across BC. EVA BC leads coordination initiatives across sectors to improve responses to intimate partner violence and sexual violence. EVA BC also supports workplaces and organizations with training, education, consultation and resources to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.

About Mission Possible
Mission Possible is a non-profit organization that helps individuals facing barriers to employment build confidence, stability, and independence through meaningful work, training, and supportive community programs.

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Vancouver, B.C.: Canada’s west coast ports are playing a crucial role supporting national trade objectives and generating economic prosperity, supporting more than 150,000 Canadian jobs while moving $1.1 billion in goods every day.

The Economic Impact of West Coast Ports study, released today, found B.C.’s maritime gateways at the ports of Vancouver, Prince Rupert and Nanaimo serve as the backbone of Canada’s international trade, facilitating the flow of goods that sustain national and provincial prosperity.

The three ports handled more than 200 million metrics tonnes of cargo in 2025 worth $409 billion, moving record volumes of what Â鶹 make, mine, harvest and grow to global customers in more than 170 overseas markets.

They handle a diverse mix of cargo, supporting the movement of everything from bulk exports of Canadian energy, forestry products, potash, grain and critical minerals to two-way container trade and imports of Asian-made vehicles, manufacturing parts and household necessities.

• Port of Vancouver: Located on B.C.’s southwest coast, the port comprises 29 major deep-water terminals and more than 1,000 tenants who move goods and people across five sectors (auto, bulk, breakbulk, container and cruise). 
• Port of Prince Rupert: As Canada’s northernmost trade gateway on the west coast, the Port of Prince Rupert anchors one of the fastest and most reliable supply chains between North America and Asia, with 8 terminal and logistics facilities supporting over 7,900 jobs.
• Port of Nanaimo: Located 30 nautical miles from the Port of Vancouver, the Port of Nanaimo manages marine transportation, logistics, cruise, commercial and waterfront assets that support global trade, supply chain resilience and economic growth.

B.C.’s west coast ports offer North America’s best access to Indo-Pacific markets that are on track to account for 50% of global GDP by 2040. This includes strong inland road and rail links across Canada, and unimpeded ocean access to the Indo-Pacific with North America’s fastest shipping times.

The study also found the ports helped enrich neighbouring local and First Nation communities through job and procurement opportunities, partnerships and support for local events, and environmental stewardship.

The Economic Impact of West Coast Ports study was prepared by InterVISTAS for the Vancouver, Prince Rupert and Nanaimo port authorities, the BC Maritime Â鶹 (BCMEA), and the BC Marine Terminal Operators Association.
 
“West coast ports like Vancouver have an outsized role to play as Canada looks to double exports to non-U.S. markets over the next 10 years in support of a thriving national economy. With game-changing projects like Roberts Bank Terminal 2 on the horizon and a new federal Port of Vancouver Gateway Strategy in the works, we are poised to unlock one of our country’s greatest trade opportunities: the Indo-Pacific.
– Peter Xotta, President and CEO, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority

“West coast ports are integral to supporting Canada’s trade goals, and with $3 billion in projects underway, the Port of Prince Rupert is expanding capacity while supporting diversification. The Port of Prince Rupert will continue to be a key gateway to support Canada’s goal of doubling non-US exports with logistics hubs like CANXPORT and LinX coming online, the largest natural gas liquids facility on the west coast (the Ridley Island Energy Export Facility) currently under construction, along with additional port infrastructure such as new marine berth and rail capacity.”
– Kurt Slocombe, President and CEO, Prince Rupert Port Authority

“The economic impact highlighted in this study demonstrates that ports are more than places where cargo moves. They are platforms for economic growth, trade diversification and national resilience. As Canada looks to strengthen its trade corridors and expand access to global markets, strategic investments in infrastructure, industrial development and transportation connectivity will be essential. Nanaimo has an important role to play in supporting a stronger, more competitive and more connected Canadian economy.”
– Ian Marr, President and Chief Executive Officer, Nanaimo Port Authority

“Canada’s West Coast ports are a strategic national asset, connecting Canadian businesses to global markets and supporting thousands of family-sustaining jobs. Through the Pacific Gateway, our members—marine terminal operators, shipping lines and agents—help ensure the safe and efficient movement of goods. As global trade evolves, a stable, reliable waterfront and resilient national supply chains will be essential to unlocking new economic growth, diversifying trade and keeping Canada competitive.”
– Mike Leonard, President & CEO, BC Maritime Â鶹

“BC’s terminal operators are an integral part of Canada’s transportation network, facilitating the movement of cargo and passengers through Canada’s trade corridors. This report outlines the essential role terminals play in connecting the communities surrounding ports to the Canadian economy, and the critical function of BC’s transportation infrastructure in meeting our national trade objectives. Resilient, competitive supply chains are vital to attract investment and ensure Canada’s long-term economic growth.”
– Stephanie Jones, BC Marine Terminal Operators Association

BACKGROUND
Key findings from the Economic Impact of West Coast Ports study include that the ports of Vancouver, Prince Rupert and Nanaimo, and their supply chains:

• Handled a record 200 million metric tonnes of cargo in 2025, worth $409 billion, or over $1.1 billion in goods each day.
• Moved almost $281 billion of Canada’s trade with overseas trading partners, or nearly 50% of Canadian trade with markets outside of North America.
• Sustained 152,100 jobs across Canada that paid $13 billion in annual wages and added nearly $25 billion to GDP. This included 61,000 direct jobs such as Â鶹, train engineers, truck drivers and administrative staff.
• West Coast Ports are critical community anchors that drive social value through employee volunteerism, charitable giving, and partnerships with local organizations and First Nations that strengthen civic ties and support education, social services, and community well-being.

Media contact
Arpen Rana
Senior communications advisor
778.239.5264
Arpen.Rana@portvancouver.com

Vancouver Fraser Port Authority is the arm’s-length federal agency responsible for the shared stewardship of the Port of Vancouver, Canada’s largest port. This includes overseeing the use of lands and waters within the port’s boundaries, which border 16 municipalities and intersect the traditional territories and treaty lands of more than 35 Coast Salish First Nations. The Port of Vancouver is Canada’s gateway to diverse markets, enabling trade of $1 billion every day with more than 170 countries. Located on B.C.’s southwest coast, its 29 major deep-water terminals and more than 1,000 tenants move goods and people across five sectors (auto, bulk, breakbulk, container and cruise).

Prince Rupert Port Authority manages the Port of Prince Rupert, Canada’s northernmost trade gateway on the west coast. The Port of Prince Rupert anchors one of the fastest and most reliable supply chains between North America and Asia, providing vital infrastructure to support shippers and industries as they move their goods and resources to market. The Port of Prince Rupert handles $8.1 billion in Canadian exports and $32.1 billion in imports, supports approximately 7,940 full-time jobs throughout BC, representing $690 million in annual wages, and contributes $1.5 billion to Canada’s GDP.

Nanaimo Port Authority is Vancouver Island’s gateway to global trade and a key contributor to Canada’s Pacific trade corridor. Located just 30 nautical miles from the Port of Vancouver, it helps strengthen supply chain resilience, improve transportation efficiency, and connect Canadian businesses to international markets. Through its deep-water facilities, multimodal transportation network, industrial land opportunities, and partnerships with government, industry and First Nations, the Port supports trade diversification and economic growth. The Nanaimo Port Authority manages marine transportation, logistics, cruise, commercial and waterfront assets, creating shared economic, environmental and community value through responsible and sustainable port development.

BC Maritime Â鶹 (BCMEA) represents approximately 48 private waterfront employers and, by extension, the more than 9,400 people they directly employ. The BCMEA member companies are a vital part of the BC economy and a mainstay of the coastal community. Operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, their members are ship owners and agents, stevedores and terminal operators that power B.C.’s ports. The BCMEA helps optimize their members’ operations by providing expertise in training and safety, workforce operations and dispatch, labour relations and data analytics.

BC Marine Terminal Operators Association (BCMTOA) is the voice of the majority of marine terminals in British Columbia.  BCMTOA works to ensure that Canada’s Pacific Gateway delivers sustainable, competitive terminal capacity for Canadian importers and exporters.As integral part of Canada’s transportation network, members operate grain, bulk, breakbulk, container, auto and cruise terminals – ensuring safe routes for exports and serving as a gateway for essential imported goods. BCMTOA members have invested billions in trade facilitating infrastructure, to ensure capacity for Canadian importers and exporters and prepare for anticipated future growth.

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In 2021, with  we partnered with ILWU Canada, the Ending Violence Association of BC (EVA BC), and the BC Lions, to launch a groundbreaking  training program for B.C waterfront workforce province wide.  
 
Powered by EVA BC’s nationally recognized , the initiative was the first of its kind on B.C.’s waterfront and one of the largest workplace violence and harassment prevention training programs ever delivered in the federal sector. Together, the partners adapted the BC Lions’ acclaimed program to address the unique realities of waterfront operations, equipping workers with practical tools to recognize, prevent, and challenge workplace violence, harassment, bullying, and discrimination. 

Since its launch, the program has been delivered to nearly 10,000 waterfront workers, representing a significant milestone in strengthening workplace culture across B.C.’s ports. 

Renewing our Commitment  

Four years later, the BCMEA and its partners are continuing to build on that foundation. The next phase of training is now underway with a refreshed curriculum, and nearly 2,700 waterfront workers already completed the renewed program last year. 

The updated curriculum was informed by 20 employer safety committees and workforce feedback and now has a new de-escalation module, and greater focus on vulnerable workers and mental health, the evolving needs of today’s workplaces while reinforcing the shared responsibility everyone has in creating respectful environments. More than 6,000 more waterfront workers will be trained in the new program over the next two years.  

The renewed program continues to encourage open conversations, strengthen accountability, and reinforce that preventing workplace violence and harassment is everyone’s responsibility. 

Extending our Impact Beyond the Waterfront 

The success of the WPHVP program inspired the BCMEA to deepen its partnership with the Be More Than a Bystander initiative.  Today, the BCMEA proudly serves as the Presenting Partner of the BMTAB school program, where BC Lions football players, and members of the Roar dance team deliver education to high school students across B.C. to help young people recognize unhealthy behaviours, challenge gender-based violence, and become active bystanders within their schools and communities. In 2025 alone, the program reached more than 8,000 students across 25 schools throughout the province. 

Creating Safer Workplaces and Stronger Communities  

Building respectful workplaces doesn’t end with a single in-class training session or school presentation. It requires ongoing education, collaboration, and leadership. Through strong partnerships with ILWU Canada, EVA BC, the BC Lions, and the continued support of our members, the BCMEA remains committed to fostering workplaces where every worker is treated with dignity and respect. 

From the classroom to the waterfront, these investments are helping create safer worksites, stronger communities, and a culture where everyone has a role to play in preventing violence, harassment, and bullying. 

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Working together with our members and labour partners, we have proactively assessed operational considerations and developed comprehensive mitigation measures to help support workers availability and ability to get to job sites efficiently and reliably during this period.  

With the anticipation of heavy congestion during events, the BCMEA has also been actively engaged with the City of Vancouver and the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority on traffic management. To help reduce potential disruptions, the BCMEA launched a â€śKnow Before You Go” Awareness Campaign to support waterfront workforce preparedness â€“ encouraging workers to plan ahead, allow for additional commute time, and to stay informed about transportation conditions and road closures. 

As part of this initiative, operational updates and workforce communications will continue to be shared through the MyBCMEA workforce portal, across the BCMEA’s social channels and at the BCMEA Dispatch Hall to keep the workforce informed of any FIFA-related operational impacts. 

We appreciate the continued cooperation and engagement of employers, labour partners, and the workforce as we work together to minimize impacts and maintain safe, dependable operations while Vancouver welcomes the world during this exciting and busy time. 

UsefulĚýLinks forĚýGetting Around During the World CupĚý

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As we recognize Mental Health Month and the importance of supporting mental wellness, we’re proud to highlight a partnership helping make a meaningful difference for youth and families across the waterfront community and beyond. 

The BCMEA recently announced a three-year partnership as the Presenting Partner of the District of North Vancouver Firefighters Charitable Society (DNV Fire Charity) , returning June 5, 2026, at the Maplewood Fire Rescue Centre.  After serving as the Presenting Partner for last year’s event and seeing the incredible impact of the organization and event, the BCMEA proudly renewed its commitment. 

Over the years, the Barn Burner has become a signature North Shore community event, bringing together firefighters, waterfront partners, local businesses, and community members to support important local causes through a legendary rock concert. This year proceeds from the event will support  and Family Services of the North Shore, helping expand access to youth mental health resources, education, and counselling programs. 

For BCMEA, supporting Buddy Check for Jesse is especially meaningful. Founded in memory of Jesse Short-Gershman, the organization was created to support youth athletes and encourage more open conversations around mental health and the concept of “buddy checking” your teammates and others in your life.  Buddy Check for Jesse recognizes the leadership role of coaches and the power of sport in the lives of our youth. 

The organization equips coaches with practical tools and resources to lead conversations about mental wellness within their teams, helping create safe, supportive environments where young people feel connected, supported, and comfortable asking for help. Coaches often occupy a uniquely trusted role in the lives of youth athletes, and Buddy Check for Jesse helps empower them to foster awareness, peer support, and meaningful dialogue around mental health.  

“The support we receive through events like the Barn Burner helps us continue delivering programs and creating safe spaces for young people to talk about mental health,” said Stu Gershman of Buddy Check for Jesse. “We are humbled and grateful to the BCMEA and the District of North Vancouver Firefighters Charitable Society for coming together in support of our mission.” 

“Supporting youth mental health means strengthening communities,” said Mike Leonard, President and CEO of the BCMEA. “Through our partnership with the DNV Fire Charity and the Barn Burner event, we’re proud to support organizations like Buddy Check for Jesse as they continue their important work.” 

To date, the Barn Burner has raised more than $360,000 in support of youth mental health, education, and community resilience initiatives — a reflection of the incredible commitment shown by the North Shore waterfront community and its partners year after year. 

BCMEA is honoured to continue supporting this important effort and looks forward to another sold-out evening dedicated to organizations making a lasting impact in our communities. 

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Vancouver, B.C. —ĚýApril 9, 2026Ěý—ĚýThe Â鶹 (BCMEA) released its 2025 Annual ReportĚýyesterday, highlighting how stability at Canada’s West Coast Ports benefits workers,ĚýbusinessĚýand the Canadian economy.Ěý

2025 was a year of measured growth across the Pacific Gateway, driven by undisrupted operations, strong cargo volumes, and continued investment in the workforce. Safeguarding this stability will be critical to achieving Prime Minister Mark Carney’s ambitious goal of doubling non-U.S. trade over the next decade. 

This year, total hours worked by B.C.’s waterfront workers at BCMEA’s member operations reached 8.98 million, marking a six per cent increase over 2024. This growth reflects both sustained demand and the continued resilience of Canada’s West Coast ports in a complex and evolving global trade environment.   

“In a year shaped by geopolitical pressures and shifting trade dynamics, B.C.’s waterfront delivered stability and West Coast ports operated without interruption, supporting increased cargo volumes, higher work hours and stronger earnings for the workforce,” said Eric Waltz, BCMEA Board Chair. “When waterfront operations are predictable and reliable, the entire supply chain benefits, from workers and employers to Canadian businesses and global trading partners.” 

The past year’s sustained growth drove recruitment and training, creating more family-supporting jobs on the waterfront. Highlights included: 

• 7,842 total active Â鶹 
  

• 828 total active forepersons  
  

• Recruitment of 124 new Â鶹  
  

• Recruitment of 101 trades people  
  

• Addition of 34 trade apprentices  
   

While 2025 underscored the benefits of stability, the BCMEA cautions that continued growth is not guaranteed, and rather, is at risk if stability is not safeguarded.  

Stability matters more than ever as Canada looks ahead to continued trade uncertainty and global volatility, against the backdrop of the upcoming renegotiation of the collective agreements that govern Canada’s West Coast ports.  

“Ensuring reliable port operations is not just an industry priority—it is in the national interest. If we are to grow Canada’s trade, protect Canadian jobs, and remain competitive globally, supply chain reliability must be a national policy priority,” said Mike Leonard, BCMEA’s President & CEO. 

The labour disruptions of 2023 and 2024 illustrated the economic consequences of instability, prompting the federal government to launch an Industrial Inquiry Commission (IIC) to help create the conditions for long-term stability at Canada’s largest gateways on the West Coast. The IIC’s Final Report, authored by labour relations experts Vince Ready and Amanda Rogers, provides a balanced roadmap of recommendations for government to address underlying issues in longshore bargaining disputes and safeguard operational stability at Canada’s West Coast ports. Implementation of the Report’s recommendations is a critical requirement to the stability needed to grow Canada’s economy and trade relationships. Delivered to the government nearly a year ago, the report’s recommendations need to be acted upon – with timelines becoming increasingly urgent ahead of March 31, 2027, when the two coast-wide collective agreements covering B.C.’s waterfront expire.  

Canada’s economic security and sovereignty depend on supply chain stability. Without meaningful action on the IIC’s recommendations to address long-term labour stability at Canada’s West Coast ports, the federal government’s trade diversification goals will remain out of reach. 

The post BCMEA 2025 Annual Report Highlights Measured Growth, ActionĚýNeededĚýto Protect Port Stability and Sustain Benefits for Workers andĚýÂ鶹Ěý appeared first on BC Maritime.

March 9, 2026 – North Vancouver, BC — The BC Maritime Â鶹 (BCMEA), on behalf of its member companies, is proud to announce a three year partnership with the District of North Vancouver Firefighters Charitable Society (DNV Fire Charity) that will see the BCMEA serve as the Presenting Partner of the annual Barn Burner fundraising concert. 

Hosted each year at the Maplewood Fire and Rescue Centre in North Vancouver, B.C., the Barn Burner delivers an unforgettable evening of live music and charitable giving. This high-energy concert brings together community members, sponsors, and legendary musicians in support of critical local initiatives focused on kids’ education, youth mental health and community resilience.  

Proceeds for this year’s event will support  a˛Ô»ĺ , helping to expand access to youth mental health resources, education, and counselling programs. Funds will also be used to support high school scholarships, help Sherwood Park Elementary School’s PAC rebuild its playground, and contribute to the DNV Firefighters Emergency Relief Fund, which assists vulnerable community members in times of crisis.   

To date, the Barn Burner event has raised more than $360,000 in support of youth mental health, education and community resilience initiatives â€” a testament to the dedication of the DNV Fire Charity and the generosity of the North Shore waterfront and its community partners.  

“This partnership reflects our enduring commitment to strengthen the communities where our members and the workforce operate,” said Mike Leonard, BCMEA President and CEO, â€śOn the North Shore, BCMEA member companies are deeply rooted in the community, and investing in youth mental health and resilience reflects our shared responsibility to support the long term well-being of the region.” 

“We are thrilled to welcome the BCMEA as our Presenting Partner of our annual Barn Burner for the next three years,” said Kyle Burdett, Executive Director, DNV Fire Charity. “Their investment and leadership will help us continue to grow the Barn Burner and expand our charitable impact on the North Shore and beyond.” 

The BCMEA is proud to support this event alongside member companies Neptune Terminals, Global Container Terminals, Pembina â€“ Vancouver Wharves, and SSA Marine, further demonstrating the maritime industry’s shared commitment to strengthening local communities.  

This partnership also underscores the industry’s focus on safety across the North Shore waterfront. The BCMEA and its members work closely with local fire departments to enhance emergency preparedness, support coordinated response and ensure safe, reliable operations â€“ helping to protect the workforce, waterfront terminals and the surrounding community.  

The 2026 Barn Burner will take place on June 5, 2026, at the Maplewood Fire and Rescue Centre. Tickets will go on sale on April 2, 2026.  

For more information about the Barn Burner, sponsorship opportunities, or ticket sales, please visit .  

The post BC Maritime Â鶹 and the District of North Vancouver Firefighters Charity Announce Three-Year Presenting Partnership for Barn Burner Fundraiser forĚýKids Education, YouthĚýMental HealthĚý& CommunityĚýResilienceĚý appeared first on BC Maritime.

Skilled trades professionals play an important role on B.C.’s waterfront. Whether working at container terminals, breakbulk facilities, or bulk cargo operations, trades workers skills and expertise ensure the efficient movement of critical cargo by keeping equipment maintained, reliable, and operating safely. This enables BCMEA members and the longshore workforce to unload and load ships with the goods that Â鶹—and global markets—rely on every day. As trade volumes grow and infrastructure evolves, the demand for highly skilled waterfront tradespeople continues to increase. 

We were proud to recently participate in two major trades-focused career fairs, highlighting the exciting and diverse opportunities available on the BC Waterfront.  

We joined industry partners at the BCIT Industrial Campus on Annacis Island, connecting with students exploring pathways into trades and industrial careers. Alongside the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and our member employer GCT, we engaged with future trades professionals, answering questions about longshore work, terminal operations, and the trades training pathways that support a strong maritime workforce. 

The event offered students an up-close look at the skills and the teamwork that drive operations on B.C.’s waterfront, helping the young students understand how their technical training can translate into impactful, well-paying trades careers.  
 
The collaboration of the BCMEA and ILWU standing side-by-side ensured students heard directly from both an employer and worker perspective—an approach that resonated strongly with those exploring early-career decisions. 
 
The BCMEA also attended the Trades & Technology Career Fair at the University of the Fraser Valley in Chilliwack. The fair brought together students, graduates, and instructors from a wide range of technical programs, creating meaningful opportunities for conversation about waterfront careers. 

Participants were eager to learn about the future skilled- trade roles across B.C.’s ports. From electricians to heavy-duty to mechanics, these careers contribute to the movement of goods essential to communities and the Canadian economy. 

The BCMEA investing in career fairs reflects our ongoing commitment to raising awareness of the rewarding pathways available in waterfront trades. Engaging directly with post-secondary students allows us to support workforce development, strengthen industry partnerships, and encourage the next generation to consider a future in maritime skilled trades.  

We’re looking forward to meeting more future trades professionals at campuses this year.  

Click HERE to learn more about building a career in trades on the waterfront.  

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Why Reconciliation Matters in the Maritime Industry  

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action #92 urges businesses to adopt the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) as a framework for reconciliation. For the maritime sector, it means working in partnership, building trust, and creating economic and cultural opportunities for Indigenous communities. 

With so much of our industry taking place on traditional territories and waterways, reconciliation and Indigenous participation is essential for a resilient and prosperous waterfront economy.  

Here’s a look at where that journey has taken us so far. 

Building Awareness and Commitment Education and Reflection 

• In 2021 when was established for September 30, the BCMEA Board were the first amongst the industry to recognize this day as an official statutory holiday. Since then, as Â鶹 deepen their understanding of this history, the BCMEA remains committed to advancing reconciliation through meaningful action.  

A Public Commitment Through Art 

• BCMEA unveiled a mural titled “Oceans Together” at its Vancouver Dispatch Centre. 

• Created by Musqueam artist Darryl Blyth in consultation with Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, the mural features two orcas alongside a marine vessel in traditional Coast Salish style. 

• The artwork was unveiled in a Musqueam-led ceremony, reflecting BCMEA’s respect for cultural protocols and its commitment to reconciliation. 

As BCMEA CEO & President Mike Leonard explains: 

“The mural pays homage to this rich cultural heritage … and represents the collective commitment of BCMEA and its members to reconciliation.” 

Education and Reflection 

Training and internal discussions continue to help staff and members better learn the truths and understand reconciliation as an ongoing responsibility. To date, the BCMEA continues to: 

• Mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with public reflections on Indigenous contributions and the importance of awareness in the workplace. This includes participating in a symbol of hope, reconciliation and commitment to better future.  

• Develop a Reconciliation Awareness & Program, Indigenous-led workshops for our leadership team and members, that include training and cultural experiences.  

• Expand cultural awareness training opportunities for BCMEA staff and members through our partnership with the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade.  

Why It Matters 

These actions are a start to realizing our commitment, but their impact is real: 

• Trust: visible commitments help build stronger relationships. 

• Cultural safety: integrating Indigenous voices and perspectives makes workplaces more inclusive. 

• Sector leadership: by taking action, the BCMEA sets an example for other organizations, including our members across the waterfront to do the same, or more.  

Reconciliation requires listening, learning, and taking action. The BCMEA’s work is an early but important step in building stronger relationships with Nations. 

As an industry rooted in the lands and waters of this province, it’s our shared responsibility to keep moving forward together. 

Learn more about how the BCMEA is supporting reconciliation initiatives here.  

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Announced in April 2023, the grand opening marks a significant milestone for the Union, contributing partners, and the broader waterfront community. The $8.2 million redevelopment project was led and funded by the ILWU Local 505, with the BCMEA, PRPA, and DP World together providing $2.6 million.

The new Union Hall is one of the largest commercial developments built in Prince Rupert’s downtown core. It is equipped with the resources to ensure that both Â鶹 and the City of Prince Rupert can thrive in the evolving maritime industry. The three-story building offers modernized spaces tailored to Prince Rupert’s growing waterfront workforce and is equipped to meet the demands of a competitive global shipping environment. It will also drive economic vitality in northern B.C.

The grand opening of the new Union Hall demonstrates the power of collaboration and a shared vision among Prince Rupert’s waterfront partners. More than just a modern facility, it represents a commitment to empowering the local workforce, supporting the growth of the maritime industry, and ensuring the Port of Prince Rupert remains a globally competitive trade gateway for generations to come.

“A Union Hall is more than a building; it is a home to build community. We live in rapidly changing times and our new home will be an invaluable tool to meet the challenges we face.  Together with our partners, from this Hall, we will build Prince Rupert’s future.” – Keith Cociani, President of ILWU Local 505

“This new Union Hall is a strategic investment supporting the waterfront workforce and the vitality of the downtown Prince Rupert community. As a result of this collaborative effort, we are ensuring that Prince Rupert remains a competitive and attractive place to build a career in the maritime industry.” – Mike Leonard, President & CEO of the Â鶹

“Today’s grand opening is a testament to the strength of partnerships in Prince Rupert. The Prince Rupert Port Authority is proud to have played a role in the creation of the new Union Hall that will have a lasting legacy in benefiting the waterfront community and those who work to sustain the continued successes of the Port.” – Shaun Stevenson, President & CEO of the Prince Rupert Port Authority

“DP World is committed to investing in the infrastructure and the people that make the Port of Prince Rupert a world-class trading hub. The new Union Hall is a significant step forward in ensuring that its workforce has the resources they need to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global marketplace.” – Douglas Smith, CEO & GM, DP World (Canada) Inc.

“Congratulations to the women and men of ILWU Local 505. As always, you make Prince Rupert proud.  And kudos to the partners and to the local contractors for their clear commitment to the future of Prince Rupert. A job well done!” – Herb Pond, Mayor, City of Prince Rupert

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