Vancouver, B.C. — April 9, 2026 — The �鶹 (BCMEA) released its 2025 yesterday, highlighting how stability at Canada’s West Coast Ports benefits workers, business and the Canadian economy. 

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 �鶹 
  

• 828 total active forepersons  
  

• Recruitment of 124 new �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. 

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March 9, 2026 – North Vancouver, BC — The BC Maritime �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�Ի� , 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 — 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, “On 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 – 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 – 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 �鶹 and the District of North Vancouver Firefighters Charity Announce Three-Year Presenting Partnership for Barn Burner Fundraiser for Kids Education, Youth Mental Health & Community Resilience  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 �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 �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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British Columbia’s ports play a critical role in supplying �鶹 – and the world – with the critical goods they require. This new website reflects that role and follows the refresh of our logo and brand, creating a vibrant new and relevant experience for the public, our members, staff and the waterfront workforce.  

On behalf of our members our goal is to tell the maritime story in new, relevant ways. We hope you will check back regularly as our experts post the most up-to-date information and showcase new content in the Latest Insights section.

We’re glad you’re here and eager for you to explore the new site, absorb the valuable content and learn how the BCMEA, our members and waterfront workers are supporting a thriving maritime industry.   

The maritime community has long been known for giving back, helping out and building communities. Do you have inspirational story to share?  We want to hear from you!�� 

The post A message from Mike Leonard, President and CEO, BC Maritime �鶹  appeared first on BC Maritime.

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 �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 �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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(Vancouver) – The BC Maritime �鶹 (BCMEA) and the BC Lions are proud to announce a renewal of their partnership for the Be More Than a Bystander program. Since its inception in 2011, the program continues to grow and evolve, expanding its reach from classrooms to communities and workplaces across British Columbia.

A powerful collaboration between the BC Lions and the Ending Violence Association of BC (EVA BC), Be More Than a Bystander equips youth and adults with the tools and confidence to speak up against gender-based violence, harassment, and bullying. Going on for 15 productive years, this program has reached thousands of students through hundreds of school visits, creating meaningful conversations around leadership and respect.

Since joining as the program’s corporate partner in 2022, BCMEA has played a pivotal role in expanding Be More Than a Bystander into the workplace, helping train nearly 10,000 waterfront workers in one of the most comprehensive workplace violence and harassment prevention efforts ever undertaken in Canada’s federal sector.

“This program works because it’s about action,” said BCMEA president and CEO Mike Leonard.

“Whether it’s a classroom, on the waterfront, or online, we all have a role to play in ending bullying, harassment, and gender-based violence. Our continued partnership with the BC Lions reflects our shared commitment to building safer, more respectful workplaces and communities.”

This year, Lions quarterback Nathan Rourke served as the program’s main ambassador, teaming up with several of his teammates to visit 25 schools and thousands of students across the province. Together, they helped deliver the message that leadership means more than just performance on the field—it means standing up for others and helping create safe, inclusive spaces for everyone.

 “It’s incredible to see how far this program has come,” said Lions’ director of community partnerships Jamie Taras.

“Fifteen years ago, we set out to create real change by giving youth the confidence to speak up. With partners like BCMEA, this message has grown far beyond the field, reaching workplaces and communities across the province.”

With strong support from employers, unions, and civic leaders, Be More Than a Bystander continues to inspire true leadership and positive peer influence in all areas of life.

“With the support of strong partners like BCMEA, this program continues to evolve and deepen its impact,” said EVA BC executive director Ninu Kang.

 “From students to �鶹, we’re seeing people across BC step up and become part of the solution.”

About the BC Maritime �鶹

The BCMEA represents 48 maritime employers, from terminal operators to ocean carriers and ship agents, and is responsible for the training, safety, recruitment, dispatch, and administration of wages and benefits of 9,400 waterfront workers. Canada’s West Coast ports are responsible for the safe and efficient movement of approximately $800 million worth of cargo per day, totalling 25 percent of Canada’s total traded goods.  

About the Ending Violence Association of BC

The Ending Violence Association of BC (EVA BC) works to coordinate and support the efforts of victim-serving and anti-violence programs throughout British Columbia. EVA BC collaborates with communities, service providers, and institutions to improve prevention and response systems that support individuals affected by gender-based violence, harassment, and hate.

About Be More Than a Bystander

Created in 2011 by the BC Lions and EVA BC, Be More Than a Bystander is a province-wide initiative that aims to break the silence surrounding gender-based violence by educating youth and adults alike on how to safely speak up and take action. The program includes in-person and virtual school presentations, workplace training, public appearances, and multimedia awareness campaigns.

In 2025, the program is proudly presented in partnership with the Province of British Columbia, the BC Maritime �鶹, with additional support from the BC Federation of Labour and Teck �鶹.  

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This inspiring local artist is known for blending contemporary design with traditional Coast Salish artwork, creating striking images packed with symbolism and deep meaning. His transformational, hand-painted mural was installed on north-facing wall on Franklin Street, just off Clark Drive last year and was officially unveiled in a special ceremony in early 2025. 

To learn more, !��

The mural titled “Oceans Together” depicts two orca whales swimming alongside a marine vessel, rendered in a neotraditional Coast Salish style using ovoids, trigons, and crescents. At its core the image symbolizes the sharing of our oceans. The orca whales, travelling with their family, represent our respect for nature, while the marine vessel symbolizes the maritime industry that connects B.C to the world. 

For generations, Indigenous communities have shaped the maritime industry with their knowledge, skills and cultural traditions. The Musqueam people have lived in the Fraser River estuary, including much of Metro Vancouver, since time immemorial. Darryl himself has strong links to the coast as his father was a Local 1 marine worker. 

Darryl was chosen following input from the BCMEA, ILWU and representatives from Indigenous communities. His stirring artwork has been chosen by many organizations and causes including the Orange Shirt Society, SeaSpan, the Vancouver Canucks and the Vancouver International Marathon Society.  

The mural project was undertaken as part of the BCMEA’s commitment to elevate efforts on the path to reconciliation, in recognition of the principles in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Call to Action #92. 
 
The mural contributes to the BCMEA’s and our members ongoing dedication to advance reconciliation, acting as a visual reminder to encourage all to engage and learn about Indigenous contributions to the maritime sector.  It represents the legacy of the maritime industry and our shared commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates the interconnectedness of our communities and the importance of honoring Indigenous peoples as we work towards a shared future.  

We hope his latest creation at the Dispatch Centre will cause you to stop, admire and reflect on the rich connections between Indigenous peoples and the maritime community. 

The post New Indigenous Mural at the BCMEA Dispatch Centre Depicts Deep Coastal Connections   appeared first on BC Maritime.

That’s why we are welcoming specialized coveralls designed to increase comfort and create more efficient movement without compromising on safety and protection. 

The BCMEA’s longstanding supplier of coveralls created this new line in response to the specific needs of women who work on the waterfront. It’s in recognition that when PPE doesn’t fit properly, it can lead to discomfort, workplace hazards and injuries.

The coveralls are now available in ILWU Local 500 and 502 stores.

We’re proud to provide inclusive safety gear that works as hard as the waterfront workforce.  

The post Safety Matters – Introducing Coveralls for Women  appeared first on BC Maritime.

“For generations, Indigenous Nations have been an important part of the maritime industry. The mural pays homage to this rich cultural heritage and serves as a reflection of our commitment to recognizing the role nations play—not just in our past, but in shaping our shared future” said Mike Leonard, President and CEO of BCMEA. “BCMEA worked in consultation with the host nations – Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nation – to create a remarkable physical landmark that represents the BCMEA and its members collective commitment to reconciliation.”

Darryl Blyth is a graphic designer, specializing in contemporary digital design and emerging as a traditional Coast Salish artist. Inspired to combine modern graphic design with traditional Coast Salish Art, the BCMEA’s mural project represented an exciting opportunity to pursue his passion.

“As a Musqueam artist, and a former painter in the Vancouver maritime industry, it is a great honour to have this mural commissioned by the BC Maritime �鶹 (BCMEA),” said Darryl. “Oceans Together” is a mural of two orca whales swimming with a marine vessel in a neo-traditional Coast Salish style using ovoids, trigons, and crescents. At its core “Oceans Together” means the ocean is to share the world with everyone. The orca whales travel with their family representing our respect for nature and behind them is a marine vessel that represents our maritime industry which connects B.C. to the world. Together they evoke the ideas of unity, diversity, and sustainability that we value so much here. It is my hope that with this mural, the BCMEA can share these values with the community, pay respect to the land and tradition, and create a visual centerpiece for the public to enjoy and interpret with their own ideas and stories.”

Media Contact: 
Lisa Clement

About the Artist
As an Indigenous youth artist, graphic designer, and member of the Musqueam Indian Band, Darryl Blyth specializes in contemporary digital design for print media and is also emerging as a traditional Salish artist. Apart from his Indigenous roots, Darryl also has a personal and professional connection with the maritime industry. Both Darryl and his father were a Marine Technician and members of the Local 1 Marine Workers Union.

About the �鶹
The �鶹 (BCMEA) is a voluntary organization representing a majority of B.C.’s waterfront employers and by extension, over 9,400 people who work for them. Where ship meets shore, B.C. maritime employers are responsible for the safe movement of cargo and passengers through Canada’s West Coast ports. Our role is to help optimize our members’ operations by providing expertise in safety, training and recruitment, labour relations, collective bargaining, and human resources. Our members include ship owners and agents, stevedores, bulk, break-bulk, container, and cruise ship terminal operators working out of ports from Victoria to the Alaska border.

Additional �鶹

• Mural project and artist 
• �ᾱ����-�������
• B-roll available upon request

A video accompanying this announcement is available at 

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