By Cassie Frengopoulos
It is an honour to serve as President of the Barrie Construction Association (BCA), an organization that continues to strengthen and support our region’s construction industry.
At the BCA, community is at the heart of what we do. Beyond our commitment to the industry, we remain dedicated to giving back to the places where we live and work. Our support for organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters through the Bowl for Kids Sake, the Food Bank through our yearly food bank drive here our members donated almost $70,000 in 2025 to their local foodbanks, Camphill Communities Ontario and their project at 42 Park St in Barrie, ON which provided 2 new beds, and Youth Haven for their new building. We are proud to contribute to the meaningful work these groups deliver every day.
Two of the most active and impactful groups within the BCA are the Young Leaders Group (YLG) and Women in Construction (WIC). These groups champion networking, mentorship, and education, helping shape the future of our industry. Through panel discussions, workshops, social events, and community initiatives, they provide valuable opportunities for professional growth and collaboration. Their dedication to fostering an inclusive and connected construction community is invaluable.
One of their most important contributions is their support for students pursuing careers in the skilled trades. This year, the YLG awarded $2,500 in bursaries, while the WIC contributed an impressive $6,000. These funds help reduce financial barriers and encourage the next generation to consider rewarding careers in construction. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to both groups for their generosity and continued leadership. Whether you are new to the industry or well-established, I encourage you to get involved and take advantage of the opportunities they offer.
Workforce development remains a key priority for the BCA. By working with local school boards, we help students and educators gain firsthand exposure to the construction industry through site tours and engagement initiatives. These experiences highlight the wide range of skilled and meaningful career paths available in the trades.
We are also proud to support students through the Jordan Abercrombie Scholarship, awarding $4,500 in bursaries in 2025. These awards play a vital role in helping young people enter the trades and build strong, fulfilling careers.
None of this would be possible without our dedicated BCA members. Thank you for sharing your time, your expertise, and your job sites to inspire the next generation.
As we look ahead, I am excited for what’s to come. Our industry continues to evolve, and the BCA remains committed to supporting our members through advocacy, education, networking, and community involvement. Together, we will continue to build a strong, connected, and resilient construction community.
BCA president Cassie Frengopoulos is also president of Gerrits Engineering.