Diversity & Community
SJCA is dedicated to building a more inclusive construction industry by actively supporting underrepresented groups. We create equitable pathways that open doors to meaningful career opportunities, professional growth, and long-term success.
Through our commitment to diversity and community, we strive to foster a stronger, more welcoming sector that reflects and benefits everyone it serves.
Empowering the Next Generation
We’re Building an
Inclusive Future
At the Saint John Construction Association (SJCA), we are dedicated to fostering a highly skilled, diverse, and inclusive workforce. In collaboration with our labour partners, we prioritize innovation, training, health and safety, community partnerships, and productivity to strengthen New Brunswick’s construction industry.
We actively support the training initiatives of our partner unions to ensure we have the most highly skilled professionals in the field. Additionally, we champion efforts to expand opportunities in the trades for youth, Indigenous Peoples, and underrepresented groups, helping to build a more equitable industry.
Our Goals:
Foster a diverse skilled and inclusive construction workforce
Advance the industry through training and strong partnerships
Increase trade access for underrepresented groups in New Brunswick
Where Our Story Took Shape
Committed to Community Impact
Under Arlene Dunn’s leadership, SJCA has made community engagement a core priority. We work closely with organizations such as the Saint John Learning Exchange (SJLE), Saint John Newcomers Centre, and the Business Community Anti-Poverty Initiative (BCAPI) to support education, training, and employment initiatives.
Our partnerships extend to Junior Achievers, Sophia Recovery, St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation, Sisters of Charity Legacy Project Initiative, We Believe, PALS, and Big Brothers Big Sisters, reinforcing our commitment to social responsibility.
Inclusive Pathways for Diverse Learners
We’re Building
Pathways for Everyone
Through our ongoing partnership with the Saint John Learning Exchange, we are actively enhancing educational and meaningful employment opportunities for youth who are NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), neurodivergent individuals, and multi-barriered learners.
By integrating flexible, on-the-job training with classroom instruction, we create accessible pathways into the skilled trades, helping individuals develop the skills they need for sustainable careers.