Hundreds of Tradespeople Build Careers on Nova Scotia's Largest Healthcare Project
During Skilled Trades and Technology Week, Nova Scotia highlighted the workforce behind the QEII Halifax Infirmary Expansion, where hundreds of tradespeople are constructing a 14-storey acute care tower with a strong focus on safety and diversity.
The QEII Halifax Infirmary Expansion is currently underway in Nova Scotia, marking the largest healthcare infrastructure project in the province's history. The initiative involves adding a 14-storey acute care tower close to the current Infirmary in Halifax.
Skilled professionals from more than two dozen trades are working on the site. Of the workers currently on site, 159 are new to the trades, including 86 who are registered apprentices. Up to 900 workers are expected at the site during peak construction next summer.
The Government of Nova Scotia recognized these contributions during Skilled Trades and Technology Week, held November 2-8. Nolan Young, Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration for Nova Scotia, was among the provincial officials involved in highlighting the career opportunities provided by the project.
Safety has been a central focus since construction began. Workers have logged more than one million hours with zero lost-time incidents to date.
The project also emphasizes diversity through its Skilled Trades and Equity Plan, which aims for at least 10 per cent of hours worked by apprentices and journeypersons from underrepresented groups. Currently, 34 per cent of apprentices on the project self-identify as members of underrepresented groups.
Build Nova Scotia and PCL Construction are working with the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency and other partners, including the Nova Scotia Construction Sector Council, to expand opportunities. David Benoit serves as the President and CEO of Build Nova Scotia. Paul Knowles is the Senior Vice-President and District Manager at PCL Constructors Canada Inc. PCL Construction is leading the construction as part of the Plenary PCL Health consortium.