Up Front

Engineering associations form FIDIC North America

La Fédération Internationale Des Ingénieurs-Conseils (FIDIC) has launched a new banner, ‘FIDIC North America,’ following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) by ACEC-Canada, the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) and la Cámara Nacional de Empresas de Consultoría (CNEC) Mexico—i.e. all of FIDIC’s key member associations in the region—aimed at strengthening co-operation between them. This follows the renaming of other regional bodies, including FIDIC Africa, FIDIC Europe and FIDIC Asia-Pacific.

Feds to fund ‘natural infrastructure’ 2022

to 2023

Canada’s first turn to chair FIDIC North America.

In June, Infrastructure Canada announced a first-of-its-kind $200-million natural infrastructure fund. The federal government plans to invest up to $120 million to improve access to parks, waterfronts and green space and better adapt to the effects of climate change. Major cities will be invited to apply for up to $20 million for large projects, while an additional stream will address smaller projects. A minimum of 10% of overall funding will be allocated to Indigenous recipients.

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GHD appoints EGM for Canada

GHD appointed Chris Hunter executive general manager (EGM) for Canada. He has been with the firm since 1999, most recently as regional general manager (RGM) for Ontario, during which time GHD was recognized as one of the Waterloo area’s top employers.

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$120

million

Federal goal for investment in natural infrastructure.

Fast + Epp completes its mass-timber office building

Construction has completed for consulting engineering firm Fast + Epp’s new four-storey mass-timber head office building in Vancouver’s Mount Pleasant district.

The ‘hybrid’ structure of mass timber and steel was designed to demonstrate efficiency, cost-effectiveness and sustainability. It also marks the first time Tectonus shock-absorbent technology has been installed in North America; these devices reportedly not only dissipate and dampen energy, but also allow the building to ‘snap back’ to its original position following an earthquake, enabling an immediate return to occupancy.

Glazing facilitates ample daylighting of the interiors, while ‘smart glass’ technology automatically adjust tint levels to reduce energy consumption, improve ambiance and eliminate the need for window blinds.

Also, apparently unique to the structural engineering industry, the ground floor features a new integrated laboratory space for developing, testing and fabricating prototypes. Dubbed ‘Concept Lab,’ it is slated to open in the fall.

“Our new home office celebrates structural engineering,” says Paul Fast, founder and partner in Fast + Epp. “This space is a result of pushing the boundaries on innovation, while involving thoughtful and engaging design.”

Fast + Epp collaborated on the project with design architects F2A, interior designers HCMA, contractor Companion Construction, mass timber installers Seagate Structures and smart glass manufacturer View.