2007 Canadian Institute of Steel Construction (CISC) Annual Convention
Hugh Dobbie Sr.

The 2007 CISC Annual Convention was held June 6-9th at the Grand Okanagan Lakefront Resort, Kelowna, B.C.

The convention began for me with the Steel Detailing Meeting on June 6th, chaired by Terry Devine of M&D Drafting. The Committee discussed updating the Fundamentals of Steel Detailing publication. Terry had spoken to the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) about updating this old detailing manual and it appears the cost would be prohibitive. We may have better luck updating the Educational Videos. It is hoped that funding may be available from the Steel Structures Education Foundation for this.

Since the CISC does not currently sponsor a Quality Procedures Program for detailing companies, consideration might be given to adapting the National Institute of Steel Detailers (NISD) program. This will be discussed at future meetings.

The B.C Region is currently in discussions with the Steel Detailers Institute of B.C. (SDIBC) regarding the possibility of adding shop and field experience to the current SDIBC Certification Program, to create an Apprenticeship Program for detailers, similar to the Alberta program.

Considerable discussion took place on how to attract detailers to membership in the CISC.

All regions reported being busy and still suffering from a shortage of skilled detailers.

Reports were given by each region at the Steel Marketing Meeting held June 7th. Each region has a different approach as to how to enhance the market for structural steel. Each has been successful in their own way.

The CISC Board of Directors four hour meeting was also held June 7th. The state of the industry and status of the CISC was discussed. Reports were received from steel mills and service centres as well as committee reports. Financial statements were reviewed and adjusted as necessary.

The Annual General Meeting was held next day, when the business session and President’s report were presented. This was followed by the Steel Structures Education Foundation General Meeting.

At the Convention there was as usual, time for networking and socializing. A 1970s Disco Party was held in a large home overlooking the Okanagan Valley.

There were also two interesting educational features: The new William R. Bennett Floating Bridge, that replaces the original Floating Bridge over Okanagan Lake, which is now about 50 years old. This presentation was delivered by Darryl Matson of Buckland & Taylor. Peter Legge, President and CEO, Canada Wide Magazines, spoke on “The Runway of Life. Take Charge and Live Your Dreams.”