Quality Lead

EllisDon to build new federal inmate hospital in New Brunswick. The Government of Canada has announced the proponent selected to design and build the Correctional Service of Canada's (CSC) new 155-bed Health Centre of Excellence in Dorchester, New Brunswick. Following a competitive process, EllisDon Corporation will now begin work with CSC and Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) to finalize the design and build the new facility. "The selection of a proponent to design and build the new Health Centre of Excellence marks a key step toward the construction of a safe, modern and bilingual correctional facility in Dorchester that will keep communities safe in Atlantic Canada and across the country," said Dominic LeBlanc, Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs, Internal Trade and One Canadian Economy. The stand-alone health care facility will be built on existing property where CSC is custodian, beside the Dorchester Penitentiary, and replace the aging 53-bed Shepody Healing Centre. The purpose-built centre will also provide CSC employees with a modern workplace designed to better support their safety, wellness, and day-to-day work. In support of the Government of Canada's Buy Canadian Policy, PSPC will work closely with the design-builder to prioritize the use of domestic materials where possible. It will maximize economic opportunities for Canadian and local businesses and communities throughout the design and construction phases of the project. "Canadians expect public investments to deliver real results. With this contract, we are taking a concrete step toward better health care within Correctional Service of Canada and a modern facility built for the future," said Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement. The Government of Canada awarded a $58.7 million contract (taxes included) to EllisDon Corporation for the design phase of the Health Centre of Excellence in Dorchester, New Brunswick Work is expected to span 5 to 6 years and reach completion in 2032. Featured image: (Government of Canada)

CAWIC honours the impact on the construction industry through leadership. A pair of construction leaders were honoured recently by the Canadian Association of Women in Construction (CAWIC) with awards. EllisDon Assistant Project Manager Michelle Chisholm recieved the Emerging Leader Award, and PCL Construction's Mike Widdifield, Operations Manager, Toronto office, was named the recipient of the 2026 Male Allyship Award. Michelle Chisholm receives the 2026 CAWIC Emerging Leader Award. (EllisDon) Recognized for making a meaningful impact on the construction industry through leadership, dedication, and commitment, Chisholm, recently reached three years with EllisDon, bringing prior experience in design and architectural technology from the industry. She has distinguished herself through her leadership and commitment to making the industry more accessible and inclusive. Alongside her project responsibilities, she serves as EllisDon's National Jill of All Trades (JOAT) Event Coordinator and Calgary representative for Together, EllisDon's employee-led group focused on advancing gender equity. Over the past year, Michelle has helped coordinate 13 Jill of All Trades events across Canada, working with educational partners, volunteers, and industry professionals to provide hands-on experiences that introduce young women to careers in construction. Through these efforts, she has helped expand access to opportunities in the industry while inspiring the next generation of talent. "Receiving this award is surreal, and I'm incredibly honoured to be selected as the recipient," said Chisholm. "EllisDon has given me opportunities to grow, take on new challenges, and contribute beyond my role. I'm passionate about creating an inclusive environment and showing future team members that there is a place for them in this industry. I'm grateful for the support of the Together group and my colleagues, proud of what we've accomplished together, and excited to continue building on this work in the future." With over more than two decades with PCL, Widdifield has built a reputation as a leader who believes stronger teams and better outcomes are achieved when diverse perspectives are represented at the table. Throughout his career, he has used his influence to elevate women in the industry and advocate for access to leadership experiences. A strong example of his allyship is his commitment to sponsorship. He has intentionally championed women for high-profile project assignments, leadership development opportunities and industry committees that increase exposure, build influential networks and position them for career advancement. By using his voice and influence to create opportunities for others, Mike has helped remove barriers and accelerate the growth of women across the organization. "I'm honoured to receive this award and thankful to the many mentors, colleagues and team members who have shaped my career," said Mike Widdifield. "Building great projects starts with building great teams, and I believe our responsibility as leaders is to create an environment where people can bring their best, develop their potential and help shape the future of our industry." Featured image: Mike Widdifield receives the 2026 CAWIC Male Allyship Award. (PCL)

EllisDon project manager receives national award for leadership in construction. September 28, 2026 Ontario Construction Report staff writer EllisDon assistant project manager Michelle Chisholm has been named the recipient of the 2026 Canadian Association of Women in Construction (CAWIC) Emerging Leader Award. The award recognizes women in the early stages of their construction careers who demonstrate leadership, dedication and a commitment to the industry. Chisholm had been with EllisDon for about three years at the time of her award nomination, bringing previous experience in design and architectural technology. In addition to her project responsibilities, Chisholm serves as EllisDon's national Jill of All Trades (JOAT) event co-ordinator and as the Calgary representative for Together, an employee-led group focused on advancing gender equity. Over the past year, she helped co-ordinate 13 Jill of All Trades events across Canada. The program gives young women hands-on opportunities to explore construction careers while connecting them with industry professionals and educational partners. Chisholm said the award recognizes work she considers a collective effort. "Receiving this award is surreal, and I'm incredibly honoured to be selected as the recipient," she said. "EllisDon has given me opportunities to grow, take on new challenges, and contribute beyond my role. I'm passionate about creating an inclusive environment and showing future team members that there is a place for them in this industry." Chisholm also credited colleagues and the Together group for supporting her work. Travis Perry, EllisDon's vice-president of project development in Calgary, said Chisholm has made an impact both within the company and in the broader construction community. "Michelle embodies the qualities this award celebrates," Perry said. "Her leadership, initiative, and dedication to creating opportunities for others have already made a meaningful impact within EllisDon and across the broader construction community." CAWIC's Emerging Leader Award is part of the organization's efforts to recognize women helping shape the future of Canada's construction industry. Discover more Geographic Reference