PROGRAM SCHEDULE | SEPTEMBER 4-6, 2025- WHISTLER, B.C
9:00 AM –10:30 AM: Timber/Glulam Tour at Fraserwood Industries, Squamish BC (includes a light breakfast) – 1
11:30 AM –12:15 PM: GBM Registration: Delta Whistler Village Suites, Conference Room Foyer
12:30 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch: Delta Whistler Village Suites, Raven Room A/B
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Specifier Workshop at the Delta Suites, Raven Room A/B – The Structural Design Journey of the New PNE Amphitheatre in Hastings Park- Robert Jackson, Fast & Epp – 2
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Specifier Workshop at the Delta Suites, Raven Room A/B – The Integration of AI in Architecture & Construction: Fundamentals, Opportunities, and Ethical Frontiers- Elton Gjata, Perkins & Will – 3
3:30 PM – 4:30 PM: Wine & Workshop in the Alpine Room, 2 FL Westin Resort & Spa- Resort Wood – Integrating perspectives of architects, builders and manufacturers- Peter Moonen, Canadian Wood Council- 4
6:00 PM – 9:30 PM: Welcome Dinner/Reception, Roundhouse Lodge on the Peak of Whistler Mountain (Upload at Whistler Gondola Base starts at 6:15 PM, and closes at 7:00 PM)
Provider Name: BC Wood Specialties Group
Course #: SWGBM2501
Recognized: AIBC 1.5 Core LUs, AIA 1.5 LU, BC HOUSING 1 CPD Informal, AAA 1.5 Unstructured LUs
Title of Learning Activity:TIMBER/GLULAM TOUR AT FRASERWOOD INDUSTRIES, SQUAMISH, BC
Date: Thursday, September 4, 2025
Time: 09:00 am-10:30 am (1.5 hour)
Presenter name: Keith Murray
Presentation Location and Address:
Fraserwood Industries Ltd., 39500 Government Rd, Squamish, BC V8B 0S7
Topic Summary:
Set on 6 acres in the heart of BC’s coastal forests, this timber/glulam tour offers specifiers the insight and experience of truly extending what’s possible in post & beam, timber frame, commercial, and mass timber construction. With over 60,000 square feet of manufacturing space, the largest Radio Frequency Vacuum drying capacity in North America, and the willingness to take on the most challenging requirements, FraserWood will demonstrate its rich variety of wood products and services, from green and kiln-dried timbers to fully fabricated, specialty glulam packages.
We will discuss the high-quality western wood species used in structural applications, their strengths and weaknesses in various environments, and the benefits of drying. Other materials discussed will be glulam, and specialty glulam such as GrainMatched or EdgeMatched glulam. Also discussed will be Precision Fabrication techniques, Textures and Finishes applications, Digital Design & Engineering applications, and integration of mechanical connections as part of the structural package.
Learning Objectives:
Learn about precision joinery and design through fabrication, pre-fitting and finishing
Our Lunch and Learn sessions are offered through live hybrid webinar or in-person presentations directly with Architectural, Developer, and Builder firms located in British Columbia. Hosted by BC Wood, all topics will be presented by industry professionals from BC’s value-added wood sector, and accredited for educational learning units.
BC Wood is a Recognized Educational Provider with the Architectural Institute of BC (AIBC), the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and BC Housing.
Keith has been working with FraserWood for more than 15 years. A graduate of the University of British Columbia’s Wood Science program, Keith spent time working in sawmills in a quality control capacity before finding FraserWood. Enticed by the world of digital fabrication, Keith spent several years managing projects from CAD through production. In 2015, he moved to Sales and Marketing side, helping customers with everything from dry timber sales to fully fabricated packages.
Provider Name: BC Wood Specialties Group
Course #: SWGBM2502
Recognized: AIBC 1 Core LU, AIA 1 LU, BC HOUSING 1 CPD Informal, AAA 1 Structured LU,
Title of Learning Activity: The Integration of AI in Architecture & Construction: Fundamentals, Opportunities, and Ethical Frontiers
Presenter name: Elton Gjata
Date of Activity: September 4th, 2025
Time of Activity: 1:00PM-2:00PM
Length of Activity: 1.0 hours
Method of Delivery: Face-to-face presentation
Presentation Location: Delta Hotels Whistler Village Suites, Whistler, BC
Topic Summary:
This session provides a grounded, practitioner-focused introduction to the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in architecture—tailored for professionals navigating its rapid integration into design, project delivery, and practice management.
Participants will explore the fundamental principles of AI and machine learning and gain insight into how these technologies are reshaping architectural workflows. Topics include generative design, specification writing, performance modeling, automated code compliance, and data-driven urban analysis. Real-world case studies will be shared, including research into modular timber housing systems supported by Canada’s Housing Growth Innovation Fund, demonstrating how AI can support scalable, sustainable development.
The session will also confront critical ethical and professional risks—such as bias, authorship, liability, data privacy, and intellectual property. Participants will leave better equipped to critically evaluate AI tools, integrate them responsibly, and ensure their use aligns with both professional standards and the broader public good.
Learning Objectives:
Elton Gjata is an Architect and Senior Digital Practice Manager at Perkins&Will, where he leads the firm’s strategic integration of emerging technologies into architectural workflows. With a background in both Architecture and Computational Design, Elton bridges the gap between design vision and digital innovation - advancing tools, methods, and frameworks that shape how architects deliver smarter, more responsive projects. He is currently focused on responsible AI adoption, helping teams harness generative design, data analytics, and automation while navigating the ethical and professional implications of these tools. Elton is also a co-research lead on Perkins&Will’s Modular Timber Housing Systems initiative, backed by a $250,000 co-investment from DIGITAL, Canada’s Global Innovation Cluster for Digital Technologies, under its Housing Growth Innovation program. This project explores how mass timber prefabrication and modular design can accelerate mid-rise residential delivery across BC and beyond.
Provider Name: BC Wood Specialties Group
Course #: SWGBM2503
Recognized: AIBC 1 Core LU, AIA 1 LU, BC HOUSING 1 CPD Informal, AAA 1 Structured LU
Topic: The Structural Design Journey of the New PNE Amphitheatre in Hastings Park
Presenter name: Robert Jackson
Date of Activity: September 4th, 2025
Time of Activity: 2:00PM-3:00PM
Length of Activity: 1.0 hour
Method of Delivery: Face-to-face presentation
Presentation Location: Delta Hotels Whistler Village Suites, Whistler, BC
Robert Jackson, Partner at Fast + Epp, will present the structural design journey of the new PNE Amphitheatre in Hastings Park, set to become one of the longest-spanning timber structures in the world. His talk will trace the project from early concept through form-finding and geometric resolution, highlighting the development of a 105-metre clear-span roof composed of sixty glulam arches arranged in six intersecting barrel vaults. This striking structure was refined through physical prototyping and advanced digital workflows at Fast + Epp’s Concept Lab. The lightweight expressive timber structure is supported by only three-points with large concrete buttresses integral with the stage and VIP pods.
The presentation will also cover construction engineering, sequencing strategies, and key sustainability considerations. Robert will outline how erection methods, logistics, and material strategies shaped the final form, and how design decisions were driven by sustainability objectives and construction and procurement realities. He will also touch on the integration of the structure within the surrounding parkland, enhancing acoustic performance while maintaining views to the North Shore mountains.
Learning Objectives
Robert Jackson is a structural engineer and Partner at Fast + Epp, in Vancouver, BC. He offers a unique skill set due to his hands-on experience as a carpenter and fine woodworker. He is a designer with expertise in timber, steel, and concrete in both Canada and the US. Over his career, Robert has developed a particular specialization in mass timber design, having contributed to the success of many of the firms most innovative timber projects across North America including the TallWood House at Brock Commons, Limberlost Place, The Hive, and the PNE Amphitheater. He is a contributing author on many articles, papers, and journal publications relating to timber research and development and is passionate about sharing lessons learned. Elton is also a co-research lead on Perkins&Will’s Modular Timber Housing Systems initiative, backed by a $250,000 co-investment from DIGITAL, Canada’s Global Innovation Cluster for Digital Technologies, under its Housing Growth Innovation program. This project explores how mass timber prefabrication and modular design can accelerate mid-rise residential delivery across BC and beyond.
Provider Name: BC Wood Specialties Group
Course #: SWGBM2504
Recognized: AIBC 1 Core LU, AIA 1 LU, BC HOUSING 1 CPD Informal, AAA 1 Structured LU
Topic: Resort Wood – Integrating perspectives of architects, builders and manufacturers
Presenter names: Peter Moonen
Date of Activity: September 4th, 2025
Time of Activity: 3:30-4:30PM
Length of Activity: 1.0 hour
Method of Delivery: Face-to-face presentation
Presentation Location: Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler, BC
Summary:
North American resort architecture in 2025 is about creating spaces that align with guests’ values and offer an immersive experience. With sustainable practices, advanced technology, and nature-focused designs on the rise, commercial and residential resort projects are prioritizing eco-friendly designs that minimize environmental impact while maintaining luxury and comfort. Biophilic design and wellness-focus are major trends, but it isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating an experience that rejuvenates guests physically and mentally. Trends drive the resort market, but the long-recognized benefits of building with wood and wood products from British Columbia, continue to provide value for resort building owners. The popularity of B.C. wood is one of the many drivers adding to Canada’s leadership in wood design and construction.
The Global Buyers Mission in Whistler (Sept 4-6, 2025) brings together architects, builders and B.C. manufacturers who are immersed in the design and construction of North America’s commercial and residential resort projects. Hosted by The Canadian Wood Council, this workshop will feature a distinguished panel of architects, builders and manufacturers to discuss current wood use trends in the North American commercial and residential resort market, as well as challenges and benefits in the collaboration and implementation of wood. The differing perspectives within the process will offer insight into how the British Columbia wood industry can work better together with architects and create long lasting, sustainable resort projects.
Learning objectives:
Peter works to assist designers and builders in understanding how to use wood to enhance environmental performance and reduce the ecological footprint of buildings. He regularly presents on achieving greater sustainability to various local, Canadian and international groups. He is also a Canadian representative at the U.N. Timber Committee and reviewer specializing in wood and the green economy for the Forest Products Annual Market Review published by the United Nations Timber and Forestry section with special emphasis on the role of wood in the green economy, including green design. In addition to a degree in Marine Biology and Zoology, he studied forestry at UBC and Journalism and Public Affairs in Alberta.
8:00 AM– 9:00 AM: Breakfast & Grand Opening with Welcoming Remarks from Premier David Eby – Whistler Conference Center, Grand Foyer
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM: 22nd Annual GBM & Networking trade show – Whistler Conference Center
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Product and Manufacturing Advancements from the BC Value-Added Wood Industry: Part One- Whistler Conference Centre, Trade Show Stage-5
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch on the trade show floor
12:45 PM – 1:45 PM: Product and Manufacturing Advancements from the BC Value-Added Wood Industry: Part Two- Whistler Conference Centre, Trade Show Stage -5
1:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Beer Garden on the trade show floor
6:30 PM – 10:00 PM: GBM Evening Networking Dinner and Casino Night- Whistler Conference Centre, Grand Foyer
Provider Name: BC Wood Specialties Group
Course #: SWGBM2505
Recognized: AIBC 2 Core LU, AIA 2 LU, BC HOUSING 2 CPD Informal, AAA 2 Structured LUs
Title of Learning Activity: Product and Manufacturing Advancements from the BC Value-added wood industry
Presenters names: Josh Hall, Peter Raja & Kendra Dunn, Travis Owens, Dai Ona, Oliver Tritten, Ray Greene
Date of Activity: September 5th, 2025
Length of Activity: 2.0 hours
Method of Delivery: Face-to-face demonstration workshop
Presentation Location: Whistler Conference Centre, Whistler, B.C.
Topic Summary:
British Columbia’s vision is to build a stronger, more resilient forestry industry through more value-added manufacturing. British Columbians expect that we get the most value from our forests and create more jobs for every tree harvested, and that secondary manufacturers have access to the timber they need to invest and grow their operations. BC Wood is a not-for-profit trade association that represents British Columbia’s value-added wood products of 120+ wood products manufacturers, product suppliers, and supporting service providers. This workshop consists of 6 – 20 minute presentations given by BC value-added wood manufacturers to Architects and Specifiers, to explore new product and manufacturing advancements.
This workshop will explore how Advanced Timber fabrication and construction takes a forward-thinking approach to the built environment and its groundbreaking developments within the material supply chain—including a large-scale investment in free-form fabrication. It will explore high-performance wood coatings, wood treatment and fire treatment products available from the industry today in code compliance, including Wildland Urban Interface code. It will explore cabinetry essentials for better designing and collaborating with BC cabinet manufacturers. It will explore several developments in building systems and prefabrication being manufactured in British Columbia leading to higher efficiencies, little on-site construction disturbance and less material waste. It will discuss innovative engineering processes, timber drying and finishing, steel plate connections, and bringing natural wood authenticity and durability in buildings. And, it will discuss the benefits and collaboration processes between BC manufacturers with the project builders, designers and developers.
Learning Objectives:
Josh is a Partner and Director of Business Development at Spearhead, where he helps shape the company’s vision and strategic direction. With over fifteen years of experience spanning architecture, digital fabrication, and commercial construction, his knowledge of design, process, and project delivery plays a key role in guiding Spearhead’s continued growth and evolution. Josh holds a Master of Architecture from the University of British Columbia and a Bachelor of Architectural Science from the British Columbia Institute of Technology. Explore the approach, process, and material innovations behind some of North America's most advanced timber structures—along with a major investment in a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Nelson, BC. o Gain insight into the value of Design Assist and DfMA o Learn how Spearhead is driving material innovation and advanced capabilities to enhance B.C.’s competitiveness in global markets.
This presentation will introduce you to SaferWood Thermex-FR by Chemco, Inc. providing insight into code compliance and specification guidance for Ignition Resistant, Exterior, Class A, Fire Retardant Treated Wood [FRTW], with examples of contemporary design & build projects around the world. As the Chief Business Development Officer for ‘Chemco-SaferWood’, Travis has the responsibility to craft our messaging and share expert knowledge about the technical and practical understanding of ignition resistant Fire Retardant Treated Wood [FRTW], it’s long history of acceptance as a code compliant building material, and what role FRTW plays today in protecting property and saving lives as part of Home Hardening and Community Wildfire Preparedness initiatives against the increasing threat and devastation from wildfires.
bringing over two decades of experience across retail, design, construction, and executive leadership. She began her career in national retail, advancing quickly into senior buying and management roles, while also nurturing a passion for home renovation, new builds, and real estate development. Her transition into the cabinetry industry marked a pivotal step, where she served as Sales Manager for a leading cabinet manufacturer. In that role, she led a 20-person team, drove product development, and implemented process improvements that elevated both operational efficiency and client satisfaction. Kendra later moved into the interior design sector as Chief Operating Officer, where she oversaw company-wide operations and reinforced a culture of excellence rooted in customer care and creative execution. Now at Norelco, Kendra’s strategic insight, collaborative leadership, and commitment to quality make her an integral force in delivering exceptional customer experiences and advancing the company’s vision.
Peter embarked on his career in residential construction and related trades back in 1978, quickly assuming management positions at building supply stores in Northern, BC, Canada. In 1994, Peter and his wife made a significant decision to relocate to Kelowna, BC, where they ventured into new business endeavors. Not long after settling in Kelowna, Peter took on the role of District Sales Manager for Nelson Homes. Within a year, he expanded his expertise into the export market for engineered panelized homes. Recognizing the exceptional quality produced by Norelco Cabinets, Peter, along with two partners, acquired the company, having been long-standing customers and admirers of its products. Since 2002, Peter has served as President of Norelco Cabinets, skillfully transforming a small cabinet manufacturing plant employing 20 individuals into a thriving 60,000 square feet facility that now provides employment to over 150 people. Peter's visionary leadership has allowed Norelco to flourish internationally, with the company currently manufacturing and delivering cabinetry for high-end luxury projects throughout Western USA, including the Hawaii islands. As the Export Hawaiian Sales Manager for this division, Peter plays a vital role in expanding business into new markets. Cabinetry 101 - better integrate cabinetry planning into design workflow—without needing to become a cabinetmaker.
The beginning of Oliver’s career in the timber works industry started in 1990 back in Switzerland, he spent 5 years in practical applications, and then was indentured for a formal 3-year apprenticeship in European Timber Framing. Upon completion of his apprenticeship and university preparation courses, he continued his education by attending university, studying applied sciences, and graduating in 2002 with a Technical Master Timber Framer Diploma. Ready to take the next step, he moved to Canada in 2003, studying the art of handcrafted log building from a leading log building company. After a few years of heading up their timber frame operation; Oliver began his journey to start OT Timber Frames ltd, founding it in 2009. His vision was to specialize in quality, creative, solid, and unique timber frame building systems, accents, and structures. Oliver has now built up the incredible company that OT Timber Frames Ltd is today, and has since brought on a team of talented and skilled craftsmen with the mission to deliver excellence in every project. “Wooden Wall Panels”
As owner and big picture thinker at Daizen, Dai Ona identifies business opportunities and works with clients to bring their project visions to life. He applies his design and building experience to create final products that are distinct, functional and sustainable. Dai conveys both passion and resolve to meet any challenge and leads his team in offering exceptional work at every stage of the design, production and installation process. He has fostered respect and camaraderie among his crew members who reflect his work ethic. Dai’s focus on high quality standards and reputation guide decision-making. Dai’s experience has been gained through more than two decades working in the building and timber frame industries in Japan, other parts of Asia and Canada. He emigrated to Canada from Japan and started Daizen Joinery in 1990 in Parksville, BC, where he focused his efforts on hand timber building and joinery, and exporting frame products to Asian markets. Dai relocated his business to the Interior of BC in 2004 where he expanded his company to meet the growing needs of the timber frame industry in North America. Today, his company serves a client base from across Western Canada, the US Pacific Northwest, California and Hawaii. His commitment to ongoing professional development and speaking opportunities keep Dai open to new, innovative ideas, and collaboration within the timber frame industry. “Why Wood Moves”
With over 30 years’ experience in the construction industry Ray has provided energy efficient panelized custom home packages around the world. Ray was involved with the 1st wood frame home built in Mongolia to Canadian Building Codes. Other projects in Korea, Hawaii, Israel, and Bahamas fit well with his expertise in remote builds. Graduating from a Building Construction Engineering program along with operating a custom home and engineering company has given Ray a comprehensive knowledge of the construction industry. Wildfire protection to wood frame structures, pre-fab treated and fire testing
8:45 AM -10:00 AM: Breakfast Workshop at the Delta Hotels Whistler Village Suites-Branching Traditions: Innovative Mass Timber in Indigenous Inspired Architecture – 6
Provider Name: BC Wood Specialties Group
Course #: SWGBM2506
Recognized: AIBC Indigenous Peoples Learning 1 Core LU, AIA 1 LU, BC HOUSING 1 CPD Informal, AAA 1 Structured LU
Title of Learning Activity: Branching Traditions: Innovative Mass Timber in Indigenous Inspired Architecture
Presenters name: Alfred Waugh
Date of Activity: September 6th, 2025
Length of Activity: 1.0 hours
Method of Delivery: Face-to-face presentation
Presentation Location: Delta Hotels Whistler Village Suites, Whistler, BC
Topic Summary:
Discover the transformative vision of Saskatoon’s New Central Library, a 150,000-square-foot, four-story beacon anchoring downtown’s northern edge. Inspired by Métis and Indigenous cultures, this community living room echoes the South Saskatchewan River’s rhythms, blending organic forms to connect urban vitality with the prairie landscape. As a place of healing and inclusiveness, it sparks renewal with a south-facing plaza featuring river-inspired flora for community events and a northern Indigenous landscape. This project honours the land’s stewards, fostering a welcoming hub that celebrates Saskatoon’s diverse heritage and unites all in shared cultural expression.
Dive into the mass timber innovations of Saskatoon’s New Central Library in the lecture “Branching Traditions,” evoking leaf-like five-ply CLT floor plates radiating outward, distributing services via a central spine supported by a concrete core for rigidity. Explore value engineering evolution, overcoming manufacturing constraints, shipping logistics, and broad CLT floor plates without shear walls for concise structure. Celebrate adapting timber to cultural geometries, inspiring architects and engineers with sustainable, expressive insights honoring Indigenous and Métis heritage.
Four Learning Objectives:
Recently elected to the College of Fellows of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, Alfred specializes in culturally and environmentally sensitive projects and has extensive experience with Indigenous, Metis cultural societies, and educational institutions. He is the first Indigenous Architect to receive the Govenor’s General Medal in Architecture. Alfred is actively involved in the community and is the Co-Director of the RAIC Truth and Reconciliation Task Force. He was instrumental in bringing a motion to the 2020 RAIC AGM where the UN Declaration of Indigenous Rights was unanimously accepted. He has recently been a juror on an number of awards programs including the Canadian Architect Awards of Excellence and the RAIC International prize. Alfred is Status Indian registered with the Fond Du Lac Band in Northern Saskatchewan. He was the first Aboriginal person to graduate with honours from UBC School of Architecture in 1993 and become a registered architect in 1999 In 2005, Alfred established Alfred Waugh Architects, a 100-percent Aboriginallyowned practice. In 2012 the firm was incorporated and renamed to Formline Architecture