LEAP Conference returns with ‘Women Who Build’ theme

Key Takeaways:

• LEAP: Women in Construction returns for its third year on March 6, 2026, bringing together women and allies across the Lower Mainland for a day focused on leadership, connection, and professional growth under the theme “Women Who Build.”
• The conference emphasizes representation and community, positioning LEAP as a cornerstone platform where women in construction can feel seen, supported, and empowered while building skills, confidence, and networks.
• LEAP 2026 features keynote and toolbox sessions centered on neuroscience-based performance, soft skills, compassionate leadership, and professional presence, offering practical tools participants can apply immediately in their careers.

The Whole Story:

The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA), in partnership with Canadian Construction Women (CCW), has announced the return of the LEAP: Women in Construction event, taking place on March 6, 2026. Registration is now open for the conference, which brings together women and allies from across the Lower Mainland for a day of connection, inspiration, and leadership. 

Now in its third year, LEAP has become a cornerstone event for women in construction, creating space for meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and professional growth. The 2026 event will be themed “Women Who Build,” setting the stage for an elevated and welcoming experience that blends inspiration with celebration.  

“LEAP continues to be an important platform for bringing women together from all corners of the construction industry,” said Jeannine Martin, President of the VRCA. “Representation matters – not only in who we see leading conversations, but also in creating spaces where women feel seen, heard, and supported as they build their careers.” 

Attendees can expect engaging speakers, opportunities to connect with peers and industry leaders, and thoughtful discussions that reflect the evolving role of women in construction. LEAP 2026 sessions will include:  

Keynote Session: The Working Brain – Unlocking Your Full Potential

Dr. Brynn Winegard

In the opening keynote session, Dr. Winegard reveals the science behind how high-performing professionals think, focus, and thrive at work. Drawing from neuroscience research and real-world corporate experience, Dr. Winegard will explain how “The Working Brain” acts as the missing manual for your mind and show you how to work with your brain instead of pushing against it. Attendees will learn how to tap into their brain’s natural rhythms and apply Dr. Brynn’s MERIT Framework to design workdays that drive clarity, confidence, productivity, and long-term mental wellness. 

Toolbox Session: The Smart Side of Soft Skills

Sophie Warik, Co-CEO & Co-Founder, The Thoughtful Co.

This workshop breaks down why soft skills matter, how they influence reputation and opportunities, and how to intentionally build them over time. Participants will learn practical strategies for strengthening communication and demonstrating leadership through everyday interactions, as well as how to cultivate presence and professionalism in ways that support long-term career growth. 

Toolbox Session: Leading With Compassion

Nicole Bryant, CEO, NRCA

This leadership session is designed to help industry professionals strengthen their leadership approach through empathy, awareness, and accountability. The presentation explores how compassionate leadership is not just a soft skill, but a strategic one, improving communication, retention, and team performance. Participants will leave with practical tools and insights to apply immediately, building stronger, safer, and more connected teams across all levels of their organization. 

Toolbox Session: Owning the Room

Natasha Jeshani, President & CEO, Career Contacts

Rather than focusing on personality or performance, the session reframes presence as a practical leadership skill. It addresses the real dynamics women in construction face, from walking into rooms where they may be the only woman, to navigating technical conversations, site-based leadership, and decision-making environments with clarity and authority. Participants will leave with practical tools and mindset shifts they can apply immediately, along with a deeper understanding of the shared responsibility to create space and opportunity for the women coming up behind them. 

Additional speakers and sessions will be announced in the coming weeks. 

“LEAP allows us to share actionable ideas combined with strong community building opportunities to ensure women continue to grow to see construction as an excellent career opportunity,” said Stephanie Hun, President of CCW and Vice President of Business Development at FlatironDragados Canada. “The impact of LEAP extends beyond a single event – it helps build confidence, expand networks, and open doors to new opportunities within the construction industry.” 

LEAP: Women in Construction is open to women and allies at all stages of their careers and across all sectors of the construction industry. Registration details and more information can be found here.