VICA Team

Rory has been working the construction scene throughout Canada for the last 25 years but primarily in the West as a general contractor and owner for both public and private sectors. In addition to his experience, he has accreditation as an Applied Science Technologist and a PMP, including an MBA.

Amie joined VICA in October 2016 as the coordinator of our then Constructing a Future Program. After developing that program to meet the contractual criteria of the government funder she went on to redevelop it for the second contract. Amie is excited to return to VICA in her new role combining her past experiences in accounting, social work, employment services and human resources.

Dawn is a familiar face to many in the construction industry, as VICA’s longest staff member of 20 years. With her extensive knowledge and experience, she is always ready to assist members and future members alike.

At VICA since 2009, Sarah takes charge of events and administration with a smile. You’ll often find her at the office or one of our events. Known for her friendly approach and attention to detail, she ensures everything runs smoothly and seamlessly.

Jessica joined the VICA team in 2024 as the Manager of Training and Education. She brings with her a background in operational excellence, project management, and leadership. Jessica is passionate about education as a catalyst for strong industries, career growth and organizational development.

Jennifer joined VICA in July 2024 as the office administrator and is looking forward to greeting you with a smile. Jennifer completed a degree in Anthropology at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax and came back out west to be closer to family. In the past, she worked in the optometry field, and is pivoting to something new after staying home to raise two sons. In her spare time, you will find her hiking, reading or playing outside with her boys.

(TBA)

Ruth joined the VICA team November 2022, taking on the position of the Accounting Specialist. After a lengthy stint, over 25 years, in the retail building material industry, evolving her skills in marketing and accounting she has crossed over to learn another “ frame” of the construction industry. When not in the office she can be found on the golf course or cruising thru the Saanich inlet on her paddle board.

Olivia joined the VICA team in January 2024 as a co-op student. Olivia enjoys golfing, swimming, and spending time at the beach. She looks forward to applying her creativity in organizing events at VICA. Olivia looks forward to combining her organizational skills and innovative ideas to create memorable and impactful events, eager to contribute her fresh perspectives and learn from the seasoned team.

Our education mastermind since 2015, Chenelle is a resource ninja too: email for help and she will track down an answer with list of resources for you as long as your arm. She keeps a not-so-secret stash of dog treats in her office – pop by with your furry friend and say hello!

Bianca joined VICA in January 2022 initially as the Harm Reduction Coordinator with VICA’s Tailgate Toolkit program, pivoting to CYF in 2023. With her 11 years of experience in working with youth with varying abilities and structured youth program settings, she brings her knowledge of mental health, employment development, and communication skills to our youth in the CYF program. Her passion for helping people grow to find their lifelong careers in the trades as well as her compassionate, hardworking, and energetic personality blends well with the rest of the CYF/VICA team.

Alison joined VICA in August 2023 having spent the previous 15 years working for the Greater Victoria School District, with disengaged youth. As a former career coordinator, she encouraged students to find their pathway and make connections between classroom education, post-secondary instruction, and the workplace. Trades have always been something Alison has been passionate about, helping students find work experience placement opportunities with the Youth Work in Trades program, finding a sponsor employer and registering with the ITA as a youth apprentice.

Greg Hemminger is the new Harm Reduction Project Coordinator for the Lower Mainland representing VICA out of the Vancouver Regional Construction Association office. Over the last 4 years Greg has been an active part of the mental health and addictions community across the greater Vancouver area. He has served as a board member for the Maple Ridge Treatment Centre running biweekly support groups for men in early recovery. He also helped create the Fun in Recovery Program which accompanies clients to community outings such as sporting events to show clients that there is a new world awaiting them outside of addiction. Greg looks forward to contributing to the Harm Reduction program and bringing this essential project to the lower mainland.

Mika Dumont is the Tailgate Toolkit Coordinator for the Southern Interior region of BC. Over the past 9 years, Mika has gained experience in the fields of addiction, mental health, and construction. She looks forward to helping to end stigma in our industry.

Rose has been actively involved in supporting the entrenched and unhoused population of the Fraser Valley. After pursuing education to become a community support worker, she developed a passion for assisting people. Rose was a valuable member of an exceptional team in Abbotsford that established a drop-in center in the heart of the city and pioneered the first Safe Injection Site. Since 2013, she has been working on the front lines, teaching numerous neighbors and professional community members how to use naloxone. After taking a break to build cabinets for a year, Rose felt the calling and returned to work with the community.

Kayla joined the VICA team in 2024, representing the project for the areas within the Northern Regional Construction Association. She has a background in community based social services, providing leadership, programming, education and support to communities, teams, families, and individuals of all ages and from all walks of life. Kayla has worked throughout BC and has recently returned to her northern roots. She has a particular respect and appreciation for work in trades, and a passion for supporting folks in the areas of mental health and substance use. With over 12 years experience in her chosen field, Kayla looks forward to bringing her skills and passion to this role and propelling the Tailgate Toolkit Project in Northern BC.