The IIBEC Southern Ontario Chapter hosted its 5th Annual Diversity & Inclusion Building Science Forum on March 4, 2026 at the Design Exchange in Toronto. The event brought together professionals from across the building enclosure and construction industry for an afternoon of learning, discussion, and networking focused on advancing diversity and inclusion within the building sciences.
Attendees gathered for lunch and networking prior to the program, providing an opportunity for industry professionals, students, and emerging leaders to connect and exchange perspectives. The Keynote Presentation was delivered by Flonja Shyti, from the National Research Council of Canada and was generously sponsored by Pretium Engineering. The presentation highlighted Flonja’s work as well as her progression through the Building Science Industry.
Following the keynote presentation, a fireside discussion with industry leaders who shared insights on how organizations can foster inclusive environments, encourage broader participation in the Building Science Community, and support the next generation of professionals entering the industry. Thank you as well to our wonderful keynote speaker and panelists Flonja Shyti, Diana Vitiritti, Kennedy Whitfield, P.Eng., and Dr. Russell Richman for openly sharing your experiences and perspectives during the fireside chat.
This event continues to be a meaningful space where industry professionals and emerging leaders come together to share ideas, build connections, and foster mentorship within the building sciences community. Beyond the educational programming, the forum serves as an important platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and strengthening relationships across the industry.
Congratulations to our two scholarship recipients Amr Abdulmqsoud and Maciek Zausz, as well as to all the students who received IIBEC Student Membership Awards this year. We look forward to seeing the impact you will make in the years ahead.
The IIBEC Southern Ontario Chapter extends sincere appreciation to the sponsors and partners whose support made this event possible.
Corporate Sponsors
- Triumph Group of Companies
- Goliath Roofing Systems
- RoofMart International (RMI)
Keynote Speaker Sponsor
- Pretium Engineering
Lunch Sponsors
- Tremco
- Wilson CPA
Industry Sponsors
- Polyglass – Mapei Group
- RBC
- Pops Restoration & Contracting Group (PRC)
- Naturaseal
Tabletop Sponsors
- CDN Global
- Northern Facades
- Triumph
- Naturaseal
- Situra Inc.
- Artistic Skylight
- Soprema
- Rimkus
- Pretium
- IKO
- Tectra
Finally, the chapter would also like to extend our sincere thanks to our organization committee, Event Emcee, Stephanie Robinson, Event Moderator, Jennifer Hogan and our special guest Brian Pallasch, IIBEC Executive Vice President and CEO.
Upcoming Events:
- April 9 and 10, 2026 – IIBEC Metal Roofing Course
- June 23, 2026 – IIBEC SOC Annual Golf Tournament
- October 2026 – IIBEC Course: TBD
