Ontario Construction News staff writer
The University of Ottawa’s new Faculty of Health Sciences building was awarded the Engineering a Better Canada Award at the 2024 Canadian Consulting Engineering Awards (CCEA) on Oct. 24. This recognition highlights projects that significantly enhance the social, economic, or cultural quality of life for Canadians.
Designed by WSP Canada, the building was recognized for its sustainable architecture, constructed on a former industrial brownfield site. It incorporates eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems, using 57.2 per cent less energy and producing 57.8 per cent less greenhouse gas emissions than typical institutional buildings.
The facility also serves as a community hub for Francophone and Indigenous populations, fostering collaboration and inclusivity.
“This award showcases the creativity and expertise involved in developing solutions that benefit both the university and the surrounding community,” said John Gamble, president and CEO of ACEC-Canada, highlighting how engineering can drive sustainability and enhance community resilience.
The Schreyer Award for technical innovation and the Breton Environmental Award for environmental dedication were also presented. Negin Tousi from David Nairne & Associates received the 2025 Allen D. Williams scholarship, acknowledging her contributions to water treatment solutions across diverse communities in Ontario.
In all, five Special Awards were also presented to projects that best demonstrated: technical innovation (Schreyer Award), dedication to the environment (Breton Environmental Award), Canadian expertise abroad (Ambassador Award); and how engineering enhances Canadians’ social, economic, or cultural quality of life (Engineering a Better Canada Award). Winners were selected by an independent jury of distinguished experts from varied backgrounds.
Also, 20 projects were recognized for their technical excellence and their contributions to society, during the 2024 Canadian Consulting Engineering Awards (CCEA).
Now in the 56th year, the CCEA (jointly produced by Canadian Consulting Engineer and ACEC-Canada) are recognized as the industry’s highest honours, presented to projects by Canadian consulting engineering firms that illustrate the most remarkable engineering feats.
“These awards spotlight the remarkable achievements of consulting engineering firms that are building the foundation of Canada’s future,” said ACEC-Canada president and CEO John Gamble. “The projects recognized exemplify the creativity, expertise, and leadership that define our industry. Whether enhancing sustainability, safeguarding communities, or driving economic growth, the impact of their work is substantial. We are proud to celebrate the dedication and innovation of our members, whose contributions resonate both locally and internationally.”