The Association of Consulting Engineering Companies Canada (ACEC) used National Consulting Engineering Day on May 26 to position the sector as a critical partner in helping the federal government strengthen the economy, expand trade infrastructure and bolster national defence readiness.
Speaking at a news conference on Parliament Hill, ACEC President and CEO John Gamble and Vice President Martine Proulx said consulting engineering firms are central to delivering the large-scale infrastructure investments and strategic projects increasingly tied to Canada’s economic resilience and geopolitical priorities.
“Too often, infrastructure is only noticed if it fails, but the truth is good infrastructure is what makes strong communities possible,” said Gamble. “It connects our communities. It drives our economy. It protects public health and safety. It supports national security, and increasingly, it determines our competitiveness in a rapidly changing world.”
The event marked National Consulting Engineering Day, which ACEC said recognizes the engineers, planners, architects, environmental scientists and project managers involved in designing and delivering infrastructure across Canada.
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A proclamation was issued in the House of Commons and ACEC also hosted a webinar on the future of engineering to mark the day.
Proulx said the industry is operating at a pivotal moment as governments rethink supply chains, trade corridors, housing, energy security and defence infrastructure amid growing global uncertainty.
“The federal government has recognized the importance of nation-building infrastructure through major commitments, including over $115 billion in planned infrastructure investments over five years,” she said.
Proulx pointed to federal initiatives such as the proposed Canada Strong Fund, the Major Projects Office and the Defence Investment Agency as examples of programs that could create significant opportunities for Canadian engineering firms.
“These initiatives represent a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a stronger, more connected and more self-sufficient country,” she said. “Canadian consulting engineering companies are critical to delivering these bold programs.”
According to ACEC, the consulting engineering sector supports nearly 500,000 jobs and contributes close to $70 billion annually to Canada’s economy. Gamble noted that three of the world’s largest engineering firms are headquartered in Canada.
The organization emphasized that consulting engineering firms are increasingly being called upon to address challenges linked to climate resilience, transportation efficiency, housing-enabling infrastructure, critical minerals development and energy transition projects.
Proulx said engineering expertise early in project planning can improve outcomes through stronger risk management, better value for taxpayers and more efficient delivery.
“Whether it’s climate adaptation, trade diversification, defence readiness or energy transition, infrastructure is central to the conversation,” she said.
The speakers also highlighted the sector’s work on flood mitigation systems, water treatment modernization, transportation improvements and infrastructure development in northern and remote communities.
Gamble said the day was also intended to recognize the professionals working behind the scenes on infrastructure Canadians rely on every day.
“Behind every successful infrastructure project are people with the expertise and commitment to make it happen,” he said.
