Valerie Penney

2026-2027 BOARD CHAIR

rcs construction

Valerie Penney is a graduate of Civil Engineering from Memorial University of Newfoundland. She started her construction career 20 years ago as an estimator with a local general contractor. From estimating she worked her way into Project Management and has been doing both roles for the last 18 years.

Valerie is known as a hard-working professional who takes a pragmatic approach to ensure the project gets completed within budget and on schedule. Understanding the importance of client and supplier relationships is the most important factor in completing a successful project. Valerie has served six years on the board of directors and is also chair of NLCA’s Women in Construction pillar. She is looking forward to serving in her role as Chair.

Ryan Davis
Ryan DavisFirst Vice-Chair
Marco Group Limited

Ryan Davis is a Senior Project Manager with Marco Group Limited. He was born and raised in St. John’s and graduated from Memorial University of Newfoundland in 2008 with a Bachelor of Civil Engineering Degree. Since then, he has obtained his Professional Engineer License (P. Eng) and his Gold Seal Certification (GSC) in General Contracting.

Ryan began his career in the construction industry with Marco during his engineering work terms and was hired full time once he graduated. He has overseen numerous projects across Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) including several schools, luxury condominium buildings, hospital expansions and renovations, car dealerships, retail box stores, university renovations, office buildings, restaurants, a cannabis production facility, expansion to the St. John’s International Airport, Multi-residential buildings, and Salmon Hatchery Facilities.

Cory Pittman
Cory PittmanSecond Vice Chair
Allstar Rebar Ltd.

Cory Pittman is the President with Allstar Rebar Ltd and has been with the company for 25 years.  He has been involved in many reinforcing steel projects in Newfoundland and Labrador including Muskrat Falls, Corner Brook Acute Care, Avalon Mall Parkade, MUN’s Core Science Building, Grieg Seafoods Aquaculture, Marathon Gold, and projects in British Columbia such as the RAV Line.

Cory is an active volunteer and has served on the Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Curling Committee for 13 years.  He has served 3 years on the PCSP Minor softball executive. He was a coach with the Northeast Minor Hockey Association for 13 years and has been a coach with Prince of Wales Collegiate High School team since 2024. In 2018, Cory received Bantam Coach of the year and the Wayne Mitchelmore award for Overall Coach of the Year at Northeast Minor Hockey.  He has been a member of the Canadian Coalition for Construction Steel (CCCS) and currently has served as Trade Contractors Section Chair at the NLCA for 6 years before joining the executive this past year. Cory also has served on the Trade Advisory Council for the Canadian Construction Association for the past 4 years.

Cory has been an active member of the NLCA, especially regarding Steel Tariffs and his participation on the Master Spec Committee.  He has also carried out extensive work with the Canadian Coalition for Construction Steel and the Reinforcing Steel Institute of Canada. Cory has been travelling to Ottawa to take part in Hill Day which lobbies government regarding current issues in the construction industry for the past 4 years.

Tonya Knopp
Tonya KnoppThird Vice Chair
The City of St. John’s

Tonya Knopp is a Professional Engineer with over 22 years progressive experience in the construction industry. She has worked in both public and private sector with her main areas of expertise in linear and vertical (building) infrastructure projects. She is currently the Project Director/Senior Project Manager for Riverhead WWTF Secondary Expansion project.

Academically, Tonya is a strong advocate for continuing education and has added the following qualifications to her resume over the years: a Master’s Certification in Project Management from York University, a Lean Green Belt in Continuous Improvement from the Leading Edge Group, a Certified Asset Management Professional from PEMAC, a Master’s Degree (M.Sc.) in International Construction Management with Merit from the University of Bath, a Certified Passive House Designer, a Gold Seal Intern and is currently completing a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in Civil Engineering from the University of Bath with a specialization in Climate Resilience of Building Infrastructure.

When she is not working or studying, she spends her time volunteering with the following organizations: PEGNL, WISENL, Tequity+, AMAL Unite & Empower Connector Program, YWCA Career Compass Program, PMI-NL Construction Focus Group, National Model Codes Committee,  and is currently serving her 3rd term as a Director at Large with the NLCA Board of Directors. In 2024, Tonya was awarded the NLCA Women in Infrastructure Award of Excellence for her work in advancing women in construction and the promotion of skilled trades and technology as successful careers for youth, and women specifically. In 2025, Tonya was a nominee for the Community Leader Award with the Canadian Construction Association, a nominee for the YWCA Circle of Distinction Awards, and she was recently awarded the 2025 Trailblazer Award from the Project Management Institute – NL Chapter and the 2025 NLCA Community Leader Award.

Stephen Short
Stephen ShortSecretary-Treasurer & Past Chair
Cargocan Agency Ltd.

Stephen is entering his eighth year on the NLCA Board of Directors and is honoured to serve as Secretary-Treasurer and Past Chair for 2026. Throughout his time with the Board, he has valued the opportunity to collaborate with the executive team, fellow directors, and the team to advance the interests of NLCA member firms and Newfoundland and Labrador’s construction industry.

As General Manager of Cargocan Agency Ltd., a division of Eimskip Canada, Stephen specializes in ocean and road freight, logistics management, and import/export solutions. His career began in Labrador West, where he supported clients in the industrial construction and mining sectors. In 2015, after relocating to Happy Valley–Goose Bay, he took on account and logistics management for the Muskrat Falls megaproject, overseeing commercial aviation, air charters, and cargo solutions for a wide range of contractors.

Stephen has developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges associated with working in rural and Indigenous communities across Northern Canada, where logistics often require innovative approaches. Now based in St. John’s, he works with companies throughout Eastern Canada to deliver local and international logistics solutions. He earned his Bachelor of Commerce from Memorial University in 2012, where he received the Faculty of Business Administration Advisory Board Chair’s Leadership Award. Most recently, he completed his MBA at the University of Fredericton in 2025.

Outside of his professional commitments, Stephen enjoys spending quality time with his wife, Charlotte, and their son, Gabe.

Wanda Cuff Young
Wanda Cuff YoungDirector at Large
Work Global Canada Inc.

Wanda Cuff Young is a distinguished entrepreneur with over 40 years of professional experience in marketing, business strategy, funding, and management consulting. As the Vice President of Work Global Canada Inc., she plays a pivotal role in connecting international talent with Canadian businesses, fostering diversity, and supporting economic growth. Her leadership has been instrumental in the company’s expansion and success, including the establishment of new programs and satellite offices Canada-wide, as well as, in the Philippines.

In addition to her role at Work Global Canada Inc., Wanda is the CEO of White Rock Communications and Consulting. Through White Rock, she has provided strategic direction to companies across agriculture, biopharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, manufacturing, and technology, with a focus on succession planning, operational budgeting, and long‑term workforce sustainability. Her work also includes conducting labour market research and developing practical workforce solutions that help organizations respond to skills shortages, plan for future talent needs, and strengthen overall organizational resilience.

Her expertise encompasses human resources, marketing, communications, events, website development, social media, research and analysis, strategic growth, development planning, and government relations. Wanda’s contributions to the business community have been widely recognized. She was awarded the ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ by the Newfoundland and Labrador Organization of Women Entrepreneurs (NLOWE) and has served in various leadership roles within the organization. Her commitment to excellence and innovation continues to drive her success and impact in the industry.

Nick Mallam
Nick MallamDirector at Large
Olympic Construction Limited

My Name is Nick Mallam currently I’m Vice President of Olympic Construction I am running for Director-At-Large position. I was born and raised in St Johns, NL. I grew up in the construction industry and worked in it my entire life, it’s all I know. I’m a professional civil engineer that graduated from the Memorial engineering program and I also have a Red Seal certification in Carpentry from Department of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour in NL.

I’ve worked with Olympic Construction for 26 years I have had various roles within the company and met and learned from a lot of great people throughout the years. I have an extensive background in commercial building construction, a strong understanding of all construction processes specifically structural concrete work, high end finish work and tilt-up construction. I’ve been involved with many large projects in Newfoundland and Labrador over the years and thoroughly enjoyed my time in the industry.

Candace Dominix
Candace DominixCentral Director
Allnorth

Candace Dominix is a graduate of the Architectural Engineering Technology program from College of the North Atlantic. She started her construction career 19 years ago with a General Contracting company, Granco Construction/LSG Construction. She started in the office as a draftsperson, office administrator and estimator, but after a few years started a Project Management role. Project Management has been her role since leaving general contracting and diversifying into other areas. Currently, Candace is working with Allnorth Consultants in Gander, NL as a Designer and Project Manager.

Candace has served on the board of the NLCA in various roles, as the Central Director, Education and Training committee and as co-chair of the women in construction committee.

Stephen Savard
Stephen SavardWestern Director
Brook Construction (2007) Inc.

Stephen is a construction professional and Civil Engineering Technologist with over a decade of experience contributing to complex infrastructure and commercial construction projects across Newfoundland and Labrador and Western Canada. A graduate of the Civil Engineering Technology program at the College of the North Atlantic, Stephen is an active member of the Association of Engineering Technicians and Technologists of Newfoundland and Labrador. His career began in technical field roles involving surveying, materials testing, inspections, and quality assurance, where he developed a strong understanding of construction standards, regulatory compliance, and risk management from the ground up.

Stephen has since progressed into senior leadership roles, including Survey Lead on the Site C Hydroelectric Project with Flatiron Corp., where he was responsible for managing crews, coordinating daily production activities, and ensuring safety and quality compliance on one of Canada’s largest infrastructure projects. After finishing rotational work, Stephen began working with Brook Construction (2007) Inc. in January 2024 as a Project Manager/Estimator, overseeing project planning, tendering, budgeting, and execution. Stephen brings a practical, solutions-driven perspective to leadership, shaped by hands-on experience, collaborative work with owners, consultants, and contractors, and a demonstrated ability to deliver projects efficiently and responsibly. His broad technical knowledge, commitment to safety and quality, and experience working across both consulting and contracting environments position him as a valuable contributor to a construction board focused on industry advancement, accountability, and sustainable growth.

Stanley Oliver
Stanley OliverLabrador Director
Labrador North Chamber of Commerce

Born and raised in Labrador, Stanley is an Inuit who is an avid hunter, fisher, and outdoorsman. He has worked in the Labrador and Atlantic region in the Natural Resources industry for more than thirty-five years. Stanley has previously held several senior management and leadership positions with the Nunatsiavut Government, the NunatuKavut Community Council, the Atlantic First Nations Policy Congress, Trades NL (Indigenous Office) and is currently the Manager of the Special Projects Office with the Labrador North Chamber of Commerce.

Stanley’s in-depth knowledge of Indigenous rights is often requested on the local, provincial, and national level. He currently sits on the National Indigenous Advisory Committee for the Canadian Environment Assessment Agency, as well as several provincial and local community and business organizations.

Stan’s philosophy is to create and foster positive collaborative partnerships with government and business.

Thomas Munn
Thomas MunnLegal Governance Director
Cox & Palmer

Thomas Munn is a commercial partner in Cox & Palmer’s St. John’s office. Thomas practices in construction and energy law, and frequently advises construction clients on contractual and regulatory matters. He has experience acting on behalf of all parties in the construction chain.

Max Day
Max DayGeneral Contractors Section Chair
Can-am Construction & Platforms Ltd.

Max Day P.ENG, P.GSC has served on the NLCA Board of Directors previously for five terms as the Standard Practices Section Chair and one term as General Contractor Section Chair.  Max is the Site Engineer with Can-Am Platforms & Construction Ltd. and has been employed with Can-Am Platforms & Construction Ltd as a Site Engineer since 2015. He is responsible for the oversight of all construction projects with this firm to ensure the work is completed correct, on-time and on budget.

Max is a graduate from Memorial University’s Engineering Program and earned his Professional Gold Seal certification thru the NLCA Center of Excellence. Max has worked in the General Contractor’s Industry since 2008 and has always been employed with firms that are members of the NLCA.

Max is an avid user of the NLCA services participates in the various section meetings, staying on top of current industry trends. Max is also a regular attender of the annual general meeting and has taken many of the courses offered by the NLCA.

David Cahill
David CahillElectrical/Mechanical Contractors Section Chair
The Cahill Group

David was born and raised in St. Johns, NL, and has a bachelor’s degree in Process Engineering from Memorial University of Newfoundland. David attained his Professional Engineering designation in 2019 and completed his MBA from the Australian Institute of Business in 2022. Upon graduation from engineering in 2013, David moved to Calgary Alberta where he began working for the Cahill Group as a field engineer. After four years in western Canada, he moved back home to NL where he continued to work with Cahill in various roles from a project manager, director of projects, and the past few years as Senior VP of operations. He has experience on a wide range of construction projects in the oil & gas, mining, utility, and commercial/infrastructure sectors.

Outside of work, David is also active in the community and sits on a couple of boards. He currently is in his sixth year on the board of directors for the Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association (NLCA) as the Mechanical/Electrical Section Chair. As well, he also sits on the board of directors for the Construction Labor Relations Association of Newfoundland and Labrador as a director at large and currently is on the executive of this board. The Cahill Group has been a member of the NLCA for 38 years. David follows the NLCA organization with interest as they stay current with emerging industry trends to provide members with timely education and professional development opportunities throughout the year.

Lindsay Hynes
Lindsay HynesManufacturers, Suppliers & Services Section Chair
Newcrete Investments

Lindsay Hynes is a respected sales leader and industry advocate in Newfoundland and Labrador’s construction sector. She brings over 16 years of sales experience, including seven years with Rideout Tool & Machine, where she supported customers across the province with tools and machinery. Prior to that, she spent eight years as Office Manager at Power Vac Services, overseeing payroll, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and safety. Lindsay joined Concrete Products in March 2019 and has since become a dedicated ambassador for the company’s products and services. She manages the Landscape and Masonry Division through the St. John’s and Grand Falls-Windsor (Hunt’s Concrete) offices and contributes to Newcrete’s Marketing Team through print and digital advertising, as well as customer training.

As Sales Manager of the Landscape and Masonry Division, Lindsay is known for her technical expertise, strong client relationships, and commitment to raising industry standards. Her combination of professionalism, authenticity, and approachability has made her a trusted resource to clients, colleagues, and partners alike. Lindsay has proudly served on the Board of Directors of the Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association (NLCA) for five years, representing the Manufacturers, Suppliers & Services category. She also sits on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – NL Branch. Her past board service includes two terms with the Canadian Concrete Manufacturers and Producers Association, two terms with the Atlantic Masonry Institute, and four terms with Landscape NL, including two as Vice President.

Her insight and collaborative leadership have helped strengthen connections among suppliers, contractors, and industry stakeholders. Lindsay is also a strong supporter of equity and inclusion in the construction industry and has played a meaningful role in the development and continued success of the NLCA’s Women in Construction (WIC) program – helping create a platform that empowers and celebrates women across the sector. Lindsay’s success is rooted in consistency, authenticity, and a strong work ethic. Whether mentoring a colleague, contributing at board meetings, or helping a client bring their vision to life, she approaches every task with purpose and enthusiasm. Colleagues describe her as reliable, approachable, and forward-thinking – a leader who elevates everyone around her.

Originally from St. Joseph’s, St. Mary’s Bay, Lindsay is the proud mother of a 19-year-old son and currently lives in Torbay with her partner, Ron, and their Cape Shore Water Dog, Jack.

Michale Piercey
Michale PierceyTrade Contractors Section Chair
Vipond Fire Protection Inc.

With nearly 8 years of experience in the fire protection industry, Michale Piercey brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role as Business Development Leader at Vipond. Employed with the company for almost two years, Michale has built a strong foundation in fire protection inspection and maintenance, contributing significantly to the company’s growth and client success.

Her extensive career has not only sharpened her technical acumen but also allowed her to become a key mentor within her team, actively guiding and developing the next generation of leaders. One of her proudest achievements is her role in creating “REP” (Recycled Extinguisher Program) a non-profit initiative designed to assist Fire Departments gain access to Fire Extinguishers for training purposes.

Michale is an active member of the Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association (NLCA), where she has contributed her insight and expertise for the past year. She is a passionate advocate for women in construction, having served as a panelist at the NLCA Women in Construction Conference. Known for her goal-driven approach, Michale’s leadership continues to inspire and empower those around her, making a lasting impact in both her company and the wider industry.

John Sheppard
John SheppardStandard Practices Section Chair
Allied Construction Management ULC

John Sheppard is a Project Manager and Estimator with Allied Construction Management ULC and a Professional Engineering Technologist, with over ten years of experience working on commercial, residential, and health-care construction projects. He is a graduate of the Architectural Engineering Technology program at the College of the North Atlantic and has managed major projects such as the Canopy Growth Production Facility in St. John’s, the One Churchill Park luxury apartment development, and the redevelopment of a former Costco building into a modern health-care facility. His work covers estimating, project planning and scheduling, procurement, and contract administration, with a practical focus on buildable solutions and the use of current construction technologies to improve coordination and efficiency on site.

Raised in a construction family, John started working as a carpenter apprentice at age 15. That early hands-on experience continues to shape his approach to project management and standard practices today. John is the Past President of the St. John’s Curling Association and currently serves as a Councillor with the Association of Engineering Technicians and Technologists of Newfoundland and Labrador (AETTNL). He is also an instructor and industry partner with the Build Your Future – Construction Trades Training Program through the Association for New Canadians.

He brings a practical, collaborative perspective grounded in real-world construction experience and project delivery.

Boyd Humby
Boyd HumbyHeavy Civil Contractors Section Chair
Bird Heavy Civil Ltd.

Boyd is currently the Manager, Craft Recruitment & Indigenous Relations – Industrial East at Bird Heavy Civil Ltd. He brings 25+ years of management experience in the construction industry across many diverse sectors including infrastructure, mining, oil & gas, hydro generation development, and LNG, both domestically and internationally. He plays a key role in Field Operations, People & Culture, Labour Relations, Supply Chain Management, Business Development, and Indigenous Relations.

With extensive experience living and working in remote Arctic regions, as well as Asia and Papua New Guinea, Boyd brings a deep commitment to cross-cultural collaboration. He is dedicated to building and sustaining meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities and actively supports initiatives that promote their long-term economic prosperity and social well-being .

Originally from Melrose, Trinity Bay, NL, he remains strongly connected to his rural roots. He actively supports community initiatives and has volunteered with numerous organizations over the years. Now residing in Paradise, NL, he values time with his children and enjoys travel, hiking, golf, hockey, mountain biking, and a wide range of outdoor activities.

Katrina Hickey
Katrina HickeySafety Committee Chair
KEYIN COLLEGE

Katrina is a seasoned health and safety professional with 15 years of experience driving safer workplaces and strengthening safety cultures in the construction and utilities sectors. She is recognized for implementing proactive strategies to prevent injuries and promote excellence in occupational health and safety.

As Corporate Health, Safety, and Environment Manager with Locke’s Electrical Ltd., Katrina leads safety programs that support management and field teams, communicating effectively with all levels—from workers and supervisors to owners, government representatives, and stakeholders. She fosters a culture where everyone feels valued and prioritizes the safety of themselves and others. Her career spans work with Canada’s largest powerline contractors in remote locations, a high-voltage underground contractor in urban settings, and over five years with Locke’s Electrical in Newfoundland and Labrador. Katrina earned her Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) designation at 24 and also holds the National Construction Safety Officer (NCSO) and Certified Utility Safety Professional (CUSP) designations. She graduated with honors from the Occupational Health and Safety program at Keyin College, where she also now teaches part-time.

Katrina is committed to community engagement and workplace safety advocacy. She volunteers with Threads of Life and represents the NLCA on the NLCSA Board of Directors and Governance Committee. Known for her approachability and dedication, she supports colleagues in any capacity needed, fostering safer, more resilient workplaces across Newfoundland and Labrador and beyond.

Rhonda Neary
Rhonda NearyPresident/COO
NLCA