INNOVATION November-December 2017

D i sc i p l i nar y No t i ces | Pub l i c Op i n i on Po ll | P r o j ec t Pe r spec t i ves | Annua l Gene r a l Mee t i ng 2017

INNOVATION NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 ENGINEERS AND GEOSCIENTISTS BRITISH COLUMBIA

CAROLINE ANDREWES, P.ENG., 2017/2018 PRESIDENT

THE RESTORATION OF MARK CREEK

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INNOVAT ION

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | volume 21 number 6

COVER STORY MEET THE PRESIDENT Meet Caroline Andrewes, P.Eng., CPA, CMA, Engineers

8 ASSOCIATION 10 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 11 INSIGHT 14 ANNUAL CONFERENCE 33 DISCIPLINE 38 MEMBERSHIP NEWS / DEPARTMENTS

and Geoscientists BC's 2017/2018 president.

16

FROM CONCRETE BOX TO FLOWING RIVER BC engineers and ecologists turn a decaying flume into a community treasure.

COMMENT

4 VIEWPOINT 6 LETTERS

22

OTHER

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34 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 38 CLASSIFIEDS 37 DISPLAY ADVERTISERS INDEX

are already changing the way engineering and geoscience professionals do their work.

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> PERSPECTIVES ON THE COLUMBIA RIVER SKYWALK Project team members share their challenges and discoveries.

ON THE COVER On October, 21, 2017, Caroline Andrewes, P.Eng., CPA, CMA, was inducted as president of Engineers and Geoscientists BC at the AGM in Whistler, BC. Page 16

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INNOVAT ION

V I E W P O I N T

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | volume

21 number

6

SEIZING AN OPPORTUNITY TO BETTER OURSELVES In my candidate statement I wrote that regulation is evolving, and our relationship with key stakeholders requires us to respond to concerns through the adoption of a risk-based approach to professional regulation. Our government—acting on behalf of the public—grants us the privilege of self-regulation, and entrusts us with the associated responsibilities. We are systematic, thorough, fair, and considered; the public relies on our work to keep them safe. So, when a key stakeholder asks to have

ENGINEERS AND GEOSCIENTISTS BRITISH COLUMBIA Suite 200 - 4010 Regent Street, Burnaby, BC Canada V5C 6N2

Tel: 604.430.8035 Fax: 604.430.8085 Email: info@egbc.ca Internet: egbc.ca Toll free: 1.888.430.8035

COUNCIL 2017/2018 President C.J.A. Andrewes, P.Eng., CPA, CMA Vice-President K. Tarnai-Lokhorst, P.Eng. Immediate Past President R.P. Stewart, P.Eng.

COUNCILLORS D.W. Barry, P.Eng.; S. Cheema, CPA, CA; S. Hayes, P.Eng.; C.J. Hickson, P.Geo., FGC; K. Laloge, CPA, CA, TEP; L. Mah, P.Eng., FEC; R.B. Nanson, P.Eng.; R.N. Rajapakse, P.Eng.; S.R. Rettie, P.Eng., FEC; L. Spence, P.Eng.; J. Turner, P.Ag. (ret); J.D. Vincent, P.Geo.; T.C. Watson, P.Eng.; D. Wells, JD

Caroline Andrewes, P.Eng., CPA, CMA President president@egbc.ca

ASSOCIATION STAFF A.J. English, P.Eng. Chief Executive Officer and Registrar

a look at how we are performing as a regulator, we welcome the opportunity to hear their perspective. Early in October, the provincial government announced their intention to review the professional reliance model (see page 9) . The review will “determine whether the use of Qualified Persons (QPs) is appropriate and whether these regimes follow best practice to protect the public interest” in the natural resources sector. The review will include a look at our association’s practices, as well as four other professional associations, and will consider whether we are employing best practice to regulate the practice of QPs. Foundational to our professions are systems to test and qualify our results. We seek out review to assure ourselves and our stakeholders that we are making the best decisions with the information available. Our association views the government’s initiative the same way, and we believe this is supportive of our duty to protect the public. The process of auditing furthers our quest for continuous improvement; we are at our best when we proactively act to better our performance. practice guidelines, the Organizational Quality Management Program, and professional development opportunities are just some of the ways the association works with members to ensure continued practice quality. Recommendations from the Advisory Task Force on Corporate Practice and efforts to modernize the Engineers and Geoscientists Act give us the opportunity to look forward and ask ourselves if we can do more. Because, if our experience has taught us anything, it’s that there is always opportunity to make a system safer, more reliable, and more efficient. And, the elegance of that future solution only requires us to be open to finding it.

T.M.Y. Chong, P.Eng. Chief Regulatory Officer and Deputy Registrar M.L. Archibald Director, Communications and Stakeholder Engagement J. Cho, CPA, CGA Director, Finance and Administration D. Gamble Director, Information Systems P.R. Mitchell, P.Eng. Director, Professional Practice, Standards and Development D. Olychick Director, Member Services G.M. Pichler, P.Eng. Director, Registration E. Swartz, LLB Director, Legislation, Ethics and Compliance V. Lai, CPA, CGA Associate Director, Finance and Administration M.A. Rigolo P.Eng., Associate Director, Engineering Admissions L. Steele, P.Geo., Associate Director, Professional Practice

EDITORIAL BOARD M.I.H. Bhuiyan, P.Eng.; J. Bracho, P.Eng.; E.A. Brown, P.Eng.; K.C. Chan, P.Eng., CPA; T. George, P.Eng.; H. Ghalibafian, P.Eng.; G. Grill, P.Eng.; R. Ord, P.Eng.; A.M. Westin, GIT; M.J. Zieleman, EIT

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Innovation is published six times a year by Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia. As the official publication of the association, Innovation is circulated to members of the engineering and geoscience professions, architects, contractors and industry executives. The views expressed in any article contained herein do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the Council or membership of this association. Submission Guidelines: Innovation encourages unsolicited articles and photos. By submitting material to Innovation , you grant Engineers and Geoscientists BC a royalty-free, worldwide licence to publish the material; and you warrant that you have the authority to grant such rights and have obtained waivers of all associated moral rights. Innovation reserves the right to edit material for length, clarity and conformity with our editorial guidelines (egbc.ca/innovation-editorial) and is under no obligation to publish any or all submissions or any portion thereof, including credits. All material is copyright. Please contact the Managing Editor for reprint permission.

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US Postmaster: Innovation (ISSN 1206-3622) is published bimonthly for $25.00 per year by Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia, c/o US Agent-Transborder Mail, 4708 Caldwell Rd E, Edgewood, WA 98372-9221. Periodicals postage paid at Puyallup, WA, and at additional mailing offices, US PO #007-927. POSTMASTER send address changes (covers only) to Innovation , c/o Transborder Mail, PO Box 6016, Federal Way, WA 98063-6016.

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L E T T E R S

Letters to the editor containing your views on topics of interest are encouraged. Opinions expressed in letters are not necessarily endorsed by Engineers and Geoscientists BC. Letters should be 300 words or less and can be emailed to innovation@egbc.ca. Find information at egbc.ca/Submitting-to-Innovation.

AN UNENDINGLY INQUISITIVE MIND In August, the BC, Canadian and world geotechnical communities lost Dr. Oldrich Hungr, P.Eng./P.Geo. Oldrich obtained his B.A.Sc. and M.A.Sc. from the University of Ottawa, and his Ph.D. from the University of Alberta, all in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical). In the mid-70s he worked with the Trow Group in Toronto, and later with Thurber Engineering in Vancouver, until he joined the Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of British Columbia from which he retired in 2016. Both as a consultant and an academic, Oldrich’s work was primarily related to slope stability, the assessment of hazards and risks, landslide stabilization, and the design of debris flow protective structures. He was known around the world for his consulting, research, and lecturing. His last keynote address was the prestigious Heim Lecture at the 12 th International Symposium on Landslides in Naples, Italy,

in 2016. During his career Oldrich received many other awards, and was elected both as a Fellow of the Engineering Institute of Canada and a Fellow of Geoscientists Canada. Humble, soft-spoken, and pragmatic are some adjectives used to describe Oldrich. He was someone to be respected. Someone with a profound understanding of soil and rock mechanics, a constant desire to continue learning, and an unendingly inquisitive mind. Oldrich leaves behind his wife, Klema, his children, Pierre, Nikolai, and Clara, and two grandchildren. To extend Oldrich’s efforts, his family has started a scholarship fund through the University of British Columbia to help students who wish to follow in the same line of research: memorial.support.ubc.ca/oldrich-hungr. — Doug VanDine, P.Eng./P.Geo.; Scott McDougall, P.Eng.; Matthias Jakob, P.Geo.; and Erik Eberhardt, P.Eng. A PERSEVERING SPIRIT, GONE TOO SOON Maggie Wojtarowicz, M.A.Sc., P.Eng.,

FEC, LEED AP passed away on 15 September 2017, from cancer at the age of 44. She described herself as a poet, writer, traveller, food lover, and engineer. Her torturous struggle with dystonia, a neurological condition affecting her movements and speech, began in childhood. I admired Maggie for persevering through her engineering significant physical challenges and their persistent crush of spirit. Thankfully, dystonia left Maggie’s intellect untouched and her technical writing skills were superlative. She even expanded her horizons by volunteering with the association as Chair of DAWEG in 2004. She was determined to overcome or at least bypass her obstacles, and remarkably succeeded to normalize her speech over the last few years. Her family and friends are organizing a memorial bench in Stanley Park. I am looking forward to sitting there and thinking about this brave, strong, smart engineer; gone too soon. — Barbara Dabrowski, P.Eng., FEC West Vancouver, BC j studies (Waterloo and UBC) and subsequent job searches despite

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N E W S

STEM EDUCATION PAYS, BUT GENDER PAY GAP PERSISTS Statistics Canada census data released in November 2017 have yielded insights into the relationship between degrees in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and post-graduation earnings. Findings from 2016 census data indicated that, overall, young graduates with a bachelor’s degree in STEM fields tended to have higher earnings than those from the business, humanities, health, arts, social sciences, and education fields. What’s more, those with degrees in engineering, and computer and information science were most likely to be working in fields more closely matched to their education and skills than other degree holders. In 2015, median earnings for graduates between the ages of 25 and 34 with a bachelor’s degree in STEM fields were $68,450, higher by 24.2% than those in non- STEM fields at $55,118. Among STEM fields, earnings were highest for engineering graduates. Census data showed that median engineering salaries were above $77,000, compared to jobs in the biological sciences at $53,481, or computer and information science at $69,912. Gender continued to play a role in the returns on a STEM education. In 2015, young women with a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field earned 82.1% of what their male counterparts earned, compared to 91.2% for those with non-STEM degrees and 84.9% overall. This gap narrowed for those with engineering jobs: women between the ages of 25 and 34 employed in engineering earned 96% of what men earned; however, women represent a relatively small proportion of young engineering graduates. In 2016, 48% of workers overall were women. In terms of post-graduation employment, census data identified that young graduates with bachelor’s degrees in nursing, engineering, education and teaching, and computer and information science were more likely than other graduates to be working in jobs closely related to their studies. Seven out of 10 engineering, or computer and information science degree holders were working in science and technology occupations, while those with degrees in biological sciences tended to be working in fields outside of those occupations.

SEA LEVEL RISE INCORPORATED INTO FLOOD HAZARD GUIDELINES An amendment to BC’s Flood Hazard Area Land Use Management Guidelines incorporating sea level rise into building setbacks and flood construction in coastal areas will come into effect January 1, 2018. Local governments are required to consider the Flood Hazard Area Land Use Management Guidelines in development and land-use management planning and approval decisions for flood hazard areas. The amendment is based on a 2011 technical report commissioned by the Province, which recommended incorporating sea level rise into planning and development to ensure a standard of public safety into the future. The amendment recommends that coastal communities allow 1.0 m sea level rise by 2100 and 2.0 m sea level rise by 2200 (relative to the year 2000 and considering regional uplift and subsidence). It provides recommended flood construction levels and setbacks that local governments are required to consider when making bylaws for designated sea level rise planning areas. The definition of and methodology for the determination of flood construction levels and setbacks for coastal areas have also been modified. The amendment, available on the Provincial government website, is supplemented by the 2011 report Climate Change Adaption Guidelines for Sea Dikes and Coastal Flood Hazard Land Use – Guidelines for Management of Coastal Flood Hazard Land Use , and the 2011 companion report, Climate Change Adaption Guidelines for Sea Dikes and Coastal Flood Hazard Land Use - Draft Policy Discussion Paper . As identified by Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s professional practice guidelines Flood Mapping in BC and Legislated Flood Assessments in a Changing Climate in BC , those acting in the role of Qualified Professional must review and reference relevant legislation, such as the Flood Hazard Area Land Use Management Guidelines , and appropriately educate the client regarding pertinent aspects while providing services such as determining flood construction levels, flood plain mapping and flood assessments. Starting in 2013, consultation on the amendment to the Province’s Flood Hazard Area Land Use Management Guidelines occurred prior to implementation, seeking feedback from technical experts, local government professional staff, First Nations, and other stakeholders. Engineers and Geoscientists BC participated, providing review of and input on the amendment. COURSE TARGETS ADVANCED KNOWLEDGE OF BUILDING CODES Experienced professionals seeking to deepen their current knowledge of Canadian building codes can do so through a course jointly offered by Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia and the Architectural Institute of BC (AIBC). Starting February 21, 2018, the Advanced Code Knowledge course comprises eight full-day seminars. Course content is taken from the building codes portions of the Certified Professional course and is intended for engineers, architects, and others with existing knowledge of Canadian building codes and experience in the building construction industry who are looking to increase their level of knowledge and expertise in this area. This course may be taken as additional preparation for those planning to take the Certified Professional course and exams in 2019, or may be taken on its own. The course will be offered at the AIBC offices in downtown Vancouver and remotely via webcast. Registration information is available at aibc.ca/ event/advanced-code-knowledge/. j

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A S S O C I A T I O N

RENEW BEFORE JAN. 1

MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL FOR 2018 It is time to renew your membership or licence for 2018. Renewal invoices have now been sent to members. The Engineers and Geoscientists Act requires renewals by January 1. After this date, late fees are applied to overdue payments. As of March 1, 2018, members and licensees not yet renewed are struck off the register. The January 1 deadline also applies to members who submit their 2018 annual fee notices to their employers for payment. HOWTO RENEW You can renew your membership: • by signing into your account on the association’s website, egbc.ca, or • by mailing a copy of your invoice and your method of payment to: Engineers and Geoscientists BC, 200 – 4010 Regent Street, Burnaby, BC V5C 6N2. Please allow sufficient time for delivery. RESIGNATIONS If you wish to discontinue your membership with Engineers and Geoscientists BC, be sure to resign prior to January 1 to avoid being liable for membership renewal fees. Resignation can be tendered through our website or by contacting the association directly. Resigned professional members who wish to re-apply

for membership are subject to the association’s Return to Practice Policy. Members-in-Training who re-apply must comply with Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s Reinstatement Policy. Any outstanding annual membership fee, late fees, and associated administrative fees must also be paid. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Members unable to afford the membership fees may apply for reduced fees. Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s Reduced-fee Policy allows access to reduced annual fees based on an “active income” threshold or a medical condition that renders a member unable to work. Information is available via the online renewal process or on the back of the membership renewal invoice. The reduced fee is 50% of the full annual membership fee. Please note that prorated fees and one-time license fees are not subject to the reduced rate. INFORMATION Billing amounts and balances: 1.888.430.8035 ext. 4859 or billing@egbc.bc.ca Online payment support: 1.888.430.8035 ext. 4887 or support@egbc.bc.ca Changes in status or registration: 1.888.430.8035 ext. 4856 or register@egbc.bc.ca of reference, along with the associations governing agrology, applied science technology, applied biology, and professional forestry. The review includes an audit of these associations to “assess the enabling legislation and performance of professional associations that govern QPs.” “We welcome Minister Heyman’s announcement, and we look forward to contributing to this review,” said Ann English, P.Eng., the association’s CEO and Registrar. “We are confident that it will be thorough and focused, and we see this as an excellent opportunity to provide clarity around the professional obligations of everyone involved in the professional reliance system. A final report is expected to be completed by spring 2018. More information is available on the Province’s website at engage.gov.bc.ca/govtogetherbc/ consultation/professional-reliance-review.

PROVINCE ANNOUNCES REVIEW OF PROFESSIONAL RELIANCE Minister of Environment George Heyman announced October 3, 2017, that a review will be conducted of the Province’s professional reliance model to ensure the highest professional, technical and ethical standards are being

applied to resource management in BC. The review will assess the current legislation governing qualified professionals (QPs) in the natural resource sector, and the role their professional associations play in upholding the public interest. The review will look at other jurisdictions to identify best practices and assess whether those practices are being used by QPs doing work on government’s behalf. It will also make recommendations regarding resource decisions made by government, conditions governing the involvement of QPs in those decisions, and the appropriate level of government oversight to assure the public their interests are protected. Engineers and Geoscientists BC is one of the professional associations named in the review’s terms

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2017 COUNCIL ELECTION RESULTS Voting for Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia’s 2017/2018 Council election opened September 6 and closed at noon on October 6, 2017. Online and paper ballots were available to members. Three members of the association, John Watson, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon.), Kathleen Kompauer, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon.), and Ken Williams, P.Eng., FEC, scrutinized the electronic and paper voting processes.

This year, 17.4% of registered members and limited licensees returned ballots. The election results are as follows: PRESIDENT Caroline Andrewes, P.Eng., CPA, CMA IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Bob Stewart, P.Eng. Council Election in Brief

COUNCILLORS (continuing) Susan Hayes, P.Eng. Brock Nanson, P.Eng. Ross Rettie, P.Eng, FEC Larry Spence, P.Eng. GOVERNMENT APPOINTEES Suky Cheema, CPA, CA John Turner, P.Ag. (Ret.) David Wells, JD j

VICE PRESIDENT Katherina Tarnai-Lokhorst, P.Eng. COUNCILLORS (elected) Catherine Hickson, P.Geo., FGC Tim Watson, P.Eng. Lianna Mah, P.Eng., FEC Doug Barry, P.Eng.

17.4% participation

4,564 electronic ballots received 11 paper ballots received non-returns

26,256 eligible voters

Jeremy Vincent, P.Geo. Nimal Rajapakse, P.Eng.

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2017 ANNUAL GENERAL MEET ING OVERV I EW

Motion 5: That Council consider: 1. Establishing a task force in collaboration with the assembly of BC First Nations to review the recommendations contained within the Truth and Reconciliation Committee (TRC) report with the intent of determining how Engineers and Geoscientists BC can help to facilitate the recommendations within the mandate of the Act as well as within the context of the Code of Ethics. 2. Develop guidelines for members to ensure that professional conduct and professional services performed and delivered by members are consistent with the recommendations of the TRC report and/or help to facilitate the intent of the recommendations. The motion was carried. Motion 6: That Council give consideration to creating a task force to prepare a guidance document for the provincial government to establish tolerable levels of landslide risk with respect to residential development within BC. The motion was carried. Motion 7: That Council consider advocating to have the Act changed to allow Members-in- Training to vote. The motion was carried. Motion 8: That Council consider developing an award for organizations who support diversity and promote recruitment and advancement of women in engineering and geoscience. This motion supports the 30 by 30 initiative. The motion was carried. Motion 9: That Council consider reading the names of the deceased members at the AGM. The motion was carried. INTRODUCTION OF 2017/2018 COUNCIL President Stewart introduced the association’s president for 2017/2018, Caroline Andrewes. President Andrewes took the oath of office, introduced the members of the 2017/2018 Council, and presented the gold foil disk recognizing Past President Bob Stewart with life membership. Past President Stewart announced the date of the 2018 conference and AGM in Vancouver, BC, October 18-20, and adjourned the meeting. j

association’s auditor for the next fiscal year ending June 30, 2018. GREETINGS FROM GEOSCIENTISTS CANADA AND ENGINEERS CANADA Geoscientists Canada president, Jeff O’Keefe, P.Geo., FGC, and Engineers Canada President, Russ Kinghorn, P.Eng., FEC, brought greetings to the assembly from their respective organizations. IN MEMORIAM The assembly observed a minute of silence to acknowledge association members who passed away during the previous year. Booklets listing the names of the departed were provided. MOTIONS BROUGHT FORWARD BY MEMBERS Members presented motions for the consideration of Council. Motion 1: That Council consider publish- ing the salary ranges, as referenced in the “APEGBC Staff Compensation Policy,” for all positions that have a “reference salary” greater than $75,000. The motion was defeated. Motion 2: That Council consider publishing in the financial reports the total compensation (salaries plus benefits) for all staff who receive over $100,000 per annum, as well as their reimbursed expenses. The motion was defeated. Motion 3: The motion was withdrawn. Motion 4: That Council consider taking the necessary policy and procedural steps to develop a timely plan of action that achieves the objectives under: • Engineers Canada’s policy of 30 by 30 which is aimed at enhancing women’s engagement in the engineering profession, and • Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s Human Rights and Diversity Guidelines which are aimed at improving inclusivity and respect in engineering and geoscience workplaces. The plan of action may include but not be limited to: • Appointment of a special committee • Approval of designated line-budget item; • Targeting of major public/private employers of professional engineers/geoscientists in a public awareness program of the need and possible benefits of the action plan. The motion was carried.

The 2017 Annual General Meeting of Engineers and Geoscientists BC was held October 21 in Whistler, BC. In addition to guests, members- in-training and students, 120 professional members attended the meeting. 2016/2017 association president, Bob Stewart, P.Eng., chaired the meeting, acknowledging the unceded shared traditional territories of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations, on whose territory the meeting was taking place. He then introduced video greetings from Premier John Horgan on behalf of the BC Government. A motion to approve the agenda was carried. Parliamentarian Eli Mina was introduced, and the Chair of the Governance Committee, Mike Wrinch, P.Eng., FEC, made a motion to propose meeting rules for the 2017 meeting. This motion was defeated. A motion to adopt the previous year’s meeting rules (2016) was proposed and approved. A motion to approve the minutes of the 2016 AGM was carried. ELECTION RESULTS The Chief Scrutineer for the 2017/2018 Council election, John Watson, P.Eng. (Hon.), reported on the process for the election, confirming that he and his fellow scrutineers were satisfied that the election was held in a confidential, fair, and impartial manner. He then announced the results (see page 8) . A motion to destroy the ballots at the end of three months was carried. ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS PRESENTED President Stewart, and CEO and Registrar Ann English, P.Eng., reported on activities from 2016/2017. This was followed by a report presented by Councillor John Turner, P.Ag. (ret.) on behalf of the four government appointees to Council. Councillor Ken Laloge, CPA, CA, TEP, provided a summary of the association’s financial statements, reporting on the results of the audit. He stated that, in the committee’s view, the Financial Statements and Notes presented in the 2016/2017 Annual Report were a fair and accurate representation of the association’s financial dealings for the year ending June 30, 2017. The assembly passed a motion to appoint PriceWaterhouse Coopers LLP, Chartered Accountants, as the

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PUBL IC WANTS SAFETY, INTEGRI TY FROM REGULATORY ORGANI ZAT IONS

Familiarity with what professional engineers and geoscientists do

100%

81%

79%

72%

69%

75%

53%

Professional Engineers

52%

50%

37%

34%

Professional Geoscientists

25%

0%

2008

2010

2014

2017

they were familiar or very familiar with what geoscientists do, there was a significant increase in responses related to mining and environmental studies. This could be due in part to increased media coverage of occurrences such as the Mount Polley tailings pond breach. The survey results also indicated an overall increase in awareness of Engineers and Geoscientists BC, referred to as the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of BC at the time of the survey. When asked if they had heard of the association prior to completing the survey, a total of 27% of respondents said they had. This is the highest level shown to date, and represents an increase of six percentage points from 2014.

To inform our role as a public safety regulator, Engineers and Geoscientists BC regularly conducts a public opinion poll to measure awareness of the association and the professions, as well as the effectiveness of our public outreach efforts. This information provides us with a view of how we meet public expectations in the work that we do. We conducted our fourth public opinion poll in August 2017, following up on polls in 2008, 2011, and 2014. The results yielded some promising increases in awareness, and reflected an increased interest amongst respondents in regulatory tools and programs. The poll was conducted online on behalf of Engineers and Geoscientists BC by market research firm Insights West, with a representative sample of 862 adult British Columbians. The data was weighted to reflect the adult British Columbian population based on census data for region, age, and gender. Potential respondents were screened out of the survey if they or a member of their immediate family was an engineer or a geoscientist. RESPECT REMAINS HIGH, AWARENESS INCREASES When asked to rate how much respect they had for 10 well known professions, respondents demonstrated a high level of respect for both engineering and geoscience, mirroring results from previous surveys. Engineers remained steady at 90%, second only to doctors at 95%, and above architects at 88%. Geoscientists scored 81%, up two points from 2014. Familiarity with both professions showed a marked increase from 2014 results, with engineers gaining 10 points (79%) and geoscientists gaining 16 points (53%). Among those who stated they were familiar or very familiar with what engineers do, most responses related to design, construction, and management. For those who indicated

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• Assess qualifications of applicants to determine if they should be issued a license to practice (87%) • Regulate firms offering professional engineering and geoscience services to the public to ensure they have qualified professionals and standards for quality assurance (86%) • Audit the practice of individual members to assess compliance with rules and standards (84%) The survey also indicated a higher expectation for continuing education programs. When asked if continuing education programs ensure engineers and geoscientists remain competent and current, 84% agreed, showing an increase of 17 points from 2014 (67%). Respondents also continue, to agree that Engineers and Geoscientists BC should require members to keep up-to-date through a mandatory continuing education program (77%, unchanged from 2014). These increases could indicate an expectation for Engineers and Geoscientists BC to function as a stronger regulatory authority, and could be a result of changes

INCREASED EXPECTATIONS FOR A STRONG REGULATOR This year, survey results showed an upward trend when it came to how much importance the public places on professional regulation. For example, a total of 82% of respondents agreed that engineers and geoscientists should have a regulating and governing organization, up from 74% in 2014. The public’s perception of the association’s regulatory responsibilities also showed a change from previous waves of research. While previous surveys fielded very consistent results in this area, this year, respondents demonstrated an increased expectation for seven out of 11 current or potential regulatory activities measured. Respondents ranked the following responsibilities of Engineers and Geoscientists BC as most important (each showing an increase of 5–6 points over 2014 results). • Develop guidelines and standards of practice for members (88%) • Investigate complaints regarding members’ practice, and discipline members if appropriate (87%)

in the regulatory landscape, such as the loss of self-regulation for BC realtors. The only area of responsibility that respondents ranked lower than previous years was whether Engineers and Geoscientists BC should promote the professions of engineering and geoscience. In this case, only 62% of respondents agreed that we should, compared to 72% in 2014. PUBLIC WANTS SAFETY, INTEGRITY FROM REGULATORY ORGANIZATIONS In a split sample, respondents were asked to either rank the most important characteristics of an organization that serves the public interest, or to identify which From a list of 17 organizational characteristics, those surveyed ranked “ensures public safety,” “integrity,” “trustworthiness,” and “reliability” as most important. When asked which of these characteristics Engineers and Geoscientists BC possesses, those surveyed identified “ensures public safety,” “encourages professional excellence,” “supports its members,” and “integrity” as most applicable. j characteristics Engineers and Geoscientists BC possesses.

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F E A T U R E

2017 ANNUAL CONFERENCE AND AGM

Industry exhibitors showcased their products and services, making connections with delegates visiting the tradeshow floor.

O ver three days in October, BC engineering and geoscience professionals, students, and industry stakeholders gathered at the Whistler Conference Centre to learn and make valuable connections. More than 700 delegates attended Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s 2017 conference and AGM, attending professional development sessions, association meetings, and networking events. Many thanks to all of our exceptional stream coordinators, speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, and conference delegates for your contributions and support in making the conference and annual meeting a success. The 2018 conference will be hosted in Vancouver, BC, October 18–20; mark your calendars! j

Keynotes at the conference included retired Fire Chief Darby Allen, Palaeontologist Lisa Buckley, Royal Canadian Geographical Society Explorer-in-Residence Jill Heinerth, and CEO of Technical Safety BC, Catherine Roome, P.Eng.

Members discussed and debated during the motions session at the association’s annual general meeting.

The association was pleased to welcome MLA Bowinn Ma, P.Eng., who brought greetings from the BC government at the President’s Awards Gala.

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: PLATINUM Park Insurance/ SILVER Applied Science

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Delegates attended professional development sessions in 11 different streams over two days. Session speakers shared advances in practice and technology, as well as insights and best practices in their respective engineering or geoscience disciplines.

At the conference, President Bob Stewart, P.Eng., conferred the 2017 President’s Awards on eight deserving engineering and geoscience professionals, and presided over the 98th AGM, concluding his year in office.

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P R O F I L E

Caroline Andrewes, P.Eng., CPA, CMA Leading with Teamwork and Partnership

N ew Engineers and Geoscientists BC president, Caroline Andrewes, is a firm believer in the power of collaboration and teamwork to resolve problems and achieve goals. Raised on a third-generation peach farm on Ontario’s Niagara Peninsula, she’d been encouraged by teachers to pursue a career in the technical field. But, she struggled through her first years in engineering at Western University. “I was trying to do it all on my own, and was facing a deadline as my program was threatened with loss of accreditation,” she says. The summer before her third year, she stayed on campus to work together on a project with other engineering students. “It

management style, both at work and at the association. “My role is to facilitate conversations and draw out solutions so that people can do their best work,” she says. Andrewes, now an independent consultant, has spent more than 19 years working with companies including Ballard Power Systems and Creation Technologies. In addition to her professional engineering designation, she is also a qualified chartered professional accountant. She volunteered with the association’s Division for the Advancement of Women in Engineering and Geoscience (DAWEG), as well as on the Executive, Governance, Audit and Standing Awards committees. She also served as a member of Council for two terms.

was a turning point; I worked with peers and became close with the group. It opened my eyes,” she says. Andrewes realized that, until then, she had not fully appreciated the power of learning as a team. “When you come across a big challenge, it is better if you do not have to address it alone.” Andrewes returned to complete her bachelor of engineering degree, bringing her new outlook to the classroom. “It was a small cohort and we all worked together,” recalls Andrewes. The shift in perspective was a game changer; by graduation she was top of her class, receiving the gold medal for materials engineering. Since then, working as a team and collaboration have been at the core of her

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Tell me a bit about your background and how you chose engineering? I did well in all my courses at high school, but it wasn’t until a couple of teachers encouraged me to consider pursuing a technical degree that I considered engineering. It was a bit of a surprise—I always assumed I would study social science, or business. By my third year at Western, there were only five or six of us taking the core materials engineering courses. I benefited greatly from being part of such a small group. If a concept was difficult we could ask more questions in class, and we had much more time in the lab than other students. It was in those classes that things started to click, and I understood the value of learning as a team. What professional accomplishments give you the most satisfaction and why? While I have some personal accomplishments, it’s investing in people, and seeing them engaged and performing, that I find to be most satisfying. This comes from a place of knowing that there are always people who can perform a task better than me, and so what I can do is clear the way for them—remove roadblocks, source tools, and ask questions to give them the space to do their best work. The presidency of Engineers and Geoscientists BC is a significant commitment of time and effort. Why take on the role? I was brought up in a family that believed in giving back to the community. My mother is a serial volunteer. She started as a trustee on our local library board, and then served on provincial and national

In your candidacy statement you mentioned, “regulation is evolving and our relationship with stakeholders requires us to respond to concerns and adopt a risk-based professional regulation.” What areas within the association do you feel deserve the most attention at this time? Our world is changing, and we must accept that the practices that worked in the last century may not work in the future. Council is very aware of changes in Canada’s regulatory landscape, and that there are opportunities to improve how we perform our mandate. In September, Council passed a motion to engage a regulatory expert to audit our processes and make recommendations on how we can improve. Subsequently, the government initiated a review of the Professional Reliance Model, which will include an audit of Engineers and Geoscientists BC processes. Audit is an important component of professional practice, and we welcome the opportunity to have the perspective of both the government and regulatory experts. Regulation is both proactive and reactive. We offer tools and outreach to engage new members, ensure they are prepared to practise, and provide opportunities to maintain their performance throughout their careers. But we also need to have a fair and balanced process to react when a member fails to perform. Our approach must be consistent with the risk posed both by our professions as a group, and by each individual practitioner. We will continue to work with our practice-focused committees, in addition to the review of corporate practice through our Corporate Practice Task Force. j

boards. She has been a member of our town council, the YWCA board, and still organizes significant community events. She is a role model for service. When there is an opportunity and ability to offer your service, then it is a privilege to give back. I get a lot back as well, such as the opportunity to learn from the skills and perspectives of those around the Council table. I am quite passionate about the next generation of engineers and geoscientists, and this role gives me a bigger platform from which to reinforce opportunities for women in the professions. What can you contribute to leadership of the association? When I spoke at the AGM, I said I wanted to be a partner—to members, to Council, to the association. You have to be able to remove your ego and allow people to show what they can do, and then drive those ideas to reach a solution. I can be a champion of governance, a clear communicator, and provide an inclusive space to engage respectfully and openly. We have outstanding people on Council, staff, and over 1,400 volunteers—the best way I can contribute is to clear the way for them to do great work. This position is bigger than just one person. We solve problems as a team, and everyone is equal. We are open to the ideas of others and supportive of them. Council isn’t just about a president or vice president, it is a collective of 17 people making the best decisions for all stakeholders. This concept extends to the rest of my life as well; I wouldn’t be able to do this without an extremely supportive and understanding partner at home.

PERSONALLY SPEAKING HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE? Collaborative. I prefer to engage with a team and collaborate, and my communications style is informal and direct. I try to communicate clearly, and then focus on listening. WHAT IS YOUR WORKPLACE STYLE? In the workplace, I am low-key. I like to talk directly with people at all levels, dig into a problem, understand it, and then get it done. WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL PHILOSOPHY? John Le Carré said, “A desk is a dangerous place from which to view the world.” You need to get out there to really understand a situation. WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO DURING YOUR FREE TIME? My husband, Joe, and I like to get outside, either on bikes, on the snow, or trail running. I try to do at least one race every year, and spent this past winter in the West Kootenays skiing. When it’s raining in the city I look forward to getting out in the snowy mountains, and when it’s not raining I ride my bike to meetings and errands. I love the efficiency of travelling by bike, and have even rebuilt a couple of old bikes.

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From Concrete Box to Flowing River A team of BC engineers and ecologists take a decaying flume, make it safe, and create a buzzing new tourist attraction

ROBIN J. MILLER

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T he team of engineers and ecologists who led the restoration of Mark Creek, which flows directly through the middle of the City of Kimberley, sound justifiably proud of the fact that they actually managed to pull off the task they set for themselves: to replace an outdated and dangerously unstable concrete flume with a far safer and more natural-looking flood mitigation measure for a bare bones budget of $7 million—with the side benefit of enhancing daily life for residents and fish alike. “We took it from a 400 metre long concrete box and turned it into a flowing river,” says Evan Sykes, P.Eng., a geotechnical engineer with EXP Services Inc. Sykes’ job during the Mark Creek Flume Flood Management and Stream Rehabilitation Project was to ensure slope stability in “steep, relatively tight areas”—essentially the width of an average road, bounded by private property on both sides—and to design rock drop structures to slow the velocity of water pouring down the creek from the Purcell Mountains during the spring freshet. RACING AGAINST TIME It was a devastatingly large rain-on-snow event in 1948 that sparked the development of the original Mark Creek flume. That flood swept away dozens of homes and several whole streets, and the city pledged that it would never happen again. The concrete structure they built (and then re-built after another major flood in 1956), while heavier

Copcan crew installing aquatic habitat features in the snow of late 2012. P hoto : EXP S ervices I nc .

T op right : The old concrete flume being held up by blue light standards after it began to fail. P hoto : C ori B arraclough . B ottom right : New Mark Creek channel stands up to the same storm that devastated Calgary in 2013. P hoto : C ori B arraclough .

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on function than aesthetics, did the job for more than 50 years. However, says Kimberley’s former Director of Operations, Mike Fox, now with the Regional District of North Okanagan, “by the time I was hired eight years ago, its time was fast coming to an end. I was asked in my initial interview with the city what I saw as the biggest challenge and I said it’s the flume going through the middle of town. If it failed, there are houses right up

to it on each side, gas lines, sewer lines, power poles.” In early 2011, as Fox feared, the flume did indeed begin to fail. As a stopgap, city staff braced the walls across the flume horizontally with blue light standards, while Fox began the process of “finding an engineering company to help us.” But, no one was willing to take on such a big project as quickly as the city required. “They said they’d need a couple of years of planning, which we just didn’t have time for, and they’d need to start at the upper reaches and work down, which was too risky because of logs coming down with the next freshet.” Luckily, Cori Barraclough, freshwater ecologist and co-founder of Aqua-Tex Scientific Consulting Ltd., was already working with Fox on a different project, and knew exactly the right person to pull into a quick planning conversation. She, Fox, and senior hydrotechnical engineer Brian LaCas, P.Eng., of LaCas Consultants Inc., took a walk around the failing flume and immediately began to envision how the flume could be made safe, functional and beautiful. “I grew up in Kimberley,” says Barraclough, even working summers in the mines nearby, “and could see that this was an opportunity for me to help restore the creek, and give back to the community.” LaCas, too, saw the chance to work on what he calls a “legacy project, one you get maybe once in your career. I said to Mike that you shouldn’t just replace the flume, you should really go for it and create an urban river. And lo and behold, Cori and I received an RFP and put a team and a proposal together, which the city accepted.” A VISION FOR THE FUTURE The team’s proposal suggested removing the existing concrete flume, six metres wide and two metres deep, including the steel rails embedded in the channel

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