Canadian Network of Asset Managers

2027-2028 CNAM Vice Chair Election

Sarah Mulligan — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 18:30:30 +0000

The Canadian Network of Asset Managers will establish its elected Board of Directors at our Annual General Meeting (AGM) on April 22, 2027.

The CNAM membership will elect the incoming Vice-Chair to serve for the upcoming year starting May 2027.

This is an opportunity for CNAM members to identify the best candidate to serve our membership and the industry. This important role leads the CNAM Board, manages its ongoing operations and initiatives, and works with its partners across the industry to improve public infrastructure asset management practices.

The elected Vice-Chair will serve for a three-year rotating term:

Vice-Chair: 2027-2028
Chair: 2028-2029
Past-Chair: 2029-2030

This role is critical to the sustainment and evolution of CNAM and the public infrastructure asset management landscape.

Timeline

The election will take place prior to CNAM’s AGM, meaning that candidates who are not successful in their initial bid for a board position are encouraged to consider running for other available roles on the board. We value the dedication and interest of all applicants and welcome their continued involvement in shaping the future of our organization.

October 1 – November 5, 2026: Vice Chair Nominations Period
November 5 – November 19, 2026: Vetting by Nominations Committee to ensure candidates meet the Vice-Chair candidacy requirements
November 19, 2026: Vice-Chair Candidates and Submissions shared with the membership
November 19 – December 10, 2026: Online Voting
January 4 –8, 2027: Announcement of Vice-Chair-Elect

Submission Process

Prospective candidates are asked to submit the following:

A statement of intent for the Vice-Chair role (~500 words) — describe your vision, desired outcomes, and proposed strategies for advancing and evolving CNAM’s mandate
Biography (~100 words) and photograph
All candidates are encouraged to submit a video (~60-90 sec) outlining their vision and motivation for the role

All candidates will be interviewed by the Governance Committee, whose endorsement is required to proceed to the member vote.

Feel free to campaign through your own networks and raise awareness for those who may have missed notification about the election.

Requirements/Criteria

To be considered as a candidate for the Vice-Chair role of the CNAM Board of Directors, the following prerequisites and competencies are required:

CNAM Member in good standing (any member category except student).
Four (4) or more years of demonstrated leadership experience in the practice of asset management.
Two (2) or more years of previous board experience, or equivalent related strategic management experience.
Demonstrated CNAM Board exposure, experience, and/or knowledge.
Ability to dedicate approximately 20 hours a month for Board member commitments and Executive Committee responsibilities, stakeholder engagement, and collaboration with the Chair, Executive Committee, and Executive Director on strategic, governance, and operational matters including active participation on CNAM Committees.
The Board meets virtually every month for 2 hours as well as pre and post-conference in-person meetings per year; the Executive Committee meets virtually every month for 2 hours.
Support of your employer (including financial support) to attend the annual conference, the Virtual Summit, and the Board’s annual two-day strategic planning session in late Fall. Attendance at the annual conference, Virtual Summit, and strategic planning session involves a required investment of time and financial resources from all Board members.
Written support from your employer must be obtained before the voting closes.
Confirm a 3-year commitment in the successive Vice-Chair, Chair, and Past-Chair positions.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate will:

Have served at least one term on the CNAM Board of Directors and have previous exposure and involvement with CNAM Committees, special programs and initiatives, and regular operations.
Have four (4) or more years of experience in successive leadership positions with demonstrated ability to facilitate decision-making in a Board and Executive setting.
Have two (2) or more years of previous not-for-profit board experience, or equivalent related strategic management experience.
Demonstrate a long-term commitment to sustaining and building the asset management community in Canada and beyond.
Be agnostic of regional, sector, and other differences and work in the best interest of all public infrastructure asset managers across Canada.

If you have questions about the election process or the Vice-Chair role, please contact our Executive Director at executivedirector@cnam.ca.

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Une nouvelle coalition voit le jour pour promouvoir les infrastructures comme moteur de l’économie canadienne

Sarah Mulligan — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 01:34:41 +0000

Ottawa (Ontario) – Les infrastructures municipales sont au cœur du programme ambitieux du gouvernement fédéral visant à bâtir l’avenir du pays et à soutenir des collectivités fortes et prospères. Toutefois, 11 % des infrastructures publiques essentielles sont jugées en mauvais ou très mauvais état, ce qui représente un arriéré de réparations évalué à environ 237 milliards de dollars.

C’est pourquoi neuf organisations nationales ont uni leurs forces pour lancer la coalition pour le Bulletin de rendement des infrastructures canadiennes (BRIC). Ce réseau d’organisations spécialisées dans les infrastructures regroupe des gouvernements municipaux ainsi que des représentantes et représentants des secteurs du génie, de la construction, du transport collectif, de la gestion des actifs, des parcs et loisirs, des travaux publics et des services municipaux d’eau potable et d’eaux usées.

Ensemble, ces organisations planifient et réalisent chaque année des investissements de plusieurs milliards de dollars dans les infrastructures.

Membres de la coalition pour le BRIC

Fédération canadienne des municipalités
Association des firmes de génie-conseil – Canada
Association canadienne de la construction
Association canadienne du transport urbain
Réseau canadien des gestionnaires d’actifs (CNAM)
Association canadienne des parcs et loisirs
Association canadienne des travaux publics
Société canadienne de génie civil
Association canadienne des eaux potables et usées

Prochain bulletin de rendement

La coalition publie le Bulletin de rendement des infrastructures canadiennes, la principale évaluation au Canada de l’état des infrastructures municipales. S’appuyant sur les données recueillies dans le cadre de l’Enquête sur les infrastructures publiques essentielles du Canada de Statistique Canada, ce bulletin aide les décideurs à cerner les besoins en matière d’infrastructures à l’échelle du pays. La prochaine édition, dont la publication est prévue au début de 2027, sera la première publiée depuis 2019 et offrira un portrait national actualisé de l’état des infrastructures municipales au pays.

Recommandations de la coalition pour le BRIC au gouvernement fédéral

Par ailleurs, afin de contribuer à combler les lacunes en matière d’infrastructures et de renforcer l’économie canadienne, la coalition demande instamment que le prochain budget fédéral prévoie les mesures suivantes :

Augmenter le financement prévisible et à long terme des infrastructures afin de combler le déficit actuel en la matière et de répondre aux besoins immédiats.
Remédier aux pénuries de main-d’œuvre afin de garantir que les projets d’infrastructure puissent compter sur la main-d’œuvre nécessaire pour se dérouler sans retard, notamment en mettant en place des parcours d’insertion professionnelle pour les jeunes et en soutenant la formation postsecondaire.
Continuer à soutenir les importants travaux d’évaluation des infrastructures menés par le Conseil canadien des infrastructures (CCI) et tirer parti de ces évaluations, grâce à des recherches fondées sur des données probantes, afin d’établir une stratégie à long terme visant à orienter la planification et le financement des infrastructures.
Soutenir le renforcement des capacités municipales en matière de gestion des actifs, en particulier dans les collectivités de petite taille et les collectivités rurales, afin d’améliorer la prise de décision et de réduire les coûts.

Citations

« Les infrastructures municipales sont les piliers de l’économie canadienne. Lorsqu’elles se détériorent, c’est la prospérité économique à long terme du Canada qui en souffre. Par l’entremise de la coalition pour le Bulletin de rendement des infrastructures canadiennes, la FCM plaide en faveur d’infrastructures plus solides capables de soutenir le commerce, le logement, la défense et le bien-être des collectivités. »

Tim Tierney, président, Fédération canadienne des municipalités

« Investir dans les infrastructures, c’est investir dans la population canadienne. Nous ne pourrons ni construire les logements dont nous avons besoin ni réaliser nos ambitions économiques sans prendre des décisions éclairées et fondées sur des données concrètes quant aux secteurs dans lesquels investir et à la manière de le faire. Le Bulletin de rendement des infrastructures canadiennes nous fournira les données fiables dont nous avons besoin pour établir nos priorités, gérer nos actifs de manière avisée et créer de la valeur durable pour la population et les municipalités du pays. »

John Gamble, président et chef de la direction, Association des firmes de génie-conseil

« Des infrastructures solides reposent avant tout sur des informations fiables. Le Bulletin de rendement des infrastructures canadiennes permettra de cerner les domaines où les besoins d’investissements sont les plus importants et contribuera à la prise de meilleures décisions en matière de financement, d’approvisionnement et de capacité de la main-d’œuvre, afin de faire passer les projets importants du stade de la planification à celui de la construction. »

Rodrigue Gilbert, président, Association canadienne de la construction

« Les infrastructures de transport collectif sont essentielles à la croissance économique du Canada et au maintien des liens entre les collectivités. Alors que les réseaux de transport collectif sont confrontés au vieillissement de leurs infrastructures et à une demande croissante, des investissements prévisibles et à long terme sont indispensables pour entretenir les infrastructures existantes et renforcer les capacités dont la population canadienne aura besoin pour les générations à venir. L’ACTU est fière de rejoindre la Coalition pour le BRIC afin de veiller à ce que le transport collectif fasse partie intégrante de ce portrait national essentiel des besoins du Canada en matière d’infrastructures. »

Marco D’Angelo, président-directeur général, Association canadienne du transport urbain

« La gestion des infrastructures existantes constitue un élément essentiel pour relever le défi des infrastructures au Canada. Les spécialistes de la gestion des actifs aident les collectivités à transformer des données fiables en décisions éclairées et à long terme concernant les investissements à prioriser, le moment opportun pour intervenir et les moyens d’optimiser les retombées des infrastructures publiques. Le CNAM est fier d’apporter le point de vue de la gestion des actifs au sein de cette coalition nationale et de continuer à développer les connaissances, les compétences et les capacités dont les collectivités ont besoin pour prendre ces décisions en toute confiance. »

Nzinga White, directrice générale, Réseau canadien des gestionnaires d’actifs (CNAM)

« Les loisirs et les parcs constituent un bien public indispensable, des lieux où se construisent la santé, le sentiment d’appartenance et la résilience au sein de chaque collectivité du Canada. Ils font également partie des infrastructures publiques essentielles et comptent parmi les plus détériorées du pays : plus du tiers des installations de loisirs et de sport sont dans un état passable ou mauvais. L’ACPL se joint à cette coalition parce que c’est dans ces espaces que se bâtit un Canada plus fort et que nous ne pouvons pas nous permettre de les laisser se dégrader davantage. »

Martin Sampson, directeur général, Association canadienne des parcs et loisirs

« Des infrastructures solides sont essentielles pour bâtir des collectivités résilientes, renforcer l’économie canadienne et améliorer la qualité de vie de toute la population. Pour les professionnels des travaux publics, le Bulletin de rendement des infrastructures canadiennes met en lumière les secteurs qui nécessitent des améliorations et aide à orienter les investissements, là où ils auront le plus d’impact. »

Angela Storey, présidente, Association canadienne des travaux publics

« Les infrastructures canadiennes vieillissent, accusent un retard en matière d’investissements numériques et font face à des pressions sans précédent. Pour demeurer compétitif à l’échelle mondiale, le Canada doit se doter d’une stratégie ambitieuse en matière d’infrastructures afin de répondre à la fois aux besoins des collectivités et aux priorités en matière de sécurité nationale. En tant que société savante et porte-parole du génie civil au Canada, la SCGC considère le Bulletin de rendement des infrastructures canadiennes comme une ressource essentielle pour faire avancer la recherche et planifier l’enseignement supérieur afin de préparer la prochaine génération de professionnels à concevoir des infrastructures résilientes et durables partout au Canada. »

Farnaz Sadeghpour, présidente, Société canadienne de génie civil

« Le gouvernement fédéral accorde manifestement la priorité au logement, mais il est impossible de construire des logements sans disposer de réseaux d’eau potable et d’eaux usées fiables. Dans son plus récent rapport, le Conseil canadien des infrastructures a désigné ces réseaux comme les infrastructures les plus déterminantes pour soutenir la construction de logements. »

Robert Haller, directeur général, Association canadienne des eaux potables et usées

Contact médias : Nzinga White, directrice générale, Réseau canadien des gestionnaires d’actifs (CNAM) | executivedirector@cnam.ca

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New Coalition Launches to Champion Canada’s Infrastructure Economy

Sarah Mulligan — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 01:23:10 +0000

Ottawa, ON – Canada’s local infrastructure is the foundation to the federal government’s ambitious, nation-building agenda and strong, healthy communities. However, 11 percent of core public infrastructure is rated in poor or very poor condition, representing approximately $237 billion in backlog repair costs.

That’s why nine national organizations have joined forces and are launching the Canadian Infrastructure Report Card (CIRC) Coalition. This network of infrastructure-focused organizations consists of local governments, engineers, builders, transit systems, asset managers, parks and recreation leaders, public works professionals and the municipal water sector.

Together, these organizations plan and spend billions of dollars on infrastructure investments each year.

CIRC Coalition Members

Federation of Canadian Municipalities
Association of Consulting Engineering Companies
Canadian Construction Association
Canada Urban Transit Association
Canadian Network of Asset Managers
Canadian Parks and Recreation Association
Canadian Public Works Association
Canadian Society for Civil Engineering
Canadian Water and Wastewater Association

Upcoming Report Card

The Coalition produces the Canadian Infrastructure Report Card, Canada’s leading assessment of the condition of local infrastructure. Based on data collected through Statistics Canada’s Core Public Infrastructure Survey, the report card has helped decision-makers understand infrastructure needs across the country. The upcoming edition, expected in early 2027, will be the first Canadian Infrastructure Report Card released since 2019, providing a renewed national picture of the condition of Canada’s local infrastructure.

CIRC Coalition recommendations to the federal government

Meanwhile, to help close infrastructure gaps and build a stronger Canadian economy, the Coalition is urging the next federal budget to:

Increase long-term, predictable infrastructure funding to close the current infrastructure deficit and address immediate needs.
Address workforce shortage gaps to ensure infrastructure projects have the workers needed to stay on track without delay, including employment pathways for youth and post-secondary education;
Continue supporting important infrastructure assessment work being conducted by the Canadian Infrastructure Council (CIC) and leverage the assessments through data-driven research to establish a long-term strategy to address infrastructure planning and funding; and
Support municipal capacity development in asset management planning, especially for small and rural communities to improve decision-making and lower costs.

Quotes

“Municipal infrastructure is the backbone of the Canadian economy. Leaving it in poor condition undermines Canada’s long-term economic strength. With the Canadian Infrastructure Report Card Coalition, FCM calls for stronger infrastructure that supports trade, housing, defense and community well-being.”

Tim Tierney, President, Federation of Canadian Municipalities

“Investment in infrastructure is an investment in Canadians. We will not build the housing we need or achieve our economic ambitions without sound, evidence-based decisions about where and how we invest. The Canadian Infrastructure Report Card will provide the reliable data we need to set priorities, manage assets wisely and deliver lasting value for Canadians and for our communities.”

John Gamble, President and CEO, Association of Consulting Engineering Companies

“Strong infrastructure starts with good information. The Canadian Infrastructure Report Card will help identify where investments are needed most and support better decisions on funding, procurement and workforce capacity to move important projects from planning to construction”

Rodrigue Gilbert, President, Canadian Construction Association

“Public transit infrastructure is essential to Canada’s economic growth and to keeping communities connected. As transit systems face aging assets and growing demands, long-term, predictable investment is critical to maintaining existing infrastructure and building the capacity Canadians will need for generations to come. CUTA is proud to join the CIRC Coalition to ensure public transit is part of this important national picture of Canada’s infrastructure needs."

Marco D'Angelo, President and CEO, Canada Urban Transit Association

“A critical component of meeting Canada’s infrastructure challenge is to manage the infrastructure assets we already have. Asset management professionals help communities turn reliable data into informed, long-term decisions about where to invest, when to intervene and how to get the greatest value from public infrastructure. CNAM is proud to bring the asset management perspective to this national coalition and to continue building the knowledge, skills and capacity communities need to make those decisions with confidence.”

Nzinga White, Executive Director, Canadian Network of Asset Managers

"Recreation and parks are a necessary public good, the places where health, belonging, and resilience are built in every community in Canada. They are also core public infrastructure, and among the most deteriorated we have: more than a third of the country's recreation and sport facilities are in fair or worse condition. CPRA joins this coalition because a stronger Canada is built in these places, and they cannot be allowed to fail."

Martin Sampson, CEO, Canadian Parks and Recreation Association

“Strong infrastructure is essential to building resilient communities, strengthening Canada's economy, and improving the quality of life for all Canadians. As public works professionals, the Canadian Infrastructure Report Card provides us with an indication of where we need to improve our infrastructure, while also providing insight into where to spend our limited resources.”

Angela Storey, President, Canadian Public Works Association

"Canada's infrastructure is aging, digitally underinvested, and facing unprecedented demands. To remain globally competitive, a transformative infrastructure strategy is needed to address both community needs and national security priorities. As a learned society and the voice for civil engineering in Canada, CSCE recognizes the Canadian Infrastructure Report Card as a critical source for advancing research and for planning post-secondary education to prepare the next generation of professionals to deliver resilient and sustainable infrastructure across Canada."

Dr. Farnaz Sadeghpour, President, Canadian Society for Civil Engineering

“The federal government has a clear focus on housing, but you can’t build housing without reliable water and wastewater systems. In their latest report, the Canada Infrastructure Council identified water and wastewater as the most critical ‘housing-enabling’ infrastructure.”

Robert Haller, Executive Director, Canadian Water and Wastewater Association

Media Contact: Nzinga White, Executive Director | executivedirector@cnam.ca

The post New Coalition Launches to Champion Canada’s Infrastructure Economy appeared first on Canadian Network of Asset Managers.

CNAM and AMONTario Formalize Partnership to Strengthen Public Infrastructure Asset Management in Ontario

Sarah Mulligan — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 16:04:56 +0000

Partnership Collaboration Agreement establishes a shared framework for joint training, events, advocacy, and knowledge sharing benefiting asset management professionals nationwide.

The Canadian Network of Asset Managers (CNAM) and Asset Management Ontario (AMONTario) are pleased to announce the signing of a Partnership Collaboration Agreement, formalizing a shared commitment to advancing public sector asset management through collaboration, innovation, and leadership.

Signed in April 2026, the agreement documents the intent of both organizations to work together on joint training programs and webinars, shared events and conferences, collaborative policy advocacy, and the exchange of knowledge and best practices that benefit asset management professionals across Ontario and Canada.

Members of both organizations will benefit from expanded access to professional development opportunities, increased networking at national and provincial events, and cross-promotion of programs and resources. The partnership also establishes a framework for exploring joint funding opportunities for asset management projects and coordinating policy engagement efforts at the provincial and federal levels.

Partnerships with provincial and territorial asset management organizations are fundamental to CNAM's role as Canada's national network," said Nzinga White, Executive Director of CNAM. "This agreement with AMONTario reflects our commitment to working in collaboration with Communities of Practice across the country to strengthen the practice of asset management, expand learning opportunities, and ensure practitioners have access to the knowledge and connections they need to support better infrastructure decisions.

Nzinga White, Executive Director, CNAM

At AMONTario, we believe that collaboration is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen asset management capabilities. This partnership formalizes a relationship that has grown over many years through a shared commitment to advancing asset management best practices. By working more closely together, we can bring even greater value to Ontario’s asset management community—connecting municipalities with national expertise, expanding opportunities for learning and collaboration, and strengthening the knowledge and resources needed to make informed infrastructure decisions.

Jennifer Court, Executive Director, AMONTario

About CNAM

The Canadian Network of Asset Managers (CNAM) is a not-for-profit organization and Canada’s national hub for public infrastructure asset managers. CNAM engages professionals from both the public and private sectors across every province and territory, supporting the community through knowledge-sharing initiatives, professional development, in-person conferences, virtual summits, webinars, knowledge pods, and working groups. CNAM members develop policy, tools, and technologies that improve the level of service for Canadian public infrastructure assets.

www.cnam.ca

About AMONTario

Asset Management Ontario (AMONTario) is a community of practice comprised of asset management practitioners who share information and best practices to advance public sector asset management and environmental stewardship of publicly-owned infrastructure in Ontario. AMONTario has worked with over 200 municipalities to deliver mentoring, coaching, and direct asset management assistance, and offers online certificate courses for practitioners in asset management, climate change action, and sustainability.

www.amontario.ca

MEDIA CONTACTS

CNAM: Nzinga White, Executive Director | executivedirector@cnam.ca

AMONTario: Jennifer Court, Executive Director | jenncourt@amontario.ca

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New Advanced Certificate Program Helps Build Canada’s Next Generation of Asset Management Professionals

Executive Director — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 18:41:48 +0000

As Canadian municipalities, utilities, and infrastructure organizations face increasing pressure to manage aging assets, climate risks, and growing service expectations, the need for skilled asset management professionals continues to rise.

To help address this growing demand, the Canadian Network of Asset Managers (CNAM), in partnership with NewPath Education, is launching the Advanced Certificate in Physical & Infrastructure Asset Management (PIAM), a new training opportunity designed to provide professionals with a strong foundation in asset management principles and practices.

The program offers an accessible pathway for individuals looking to start a career in asset management, transition into an asset management role, or build a more comprehensive understanding of how infrastructure assets are planned, managed, and renewed.

Canada's infrastructure owners are facing increasingly complex challenges, from aging assets and climate resilience to workforce succession and evolving service expectations," said Cassandra Pacey, Chair of the Canadian Network of Asset Managers. "The Advanced Certificate in Physical & Infrastructure Asset Management will help build the next generation of asset management professionals by providing a strong foundation in the knowledge and practices needed to make informed, sustainable infrastructure decisions. We're proud to offer this program in partnership with NewPath Education to support both individual career development and organizational capacity building across Canada.

Cassandra Pacey, Chair, CNAM

A Growing Profession with Expanding Opportunities

Asset management has become a critical function across municipalities, transportation agencies, utilities, educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and private infrastructure owners.

As organizations increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making and long-term planning, there is a growing need for professionals who understand how to balance service levels, risk, lifecycle costs, and infrastructure performance.

The Advanced Certificate in Physical & Infrastructure Asset Management was developed to help learners build these essential competencies through a structured curriculum that combines industry-leading practices with practical application.

Participants will gain knowledge in key areas including:

Asset management fundamentals
Asset inventories and data management
Levels of service
Risk assessment and management
Lifecycle planning
Asset management planning
Strategic decision-making and investment prioritization

The program is suitable for early-career professionals, municipal staff, engineers, planners, operators, finance professionals, and others who want to develop a solid understanding of asset management and infrastructure stewardship.

Creating Clearer Pathways into Asset Management

One of the challenges facing the profession is that many individuals enter asset management from adjacent disciplines without formal training in the field.

The Advanced Certificate in Physical & Infrastructure Asset Management helps bridge that gap by providing a clear educational pathway for those seeking to enter or advance within the profession.

By equipping participants with practical knowledge and industry-recognized training, the program supports workforce development efforts while helping organizations build internal asset management capacity.

As infrastructure owners continue to strengthen their asset management programs, professionals with formal training and recognized credentials will be increasingly well-positioned to contribute and grow within the sector.

Building Your Asset Management Learning Journey

The Advanced Certificate in Physical & Infrastructure Asset Management is part of CNAM’s growing suite of professional development opportunities designed to support asset management professionals at every stage of their careers.

For those looking to build on their technical foundation and strengthen their leadership capabilities, CNAM also offers the Leadership in Asset Management Certificate Program, which focuses on leading organizational change, building asset management culture, engaging stakeholders, and advancing asset management maturity within organizations.

Professionals can also explore specialized training opportunities such as the newly launched Leveraging Your Asset Data course, which provides practical guidance on transforming asset data into actionable insights that support better decision-making and improved asset outcomes.

Together, these programs reflect CNAM’s commitment to building asset management knowledge, leadership, and capacity across Canada while creating clear learning pathways for both emerging and experienced professionals.

To learn more about the Advanced Certificate in Physical & Infrastructure Asset Management (PIAM), the Leadership in Asset Management Certificate Program, and other training opportunities available through CNAM, visit the Training section of the CNAM website.

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Building Stronger Infrastructure Together: CNAM Hosts its 2026 National Conference in St. John’s

Sarah Mulligan — Thu, 28 May 2026 20:29:40 +0000

250 infrastructure leaders convene in St. John’s for four days of keynotes, technical tours, awards, and a renewed international partnership.

ST. JOHN’S, NL — The Canadian Network of Asset Managers (CNAM) successfully hosted its 2026 National Conference: Rising Tides — from May 4 to 7, 2026, in St. John’s, Newfoundland. The four-day event welcomed 250 delegates from across Canada, bringing together practitioners, decision-makers, researchers, and innovators to advance practical solutions for the long-term sustainability of Canada’s public infrastructure.

National and International Keynotes

The program featured keynotes from leading voices across the sector. Amanpreet Bains of the Township of Mapleton opened the conference with a grounded perspective on asset management in smaller municipalities. The Honourable Barry Petten, Deputy Premier and Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure for Newfoundland and Labrador, addressed delegates on Tuesday — underscoring the growing recognition of asset management at the highest levels of government. Eddie Sheerr, Founder of Sheerr Weather, examined the implications of changing climate patterns for infrastructure risk, while David Jenkins, CEO of the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA), closed the conference with a global perspective on the future of the profession.

The Honourable Barry Petten, Deputy Premier and Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure for Newfoundland and Labrador, addressed delegates.

A Broad and Diverse Program

Delegates participated in panel discussions, including the Rising Tides Panel on Climate Resilience and Vulnerability in the Atlantic, and selected from dozens of concurrent sessions across three streams: Advance, Adapt, and Anchor. Topics spanned AI-supported capital prioritization, digital twins, Indigenous-led stewardship, urban forestry, financial planning, and northern realities. Technical tours offered delegates an up-close look at infrastructure sites across the St. John’s region.

Rising Tides Panel on Climate Resilience and Vulnerability in the Atlantic [Photo by Ray Campbell]

Technical Tours: Seeing Infrastructure Up Close

A highlight of the conference experience were the technical tours, giving delegates a rare behind-the-scenes look at real infrastructure in action. On Monday, attendees could choose between a tour of C-Core, a world-leading ocean technology centre, or the Petty Harbour Hydropower Plant — a historic site generating clean energy on the edge of the Atlantic.

On Thursday afternoon, delegates had the choice of visiting The Rooms, Newfoundland and Labrador’s provincial museum and archives; touring the Canadian Coast Guard Helicopter Hangar at St. John’s Airport; or walking through the City of St. John’s Riverhead Wastewater Treatment Facility. Each tour offered a tangible connection between the sessions in the conference room and the infrastructure that communities depend on every day.

Tour attendees at the City of St. John’s Riverhead Wastewater Treatment Facility.

Newfoundland Hospitality: Dine Arounds, the Screech In, and the Spirit of Newfoundland

CNAM conferences are as much about connection as they are about content, and St. John’s delivered on both fronts. The fun started right away on Monday evening, when delegates were welcomed with the iconic Screech In ceremony — kissing the cod and raising a glass of Screech rum to become honorary Newfoundlanders — a joyful, only-in-Newfoundland welcome to the week ahead.

Dine Arounds sent delegates out to explore the city’s vibrant restaurant scene — from The Celtic Hearth to O’Reilly’s Irish Newfoundland Pub and beyond — creating the kind of informal connections that last long after the conference ends.

A delegate takes part in the traditional Screech In — kissing the cod to become an honorary Newfoundlander. [Photo by Ray Campbell]

Celebrating Excellence: The 2026 CNAM Awards

On Wednesday, May 6, CNAM recognized outstanding contributions to public infrastructure asset management at its annual Awards Banquet. Award recipients included the Regional Municipality of Niagara (Tereo Innovator Award), the Regional Municipality of York (Green and Climate Award), and the MICAMP program (Indigenous or Small Communities Award). Dharmen Dhaliah received the Visionary Award, Courtney Klassen was named Volunteer of the Year, and Shajib Guha of McMaster University took first place at the Future Leaders Symposium.

A heartfelt thank you to all of this year’s nominees — your work is the foundation of this community. Nights like this are a reminder of how much passion and dedication exist across Canada’s asset management sector, and we are grateful to everyone who came together to celebrate it.

Learn more about the 2026 CNAM Award winners at cnam.ca/cnam-awards.

Master of Ceremonies, Coady Cameron, Board Chair and Founder of Total Pave Inc., at the 2026 CNAM Awards Banquet. [Photo by Ray Campbell]

A Renewed International Partnership

The conference also marked the signing of a renewed trilateral Memorandum of Understanding between CNAM, IPWEA, and NAMS Canada, reaffirming a shared commitment to advancing sustainable infrastructure asset management through international collaboration, professional development, and knowledge-sharing.

Read the full announcement at cnam.ca.

From left: Zawad Abedin, Director of Engineering & Operations, Lheidli T’enneh Nation; Nzinga White, Executive Director, Canadian Network of Asset Managers (CNAM); Nicole Allen, Executive Director, NAMS Canada; Cassandra Pacey, Chair, CNAM; and David Jenkins, CEO, Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) [Photo by Ray Campbell]

The 2026 CNAM National Conference was a testament to the strength and dedication of Canada’s public infrastructure asset management community. From the shores of the Atlantic to the informative sessions, tours, and conversations that filled four remarkable days in St. John’s, attendees were reminded why this work matters, and why the connections built along the way are just as important as the solutions shared. CNAM looks forward to continuing this momentum in the year ahead.

CNAM thanks all attendees, speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, and volunteers who made the 2026 National Conference a success.

More photos from the 2026 CNAM National Conference are available on our Past Conferences page.

About the Canadian Network of Asset Managers (CNAM): The Canadian Network of Asset Managers (CNAM) is Canada’s national association dedicated to advancing public infrastructure asset management. CNAM provides leadership, innovation, and collaboration to support practitioners across all levels of government, Indigenous communities, academia, and the private sector. Learn more at cnam.ca.

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CNAM, IPWEA, and NAMS Canada Renew Strategic Partnership to Advance Infrastructure Asset Management

Sarah Mulligan — Sun, 24 May 2026 17:57:09 +0000

Renewed Memorandum of Understanding Deepens Collaboration on Training, Knowledge-Sharing, and Professional Development Across Canada and Australasia

St.Johns, Newfoundland; The Canadian Network of Asset Managers (CNAM), the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA), and NAMS Canada have announced the renewal of their trilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), reaffirming a shared commitment to advancing sustainable infrastructure asset management across Canada and internationally.

The renewed agreement was signed in-person at the CNAM Conference and builds on the organizations’ established history of partnership. It outlines a continued framework for strategic collaboration, professional development, and marketing and communications initiatives designed to benefit asset management professionals in both Canada and Australasia.

“Renewing this trilateral agreement marks an important step in strengthening global collaboration in asset management. Together with IPWEA and NAMS Canada, we are well positioned to drive innovation while creating meaningful opportunities to share knowledge, build capacity, and support the continued evolution of the asset management profession, ultimately delivering positive, lasting impacts for the communities we serve across the globe.”

— Cassandra Pacey, Chair, Canadian Network of Asset Managers (CNAM)

“This renewed partnership reflects the growing recognition that infrastructure challenges are global and that the best outcomes are achieved when organisations collaborate across borders, professions and disciplines. Through this agreement, IPWEA is proud to continue working alongside CNAM and NAMS Canada to strengthen asset management capability, share innovation and support the delivery of sustainable, resilient and community-focused infrastructure for future generations.”

— David Jenkins, CEO, Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA)

“The continuation of this partnership between NAMS Canada, CNAM, and IPWEA reaffirms our shared commitment to supporting asset management practitioners. By strengthening collaboration both across Canada and internationally, this ongoing partnership enables the exchange of practical knowledge, aligned approaches, and real-world experience—ensuring professionals are equipped to deliver sustainable and resilient infrastructure outcomes for the communities they serve.”

— Nicole Allen, Executive Director, NAMS Canada

Key areas of collaboration under the renewed MOU include:

Strategic Collaboration: Joint projects and information sharing to advance infrastructure asset management practice, knowledge, and innovation, including policy engagement at the federal level.

Professional Development: Cross-promotion of national conferences including IPWEA’s International Asset Management Congress, IPWEA’s International Public Works Conference, and CNAM’s Annual Conference, with complimentary delegate passes exchanged between organizations.

Marketing & Communications: Reciprocal web links, co-promotion of events and training, and the exchange of journals, newsletters, and publications to strengthen connections between the asset management communities in each country.

The MOU will remain in effect for three years, with provisions for renewal or revision by mutual agreement. Each organization has appointed a Relationship Manager to serve as the primary liaison for partnership activities.

About CNAM

The Canadian Network of Asset Managers (CNAM) is a not-for-profit organization and Canada’s national hub for municipal infrastructure asset managers. CNAM engages professionals from both the public and private sectors across every province and territory through conferences, a Fall Virtual Summit, webinars, Knowledge Pods, and working groups.

About NAMS Canada

NAMS Canada is a not-for-profit organization that provides Canadian infrastructure stewards with integrated asset management training, tools, and mentorship. A Canadian affiliate of IPWEA, NAMS Canada supports practitioners at all levels of practice in both official languages.

About IPWEA

The Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) is a professional association of more than 4,750 members delivering public works and engineering services to communities across Australasia and internationally. IPWEA provides continuing professional development, technical publications, conferences, and advocacy on public works policy.

Media Contact

Nzinga White | Executive Director, CNAM

executivedirector@cnam.ca

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Call for Nominations – CNAM 2026-27 Board of Directors

Sarah Mulligan — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 17:01:55 +0000

Nominations for the 2026-2027 CNAM Board of Directors is now open.

The Canadian Network of Asset Managers is seeking enthusiastic candidates to stand for election to the CNAM Board of Directors. All member categories (except students) are eligible to run for office.

If you or someone you know are committed to playing a leadership role in the community of practice for asset management, possess strong strategic management skills and are passionate about building CNAM as an association, please consider a nomination.

Deadline for nominations is 11:59 PM ET on Friday, February 27 2026.

The positions up for election are:

Director (Municipalities Under or Approximately 100,000) – 2 year term
Director (Public Sector Service Provider) – 2 year term
Director (Public Sector Service Provider) – 2 year term
Director (Public Sector Service Provider)* – 1 year term
Director (Regional – Ontario) – 2 year term
Director (Regional – Prairies) – 2 year term
Director (Territories) – 2 year term
Director (Educational/Research Institute) – 1 year term
Director (Prairies) – 2 year term

*A candidate who is not elected to the 2-year term may be appointed to the one-year term if that position is vacant upon completion of the election process.

To be considered as a candidate for the CNAM Board of Directors, the following prerequisites and competencies are required.

CNAM Member in good standing (any member category except student)
Demonstrated leadership in the practice of asset management
Previous board experience, or other related strategic management experience
Ability to commit 8 – 10 hours a month for Board and Committee meetings as well as Board activities
The Board meets by conference call every month for 2 hours as well as two in-person meetings per year (at the annual conference)
Support of your employer (including financial support) to attend the annual conference and the Board’s annual two-day strategic planning session late Fall
Written support must be obtained before the voting closes
Be available for the post-2026 conference board meeting

Individuals may nominate themselves or others by providing a brief biography including:

Your full name
Contact information
Board position applied for (see openings above)
Selection of the CNAM Committee(s) you wish to volunteer on
Current professional role/responsibilities (maximum 100 words)
Related experience (maximum 100 words)
Your interest and vision for CNAM (maximum 100 words)
Confirmation of:
- Employer commitment for time and travel commitments
- Personal commitment for time commitment
Must be submitted survey link and adhere to the word count
Headshot in jpeg format emailed to admin@cnam.ca

This is your opportunity to sell your qualifications and vision for CNAM for review by the membership at large. Nominations will be sent to CNAM members as provided, so please carefully proofread your submission to ensure you put your best foot forward. Please note the word counts outlined above will be strictly adhered to.

Deadline:

11:59 PM ET on Friday, February 27, 2026.

Questions?

Email admin@cnam.ca

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2026-2027 CNAM Vice Chair Election

Executive Director — Thu, 02 Oct 2025 01:28:21 +0000

The Canadian Network of Asset Managers will establish its elected Board of Directors at our Annual General Meeting (AGM) on April 23, 2026.

The CNAM membership will elect the incoming Vice-Chair to serve for the upcoming year starting May 2026.

The elected Vice-Chair will serve for a three-year rotating term:

Vice-Chair: 2026-2027
Chair: 2027-2028
Past-Chair: 2028-2029

This role is critical to the sustainment and evolution of CNAM and the public infrastructure asset management landscape.

Timeline
The election will take place prior to CNAM’s AGM, meaning that candidates who are not successful in their initial bid for a board position are encouraged to consider running for other available roles on the board. We value the dedication and interest of all applicants and welcome their continued involvement in shaping the future of our organization..

October 3, 2025 – November 7, 2025: Vice Chair Nominations Period
November 10, 2025 – November 14, 2025: Vetting by Nominations Committee to ensure candidates meet the Vice-Chair candidacy requirements
November 17, 2025 – November 19, 2025: Vice-Chair Candidates and Submissions shared with the membership
November 21, 2025 – December 5, 2025: Online Voting
December 12: Announcement of Vice-Chair-Elect

Submission Process
Prospective candidates are asked to submit the following:

A statement of intent for the Vice-Chair role (~500 words) – describe your vision, desired outcomes, and proposed strategies for advancing and evolving CNAM’s mandate
Biography (~100 words) and photograph
All candidates are encouraged to submit a video (~60-90 sec) outlining their vision and motivation for the role

Feel free to campaign through your own networks and raise awareness for those who may have missed notification about the election.

Requirements/Criteria

To be considered as a candidate for the Vice-Chair role of the CNAM Board of Directors, the following prerequisites and competencies are required:

CNAM Member in good standing (any member category except student)
Demonstrated leadership in the practice of asset management
Previous board experience, or other related strategic management experience
Demonstrated CNAM Board exposure, experience and/or knowledge
Ability to commit the time required over and above typical Board member hours (which are 8-10 hours a month) for Executive meetings, outreach with internal and external stakeholders, and addressing operational needs with CNAM’s Executive Director
The Board meets by conference call every month for 2 hours as well as two in-person meetings per year (at the annual conference); Executive Committee meets by conferences call every month for 2 hours
Support of your employer (including financial support) to attend the annual conference, the Fall Summit and the Board’s annual two-day strategic planning session late Fall. Attendance at the annual conference, Fall Summit, and strategic planning session involves a required investment of time and financial resources from all Board members.
Written support must be obtained before the voting closes
Be available for the post-2025 conference board meeting May 7, 2026

Ideal Candidate:
The ideal candidate will:

Have previous exposure and involvement with the CNAM Board and Committees, special programs and initiatives, and regular operations
Bring experience in successive leadership positions with demonstrated ability to facilitate decision-making in a Board and Executive setting
Bring experience with Not-For-profit Board leadership or management
Demonstrate a long-term commitment to sustaining and building the asset management community in Canada and beyond
Be agnostic of regional, sector, and other differences and work in the best interest of all public infrastructure asset managers across Canada
Confirm a 3-year commitment in the successive Vice-Chair, Chair and Past-Chair positions

If you have questions about the election process or the Vice-Chair role, please contact our Executive Director.

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CNAM seeking candidates for the position of CNAM Secretary-Treasurer

CNAM Admin — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 19:32:43 +0000

The Canadian Network of Asset Managers (CNAM) is seeking candidates for the position of CNAM Secretary-Treasurer.

The CNAM Secretary-Treasurer serves on the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors and is responsible for oversight of all CNAM’s financial functions. A reasonable level of financial experience is required for this position.

Learn more about the roles and responsibilities of the CNAM Secretary-Treasurer:

https://cnam.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CNAM-Secretary-Treasurer-position-description.pdf

To be considered as a candidate for the CNAM Secretary-Treasurer, the following prerequisites and competencies are required:

CNAM Member in good standing (any member category except student) (or willing to become a member of CNAM)
Previous board experience, or other related strategic management experience
Relevant financial experience (required) and asset management experience (preferred)
Ability to commit 10 – 12 hours a month to the role of Secretary-Treasurer (including attendance at board and relevant committee meetings as well as assigned activities). Learn more about CNAM calendar of events.
Support of your employer (including financial support) to attend the annual conference (in-person) and the Fall Summit (virtually), and the Board’s strategic planning meetings (virtual or in-person)
- Written support must be obtained before appointment

Individuals may nominate themselves or others by providing a brief biography including:

Your full name
Contact information
Current professional role/responsibilities (brief bio)
Related experience for Secretary/Treasurer position (i.e. financial and/or strategic management experience) (maximum 100 words)
Related experience for leadership in Asset Management (optional) (maximum 100 words)
Your interest and vision for CNAM (maximum 100 words) Learn more about the CNAM Vision and Strategic Plan.

Submit Your Nomination to:

Canadian Network of Asset Managers

Attention: Nominating Committee

executivedirector@cnam.ca

Deadline: 12:00 PM ET on Tuesday, July 22, 2025.

Questions? Email executivedirector@cnam.ca.

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