Board chairs of the British Columbia Construction Association (BCCA) each leave their mark in their own unique way. Today, we pay tribute to one of those Past Chairs, Vancouver native Susan Zacharias, who passed away in Williams Lake on September 6^th. We are honoured to be joined in this tribute by the Northern Regional Construction Association (NRCA), with whom Susan was closely associated for many years.

Sue’s experience as co-owner and operator at United Concrete & Gravel Ltd. as well as its Enviro-Corp Recycling-Division, and her natural talent as a people person made her the ideal candidate to assume the Chair of the BCCA in 2015. It was a time of great growth for the province’s economy, and an exciting time for BC’s construction industry. Sue was an accomplished ambassador for our industry, advocating strongly for its interests and working closely with the Regional Construction Associations towards the realization of common goals. She brought over 14 years’ experience on the boards of both the BCCA and NRCA to the position and addressed such critical issues as skills shortages and public sector procurement policies during her tenure.

Susan Zacharias’ contribution to BCCA, NRCA and British Columbia’s construction industry was significant, and will be remembered. We extend our deepest condolences to Susan’s family, friends and colleagues.

Individual Tributes

“I had the pleasure to join the BCCA Board, while Sue was on the Executive and transitioned to the Board Chair.  It was very informative to learn from Sue the importance of decorum, following Roberts Rules of Order, and keeping a meeting professional.  She was able to share a wealth of leadership skills she had acquired while a Williams Lake City Councillor.  I remember most fondly our conversations about unique aspects of the Cariboo Region, her pride of community and staff as they dealt with a fire at United Concrete and Gravel, and devotion to her family. ”
– Anthony Minniti, Chair of the BCCA

“Sue was not just a remarkable individual, but also a trailblazer in the construction association realm, where her selfless leadership left an indelible mark. Her unwavering dedication to fostering growth, innovation, and collaboration within the industry paved the way for others. Sue’s legacy is entrenched in the culture and conduct to this day at the BCCA.”
– Chris Atchison, President of the BCCA

“The passing of Sue will be felt by many. I have many cherished memories of Sue’s contribution to the industry, and her legacy will continue to thrive. Sue’s wisdom, personality and sense of humour taught us to celebrate her friendship to the NRCA team and members throughout Northern BC. She will sadly be missed, and our thoughts go out to her family.”
– Scott Bone, Past CEO of the NRCA

“Sue appreciated that the world of construction was evolving quickly and guided the BCCA through many challenges. The role that BCCA maintains today is a credit to the work she undertook during her tenure as Chair. Those who worked with her will remember her calm demeaner, her foresight and commitment to making things right for contractors, owners, and workers in the industry.”
– Manley McLachlan, Past President of the BCCA