Women in Residential Construction Council

Women in Residential Construction Council

CHBA’s Women in Residential Construction Council (WIRCC) champions the advancement, support, and representation of women in residential construction in Canada by fostering collaboration, sharing best practices, and informing policies and initiatives that strengthen women’s success across the industry.

Mission

CHBA’s WIRCC aims to:

Promote the advancement of women working in every corner of the residential construction sector – from the skilled trades to design to management and beyond.
Be the forum for women in industry to share experiences and shape the dialogue surrounding the many career and business opportunities that residential construction offers.
Catalyze connections locally, provincially, and nationally to create a network of support for women in residential construction.

Founding Members

On May 12, 2025, CHBA unveiled the inaugural national WIRCC, an advisory committee that focuses on issues that impact women in residential construction from a national lens.

The WIRCC is comprised of 14 volunteer representatives from provincial and local home builders’ associations (HBAs) who have women-focused residential construction councils or are demonstrably involved in advocacy and/or initiatives that support/promote women in the sector. These representatives feed into a rapidly growing network of more than 260 leading women in industry, who are involved in various initiatives that reach over 1,000 women in the residential construction sector.

Members of CHBA’s Women in Residential Construction Council

A woman sitting at a conference table holds up a book titled The House That She Built while speaking into a microphone; two other panelists sit beside her.

A woman speaks into a microphone while seated at a table among other attendees during an indoor conference or meeting. People around her listen or take notes.

A woman speaks into a microphone at a conference table, surrounded by others. Name cards in front of her read Krista Paine and Claudia Simmonds. Laptops, papers, and drinks are visible on the table.

A group of people, mostly women, sit around round tables in a conference room, attentively listening to a speaker. Some have laptops and notepads; name tags and bottled drinks are visible on the tables.

Women Building the Future

Members of CHBA’s Women in Residential Construction Council (WIRCC) share their experiences and advice to help inspire the next generation of women entering Canada’s residential construction industry.

Chiara Sulyok

Regional Partner, Alair Homes

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Biography:

Born in Chatham, Ontario, Chiara moved to the West Coast of British Columbia to finish off her wide and varied education; focusing on carpentry and horticulture. With a passion for building and gardening, in her spare time you’ll typically find her at home working on her latest projects. As the parents of two children, Chiara and her husband enjoy passing on skills and lessons they’ve acquired throughout the years, taking every opportunity to travel the world and enrich their lives. Chiara enjoys many aspects of her job, but the thing she finds the most rewarding is working hand-in-hand with her clients; translating ideas from paper into their dream home. There’s a certain kind of magic in knowing you’re making such a big difference in someone’s life.

"A piece of advice I’d give to any woman entering the trades is to follow your passion. Set your goals and stick to them. You’ll have ups and downs, rough days, and moments where you question your choice, but fear means growth. That uncomfortable, stomach‑turning feeling, do it anyway. You’ll be so happy you did."

Elsa Batten

Founder, Aware Design Studio

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Biography:

Elsa Batten is a BCIN‑certified architectural designer and the founder of Aware Design Studio, where she leads with a commitment to creating spaces that are both beautiful and deeply intentional. Her design philosophy is rooted in an awareness of sunlight, site, space, and the relationships that shape how people live in their homes. Blending technical precision with human‑centered design, Elsa is dedicated to architecture that enhances everyday life. She focuses on crafting practical, enduring, and meaningful spaces, whether reimagining an existing home or developing a new design from the ground up. Her work is guided by listening closely, thinking critically, and designing with care.

As a board member of the Peterborough & The Kawarthas Home Builders Association, Elsa advocates for thoughtful residential development and a more connected, collaborative building community. She believes the best design emerges when we slow down, ask the right questions, and stay curious—about people, places, and the possibilities in between.

"Follow your curiosity and don’t be afraid to start before you feel confident. Talk to people, ask questions, and say yes to learning opportunities. This industry is built on relationships and hands-on experience, and there’s real value in simply showing up and being willing to learn."

Linda mansfield

President, Homeworx Modular Homes

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Biography:

Linda Mansfield is President & CEO of Homeworx Modular Homes and Managing Director of a commercial and residential real estate holdings business in Newfoundland and Labrador. With a focused mission to provide quality, resource-efficient affordable homes throughout the Province, Homeworx has won the CHBA-NL Excellence in Affordable Housing Award for the past three years!

Linda has a vast history of serving on non-profit boards of directors for associations that support business and industry, as well as grass-roots initiatives she is passionate about. Linda is currently 1^st Vice President of CHBA-NL and Chair of the NL Women in Residential Construction Council.

Krista Paine

Owner Operator, Ian Paine Construction and Design

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Biography:

Krista Paine, a registered interior designer, has over ten years of experience in project management and interior design, and is a Certified Red Seal Carpenter. She has designed numerous award-winning projects and was awarded Renovation of the Year 2020 at the Okanagan Housing Awards of Excellence. She has been honored in many magazines and asked to be a judge for multiple building awards, including the CHBA National Housing Awards. She looks forward to helping make your space spectacular.

"The future of residential construction is smarter, higher-performing, and constantly evolving. Stay curious and learn the standards shaping what’s next. Join the industry and help define it!"

Laurie Cole

Creative Director and Master Builder, New View Designs

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Biography:

Laurie Cole is the Creative Director and Master Builder behind her award-winning design-build company based in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Together with her late husband, she founded one of the region’s first design-build firms, setting a new benchmark for custom home construction in Atlantic Canada.

A respected leader in the building community, Laurie serves on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Home Builders’ Association of New Brunswick (CHBA-NB) and is the current Council Chair for Women in Construction, representing New Brunswick at the national level.

Her innovative work and leadership have been featured in numerous publications, including Building Excellence Magazine and East Coast Living. Laurie has also been nationally recognized for her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion, earning the Award of Excellence for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion from the UBC.

"Reach out to other women in the trades or the industry for support and information. Build your skill."

Lisa Schuett

Vice President, Terra View Custom Homes Ltd.

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Biography:

With more than three decades at Terra View Homes, Lisa's career journey is a remarkable story of dedication, growth, and leadership. She began as a co-op student, eager to learn and ready to contribute. From those early days, she immersed herself in the business, taking on role after role across nearly every area of the company. By learning the industry from the ground up—operations, administration, customer service, and leadership—she built not only deep technical expertise but also a comprehensive understanding of what it truly takes to build homes and strong teams.

Today, Lisa serves as Vice President, bringing hands-on experience, strategic insight, and steady leadership. Having grown alongside the company, she leads with authenticity and a genuine appreciation for every role—because she has held many of them herself.

Beyond her company, Lisa is deeply engaged in the industry. After joining the Grand Highlands Home Builders’ Association (GHHBA) Board of Directors in 2019, she now serves as its President. She is also a member of the inaugural CHBA Women in Residential Construction Council, helping advance opportunities and representation for women across the industry.

Her journey also reflects courage and balance. After her second daughter was born, she approached the owner to request part-time work while her children were young. The company supported her, recognizing her value. That decision allowed her to prioritize her family while continuing to grow her career—proving that leadership and motherhood are not mutually exclusive—and that flexibility and loyalty can go hand in hand.

"Women bring vision, detail, resilience, and heart to residential construction. When we step onto the job site, we’re not just building houses — we’re reshaping the industry. I could not be more proud to be a part of this group working towards supporting other women in all fields of residential construction."

Jenna Johannesen

Co-owner, Park Lighting, Cartwright Lighting, and True Light Co.

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Biography:

Jenna Johannesen is one of the owners of Park Lighting & Furniture in Edmonton, Cartwright Lighting & Furniture in Calgary, and the newly established True Light Co. Lighting. With a strong background in Interior Decorating and Architectural Technology, Jenna has spent over 20 years immersed in the home construction and design industry.

Throughout her career, Jenna has accumulated diverse experience in design, drafting, new home sales, interior selections, lighting sales, merchandising, and marketing. This wide-ranging expertise has allowed Jenna to develop a deep understanding of both the technical and creative aspects of the industry. As the lead for business development, marketing and social media across all three companies, she has been pivotal in shaping brand presence and customer engagement.

A true passion for design and business drives Jenna every day. Whether working on new projects or discussing the latest trends, Jenna loves connecting with others in the industry to share knowledge and inspire creativity. With a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to quality, Jenna works closely with her teams to meet the unique needs of today’s shoppers, ensuring an exceptional customer experience across all touchpoints.

"Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Believe in yourself and recognize that you bring value to every team you’re part of. Know your strengths, be honest about your weaknesses, and surround yourself with people who complement and balance you. Confidence grows through experience—show up, stay curious, and trust that you belong."

Meredith Yuen

Partner, Marino General Contracting Limited

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Biography:

Originally from San Diego, Meredith graduated from UC Berkeley before moving to Vancouver to take over Marino GC, a second-generation family construction company, with her partner, Steven. With over 10 years of experience, she oversees day-to-day operations, manages projects, and guides the strategic vision of the company. She has filled several roles through the company’s growth and transition to ensure its continued success.

Meredith has been an active HAVAN member since 2016, serving as Chair and Vice Chair of the Women’s Council. Through the HAVAN Women’s Council, she has contributed to a wide range of initiatives and industry activities. Through her leadership, she has championed opportunities for women in construction and strengthened engagement and connection within the community. In addition to her work with the Women’s Council, Meredith is a HAVAN Representative for the CHBA National Women in Residential Construction Committee (WIRCC).

"Construction is all about community. Build your community and treat everyone with respect - they’ll do the same in return. When you treat the people you work with well, they will go to bat for you. Learn as much as you can in the shortest amount of time. Ask questions - and remember the answers. Respect people’s time and knowledge, and as you grow, make sure you’re bringing your team up with you."

Natasha Paikin

Director of Client Experience, New Horizon Development Group

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Biography:

Natasha Paikin is the Director of Client Experience at New Horizon Development Group (NHDG), a second-generation homebuilder/developer based in Burlington, Ontario and recognized for its diverse portfolio of high‑rise, mid‑rise, and low‑rise communities. Her work spans for‑sale and purpose‑built rental housing, all grounded in NHDG’s commitment to sustainability and housing affordability. A passionate advocate for industry collaboration and leadership development, Natasha is currently serving her fifth year on the West End Home Builders’ Association (WE HBA) Board of Directors and her third year on the Tarion Industry Advisory Council.

She is also an inaugural member of both the Ontario Home Builders’ Association (OHBA) U40 Advisory Group and the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) Women in Residential Construction Council. In 2025, Natasha was honoured with the OHBA’s inaugural Emerging Leader Award, recognizing her impact, leadership, and dedication to shaping the future of residential construction in Ontario.

"Don’t underestimate the value you bring. This industry needs your perspective and your skills. Be curious and ask questions – it’s the fastest way to expand your knowledge and understanding. Find mentors who believe in you. Most importantly, trust that you belong here because you do!"

Paula Strilchuk

Underwriter for New Home Warranty, Travelers Canada

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Biography:

Paula has over 20+ years’ experience in the Residential Construction industry. Her enthusiasm for the industry sparked while working at The Alberta New Home Warranty Program for 10 years. She navigated the Registrations Department and then moved to Warranty where she created their Call Center. Following that, she moved to Business Development, interacting with builders and developers. Here she was tasked with bringing on new business and advocating for existing clientele. The next chapter was to manage the Warranty Department for a large Builder Developer in Calgary, Genesis. Here she led a team to provide outstanding customer service for nearly 10 years. Practically moving full circle, for the past three years, she has been working at Travelers Canada as an Underwriter in Business Development for New Home Warranty, Deposit Insurance and Development Bonds. She is passionate about this industry and the customer’s experience. She holds many certificates and has completed continuing education courses supporting same. Paula currently is the Chairperson for Women in Residential Construction in Calgary, AB.

"Don't get intimidated and just be confident in what you know; speak to that without any reservation. It's really easy to get intimidated in this industry because of the inequality per se, and it is getting better and better. But if I could give any young woman any piece of advice, it would be to persevere, to stick to your guidance, and continue with what you believe in. Don't let other people sway your point of view."

Rikki Paquette

General Manager, Kamloops Truss Ltd.

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Biography:

Rikki Paquette is a new co-owner to Kamloops Truss as of 2022. She continues to grow and share the knowledge she has learned in the 13 years of experience serving the clients of Kamloops Truss. Before anything else, Rikki is a wife, and mother of two daughters, all born and raised in the Kamloops community. She and her family enjoy spending time together doing all things outdoors. Rikki prides herself on a high level of professionalism, equality and quality standards. She has a passion for supporting professional women in trades and involves herself wherever she can to provide education and support.

"Focus on your strengths and the value you bring. You don't need to prove that you can do everything the same way as someone else. Construction needs many different skill sets. Be respectful, be willing to learn, and leave ego at the door. When you focus on contributing solutions and working as part of a team, there is a lot of opportunity in this industry."

Rodelle Genoway

CEO, Hometown Homes

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Biography:

Rodelle grew up on a farm where entrepreneurship and integrity was engrained into her at a young age. Moving to the big city of Saskatoon to attend the University of Saskatchewan was a shock coming from a small town. She received her Bachelor of Commerce degree from the Edwards School of Business and worked in a variety of senior-level human resources roles upon receiving her Certified Professional in Human Resources designation. Rodelle continued to work in the manufacturing industry while working towards her Master of Business Administration degree at the Edwards School of Business. Upon completion of her MBA, she taught at the University of Saskatchewan in the areas of human resources and employment law. Rodelle is a certified lean black belt, professional business coach and Myers-Briggs and DISC facilitator. Her career did a complete turn upon co-founding Hometown Homes where she discovered her passion for design and project management and ended up leaving her vice-president role with a reputable Saskatchewan-based manufacturer to follow her entrepreneurial heart and join Hometown Homes full-time. Rodelle has since immersed herself fully into the construction industry and was appointed as a board member with the Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association.

"If I had to give any advice to a young woman entering the residential construction industry, it would be to just soak it all in. The negatives, the positives—you're going to learn absolutely everything. Just have an open mind, continuously learn, and you're going to shine in this industry."

Sue Wastell

Co-President, Wastell Homes

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Biography:

Sue Wastell is Co-President of Wastell Homes and is responsible for overseeing every facet of the home building process, from sales and design to advertising and land acquisition.

Sue currently serves as Past President of CHBA National and was the Chair of CHBA’s Urban Council for five years. She has made important strides towards developing workable policies to deal with housing affordability, always reminding policymakers locally, provincially, and federally of the impacts of their decisions. Sue has made this a major focus of her advocacy efforts; with her own children coming into adulthood, she wants to ensure that home ownership isn’t out of reach for Canada’s youth.

Sue also serves as a Past-President and Board Member of London Home Builders’ Association (LHBA), where she spearheads a number of important initiatives to improve the building industry, including housing affordability and the skilled trades shortage, acting as a conduit between the municipality and LHBA members.

Most recently, Sue became Chair of CHBA’s inaugural Women in Residential Construction Council (WIRCC) and is 2nd VP of the Ontario Home Builders’ Association.

Tanya Maric

VP Operations, Maric Homes

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Biography:

As Vice President of Operations at Maric, Tanya plays a key role in ensuring seamless project execution while fostering a culture of transparency and great communication. With extensive experience in the industry, she is committed to supporting clients every step of the way, assuring excellence in every detail. Tanya combines professional dedication with a love for life’s simple pleasures, bringing a thoughtful and well-rounded approach to leadership.

Outside of work, Tanya loves connecting over a cappuccino with friends, travelling, and learning. Her developing collection of wines and the stories behind them has led to her growing appreciation of the craftsmanship in each bottle.

"Don’t let being in the minority make you question whether you belong. Residential construction, like many male-dominated industries, hasn’t historically looked diverse, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t space for you. Focus on becoming excellent at your craft. Learn the details. Understand the sequencing. Ask questions on site. Competence builds confidence, and confidence earns respect."

See our representatives

Are you a CHBA member who wants to be a part of the growing community supporting women in industry? Start locally! By becoming a part of your local or provincial council, you also be represented at the national WIRCC.

Here’s a list of HBAs who have a local or provincial women in residential construction council (or equivalent) and are involved in CHBA's national WIRCC!

Get Involved

British Columbia

Saskatchewan

Manitoba

Alberta

Ontario

New Brunswick

Newfoundland and Labrador

Building the Future, Together

CHBA’s WIRCC is more than a council – it’s a movement. If you’re a CHBA member who's looking to be part of a growing community supporting the advancement of women in residential construction, reach out to your local HBA to partake in workforce initiatives that will help build a stronger residential construction industry.

Learn more about the many HBA activities going on across the country to support women in residential construction here.