The University of New Brunswick's (UNB) Off-site Construction Research Centre (OCRC) is entering a new chapter of growth.
With an investment of $2.5 million from OSCO Construction Group a long-standing partner committed to advancing innovative and sustainable construction in the region the Centre will continue to grow and enhance their research capacity in off-site construction technologies and practices.
With economic uncertainty and trade instability continuing to challenge Canada's economy, the construction industry finds itself facing both obstacles and opportunities this new investment is well-positioned to address.
"Off-site construction is no longer just a promise it's a necessity, particularly in Canada, where housing demand, climate resilience and workforce challenges are pressing," said Brandon Searle, director of innovation and operations at OCRC. "Thanks to the support and innovative thinking of OSCO Construction Group, OCRC is well-positioned to accelerate research and development, delivering more efficient, resilient and sustainable building solutions."
The construction industry represents nearly eight per cent of Canada's total workforce, ranking as the sixth largest labour sector nationwide. Canada's ability to meet its housing, infrastructure and economic targets depends on a construction sector that can deliver projects more efficiently and effectively.
"We are pleased to have been the founding partner of the Off-site Construction. Research Centre at UNB, and proud to support the advancement of knowledge and skills in the fields of engineering and construction," said John Irving, chair of the OSCO Construction Group. "We have been building things for a very long time. Efficiency, and innovative, cost-effective solutions are at the forefront as this centre pioneers new research. Since 2018, the OCRC family, the centre's participating funders, UNB, and its students have supported over 60 companies, and we look forward to continuing to build on our initial success. There is a long history of expertise and skill by New Brunswickers at solving some of the most pressing challenges we face. UNB has been at the centre of many of these accomplishments."
Moving into this new phase, OCRC is well-positioned to focus on scaling construction innovation to meet Canada's growing need for a more productive and innovative construction sector.
"OSCO's additional investment of $2.5 million will support the continued growth of the Off-site Construction Research Centre," said Hans Klohn, president of OSCO Construction Group. "This funding will help to further establish the Centre as a Canadian leader in off-site construction knowledge creation. It will also aid existing construction companies and building component manufacturers to adopt more modern methods of construction. Together with UNB, our aim is to accelerate the adoption of off-site construction technologies and practices, driving meaningful change and innovation for the built environment."
The focus will be on advancing methods that improve speed and efficiency, helping to build sustainable structures such as housing, healthcare centers and educational facilities.
"The investment from OSCO Construction Group strengthens the University of New Brunswick's research leadership and our region's capacity to meet pressing infrastructure needs," said Dr. Paul J. Mazerolle, president and vice chancellor of UNB. "Through the Off-site Construction Research Centre, we are advancing technologies and practices that will help build more efficient, innovative and sustainable communities across Atlantic Canada and beyond. We are deeply grateful to OSCO for their continued partnership and vision."
About OSCO
The OSCO Construction Group was founded by K.C. Irving and Hans W. Klohn in Saint John, New Brunswick in 1955 and has grown into a collection of companies operating in precast concrete, ready mix concrete & aggregates, structural steel, reinforcing steel and construction management.
The OSCO Construction Group is one of Canada's most trusted contractors, fabricators, and erectors. Accomplishing exciting and intricate projects for industrial, institutional, commercial clients throughout Canada, and the Eastern United States.
About OCRC
The Off-site Construction Research Centre (OCRC) builds on UNB's strengths in civil engineering and advanced construction technologies. Established in 2018, the Centre uses a technology-driven approach to optimize off-site manufacturing and on-site assembly, with the goal of modernizing the construction industry and training the next generation of builders.
About UNB
The University of New Brunswick (UNB) is Canada's oldest English-language university and New Brunswick's only national comprehensive university. Founded in 1785, the multi-campus institution has a rich history as well as a dynamic focus on research, innovation, experiential learning and entrepreneurship. UNB welcomes more than 10,000 students from 100 countries to its campuses. With over 100 programs in 14 faculties, UNB helps students acquire the abilities needed to make an impact in their communities.
