NEW! Running a Small Construction Business

Running a small construction company isn’t just about doing the work, it’s about running a business. And that’s where things can get complicated.

Most owners didn’t start out planning to manage finances, handle HR issues, review contracts, and keep projects on track all at once but that’s exactly what the role becomes.

This program is built specifically for small commercial contractors in Manitoba and focuses on the real-world business side of construction, the stuff you typically learn the hard way.

Through a series of short, focused sessions, you’ll get practical insight into:

• Winning the right work
• Managing risk and contracts
• Keeping projects and people on track
• Getting paid (and managing cash flow)
• Building a reliable team

Each session is led by local industry professionals who’ve been in your shoes, sharing real examples, practical advice, and lessons learned from experience.

The goal isn’t to turn you into an expert in every area, it’s to give you enough knowledge to make better decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and run your business with more confidence.

What You’ll Learn (Session Breakdown)

May 5 – Getting Paid & Financial Management
Led by Rich Marchetti (Transcona Roofing) and Chris Precourt (Econo Wall & Ceiling)

• Financial Statements
• Business Planning
• Costing & Estimating
• Accounting Fundamentals
• Banking
• Compliance Essentials

May 12 – Getting the Job: Tendering & Bidding
Led by Lindsy Clegg (Parkwest Projects)

• Tools for Finding Jobs
• Go/No Go Decision Making
• Bidding Basics & Estimating Accuracy
• Define Your Scope of Work (Trade Definitions)
• Winning Strategies and Relationships
• Common Bidding Pitfalls

May 19 – Managing Risk & Contracts
Led by Brittany Nicolas (AJG Canada) and John Martens (MLT Aikins LLP)

• Construction Contracts
• Understanding & Requesting Information
• Negotiating Contract Terms
• Insurance/Liability
• Bonding Basics
• Risk Management Strategies

May 26 – Managing Projects and the Business
Led by Peter Grose (Westland Construction)

• Managing Multiple Projects
• Planning, Scheduling, & Time Management
• Allocating & Managing Employee Resources
• Collaboration with General Contractors (GCs) and Trades
• Balancing Office & Site Time
• Building Industry Relationships

June 2 – Construction HR: Recruitment to Payroll
Led by Morgan Johnson (Concord Projects)

• Key HR Functions
• Finding & Hiring the People You Need
• Setting Performance Standards and Expectations
• Handling Employee Departures
• Payroll & Compensation Basics
• Compliance Essentials

This program is designed for small construction businesses — especially those figuring things out as they grow.

You’ll get the most value if:

• You have a small team (typically under 10 - 15 employees)
• You started your business based on your trade skills
• You’re feeling stretched managing both the work and the business
• You want more consistency, stability, and control

Typical attendees include:

• Small commercial contractors
• Renovation companies
• General and trade contractors
• Administrative staff supporting operations
• Entrepreneurs and prospective business owners

Sessions run live online on Tuesday mornings from 8:30 – 10:30 AM (CT).

Each session is 1–2 hours, designed to fit into a busy work schedule while still allowing time for discussion and Q&A.

This series is led by experienced industry professionals who understand the realities of running a small construction business. Each presenter brings practical, real-world insight from their own experience — not just theory.

• Rich Marchetti, Transcona Roofing
• Chris Precourt, Econo Wall & Ceiling
• Lindsy Clegg, Parkwest Projects
• Brittany Nicolas, AJG Canada
• John Martens, MLT Aikins LLP
• Peter Grose, Westland Construction
• Morgan Johnson, Concord Projects

Live, online (Zoom). Instructor-led. Access details and materials will be emailed in advance.

Cancellation: Full refund or credit with 2 full business days’ notice. Within 2 business days: non-refundable, non-transferable.

Substitutions: Send someone else at no cost anytime before the course starts. Email: wcaeducation@winnipegconstruction.ca