The BC Building Trades Council (BCBT) executive board has announced the appointment of Brynn Bourke to the position of interim executive director. The board is beginning an executive search process to replace Andrew Mercier, who was elected to represent Langley during the B.C. provincial election.

Bourke, who had been in the role of senior director of engagement, brings extensive experience to the position. She served eight years with the council as director of campaigns and research and also held the role of executive director of the BC Federation of Labour.

“Brynn knows construction, she knows training and apprenticeship, she knows the issues facing our sector and she has the abilities, insight and instinct to skillfully guide the unionized construction sector through this transition,” said BCBT president Al Phillips.

Mercier joined the council in 2019, replacing long-time director Tom Sigurdson. The council noted that during his tenure, Mercier led the building trades during an incredibly difficult time for construction workers. His advocacy efforts on behalf of the council to ensure the health and safety of construction workers during the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to increased site inspections, enforcement of occupational health and safety guidelines, and application of provincial COVID-19 health orders.

“We’ve been benefiting from Andrew’s passion, knowledge and skills since he joined the council, and now his election to government allows him to work for all British Columbians,” said Phillips.

Phillips added that Mercier’s political experience and passion have been assets to the Building Trades, and his voice in government is a voice for workers across B.C.

The BCBT council represents 25 local craft construction unions belonging to 13 international unions.