EllisDon celebrates the recent achievement of Bronze Certification through the Partnership Accreditation in Indigenous Relations (PAIR) program, administered by the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB).

This certification is awarded to organizations that demonstrate a sustained and measurable commitment to Indigenous inclusion across four foundational pillars: Leadership, Employment, Business Development, and Community Relationships. It’s not a checklist—it’s a challenge. One that asks us to look inward, listen, and act with intention.

“PAIR certification isn’t just a milestone—it’s a mirror,” saidJennifer Khan, Vice President, Inclusive Diversity. “It reflects the work we’ve done, the values we live by, and the accountability we’ve committed to. This is EllisDon showing up, year after year, ready to be held to the highest standard by the communities we serve.”

A Journey of Intention and Impact

This achievement marks a defining moment in EllisDon’s ongoing journey toward reconciliation and inclusive diversity. Over the past three years, our teams have laid a foundation for enduring change—embedding Indigenous inclusion into the core of how we build, hire, partner, and lead.

Our efforts have included:

• Mandatory Indigenous cultural awareness training for all employees
• Indigenous Participation Plans integrated into major projects
• A growing network of partnerships with Indigenous-owned businesses
• The establishment of an Indigenous Employee Circle to amplify Indigenous voices within EllisDon

“What I’m most proud of is EllisDon’s relentless commitment, both in achieving Bronze, and building something tangible,” saidTom Howell, Senior Vice President, Socio-Economic Development and Indigenous Relations. “From Indigenous Participation Plans to our Indigenous Employee Circle, this work is embedded in how we build, hire, partner, and lead. These are not symbolic gestures. They are tangible actions that reflect our values and our belief that reconciliation must be lived, not just spoken.”

Accountability That Moves Us Forward

This certification isn’t a finish line. It’s a signal that we’re ready to be held accountable—not just by our peers, but by Indigenous leaders and communities. Between now and our next evaluation in 2028, EllisDon will report annually, track milestones, and continue to evolve our practices.It’s about building trust, showing up consistently, and proving we continue to do the work—year after year.

PAIR certification affirms our commitment. But it also challenges us to keep going. To keep learning. To keep showing up.