Driving Momentum: Highlights from the 2nd Annual General Meeting of the Millwright Regional Council
Edmonton, AB – The Millwright Regional Council proudly hosted its second Annual General Meeting from November 21–23, bringing together leaders, delegates, and staff from UBC Millwright Locals across Canada. This year’s AGM reflected the professionalism, unity, and forward momentum that continue to define the Council as we grow into a truly national organization. Over the course of the meeting delegates engaged in focused discussions on organizing, training, political affairs, recruitment & retention, and market expansion – demonstrating our collective commitment to elevating the standards and opportunities for UBC millwrights in every province.
One of the central components of the AGM was the presentation of reports from our delegate committees. These reports highlighted the progress made over the past year and outlined a clear and disciplined plan for 2026 covering everything from member retention strategies, to increasing contractor engagement, to strengthening organizing efforts in key regions. Their work provided a roadmap that aligns with the Council’s broader mission: national alignment and ensuring that every Local is equipped with the tools, direction, and support needed to secure more work opportunities for our members and deliver the high-quality professional services our industry partners expect.
A highlight of this year’s AGM was the presentation of the MRC’s industry awards to the legends of the millwright trade in Canada. Ed Spence, Brian Zdrillic, and Ray Drisdelle received well deserved recognition for their dedication and outstanding contribution to the millwright trade – presented by the MRC and applauded by our delegates, it was truly a memorable moment for the Council.
A recurring theme throughout the AGM was the strength that comes from national unity. As part of the broader UBC Millwright network across North America, the Council continues to build influence through shared standards, coordinated strategies, and a commitment to excellence rooted in our Brotherhood’s values. Reflecting this momentum, Mark Beardsworth, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Millwright Regional Council, stated, “Our strength comes from working together across provinces, aligned strategies, and moving together in the same direction. That unity is what has been winning work, protecting standards, and ensuring our members are respected for the professionals they are. When we align our priorities, we create more opportunities, stronger partnerships, and a future where every millwright can build a solid career with the best pay and the best benefits.”
EST Beardsworth’s message anchored the spirit of the AGM: that our collective progress is built on collaboration, consistency, and a willingness to move forward as one Council. The 2025 AGM reinforced that the success of the Millwright Regional Council lies in the strength of its members and its leadership. With a clear plan for 2026 and a focus on uniting our efforts nationwide, the MRC is well-positioned to continue expanding opportunities, strengthening partnerships, and creating more work hours for our UBC Millwright members while advancing their profile across Canada’s industrial sectors.
About the Millwright Regional Council
The Millwright Regional Council (MRC) is composed of twelve affiliated Local Unions of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBC) across Canada. The UBC Millwrights are vital partners in diverse industries such as energy, automotive, aerospace, food processing, and pharmaceuticals. ubcmillwrights.ca
For media inquiries, please contact:
Andrew Bredin
Director of Communications
Millwright Regional Council
416-757-5161
abredin@ubcmillwrights.ca
