Modern Methods of Construction Education

The təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre in New Westminster, BC is a landmark example of what mass timber can achieve in large-scale public infrastructure.

Completed in 2024, this facility is Canada's first all-electric aquatic centre to achieve the Zero Carbon Building Design Standard, with a 92% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional facilities. At the heart of the design is a hybrid mass timber and steel sawtooth roof spanning a 50-metre lap pool, with exposed glulam and CLT panels delivering both structural performance and a warm, community-centred aesthetic.

The project achieved LEED v4 Gold, Zero Carbon Building Design certification, and Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Gold, recognizing its commitment to sustainability, performance, and inclusive design.

It demonstrates how mass timber can be applied beyond commercial or residential uses, bringing sustainability, accessibility, and beauty to community facilities built for everyone.

--
Project credits
Architect: .ca
Structural Engineer:
General Contractor:
Mass Timber Fabricator:
Owner:

Images courtesy of .ca

Not sure where to start with mass timber? This program is for you.

BCIT's Introductory Studies in Mass Timber Construction Microcredential is a two-course online program built for construction professionals ready to build their mass timber knowledge from the ground up.

Learn about mass timber products, installation, building performance, fire, sound, and digital project delivery — all online, at your own pace.

Applications are open year-round and you can start the program anytime.

🔗 Learn more about the program > https://www.bcit.ca/programs/introductory-studies-in-mass-timber-construction-microcredential-part-time-0800cm/

837 Beatty St is a standout example of what mass timber can do for heritage buildings 🏢

The project involved restoring a 1911 heavy timber warehouse and adding four new storeys using a hybrid mass timber system, including glulam and nail-laminated timber (NLT). Mass timber's lightweight properties made vertical expansion on an existing heritage structure possible while minimizing structural load and embodied carbon.

As one of BC's government-backed mass timber demonstration initiatives, 837 Beatty highlights the growing role of mass timber in urban densification, heritage preservation, and low-carbon construction.

Find more case studies here: https://www.mmceducation.ca/educators-hub

Project credits
Owner:
Architect:
Structural Engineer:
General Contractor: .construction
Mass Timber Fabricator: |

Images courtesy of .construction | |

981 Davie St. This 17-storey hybrid mass timber residential tower in Vancouver's West End is one of the most compelling examples of what MMC can deliver at scale: 154 affordable homes targeting Passive House Classic Certification, with a 72% reduction in energy use intensity versus baseline.

The structural system combines CLT floor panels with steel HSS columns and a concrete core, with precision-engineered panels enabling efficient, low-waste assembly. The project also includes a ground-floor QMUNITY space serving Vancouver's 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

🔗 Explore more mass timber case studies at: mmceducation.ca/educators-hub

Project Credits
Architect:
Structural Engineer:
Mass Timber Supplier:
Contractor:

Images courtesy of

🔎 Finding the Mass Timber Hub… 👀

At a conference.
In a faculty workshop.
At a college.
In a hands-on practicum.

This mobile, modular training structure travels where learning happens, making mass timber training more accessible and giving learners a hands-on way to explore constructability and connection points.

From campus to the jobsite, it brings mass timber learning to life. Where we will find the Hub next?!

🔗 Learn more about mass timber training and education: https://www.mmceducation.ca/

So proud to share this! BCIT's Tall Timber Student Housing Project has received the 2026 City of Burnaby Environmental Award in Planning and Development.

The project brings together mass timber, prefabrication, and zero carbon technologies — meeting BC Energy Step Code 4 and earning Rick Hansen Gold certification for accessibility, all while creating a welcoming home for 469 BCIT students.

A great reminder of what's possible when sustainable design and innovative construction methods come together. Congratulations to the whole BCIT team! 🏆

Read More > https://www.bcit.ca/news/stories/bcit-picks-up-two-environmental-awards-from-the-city-of-burnaby/

Looking for mass timber training resources? 👀 The answer is simple: MMC Edu

Explore free training frameworks, case studies, drawing sets, video lessons, publications, and 50+ curated resources to support mass timber education and workforce development.

Find everything you need at MMC Edu: https://www.mmceducation.ca/