After more than 30 years at the helm of the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA), Philip Hochstein has stepped aside as president.

Under his leadership, Hochstein has led the organization through some extraordinary times. He has taken the organization from a small basement shop in Surrey fighting for fair and equal treatment of workers to a robust, thriving organization that offers a wealth of member services and is a leader in the business community. His fearless approach to standing up for the members through the never ending political and economic challenges have positioned ICBA as the leading construction association in B.C. Today, ICBA is a well-respected and sought after organization in both the business and construction communities.

“On behalf of the ICBA board, we extend our deep appreciation and gratitude to Philip for his years of outstanding leadership and service. He will continue to contribute to ICBA as special counsel to the new president,” said ICBA chair Rick Boates, noting the board and the ICBA leadership team had been working on succession planning for the organization over the past year.

Gord Stewart, ICBA’s senior VP, will now guide the organization forward as president. Over the past 17 years, he has held virtually every important position at the ICBA and has been instrumental in helping shape ICBA’s success. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience.

In addition, Dr. Lindsay Langill, former dean of the School of Trades and Technology at Thompson Rivers University, has joined ICBA as vice president. He holds a journeyperson designation in four trades, a PhD in Education and has experience as a construction contractor. Lindsay is well published and his research continues to focus on apprenticeship, youth apprenticeship and alternate trades training delivery.