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MONTREAL – A new institute has been launched that aims to fill a critical gap in Canada’s construction ecosystem.

The Canadian Galvanizing Institute (CGI-IGC) is a national, bilingual, non-profit organization that is dedicated to “advancing durable, low-carbon solutions through the use of galvanized steel, helping achieve Canada’s sustainability and climate goals,” explains a release.

Hellen Christodoulou assumes the role of its first president and CEO following her tenure as executive vice-president of engineering and sustainability at Corbec Inc.

“The goal of the Institute is to strengthen and support Canada’s construction industry, fabricators, architects, engineers, builders, asset owners, and procurement authorities, through the development and promotion of modern standards, specifications, and guidelines, as well as through research, training, and outreach,” said Christodoulou in a statement.

“We envision a Canada where galvanized steel, backed by Canadian standards, becomes the national benchmark for sustainable, resilient, and long-lasting infrastructure — a future that drives a low-carbon economy, strengthens local fabrication, and showcases Canadian excellence on the world stage.”

Christodoulou has more than 40 years of experience in bridge and infrastructure design across Canada and the United States.

She was the first female engineer at a leadership role at the CP Rail Chief Engineers office, the first engineer to introduce orthotropic deck design for CP Rail railway bridges and the first to initiate Environmental Product Declaration for galvanized steel in Canada and galvanized rebar in North America for Corbec Inc., the release notes.

She is recognized as a leading forensic expert in bridge and infrastructure analysis as well as an arbitrator for major bridge projects.

She holds a PhD in civil engineering specializing in bridges, degrees in civil and common law, and a master of business administration.