The Canadian Galvanizing Institute (CGI-IGC) marks a historic milestone as the first national, bilingual, non-profit organization established to fill a critical gap in Canada’s infrastructure and construction ecosystem. CGI-IGC is dedicated to advancing durable, low-carbon solutions through the use of galvanized steel, helping achieve Canada’s sustainability and climate goals.
Hellen Christodoulou assumes this role following her tenure as Executive Vice-President of Engineering and Sustainability at Corbec Inc., one of Canada’s leading hot-dip galvanizers. “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 Hellen Christodoulou.
“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.”
Hellen Christodoulou’s career is truly exceptional. With over 40 years of experience in bridge and infrastructure design across Canada and the United States, she has left an enduring mark on numerous landmark projects. She is recognized as a pioneer. She was the first female engineer at a leadership role – 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. She is recognized as a leading forensic expert in bridge and infrastructure analysis, as well as an arbitrator for major bridge projects.
A bold influencer and passionate advocate, she has been a driving force in advancing local procurement and fabrication policies, prompt-payment legislation, and quality-assurance specifications for bridges. She has collaborated with leading engineering firms, construction companies, and public agencies at every level of government.
Hellen Christodoulou holds a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering specializing in bridges, degrees in Civil and Common Law, and a Master of Business Administration. She is the author of numerous publications, a speaker at national and international conferences, and has taught both engineering and law. Actively engaged on several national technical and standards committees, she serves on industrial advisory boards that help shape the future of Canada’s steel and construction sectors.
Recipient of numerous awards and distinctions, she notably received the Senate of Canada Sesquicentennial Medal in recognition of her valuable professional service to the nation, presented by Senator Rosa Galvez. In May 2024, she was named among Montreal’s Top 50 Women Leaders.
