Whelan Construction – Platinum Sponsor
What is your name, business name and industry?
Name: Brian Whelan
Company: Whelan Construction
Industry: Construction
What are your website and social media links?
Website: www.whelanconstruction.ca
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/whelanconstruction // @Whelan Construction
Instagram: @whelanconstruction
What’s your connection to Ireland?
Whelan Construction’s founder, Brian Whelan, was born and raised in Ireland, growing up in Blakestown, Dublin 15. His passion for construction began in Ireland, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management from the Dublin Institute of Technology and gained valuable experience working with some renowned engineering and construction firms. In 2013, Brian and his wife relocated to Vancouver, but his extended family remains in Ireland. He travels back at least once a year to catch up, enjoy a few pints of the black stuff with friends and family, and recharge his Irish battery. He also enjoys welcoming family and friends to Vancouver, where they can spend quality time together exploring the stunning landscapes of this beautiful part of the world.
How long have you been operational in Vancouver?
Brian has worked in the construction industry in Vancouver since 2013
Whelan Construction was established in 2020
What does your company do? (Top products or services)
Whelan Construction is a fully incorporated construction firm providing comprehensive general contracting and end-to-end construction management services across all project phases. We specialize in managing commercial projects ranging from $1 million to $50 million in value. Our expertise spans a diverse range of sectors, including airport infrastructure, healthcare facilities, seismic and building performance upgrades, retail spaces, and other commercial projects. Headquartered in Vancouver, B.C., Whelan Construction proudly blends local knowledge with international experience. The company was founded by Brian Whelan, who brought his Irish roots and industry expertise to Canada in 2013. Since then, Brian has successfully overseen the delivery of over $400 million in construction projects, consistently assembling teams of top industry professionals to execute each project to the highest standard.
Why are you excited to support CelticFest 2025?
Whelan Construction is proud to support CelticFest 2025 as it celebrates the vibrant Irish community in Vancouver and the culture that shaped our roots. It’s a privilege to give back to the community that has supported us as a growing business.
What do you love most about being a part of the Irish community in Vancouver?
The Irish community in Vancouver is like a family away from home. Even though we’re over 7,000 kilometers from Ireland, the sense of connection remains as strong as ever, thanks to the tight-knit Irish community here. What we love most is how this community comes together to support one another—in business, sport, and life in general—and keeps Irish culture alive in such a diverse city.
What’s been your favorite part of past CelticFest events?
Our favorite part of CelticFest is the energy it brings to Vancouver. From the live music and dancing to the sense of community, CelticFest truly captures the spirit of Ireland. At CelticFest on St. Patrick’s Day, everyone is a little bit Irish—it’s always a joy to see people of all backgrounds come together to celebrate our culture and heritage.
Tell us one thing we’d be surprised to learn about you or your business.
Whelan Construction is proud to have completed the largest capital project at YVR International Airport in 2024: upgrading the passenger screening area in the domestic terminal with cutting-edge CATSA Plus technology. This milestone project made YVR the first airport in Canada to implement this advanced technology, that will greatly improve both security and the passenger experience at the airport.
4 Lakes Mechanical – Gold Sponsor
What is your name, business name and industry?
Four Lakes Mechanical Ltd., Commercial Construction Industry
What are your website and social media links?
Website: www.fourlakes.ca
Linkedin: linkedin
What’s your connection to Ireland?
A large part of our office & field teams are Irish! Including ownership.
How long have you been operational in Vancouver?
Since 2021
What does your company do? (Top products or services)
We are commercial mechanical contractors, we work on new-builds and retrofits for schools, multifamily housing, healthcare, government entities etc.
Why are you excited to support CelticFest 2025?
The quality of the CelticFest experience has improved every year! We’re excited to help celebrate our culture and support the large Irish Community in Vancouver, especially the many young families!
What do you love most about being a part of the Irish community in Vancouver?
The Craic!
What’s been your favorite part of past CelticFest events?
Seeing old faces and meeting new arrivals.
Tell us one thing we’d be surprised to learn about you or your business.
Our Company name is based on ‘Ceatharlach’ It’s believed by some that the town of Carlow sits on what were 4 ancient lakes created by the river Barrow.
