Our people

We invest in our employees, fostering the spirit of collaboration to grow and expand while maintaining our commitment to a corporate culture that embodies open communication, passion, and personal growth.

With a diverse and talented multi-generational team, we continue to strive toward total client satisfaction and excellence in all projects.

Our product may be buildings, but our strength is in our people.

Bill Zister, B.ASc., MBA

Chief Executive Officer

Bill Zister, B.ASc., MBA

Chief Executive Officer

Bill joined Collaborative Structures in April 2018 with over 17 years of construction experience. Bill is a proven leader with a track record for exemplifying professionalism, encouraging collaboration and fostering communication.

Accreditations & Affiliations:

  • University of New Brunswick – Masters of Business Administration
  • University of Waterloo – Bachelor of Applied Science – Civil Engineering

Josh Blackler, G.S.C.

Partner, Vice President

Josh Blackler, G.S.C.

Partner, Vice President

After graduating from Conestoga College’s, Architecture – Construction Engineering Technology (ACET) program, Joshua joined the CSL team in May 2006 as a Junior Estimator. As CSL was still in its infancy, Joshua drew on the experience of David Timlock and senior Project Managers to develop his skills.

With an aptitude for logically solving problems and a strong technical understanding of construction, estimating was a natural fit for Joshua. As CSL began to grow organically, so did Joshua’s ability, stepping into his new position of Chief Estimator after only seven short years with the firm. In this new position, Joshua now managed a team of estimators, reviewing all estimates and bids prepared by the company. In 2012, David Timlock invited Joshua to become a shareholder, and upon accepting, became the firm’s second partner. In 2014, Joshua stepped into his current position as Vice President.

In addition to his role on the Management Team, Joshua is responsible for the majority of the firm’s purchasing and contract negotiations, both with owners and subcontractors.

Accreditations & Affiliations

  • Conestoga College – Advanced Diploma: Architecture – Construction Engineering Technology
  • OACETT – Certified Engineering Technologist
  • Canadian Construction Association – Gold Seal Certified, Estimator
  • Canadian Construction Association – Construction Estimator Level 1 & 2, 2006
  • Canadian Construction Association – Project Estimator Level 1 & 2, 2006
  • Member – Conestoga College Bachelor of Applied Technology (Honours) – Architecture – Project and Facility Management –
  • Program Advisory Committee

Justin Bender, G.S.C.

Partner, Director of Field Operations

Justin Bender, G.S.C.

Partner, Director of Field Operations

Justin Bender joined our team full time after graduating from the Architecture – Construction Engineering Technology Co-op program at Conestoga College in 2008.

Justin has grown his talents from within the company, working his way from a Superintendent Apprentice to now managing all of CSL’s field staff and Supervisors. He is also a licensed carpenter, and Gold Seal Certified through the Canadian Construction Association.

Justin possesses extensive knowledge of field operations and the mechanics of an operating construction site. He offers cost-effective methods of executing and planning work on site, resulting in efficiencies and cost savings to the client. His experience includes several industrial and commercial expansions, high and mid-rise residential developments, OPP and fire department facilities, heritage restorations, and museums.

Accreditations & Affiliations

  • Conestoga College – Diploma: Architecture – Construction Engineering Technology Co-op
  • Canadian Construction Association – Gold Seal Certified
  • OACETT – Certified Engineering Technologist