John Metras

Associate VP Facilities

John has over 20 years of experience in facilities development and operations including his previous roles as Managing Director, Infrastructure Development and Director of UBC Plant Operations (now Building Operations).

John has played an integral role in helping UBC evolve into a global leader in sustainability. He has worked on a wide range of initiatives including the Campus as a Living Lab program, the 20-Year Sustainability Strategy, LEED Platinum and LEED Gold certified building projects, and the development of the Brock Commons Tallwood House student residence.

John has a Bachelor of Engineering Science from the University of Western Ontario, a Master of Business Administration from the University of British Columbia, and is a registered Professional Engineer.

Contact information

Campus & Community Planning Building 1
2210 West Mall
Vancouver BC V6T 1Z4

Email: John.Metras@ubc.ca

Leadership vision

“I am an inclusive, action-oriented leader. I engage and empower my team and collaborate with stakeholders to build and maintain a safe, clean, sustainable and inspiring physical environment that has a long-term transformative impact on learning, research and campus life at UBC.”

John Metras
Associate Vice-President, Facilities

Updates related to UBC Facilities

  • The Hennings Building Roof Renewal is underway 

    Estimated construction dates: August 25 – October 31, 2025. This project will renew the aging Hennings Building roof systems, remove redundant mechanical systems, and complete localized, minimally invasive seismic improvements.

    Read more: The Hennings Building Roof Renewal is underway 
  • Anthropology and Sociology (ANSO) Renewal set to begin in January 2026

    Currently, the envelope and infrastructure of the Anthropology and Sociology building are at the end of their service life. The building will be fully renewed with new systems, an upgraded envelope, and a revised interior layout to support modern research…

    Read more: Anthropology and Sociology (ANSO) Renewal set to begin in January 2026
  • UBC Smart Hydrogen Energy District (SHED) wins Green Building Award

    UBC Smart Hydrogen Energy District (SHED) was awarded the Sustainable Architecture and Building (SAB) Magazine Green Building Commercial/Industrial (Small) Award. The SHED serves a hydrogen fueling spot as well as an educational hub and urban design showcase.

    Read more: UBC Smart Hydrogen Energy District (SHED) wins Green Building Award