Start your day with coffee and networking before the event.

An overview of what to expect over the course of the two days, including key themes, workshops, panels, and other opportunities.

The Conference Chair will set the stage for discussions ahead, outlining key themes and outline foundations for the discussions ahead.

This session examines the real conditions shaping Canada’s workforce systems, including how policies, regional initiatives, employer priorities, and training networks are shifting in response to current labour pressures. It explains why this moment matters for organizations trying to plan talent pipelines, build partnerships, and prepare for the next decade of workforce demands. The discussion focuses on where policy direction and on-the-ground realities are aligned, where disconnects are slowing progress, and how these gaps affect workforce readiness across sectors

This session provides a bird’s-eye view of Canada’s economic transition toward a post-fossil-fuel future. It will highlight the workforce and employment opportunities emerging from the shift, showing the numbers and the scale of demand for new skills. The session will outline a clear path forward, including what actions, strategies, and partnerships are needed to build a skilled, inclusive, and future-ready workforce.

This panel brings together city council leaders from the Vancouver region and across British Columbia to examine how municipalities are shaping the next phase of workforce development. The discussion will look at local priorities, regional coordination, and the practical steps cities are taking to support training, hiring, and economic resilience. The session will explore regulatory alignment, infrastructure needs, partnerships with employers and community organizations, and the role of municipal leadership in building an inclusive and diverse workforce.

This session will examine how to close Canada’s green skills gap by aligning workforce capabilities with rapid technological change and clean-economy demands, while addressing barriers like housing, childcare, and transportation. Speakers will focus on practical upskilling and apprenticeship pathways that prepare new and mid-career workers for high-demand roles in clean construction, retrofits, and industry. A series of short, punchy “power presentations” will surface big ideas and clearly map where skills and social infrastructure are falling behind project pipelines, spotlighting solutions that can scale now.

This session explores how major infrastructure projects Columbia reveal critical workforce needs and highlight gaps in skills, planning, and coordination. It examines strategies for aligning available talent, budgets, and regulatory requirements to deliver projects effectively. Panelists will share lessons from large-scale initiatives on how to plan ahead, optimize resources, and implement practical solutions that ensure both project success and a workforce ready for future demands.

Our lunch tables bring together experts from across sectors, join the discussion and exchange insights.

Join our interactive roundtables to engage on a topic of your choice and collaborate with peers to develop actionable industry recommendations. Each discussion is designed to explore real challenges, share insights, and produce strategies that can guide workforce and sustainability initiatives throughout the year.

Topics include:

From Policy to Practice: How Municipal & Provincial Policy Drives Workforce Equity

Indigenous Workforce & Land-Based Solutions: Partnership Models That Work

Leveraging Digital Tools for Workforce Resilience

This interactive session connects employers, training providers, and community representatives through 2 minute “speed” networking meetings. It provides a practical opportunity to explore partnership opportunities, identify shared workforce needs, and lay the groundwork for long-term collaboration.

This session examines the challenges of coordinating multiple trades—such as HVAC, drywall, and others—while integrating design and engineering teams. It will explore practical approaches to improve communication, collaboration, and workflow between trades and design professions.

This session examines how technological change — including automation, digital tools, and evolving energy-sector demands — is reshaping workforce needs. It highlights why proactive workforce planning is critical to prevent skill gaps and ensure smooth technology adoption.

Closing reflections from the Chair, highlighting key insights from the day and setting the stage for tomorrow’s discussions

Join us for cocktails and networking after the event

Start your day with coffee and networking before the event.

This session explores how technology and AI are helping essential industries manage persistent labour shortages by reducing repetitive tasks and supporting frontline staff. It highlights practical examples of AI improving efficiency, safety, and productivity while creating space for workers to move into higher skill roles. The discussion examines what organizations must do to implement these tools responsibly, including clear communication, upskilling, and people-first design. The session will outline strategies that leaders can use to build more resilient operations and stronger talent pipelines through effective AI adoption.

This session examines how digital transformation and automation are reshaping workforce needs in the energy sector and creating opportunities to address upcoming skill shortages. It highlights the challenges posed by demographic trends and declining interest among young people in energy careers, emphasizing the need for strategic workforce planning. The session explores approaches for rethinking the skills and roles energy companies must prioritize, and offers insights into aligning training, technology adoption, and talent development with future industry demands. It will provide a high-level framework for navigating workforce transitions and preparing organizations for a resilient, future-ready energy workforce.

This session examines whether Canada’s current programs and initiatives are effectively encouraging employers to invest in training and upskilling for retrofit and low-carbon construction work. Panelists will explore new approaches to funding trades training and apprenticeships, and discuss how to better reward businesses for developing the skills needed for Canada’s evolving workforce. The discussion will highlight which programs are helping, where gaps remain, and what strategies could ensure workforce development keeps pace with long-term infrastructure and sustainability goals.

This session explores how advances in neuroscience are shaping workforce design, learning, and performance. Understanding how the brain responds to change, stress, skills development, and decision making is becoming essential for building resilient and adaptable teams. The discussion will examine practical approaches for integrating neuroscience insights into training models, leadership development, and workplace systems.

The transition to a low-carbon economy requires workers with new skills in energy efficiency, decarbonization, and energy management, yet many face gaps in training and access to credentialing programs. This session will explore strategies for upskilling the workforce through certification programs, apprenticeships, and practical training initiatives, highlighting tools and approaches that help workers acquire in-demand skills. 

Network with peers, visit our exhibition booths, and contribute to brainstorming activities over the lunch hour

Join our interactive roundtables to engage on a topic of your choice and collaborate with peers to develop actionable industry recommendations. Each discussion is designed to explore real challenges, share insights, and produce strategies that can guide workforce and sustainability initiatives throughout the year.

Topics include:

Equitable Apprenticeships: From Outreach to Retention

Recruitment Without Barriers: Designing Inclusive Job Pathways

Designing Flexible Work for Blue-Collar Roles

Women in Trades & Clean Energy: Breaking Systemic Barriers

This session explores how Canada can engage and prepare young people for careers in the clean economy. It will highlight strategies for building awareness, creating accessible training programs, and fostering mentorship opportunities that connect youth with emerging roles in sustainability and energy transition. Speakers will share practical approaches to overcome barriers such as cost, geographic access, and lack of industry exposure, ensuring the next generation is equipped to lead in a low-carbon future

This workshop focuses on building a more inclusive workforce by aligning recruitment, training, and advancement practices with the needs of diverse communities. Participants will examine emerging strategies, policy considerations, and partnership models that strengthen representation across sectors. The session will identify practical steps organizations can take to integrate equity into workforce planning and long-term talent development.

Our chair will close the event with final reflections and clear actions to carry forward after the summit.

Join us for an informal walking tour to enjoy the sunset and unwind after two action-packed days (details to follow)