The Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce is hosting its inaugural 2024 Employer Symposium: ‘Innovations in the Workforce’, a premier event designed to explore the transformative trends reshaping the employment landscape.

This breakfast symposium, which will take place at Crown Isle Resort on Tuesday, Oct. 29, from 7:30 a.m.-noon, is for industry leaders, HR professionals, and local employers who want to stay ahead in an ever-evolving workforce environment. At the core of the event are discussions on key themes such as AI integration, remote work solutions, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and effective talent acquisition and retention strategies.

With these powerful topics at the forefront, attendees will leave equipped with actionable insights to enhance their organizational success in a future-driven economy. The chamber is featuring Kiersten Packham and Kathryn Jones from Doane Grant Thornton as keynote speakers, who will present on the topic ‘Reimagining Your Employee Retention Strategy.’

In addition, a panel of experts will engage attendees in dynamic conversations around cutting-edge workforce solutions. Liz Wooton (Human Nature Development) – Facilitating live poll discussions and analyzing workforce trends, Chris Callanan (North Island Employment Foundation Society) – Covering employee acquisition and retention, funding programs for employer training and wage subsidies, and promoting diversity and inclusion, and Jennifer Hufnagel (Hufnagel Consulting) – Sharing insights on using AI to streamline business processes and improve operational efficiencies.

Agenda Highlights • 7:30 A.M. – Registration, Networking, Tradeshow • 8:00 A.M. – Breakfast Buffet • 8:45 A.M. – Opening Remarks and Sponsor Acknowledgments • 9:05 A.M. – Keynote Presentation: Reimagining Your Employee Retention Strategy • 10:10 A.M. – Leadership Presentation & Live Survey • 10:30 A.M. – Panel Discussion and Q&A Session

As part of our commitment to the local business community, the Chamber is offering our members the opportunity to engage with symposium attendees at the event’s tradeshow, set up in the lobby of Crown Isle Resort.

This tradeshow will run concurrently with the event, allowing exhibitors to showcase their innovative solutions and network with potential clients and collaborators. Partial proceeds from the 2024 Employer Symposium will benefit Comox Valley Ground Search & Rescue, a local organization dedicated to keeping our community safe.

They gratefully acknowledge support from Comox Valley Airport, Doane Grant Thornton, Crown Isle Resort and Golf Community, Creative Employment Access Society, and Gerritson Brooks Appraisals.

Tickets for the symposium are available now. For more information and to register, visit .