One of Canada’s foremost military leaders, Retired General Rick Hillier, will headline Algonquin College’s Fall Business Leadership Conference on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at the Pembroke Waterfront Campus. General Hillier, renowned for his global leadership insights, will present “Lessons Learned from the School of Hard Knocks,” sharing stories and perspectives from his 35-year career commanding thousands of troops.
Since retiring from the Canadian military in 2008, General Hillier has authored several books, including the bestseller “Leadership Matters.” He has supported numerous organizations in developing their leadership teams, advised governments, and maintained a busy schedule presenting at conferences. Pembroke Campus Interim Dean Jamie Bramburger expressed enthusiasm about General Hillier’s participation, highlighting the campus’s close relationship with the local military community at Garrison Petawawa. “General Hillier is one of the most respected military leaders in Canadian history, and given our proximity to one of the nation’s largest operational military bases, it is very fitting to have him present on his expertise in leadership,” Bramburger said.
Jodi Bucholtz Acting Manager of Community and Student at Algonquin College tells myFM why these conferences are important to the area.
The conference will also feature author, TV, and podcast personality Amber MacArthur, who will offer insights on leading in the age of artificial intelligence. MacArthur’s session will include a fireside conversation with the audience, focusing on the latest AI trends and the importance of leading with values in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
In addition to the keynote addresses, conference attendees can choose from several workshops covering topics such as mentorship, mindfulness in the workplace, project management, team development, attracting newcomers to the workplace, and developing a volunteer strategy to enhance employee engagement. The conference, primarily an in-person professional development event, will also offer a virtual attendance option. Bucholtz gives a sneak peak to what will be happening on October 24, 2024.
Now in its tenth year, the conference has fulfilled its mission of providing local businesses and organizations with access to high-quality professional development at a reasonable cost. “We envisioned a big city conference being available to our local businesses and organizations where they could tap into timely and meaningful professional development at a reasonable cost. We’ve delivered on that promise by bringing in some of the biggest names in Canada to present on various topics that affect the workplace,” said Bucholtz. She also wants to remind the community that everyone is welcomed.
Early bird registration rates of $250 plus taxes are available until September 30. Registration includes two keynote addresses, a choice of three workshops, and lunch. The Upper Ottawa Valley Chamber of Commerce will also host an after-conference social. Additionally, nominations are open for the Business Innovation Award, which recognizes a business or organization in Renfrew County for unique approaches leading to better customer service, improved productivity, or innovative new products.
The conference is sponsored by the Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation, Local Immigration Partnership-Lanark & Renfrew, The City of Pembroke, Labour Market Group of Lanark & Renfrew, and Algonquin College Community Employment Services. For more information, visit the conference website at Algonquin College Business Conference.
(Written by: Emma Butler)