Enjoy hot breakfast before the forum starts!

Economic Forecast & Immigration
Mike Holden will speak about the economic forecast in Southeast Alberta and share findings from a report the Business Council of Alberta completed earlier this year about what successful immigration looks like.

Energy Transition Update
Grayson Mauch will discuss the energy innovation challenge and how the City of Medicine Hat is using it as a case study for energy transition. He will also touch on other energy initiatives meeting the environmental framework.

Regional Economic Development Strategy
A panel will share about the new regional strategy the municipalities in Southeast Alberta have been working towards. They will cover the development process, foundational pillars, and focus sectors moving forward.

Alberta Innovates Spotlight
John Stroh will share about Alberta Innovates and the work they are doing to support innovation and technology development in Alberta.

Enjoy a fresh lunch break!

Southeast Alberta Aerospace Panel
A panel will dive into the exciting world of Aerospace in Southeast Alberta. Learn more about the work being done, why Southeast Alberta is attracting these companies, and where there are opportunities for further growth.

Regional Alignment:
Lessons from Advancing Opportunities in Tourism
Darren Reeder will share about the work he has done in the tourism industry and key learnings he has from over 30 years of experience including the importance of research and data to support initiatives, funding increases, and other activities.

Introduction to Water Licensing
Dorothy Lok will provide an introduction to water licensing. She will explain the history behind why this is important, the process to acquire licensing, and what is important to consider from an economic development perspective.

Tourism’s Role in Economic Development
Terry Goertzen will speak about the role tourism plays in economic development. More than just another industry, find out all the ways tourism benefits the region.

Make connections and connect with local economic development leaders!

Enjoy breakfast before the forum starts!

Medicine Hat College Update
Kevin Shufflebotham will provide a holistic update on Medicine Hat College including the impact from Lethbridge College changing to a Polytechnic and new grant funding for Ag research.

Provincial Update
MLA Wright will share updates on infrastructure and connectivity, education and workforce development, innovation and future industries, and much more.

Workforce Development in High Schools Panel
A panel with representatives from all four school divisions in the region will discuss the initiatives they are doing to develop the workforce of tomorrow.

Housing Innovation Alliance Update
The Housing Innovation Alliance will provide an update on learnings and best practices about housing development in Southeast Alberta.

Things That Go Bump in the Night
The list of things that keep us up at night is growing, and this session is designed to help us tackle the causes of our newest nightmares. From workforce shortages to youth anxiety, from AI to armed conflict, and from economic uncertainty to (gasp!) American politics, this session will look at how tomorrow is different from what we were expecting, and how our companies, clients and communities can prepare for what comes next! As always, Brock will bring a mix of facts and funny to a fast-paced session designed to help you sleep better!

Close out the forum with complimentary lunch!