This event will bring together manufacturers, industry leaders, workforce development organizations, and community stakeholders to explore the benefits of employing internationally trained newcomers to Canada, investing in skills training, and building inclusive workforce pathways that support talent integration and long-term sector growth across British Columbia.
Participants will hear insights on BC manufacturing labour market trends, connect with peers, and engage in facilitated roundtable discussions to identify barriers and supports needed to better upskill and integrate internationally trained talent within BC’s manufacturing industry.
Focus Areas
Internationally Trained Newcomer & Youth Talent
Exploring pathways to attract, integrate, and retain newcomer and youth talent within BC’s manufacturing sector.
BC Manufacturing Labour Market Insights
Understanding current workforce trends, challenges, and opportunities impacting manufacturers across British Columbia.
Skills Training & Workforce Development Solutions
Identifying barriers, supports, and industry-led approaches to upskilling talent and strengthening BC’s manufacturing workforce.
Agenda
10:30 am – Welcome
10:45 am – BC Manufacturing Sector Insights
11:15 am – Guest Presentation – Speaker TBA
12:00 pm – Networking & Lunch
12:45 pm – Facilitated Roundtable Discussions
Barriers to integrating internationally trained talent in BC
Supports needed for upskilling and retention
Employer- and industry-led solutions to strengthen BC’s manufacturing workforce
This is a no-cost event. Event location and other details will be shared following registration.
Optimizing Industrial Land in British Columbia
In British Columbia, investment in industrial land generates significant economic activity, creates jobs, and is essential to maintaining B.C.’s global competitiveness. However, high land prices, low vacancy rates, and rising rental costs are making it increasingly difficult for businesses to find space in urban areas. At the same time, despite having ample industrial land, many rural communities still face challenges attracting investment.
Join us to learn how the Province of British Columbia is responding to these needs, and how you and your community can be involved. Session Overview
The Province of British Columbia is partnering with the British Columbia Economic Development Association to host a virtual roundtable, inviting communities to share their perspectives on the opportunities and challenges associated with growing industrial investment across the province.
Participants will learn about work currently underway to address industrial land challenges in B.C. and will have the opportunity to share information about their community’s needs. The Industrial Land Office (ILO) is seeking direct input from interested parties on what’s working, what’s challenging, and what supports are needed to optimize industrial land use. Who Should Attend
CAOs and Band Managers
Local government and First Nations staff
Economic development staff
Economic development corporation staff and Board members