Northern Ontario is facing serious economic challenges as the pressure on our resource-dependent economies grows. Now perhaps more than ever, action is urgently needed to deal with the impacts of downsizing and shutdowns while at the same time developing strategies to help lead the North to recovery.
The Adjustment Action Summit is being organized by the North Superior Training Board to bring people together throughout the region to share information and plan for the future. Billed as a day “packed with inspiring ideas and invaluable information”, the Summit will be held on October 18th at the Valhalla Inn in Thunder Bay and is expected to attract more than 200 delegates throughout the region.
The opening keynote presenter will be Ron Trepanier, a partner in Whalebone Productions of Vancouver, B.C. and La Jolla, California. With more than 25 years experience in strategic planning and project development, Mr. Trepanier has been responsible for establishing key partnerships and alliances, successfully bringing together the people and resources needed to develop a variety of projects at the regional, national and international levels. His presentation is entitled “Community Engagement - A Catalyst for Economic Adjustment”.
The Summit will also feature a variety of workshops on adjustment: successes, impacts, services and best practices as well as workshops on the economy including sessions on diversification and sustainability, the Aboriginal workforce and opportunities for the future.
The luncheon keynote presenter will be Michael Atkins, president and principal shareholder of the Laurentian Media Group and founder of Northern Ontario Business. Mr. Atkins is well known for his thought-provoking presentations on the future of the North.
The day will close with an interactive plenary session to plan the future of the North.
Northwestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce (NOACC) Senior Advisor (Public Policy) and member of the Summit Steering Committee, Dr. George Macey said that the event is an important one.
“NOACC is a partner in the process of adjustment that so many communities in Northwestern Ontario are experiencing. This Summit will bring action and realities to that partnership and help to move the communities forward towards recovery,” he said.
Anyone interested in learning how to respond to the adjustment, recovery and diversification needs of the North are being encouraged to attend the Adjustment Action Summit. For more information and to register, visit the North Superior Training Board site at www.nstb.on.ca .
