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2025 BUSINESS LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE: SOARING TO NEW HEIGHTS
Seats are limited for this not-to-be-missed event! Secure your spot today and prepare to be inspired by one of region’s most influential business leaders.
ABOUT BLC
The Airdrie Regional Chamber of Commerce is excited to host its inaugural Business Leadership Conference presented by The Pest Control Guy.The Business Leadership Conference is designed to empower professionals and entrepreneurs by providing insights, strategies and inspiration to drive growth, innovation & success. Through expert speakers, engaging sessions, and meaningful networking opportunities, the conference fosters leadership development and strengthens the business community!
This year's theme, Soar to New Heights, set to inspire businesses and leaders to reach beyond their limits, embrace innovation and achieve exception growth.
Our format includes informative workshops led by business experts, an exclusive fireside chat with Don Bell, Co-Founder and former Co-Chief Operating Officer of WestJet, where he will share his remarkable business journey and engaging networking activities designed to create meaningful connections.KEYNOTE Speaker
Don Bell co-founded WestJet in 1996 and played a key role in quickly growing it to become Canada’s second largest airline. Don’s vision, ideas and leadership were instrumental in creating a powerful company culture based on employee engagement and empowerment. Don served many roles in WestJet including Co-Chief Operating Officer, EVP of Customer Service and as a Boeing 737 Captain. Prior to WestJet, Don spent 18 years as President and owner of a Calgary-based company that developed, installed, and supported specialized software systems for enterprises. Don is now partner in a very successful property development business in BC, a Helicopter business in Alberta, and has sat on the boards of multiple successful organizations from Public companies to non-profits. Don has his ICD.D designation and lives in Alberta. Don has a beautiful wife and four great children, stays busy with many business interests, loves to ski in the winter and cycle in the summer, and is still an active aviator both fixed and rotary.
Fireside Chat with Don Bell: A Masterclass in Business Leadership and Culture
Join us for an exclusive fireside chat with Don Bell, a visionary entrepreneur and one of the founding minds behind WestJet Airlines. Don’s incredible journey from co-founding a start-up airline to building it into a powerhouse in just a decade is a story of raw innovation, bold decision-making, and relentless focus on people and culture.
In this intimate and engaging session, Don will share his insights into:- The Power of Culture: Learn how to cultivate a workplace culture rooted in strong values, mutual respect, and a shared vision to drive unparalleled success.
- Innovation at its Core: Discover the strategies and mindset that fueled WestJet’s business model, redefining the Canadian airline industry.
- Investing in People: Understand the art of empowering teams, building loyalty, and fostering an environment where employees feel valued and inspired.
This is more than just a conversation—it’s an opportunity to learn from one of Canada’s most successful entrepreneurs. Whether you're a seasoned leader, aspiring entrepreneur, or curious professional, Don’s story will leave you inspired and equipped with actionable takeaways to implement in your own business journey.
WORKSHOP Leaders
Your choice of three workshops to attend!
Workshop 1 (everyone):
Workshop 2 Options:
A B
OR
Workshop 3 Options:
A B
OR
FOODRefreshments, treats, and lunch will be provided for attendees.
ATTENDEE Swag Bag
All Business Leaders attendees will receive an attendee gift bag.
Are you a business that would like to contribute to the gift bag?
If yes, this is a great way to market your business! We require up to 200 items (valued over $5 each) to be included in the bag. The 200 items need to be received by Friday, May 17.
Email events@airdriechamber.ab.ca for further information.
CONFERENCE Sponsor
Interested in sponsoring this event? Click the button below for more information.
THANK YOU Sponsors
BREAKFAST LUNCH
VISIONARY
MEDIA
INNOVATOR
COLLABORATOR
Thank you to all our swag bag and prize donors!
Date and Time
Thursday Feb 27, 2025
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM MST
CONFERENCE Agenda
9:00 am Opening Remarks
9:30 am Workshop 1 (Main Room)
10:30 am Break
10:45 am Workshop 2 (Breakout rooms)
11:30 am Break
11:45 am Workshop 3 (Breakout rooms)
12:15 pm Lunch
1:15 pm Networking Activity / Prize Giveaways
2:00 pm A message from the Chamber
2:15 pm Keynote Presentation
3:45 pm Closing Remarks
4:00 pm Doors ClosedLocation
CONFERENCE LocationFees/Admission
FEES /Admission
Early Bird Rates
January 13 - January 31, 2025
Chamber Members: $125.00
Future Members: $165.00
Regular Rates
February 1 - February 21, 2025
Chamber Members: $145.00
Future Members: $185.00
Please note: If you have any dietary restrictions, please mention them in the "Comment" section at the time of registration.
Registration Deadline: Friday, February 21 @ 12:00 pm
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