Workforce Solutions Summit

The 2023 Workforce Solutions Summit will help employers tackle some of their biggest challenges related to workforce development and retention, with a focus on niche roles and emerging careers that are undergoing growing demand here in Brampton.
A blend of keynotes, showcases and panels will let attendees hear from those working most directly with the emerging economy and the jobs of tomorrow, today. Experts from multiple sectors will share tips and best practices for finding the right fit for your business. Information will be made available on programs and policies, from both private and public sector sources, that can help to transform your existing workforce while building towards the workforce of the future. Case studies in innovative solutions and partnerships that have helped solve employers retention barriers will be shared.

Skills Ontario CEO Ian Howcroft will join us for a morning keynote address where he will highlight the work Skills Ontario is doing to make rewarding career paths in the skilled trades and emerging technologies accessible to all youth. Learn about initiatives that partner with business, labour, educational institutions and levels of government to ensure that preparation for the careers of tomorrow is happening in our backyard.

Panel 1. Upskilling and Supporting Your Existing Workforce:
Our first panel of the day will focus on how organizations have successfully leveraged a range of funding streams and grants to identify and train new talent as well as upskill their existing workforce. Learn about solutions to help fill both large and small talent gaps and come away with concrete examples of how these programs can help your business.

Panel 2 - Modern solutions to Solve Hiring Challenges:
Experienced leaders will share tips and tricks that can help to solve the most pressing modern HR challenges. Hear about how new technology can best be integrated into your hiring practices,
the importance of properly drafted employment contracts and how to improve your organization's retention.

Case Study
Hop In Technologies is a data driven company that recognizes transportation as a vehicle to opportunity. Their mission is to identify commute barriers for all people in the workforce and furthermore develop an ecosystem that allows improved commutes to support retention, recruitment and work life balance. Hear how their innovative product has has found solutions for companies to get workers to the job site conveniently and in a way that makes commutes accessible and convenient. Blue Branch is a social enterprise that leverages a unique labour mobility model, Super-Commuting, to connect employers and skilled talent from across Canada. Hear how they a hands-on approach to recruitment, working closely with each job seeker to manage relocation, community integration, housing, and transportation.

Breakout 1: Funding & Post-Secondary support
With Brampton's downtown booming, this breakout will focus on developments in our Innovation District and the role that post-secondary institutions are playing in supporting its growth. Panelists will focus on the role of the Innovation District and post-secondary institutions in helping employers fill their workforce gaps, as well as opportunities provided by the Canada Summer Jobs Grant. Learn how you can build partnerships with academia to create a more innovative organization.

Breakout 2: Hiring Resources:
Learn about unique talent solution programs that are available to businesses in Brampton.
This breakout will also cover the role that Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) should play in your hiring practices, and resources available to implement best practices.

Panel 3: Engaging Women in a Competitive Manufacturing Industry
Our day will close with a panel highlighting the important role for, and opportunities available to, women in the manufacturing sector.
Hear from post-secondary and industry about how these exciting career pathways are being made more accessible to women and the supportive role that all organizations can play.