Fall Business and Leadership Conference

Our 2025 Fall Business and Leadership Conference will be on Thursday, October 23, 2025.

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Keynote Address: Leading with Heart and Integrity – A Conversation with Ron MacLean

Join iconic broadcaster Ron MacLean for an inspiring keynote that explores what it means to lead with integrity, courage, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Drawing from his decades at the helm of one of Canada’s most enduring institutions—Hockey Night in Canada—Ron will reflect on the ethical choices, pivotal moments, and personal growth that have shaped his career both on and off the air.

Whether you’re an emerging leader or a seasoned decision-maker, Ron’s stories will challenge you to think critically about how you lead, how you grow, and how you choose to show up for others.

The keynote will conclude with an open Q&A, providing attendees with a rare opportunity to engage directly with one of Canada’s most trusted voices.

Ron MacLean, Host, Hockey Night in Canada on Sportsnet

Ron MacLean brings more than 30 years of award-winning experience to his role as host of Hockey Night in Canada on Sportsnet.

MacLean’s extensive knowledge and passion for the game of hockey, combined with 30 years of hosting Hockey Night in Canada and Rogers Hometown Hockey, has made him one of the country’s most famous and beloved broadcasters. In 2015, MacLean was inducted to Canada’s Walk of Fame, a prestigious honour acknowledging the achievements and accomplishments of successful Canadians.

MacLean began his broadcasting career in 1978 at CKRD Radio in Red Deer, Alberta, and in 1984 became host of the Calgary Flames television broadcasts on CFAC in Calgary. He became the sports anchor on the local evening news before joining CBC in 1986 as host of the Toronto Maple Leaf broadcasts on Hockey Night in Canada. In 1987, MacLean became national host of Hockey Night in Canada.

During his career with CBC, MacLean also hosted 10 Olympic Games, the Commonwealth Games, IAAF World Championships, World Cup of Hockey, the Calgary Stampede and Queen’s Plate.

In 2015, MacLean was recognized for his work on Hockey Night in Canada with a Canadian Screen Award for Best Host in a Sports Program or Series, adding to the already 10 Gemini Awards he’s received, including Best Host / Broadcaster in a Sports Program (1992, 1994, 1998, 2001 and 2007), as well as Best Host for Hockey Day in Canada (2004, 2006 and 2008). He is also a two-time George Gross Award recipient, honouring excellence in sports broadcasting.

MacLean published his second book “Hockey Towns: Untold Stories from the Heart of Canada” in October 2015. Co-authored by Kirstie McLellan Day, the book tells untold hockey stories from towns across the country. His first book, “Cornered”, also co-authored by McLellan Day, is a Canadian best seller.

Keynote Address: The Heart of Connection: Unleashing the Power of Human Relationships in a Digital World with Jeff Butler

Digital innovation not only changes corporations but also who we are as humans. Technology continues to evolve at an exponential rate, swiftly collapsing industries that took decades to build. As cutting-edge technology seems to update every day, questions arise such as: How will this evolution change the way we humans work? What does this mean for the next generation? The reality is that the every industry will be affected just as any other.

In his presentation, Jeff Butler unravels which technological changes to anticipate (such as autonomous vehicles, Blockchain and artificial intelligence) and how their integration impacts the workforce; not only from a business perspective but sociological, psychological, and existential as well. How might this wave of change affect industries—and us as the people that work for them—faster than experts originally anticipated?

While inevitable, one of the most important things that people can do now is learn where the tide is coming from… and be prepared for its impact. Jeff’s timely presentation will help guide and navigate conference attendees through this meteoric challenge called “technology change”!

Jeff Butler is an author and workplace strategist who explores what organizations need to do to navigate uncertainty.

His experience spans over 40 industries in 4 continents on how different cultures and employees interact with each other. He studies common threads of behavior in industries such as IT professionals, underground utility workers, police officers to clothing retail chains. In addition, Jeff has also worked with various Fortune 500 companies to mom and pop shops. His ideas have made it to TEDx twice, appeared in dozens of media outlets including two books on human behavior:- The Authentic Workplace and The Key To The New You. Currently, he lives in Dallas, Texas as an out of place Californian.

WORKSHOP SPEAKERS

Workshop Topic: Creating Work Environments for Humans to be Humans

Human performance in the workplace isn’t about assigning more tasks for employees to complete, it is about creating an environment that allows people to do their best and unlock their full potential.

In this engaging workshop, we will dive into the world of human performance and understanding how we can use it to increase productivity, reduce errors and improve employee satisfaction. We need to create a culture of learning, trust and accountability where employees can thrive; and be human.

Participants of this workshop will be introduced to the human performance principals which will help them better understand the psychological, emotional and physical factors that impact people in their place of work. They will also gain a better understanding of how to create a positive and blame free work environment where employees can really show their full potential.

Donald Pardy, Over 10 Years of Transforming Human Potential as a Human Performance Officer at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories. Donald Pardy is a recognized expert in his field of human performance and has spent the last decade as an educator and practitioner in his role as a Human Performance Officer at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories. He is not only passionate about enhancing productivity, safety and behavioural performance, but he is also passionate about sharing and educating people on why human performance plays such a large part in every organization, not just the nuclear sector. He wants to create positive work cultures, blame free environments and enhance effective leadership. He has worked with a wide range of professionals from doctors, researchers, corporate leaders and much more! Beyond his professional life, he is a devoted family man. He grew up in Renfrew County being the middle child of 11 children, and he has 5 beautiful grandchildren. He also has a deep love for music which can be heard on his Spotify channel.

Workshop Topic: How to Effectively Integrate AI into Your Workplace

In this interactive workshop, participants will explore practical ways to integrate generative AI tools into everyday workflows, regardless of industry or role. From streamlining communication to enhancing creativity and productivity, we’ll examine real-world use cases and potential pitfalls. Participants will be introduced to current tools, strategies for responsible adoption, and frameworks for building AI literacy within teams.

Behind the Lens: Building a Business with Vision

Join Crystal Martin and Matt LeMay, co-founders of Indigenous Geographic, for an engaging and practical workshop designed for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Drawing from their journey building one of Canada’s most successful Indigenous-owned film and video production companies with clients and staff from coast to coast to coast, Crystal and Matt will share key lessons learned along the way. This session will explore the most common pitfalls to avoid when starting or growing a business, the importance of clear and consistent communication, and practical tips to build long-term success. With real stories, honest insights, and a touch of humour, this workshop is perfect for anyone looking to grow their business with purpose and clarity.

Matt LeMay, CO-FOUNDER & CEO, Indigenous Geographic

Matt is a Citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario and his root ancestors are the Clermont Dusome family that originally hails from the Red River region of Manitoba, later settling in Penetanguishene Ontario. Matt currently lives in the Ottawa Valley with his wife Jennifer and his daughters Ella and Noa. Matt holds a Master’s Degree in Management Innovation and Entrepreneurship from Queen’s University and recently received the King Charles III Coronation Medal for his impactful work uplifting and celebrating Métis culture and heritage.

Crystal Martin, CO-FOUNDER & CAO, Indigenous Geographic

Crystal is an Inuk originally from Sanirajak, Nunavut. She is a creative professional with expertise in Inuit-specific project management. She brings a unique and artistic perspective shaped by her extensive experience across Inuit Nunangat. She is a storyteller, filmmaker, and soulful throat singer. Her creative endeavours extend beyond the traditional, enriching the narrative surrounding Indigenous issues and culture. Her commitment to community needs is evident in policy and community development and her imaginative approach to addressing challenges and fostering positive change.

More exciting workshop information coming soon!

Fall 2025 Information

Introduction, Registration and Cancellation Policy

It’s back! In response to Renfrew County’s growing need for local, affordable, and quality professional development opportunities, Algonquin College’s Pembroke Waterfront Campus presents its annual Fall Business Leadership Conference to business and organizational leaders on Thursday, October 23, 2025. Participants can join the conference from their homes or offices or come on campus to network with other conference registrants.

A special thank you to our Title Sponsor – Canadian Nuclear Laboratories

Please note: Registration closes on Wednesday, October 23rd at noon EST.

Early Bird Registration Fee (Until September 30, 2025): $250 + tax and Eventbrite fees (includes 2 keynote addresses, choice of 3 workshops, refreshment breaks, lunch, and an after conference social. For virtual attendees, a $25 gift card will be provided to purchase a special lunch for the day of the conference.

Registration Fee as of October 1, 2025: $300 + tax and Eventbrite fees (includes 2 keynote addresses, choice of 3 workshops, refreshment breaks, lunch and an after conference social. For virtual attendees, a $25 gift card will be provided to purchase a special lunch for the day of the virtual conference.

*** Special bonus: Register 3 or more employees and receive one bonus registration for free! If you register 3 or more employees to attend the conference, please email Brittany Devine at: devineb@algonquincollege.com or call 613-735-4700 x 2831 to complete the registration for your bonus registration. ***

*Please note: If you would like to receive an invoice and are registering 5 or more employees, please contact 613-735-4700 ext. 2831 to arrange an invoice.

Please note: Registration closes on Wednesday, October 23rd at noon EST.

2024 CONFERENCE SCHEDULE (2025 schedule coming soon)

BECOME A CONFERENCE SPONSOR

This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with the conference attendees in an impactful way and to promote your business or organization to a group of engaged professionals. Please email Brittany Devine at devineb@algonquincollege.com for more information.

CONFERENCE CANCELLATION POLICY:

Substitution:

• If, after registering you are unable to attend, you are welcome to appoint someone else from your organization to attend in your place.
• Please advise substitutions in writing. All substitutions can be emailed to Brittany Devine at: devineb@algonquincollege.com.
• When requesting a substitution, please indicate which workshops your substitute wishes to attend if they are different from the ones you registered for. We will attempt to accommodate; however, our ability to accommodate is based on the availability of workshops and the timing of the request. If we are unable to accommodate, your substitution will be registered in the workshops you originally registered for.

Refunds:

• Cancellation prior to October 16, 2025: 100% refund, minus Eventbrite processing fee.
• Cancellation less than 7 days before the conference (after October 17, 2025): No refund
• Cancellation must be in writing. Cancellation notice can be emailed to Brittany Devine at: devineb@algonquincollege.com.

Thanks to our past and present sponsors for helping to make this professional development opportunity possible: