Your Ultimate Pre-Conference Checklist for the CPHR Alberta 2025 Conference!

The countdown to the CPHR Alberta 2025 Conference has officially begun!

This year, we're focusing on bringing the people element back to HR with the theme, Human-Centric HR, and we can't wait to welcome you. Whether this is your first time joining us or you're a seasoned attendee, getting prepared is key to maximizing your experience. We've put together an ultimate pre-conference checklist to help you show up confident, connected, and ready to learn. 


Preparing Your Personal Brand 

First impressions matter, even in a professional setting. Take a moment to update your digital identity. This means ensuring your LinkedIn and other professional profiles are current and reflect your latest career highlights. You'll be meeting and connecting with many new people, and you'll want to make it easy for them to learn more about you. Also, practice your "About Me" pitch. Plan out your 30-second elevator pitch so you can confidently introduce yourself when you meet someone new. 


Set Clear Goals You Want To Accomplish 

To make the most of your conference experience, it’s essential to set clear goals. Identify the who, what, when, where, how, and why of your attendance. What do you hope to learn? Who do you want to meet? Which sessions align best with your learning goals and interests? Thinking about how you’ll keep conversations and connections going after the event is also a great way to ensure lasting value. 


Pack Smart 

Don't underestimate the power of packing efficiently. The basics include business casual attire, business cards, chargers, notebooks, tablets, and water bottles. Don't forget comfortable shoes – you'll be on your feet a lot! If you're attending as a booth representative, remember to bring your swag. Equally important is practicing well-being. Human-centered well-being starts with taking care of yourself. Consider if you'll need quiet recharge moments during a fun-filled day or if you require built-in time for mindful breaks. 


Review the Agenda & Plan Ahead 

The conference agenda is packed with incredible content. Take the time to seek and prioritize your 'must-attend' sessions based on themes that most align with your personal and professional values. Plan intentional networking opportunities and prepare thoughtful questions to ask vendors. Lastly, get ready to engage in online conversations using event hashtags and social media to extend your reach. 


Keep the Connections Going 

Your conference experience doesn't end when the sessions do. Develop a post-conference strategy to maximize your new connections and learnings. This could involve suggesting collaborations, inviting someone for a post-conference coffee chat, or simply reflecting on key takeaways you'll champion back in your personal and professional life. 


If You're Traveling to Edmonton, Support Local! 


Fitness & Wellness

  • Archetype Life: Group fitness classes are available for $21 per class. You can view the full schedule and find more information on their website: Archetype Group Classes
  • Spa by JW: The spa is separate from the gym offerings. To book appointments, please visit their website: Spa by JW Edmonton.


Group Outings & Events

  • Braven: A great option for team dinners, offering three private dining rooms and one semi-private space. Learn more at Braven Private Dining.
  • The Canadian Icehouse: Perfect for a fun, interactive event. Packages can include their Ice Room, golf simulator, and batting cages.
  • The Banquet: This venue is great for a casual outing with bowling, arcade games, and catering options for events.
  • Alchemy Bar: Offers private event packages, including private dining and patio spaces.|


Local Dining

  • Woodwork: 10132 100 St NW
  • Bernadette's: 10114 104 Street NW
  • Bar Bricco: 10347 Jasper Ave
  • Fu's Repair Shop: 10524 Jasper Ave
  • Campio Brewing Co.: 10257 105 St NW
  • Nuovo Bistro: 10721 124 St


Edmonton Classics:

  • Baijiu: Asian-inspired small plates and creative cocktails. (10359 104 Street)
  • Sabor: Authentic Spanish and Portuguese cuisine. (10220 103 Street)
  • Buco Pizzeria + Vino: Neapolitan pizza and wine. (10423 101 Street)
  • White Rabbit Ice Cream: Handcrafted ice cream. (10546 110 Street NW)


Local Coffee

  • Credo Coffee: 10134 104 St NW
  • Deville Coffee: A popular location near the ICE District is at 10850 104 Ave NW
  • Coffee Bureau: 10505 Jasper Ave
  • Lock Stock Coffee: 10534 Jasper Ave NW


We're so excited to see you at the CPHR Alberta 2025 Conference! Mark your calendars for September 23 & 24, 2025, at the JW Marriott Edmonton ICE District.


By following this checklist, you'll be well on your way to a productive and engaging experience. 


View the full schedule, speaker bios, and sponsors here.


Amanda Tam is the Employer Relationship Manager for the University of Alberta's Engineering Co-op Program, where she has spent over four years connecting students with industry to support successful work-integrated learning experiences. She is passionate about student programming, career development, and recruitment, and brings a strong background in relationship-building and cooperative education. Amanda holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Cooperative Education from the University of Alberta and is a Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR). She also volunteers with APEGA’s Mentoring Café, serves on the Social Media Committee, and is a Peer-to-Peer Mentor at CPHR Alberta. 

The views and opinions expressed in this blog post belong solely to the original author(s) and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of CPHR Alberta.



Celebrating Our CPHR Alberta 2025 Scholarship Winners

By Jessica Jaithoo • February 19, 2026
We’re excited to congratulate the CPHR Alberta 2025’s scholarship recipients! Each year, these awards help us recognize emerging HR talent and support students who are taking meaningful steps toward their future in the profession. CPHR Alberta scholarships play an important role in easing financial barriers, celebrating academic achievement, and connecting students with the professional community that will support them as they work toward earning the CPHR designation. Below, meet this year’s outstanding recipients. CPHR Alberta’s Eldon Emerson Scholarship: Undergraduate Award Created in 2021, the Eldon Emerson Scholarship honours Eldon’s exceptional leadership, contribution, and passion for the HR profession. Eldon received the Fellowship Award in 2013—one of the highest honours in our community, recognizing exemplary service and impact. 2025 Eldon Emerson Award Winner Chine Rajafa CPHR Alberta’s Diploma Scholarship: Undergraduate Award Launched in 2023, the Diploma Scholarship supports student members enrolled in a 2‑year HR diploma program. Recipients show strong academic performance, community involvement, and a clear commitment to the HR profession and the CPHR designation pathway. 2025 Diploma Scholarship Award Winner Mehar Kaur Follow Their Journey We encourage you to connect with Chinenye and Mehar on LinkedIn and support them as they begin their HR careers. A simple follow, message, or connection can go a long way for emerging professionals. Watch for 2026 Scholarship Dates The next intake period for CPHR Alberta’s Scholarship Program opens Fall 2026. Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for updates. Become a Student Member Whether you're studying in an accredited HR program or building your skills through part‑time, continuing education, or bridging programs, CPHR Alberta has a student membership option designed to support your path into the profession. Joining as a student member gives you access to resources, events, and a community that can help you take your next step with confidence. Learn more and join

2026 PD Opportunities with CPHR Alberta

By Jessica Jaithoo • January 28, 2026
Plan your 2026 professional development in advance and discover what CPHR Alberta has planned for you! Below is a brief overview of the programming coming your way in the months ahead. For full details, visit our new PD Calendar , and check your Member Portal regularly for updates. Signature Events Member Recognition Gala – April 30, 2026 | The Westin Airport Hotel, Calgary We invite you to an evening of celebration, connection, and inspiration. The Member Recognition Gala is a formal event honouring the individuals, teams, and projects shaping the future of HR across Alberta, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. Inspired by the Aurora Borealis, this redesigned experience replaces traditional awards with Spotlights—a meaningful way to recognize excellence in action. Tickets will go on sale soon. CPHR Alberta 2026 Conference: Future-Ready HR – June 2–3, 2026 | BMO Centre, Calgary Our 2026 Conference prepares human resources (HR) professionals to master the fundamentals, embrace innovation, and build executive-level influence—creating agile organizations ready for economic and workforce change. A future-ready HR community. Registration will be opening soon. Chapter Community Events | Throughout 2026 We’ll be visiting all chapters across the year with popular community events in your region. Stay tuned for event announcements and details. Stampede Breakfast | July | Calgary, AB A member favourite breakfast event is returning! Join us to mingle, connect, and enjoy the energy of Stampede. More information will be shared soon. Certificates Workplace Investigations Training | February 17–19 and March 17–19 Presented in partnership with Veritas Solutions. The Workplace Investigations Certificate is a three‑day program focusing on three core training topics. Participants may register for the full program or select stand‑alone courses. A certificate is awarded upon completion, and no prerequisites are required. Webinars Networking at Noon Join us for one hour each month to explore current and emerging HR topics. With a new focus every session, you'll leave with thought‑provoking questions and earn 1 CPD hour. On February 12, join us for HR Trends & Priorities for 2026. International Women’s Day National Event Join us on March 4 from 10:00–11:30 a.m. for a special fireside chat with Layne the Auctionista and Sheena Russell, founder of Made with Local . This national celebration of International Women’s Day explores the theme “Give to Gain,” highlighting how generosity and purpose‑driven leadership can shape meaningful careers. You’ll hear real stories, bold insights, and practical inspiration you can take back to your HR practice. Details ®gistration: https://cphrns.ca/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=2018615&group= Virtual Sessions for Students Students can expect two sessions each month: one dedicated to building skills one offering practical advice from HR professionals in the field These sessions are complimentary for Student Members. Are you interested in becoming a member? Students receive complimentary membership. Learn more: www.cphrab.ca/student-programs Other Events DisruptHR YYC 13.0 will take place in October. More details will be shared in late summer. Plan Your Year With Us Explore the full list of programs and events on our 2026 PD Calendar.

Welcome to OY Works: Practical Tools to Recruit, Onboard & Retain Opportunity Youth

By Jessica Jaithoo • January 22, 2026
In 2025, CPHR Alberta became a partner to the Collaborative Funders Table and the Calgary Youth Employment Initiative to address under-employment for opportunity youth. Over seven months, more than 60 partners came together to research, design, and test what would become OY Works . That story of co-creation is what makes this toolkit different. Employers shared what they need to know and what tools would make a difference. CPHR Alberta members contributed HR expertise through representation on the steering committee, and participation in surveys, interviews, and protype testing throughout 2025. Attracting, engaging, and retaining young talent isn’t just a workforce strategy — it’s an investment in our collective future. When we empower youth with meaningful opportunities, modern skills, and a sense of belonging, we build workplaces that are more innovative today and more resilient tomorrow. The organizations that thrive will be the ones that recognize youth not as the workforce of the future, but as essential contributors shaping the world right now. A dedicated toolkit to hire opportunity youth gives HR professionals and employers the practical resources, insights, and frameworks they need to connect with young people authentically — turning intention into action and helping break down barriers and supporting organizations to build strong, sustainable talent pipelines. Co‑designed with HR professionals and industry leaders, the toolkit reflects real challenges and real solutions, ensuring it is both practical and deeply aligned with the needs of today’s evolving workforce. - Lisa Watson, CPHR Alberta Board Director, OY Works Steering Committee Member Today marks an exciting milestone: the launch of OY Works , an online toolkit designed to make inclusive youth hiring easier for Alberta employers and HR professionals. This free resource was co-created by a diverse group of stakeholders—employers, HR experts, and non-profit agencies—who share a common goal: opening doors for young people who are ready to work but face barriers. Why OY Works? Too many youth are eager to contribute, learn, and grow, yet struggle to access meaningful employment. OY Works is here to change that. Built with practicality and purpose in mind, the toolkit offers actionable strategies to help businesses recruit, onboard, and retain Opportunity Youth—young people aged 18–29 who are not currently in school, training, or work. What’s Inside the Toolkit? It makes business sense: Read the Business Case for hiring Opportunity Youth and be empowered to influence leaders. Explore the ideas and tools in the Quick Start Hiring Guide . Learn how to onboard effectively and build retention from day one in the Optimal Onboarding & Mentoring Guide and the Retain & Grow Guide . Discover how non-profit agencies are preparing OY for the workplace. They often support employers and employees through all stages of employment. This isn’t just about doing good—it’s about making smart business decisions. Inclusive hiring strengthens workplace culture, reduces turnover, and taps into a motivated talent pool ready to make a difference. We invite you to explore OY Works and join the movement to create opportunities for youth who deserve a chance to shine. Explore the OY Works toolkit: https://bit.ly/3L6SQuF When young people get a chance to contribute, it’s a win for youth, employers and the community. Join us in spreading the word by sharing the toolkit with your networks.
MORE NEWS