With an economy as hot as Alberta’s it might seem unusual to be holding a conference about economic development but that is just what is happening October 24-26 in Camrose, Alberta.

Responding to a booming economy can be just as challenging as responding to a stagnant one. For instance, if you are an employee, you may be enjoying higher pay and more job opportunities. The downside is that you may have to wait longer for your coffee at the drive-through or you are paying more for a roof over your head.

If you are an employer you may not be able to hire the staff you need and your overhead costs are increasing.

How does a government, a region, or a community respond to situations like this? That is just what will be happening at the conference, taking place at the Camrose Regional Exhibition.

The Pan Western Regional Economic Development Conference is the first conference of its kind in Canada. Participants will discuss three major issues affecting Western Canada:

• the current labour shortage
• Aboriginal participation in the economy
• new models for regional economic development

Attendees include individuals and organizations involved in labour force development and regional and aboriginal economic development, including:

• business leaders
• elected officials
• post-secondary education institutions
• students
• human resource developers

Discussions will provide delegates with a greater understanding and practical approaches on how other jurisdictions have responded to the changing economy.

For more information or to register call 1 (800) 296 8112, e-mail jfilip@cre.ab.ca or visit www.panwestconference.ca. The registration deadline is October 18.

More information

• Pan Western Regional Economic Development Conference