On February 26, entrepreneurs, executives, and emerging leaders from across the region will gather for a day devoted to sparking ideas, forging connections, and “leading the charge” toward a stronger business community.
The Airdrie Regional Chamber of Commerce will host its second annual Business Leadership Conference from 8 am to 4 pm at Century Downs Racetrack and Casino. Designed to empower professionals and entrepreneurs, the conference offers a full day of insights, strategies, and inspiration to drive growth, innovation, and success.
This year’s theme, “Leading the Charge,” highlights courageous leadership — empowering business leaders, building effective teams, and planning for what’s next.
“This full-day conference brings together business owners, executives, managers, and emerging leaders from across our region for a powerful day of learning, strategy, and connection,” says Marilyne Aalhus, executive director of Airdrie Regional Chamber of Commerce.
The keynote address will be delivered by Joel Cowley, president and CEO of the Calgary Stampede. Described by Aalhus as the conference’s “can’t-miss speaker,” Cowley is known for balancing tradition with innovation while leading one of the country’s most iconic events. Attendees will hear his perspective on blending history, culture, and community with bold developments shaping the Stampede’s future.
“From the beginning, our commitment has been to maintain the highest standard of speaker quality, bringing in respected, high-calibre leaders who offer real-world insight, not just inspiration,” says Aalhus.
The day’s program will also feature informative workshops such as:
- Understanding and Preventing Burnout
- Shifting the Leadership Paradigm: The Power and Possibility of Influence
- Wellness That Works: Investing in Corporate Wellness Programs
- Stop Being So Damned Canadian – Embracing Respectful, Direct Communication
Aalhus adds that this year’s event will include interactive roundtable discussions alongside workshop sessions.
“It’s not just about listening to experts on stage,” she says. “It’s about tapping into the collective experience in the room.”
Another highlight of the conference will be a fireside chat with Pat Cashion and Darcy Forbes of Vitreous Glass, offering real-world insight into entrepreneurship, leadership transition, and succession planning. Cashion will share his journey from chartered accountant and management consultant to transforming Vitreous Glass into a thriving Airdrie-based business. Forbes, who worked his way from the maintenance department to vice president and COO, will offer his perspective on succession planning, focusing on trust, capability, and long-term vision. Together, they will explore how succession is “not a single moment, but a deliberate process rooted in culture, learning, and shared accountability.”
“Great leadership thrives in connection and community,” says Aalhus.
“You’ll walk away (from the conference) with fresh ideas, renewed motivation, and valuable connections that extend far beyond the event itself.”
Tickets and schedule details are available at airdriechamber.ab.ca.
