Presentations

Let's Get to Work 2024

2024 Breakout Session Abstracts

Each Breakout Session has 3 presentations for you to choose from. Be sure to review them all to choose what will allow you to gain some knowledge, resources and Aha moments.

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Breakout Session #1

Innovative Strategies for Early Career Exploration for Children and Young Adults.

Facilitated by: Charlotte Anyango Ong'ang'a, Jillian Calais, and Aidan Roberts

Location: Centennial 3

Career exploration and inspiration is a vital part of personal development, yet it is often overlooked in early education. This presentation will delve into the importance of introducing career exploration to children, highlighting a culture of innovative practices and tools that can spark interest and imagination in young minds while empowering belonging through differences for a greater society and workforce. By incorporating career development theories and educational resources, we can create an engaging and supportive environment that encourages children to discover their passions and potential career paths from an early age.

This session will cover:

Effective career development practices tailored for children.
Innovative tools and resources Career Trek offers that make career exploration fun and educational.
The role of educators and parents in guiding children’s career discovery and how to support them.
Insights into emerging trends and how they can be applied to foster early career interest.
Participants will leave with actionable insights and practical methods to integrate career exploration into children's learning experiences, ultimately helping to ignite their futures with curiosity and confidence.

Charlotte Anyango Ong'ang’a

Career Development Specialist

Charlotte is a Career Development Specialist and the author of the children’s career exploration book series Tausi and Taji: A Sneak Peek into Amazing Careers, among other works.

With over 15 years of experience as an educator, Charlotte holds a Ph.D. in Linguistics. Her expertise extends to offering invaluable guidance on job search strategies and workplace success, helping her clients achieve their career aspirations. Currently, Charlotte is actively involved in speaking engagements on career-related topics and book writing.

Jillian Calais

Manager, Career Trek

Jillian has worked with equity deserving youth and women for over a decade. Passionate about catching those that fall through the cracks of the education and foster care system,

Jillian specializes in relationship, self-esteem and hope building as a base for change. People remember how you made them feel; Jillian brings authenticity, a little vulnerability, a lot of energy and innovation to her work.

Aidan Roberts

Acting Manager, Career Trek

Aidan is a full circle example of the difference exposure, opportunity, role modelling and having a safe space to explore one's values, interests and talents can do.

A recent graduate of ACC in Brandon specializing in business and marketing, Aidan works with middle school age youth and provides high quality programming in multiple school divisions as well as community organizations. Through cultivating a culture of belonging and self-exploration youth can break down barriers to success and are empowered to pursue their lives passions.

Equity During Recruitment and Selection: Moving Beyond Disability Accommodation to Truly Inclusive Design

Facilitated by: Katherine Breward

Location: Centennial 4

For job candidates with disabilities, accommodations, while essential, are often reactive measures to address existing barriers. What if recruitment and selection practices were designed with fewer barriers in the first place? Inclusive design seeks to create environments that are inherently accessible, reducing the need for accommodations. Although traditionally applied in architectural and engineering contexts, inclusive design principles are equally relevant to organizational policies and HR management practices.

In this session, Dr. Breward will discuss how these principles can be used to proactively minimize barriers in recruitment and selection processes. The focus will be on creating policies and practices that are truly inclusive, with additional insights on onboarding.

Katherine Breward

Associate Professor, Human Resources Management, University of Winnipeg

Katherine Breward is an Associate Professor of Human Resource Management at the University of Winnipeg. She holds undergraduate degrees in sociology and adult education, an MBA, and a PhD in organizational behaviour from the Richard Ivey School of Business at Western University.

Dr. Breward’s research focuses on labor market access for historically disadvantaged populations, with a particular emphasis on best practices in disability accommodation. Her most recent work centers on accommodation strategies for neurodiverse individuals, a subject close to her heart as she herself is neurodiverse.

Dr. Breward is the author of Guide to Disability and Inclusion in the Workplace (Sage Publishing, January 1, 2024). Her research has been featured in Palgrave McMillan’s Research Handbook on Disability at Work, the Canadian Journal of Disability Studies, the Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion: An International Journal, and The Conversation Canada. Her disability accommodation cases are primarily published by Sage, with a broader range of cases available in the Case Research Journal. At the University of Winnipeg, she teaches various HR-related courses, including “Recruitment and Selection” and her signature course, “Leadership and Fairness in Complex Organizations.”

Outside of work, Katherine enjoys tending to her 25-acre berry orchard with her husband, reading inclusive science fiction and fantasy novels, and spending time with her menagerie of beloved pets.

AI Took Our Jobs (And We Love It!)

Facilitated by: Matt Purdey

Location: Centennial 5

Post-secondary career services offices face numerous challenges, including managing high student-to-advisor ratios, providing personalized and timely career guidance, and effectively tracking student progress. These issues can lead to delayed responses, generic advice, and missed opportunities for student development. To overcome these challenges, RRC Polytech is harnessing the power of AI to transform service delivery, expand access, and enhance student outcomes.

In this session, attendees will discover how RRC Polytech is using an AI-driven solution to:

Streamline career services by automating routine tasks such as resume reviews and interview feedback, allowing advisors to focus on high-impact, personalized interactions.
Improve the quality of student resumes and interview responses, aligning them with industry standards.
Provide 24/7 access to assistance, regardless of geographical constraints, office hours, or advisor availability.
Enhance tracking of student progress through real-time analytics.

Analyze user data to identify trends and suggest tailored career support based on individual student profiles.
Proactively intervene by offering targeted support to students at risk of falling behind.
Prepare specific groups and programs for career events by inviting students to refine their documents and skills, setting participation benchmarks, and organizing targeted support for those who need it most.

By integrating AI into career services, RRC Polytech not only improves operational efficiency but also enriches the student experience, offering accessible, timely, relevant, and personalized guidance. As students engage with AI-driven tools, they are better equipped for successful career transitions, ultimately enhancing both individual and institutional outcomes.

Matt Purdey

Career Advisor, RRC Polytechnique

Matt Purdey is a Career Advisor at RRC Polytech, where he provides a wide range of career support and employment services to students, recent graduates, and employers. As a Certified Career Development Practitioner (CCDP) with multiple certifications from Career Professionals of Canada (CWS, CRS, CCS), Matt brings a wealth of expertise to his role.

Over the past 10 years, Matt has worked in post-secondary, non-profit, and private practice environments, consistently observing a common challenge: the increasing demand for services has placed pressure on providers' ability to deliver timely, personalized, and reliable support. Traditionally cautious in adopting new technology, Matt is excited to share how the forward-thinking team at RRC Polytech is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to address this challenge and stay ahead of the curve.

1:30 PM - 2:30 PM: Breakout Session #2

Mindful Leadership: Building Thriving and Future-Focused Careers, Companies, and Communities

Facilitated by: Katja Holzhei

Location: Centennial 3

In today’s rapidly evolving work environment, sustained success requires more than just a traditional focus on profit. This presentation reveals the transformative power of mindful leadership and its profound impact on organizational culture, employee well-being, and community enrichment.

Introduction to Mindful Leadership
Core Values of Mindful Leadership
Benefits of Mindful Leadership
Impact on Organizational and Societal Change
First Steps to Implementing Mindful Leadership

Intended Audience:

This session is ideal for career development professionals, organizational leaders, human resource managers, and anyone interested in enhancing their leadership skills and fostering a more inclusive, positive, and thriving workplace culture.

Outcomes:

Understand the Core Values of Mindful Leadership
- Learn the fundamental principles of mindful leadership and their role in cultivating a positive workplace culture.
Recognize the Benefits of Mindful Leadership
- Discover the tangible benefits, including improved organizational outcomes, enhanced team performance, better decision-making, increased self-awareness, and reduced stress.
Impact Organizational and Societal Change
- Explore how mindful leadership transforms organizations and positively influences the broader community, contributing to a more enriching society in Manitoba and beyond.
Take First Steps Towards Mindful Leadership
- Gain actionable steps for implementing mindful leadership, laying the foundation for long-term success and well-being.

Katja Holzhei

Founder, Neuland Yoga | Somatic Coach

With over 17 years of experience in the health and wellness industry, Katja Holzhei is a somatic coach and a leading expert in yoga, mindfulness, and meditation. As the founder of Neuland Yoga, Katja is driven by her passion for transforming lives, modern culture, and society through sustainable, inclusive, and accessible teaching methods.

Katja's signature philosophy intricately weaves together the body, brain, mind, heart, and soul, embracing the holistic nature of human well-being. She holds multiple certifications, including over 1,000 hours of yoga, bodywork, and mindfulness training. Additionally, she is an ICF-accredited Brain Coach, a Relational Skills Trauma Coach, and a Somatic Trauma Therapy Practitioner.

Her mindful leadership training and workplace makeovers uniquely combine time-honored yogic practices, evidence-based therapeutic modalities, and contemporary leadership methodologies. This innovative approach empowers leaders to inspire positive change, enhance self-awareness, and make compassionate, ethical decisions.

Born and raised in the former GDR (German Democratic Republic) under repressive conditions, Katja is deeply committed to empowering individuals to overcome adversity, embrace personal growth, and thrive in inclusive, supportive environments. As an individual with ADHD, she advocates for normalizing neurodivergence and breaking the stigma around mental health challenges. Katja firmly believes that positive change is possible—one mindful thought, one mindful action at a time.

Effectively Collaborating with ChatGPT

Facilitated by: Misty Fraser, CPHR & Reena Varshney, CPHR

Location: Centennial 4

This session is designed to assist Career Development professionals in enhancing their client support services.

Building on last year's AI presentations, this session will focus on how professionals can use ChatGPT to tailor resumes and cover letters for better alignment with job descriptions and applicant tracking systems, as well as effectively prepare clients for interviews in a competitive job market.

Attendees will leave with practical resources to leverage AI, enhancing the personalization and effectiveness of their career coaching services.

Misty Fraser, CPHR

Career Consultant, People First HR Services

Misty Fraser, CPHR is a Career Transition Consultant, Resume Strategist, and LinkedIn Optimization Specialist based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. With a rich background in Human Resources and a strong commitment to career services, Misty has guided numerous clients through successful job transitions. Her approach integrates personalized career strategies with cutting-edge AI technology, making her an expert in using tools like ChatGPT to enhance professional branding and job search outcomes.

In her current role as a Career Consultant at People First HR Services, Misty provides one-on-one coaching, optimizes resumes and LinkedIn profiles, and develops effective interview and job search strategies. Her prior experience in Human Resources has equipped her with valuable insights into coaching and people development. Having navigated her own career transition, Misty offers a unique and empathetic perspective to clients on their career journey.

Reena Varshney, CPHR

Career Consultant

Reena Varshney, CPHR is a Career Coach and People Connector with over 15 years of experience in Human Resources. Based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Reena is dedicated to empowering individuals during their career transitions with a compassionate and empathetic approach. She is renowned for her ability to tailor her programs to each client's strengths, helping to boost their confidence and uncover what truly brings them joy in their careers.

Currently serving as a Career Consultant at People First HR Services, Reena offers personalized support to individuals facing job loss and career changes. Her previous roles, from HR Generalist to People Operations Manager, have given her a deep understanding of the HR landscape and career development.

Yikes! You Made a Microaggression at Work: The Dos and Don'ts on How to Address It.

Facilitated by: Stefanie Books

Location: Centennial 5

During the COVID-19 pandemic, remote work provided a respite from microaggressions for some, with fewer face-to-face interactions. However, as in-person interactions have resumed, the chances of encountering and perpetuating microaggressions have increased.

While much attention is given to addressing and intervening when witnessing microaggressions, less focus is placed on how to respond when we ourselves are responsible for one. Acknowledging and addressing our own microaggressions is crucial for personal growth and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong.

By the end of this interactive presentation, you will gain a deeper understanding of microaggressions and learn how to respond if you find yourself responsible for one. Additionally, you will receive a list of resources to support your ongoing efforts in reducing harm.

This presentation is designed for you if you:

Interact with people and want to minimize harm.
Support individuals in managing interpersonal conflicts in the workplace.
Develop Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDI&B) resources.

Stefanie Books

Registered Social Worker

Stefanie Books holds a Bachelor of Human Ecology and a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Manitoba and is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work at Dalhousie University.

She is registered with the Manitoba College of Registered Social Workers and is an active member of the Manitoba Association for Career Development (MACD).

With over a decade of experience in career development Stefanie is deeply committed to promoting anti-oppressive practices within the framework of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDI&B) in her community. She chairs the board of directors of a community health organization with three distinct sites, where she oversees operations with a focus on inclusive healthcare services that foster a sense of belonging for all community members.

In addition to her current roles, Stefanie is current (& past) Secretary for MACD and continues to actively contribute to the organization's membership committee, advocating for career development professionals in Manitoba.

2:45 PM - 3:45 PM: Breakout Session #3

Learn, Adopt, Optimize: Mastering Generative AI for Career Development Sector

Facilitated by: Mark Patterson

Location: Centennial 3

The development of generative AI technology and its impact on Canadian workers and businesses is unprecedented in its speed and scope. Those who can understand and use AI in business operations, career planning, or learning, will have a significant advantage. Led by Magnet, a center of innovation focused on the future of work, this session will help demystify AI and highlight its practical applications for education, career development, and demo PathPilot, an AI Career Assistant and co-pilot.

Intended audience: Educators, Service Providers, Career Development Professionals, Students

Outcomes:

A comprehensive understanding of AI, and AI tools and their importance in today's HR and career development ecosystem.
Insights into leveraging AI tools while focusing on equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Practical, actionable strategies and solutions for adopting AI in educational settings, and career development.
Exclusive demo of Magnet’s PathPilot tool, an AI Career Assistant and co-pilot that organizations can train on their data.

Mark Patterson

Executive Director, Magnet

Mark Patterson is a visionary leader known for his profound dedication to fostering innovation
in workforce development. With an extensive background in both the public and private
sectors, Mark established Magnet at Toronto Metropolitan University with a mission of
bridging the gap between employers, talent, and training needs through cutting-edge digital
infrastructure.

Mark's approach is characterized by a unique blend of innovation, collaboration, and a deep
understanding of the dynamics of the labor market, making him a respected figure among
peers and an inspiration to aspiring professionals in the field.

Bridging the Gap: Empowering Students through Industry Collaborations

Facilitated by: Holly Shimaro

Location: Centennial 4

In today’s dynamic job market, the collaboration between educational institutions and employers is more crucial than ever. This presentation delves into the mutual benefits of employer engagement in education, demonstrating how these partnerships can significantly enhance student learning experiences and career development while providing employers with a pipeline of skilled talent.

As an Industry Engagement Officer, Holly will share practical strategies, student testimonials, and proven best practices that have fostered successful partnerships at MITT. Attendees will gain insights into the importance of these collaborations, learn how to initiate and sustain them, and maximize outcomes.

Intended Audience:
Educators, career counselors, and industry professionals interested in enhancing educational outcomes through effective employer engagement.

Learning Outcomes:

Understand the significance of employer engagement in enhancing student employability skills.
Identify effective strategies for developing and maintaining employer partnerships.
Explore the impact of employer engagement on student success.

Holly Shimaro

Industry Engagement Officer, Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology

Holly Shimaro is the Industry Engagement Officer at the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT), where she has been a valued member of the Career and Employment Services team for six years.

Holly's journey at MITT began with a term position as the Empower Program Recruiter, a government-funded initiative designed to encourage and support women in pursuing careers in trades. As an alumna of MITT, Holly brings a unique and personal perspective to her work. She is deeply passionate about inspiring students to realize their full potential, step out of their comfort zones, and explore new career opportunities. In her current role, Holly is dedicated to building strong connections with employers and industry partners, effectively bridging the gap between education and the workforce.

Wielding the Sword and the Shield: Career Development and a Just Transition

Facilitated by: Trevor Lehmann

Location: Centennial 5

Concerned about the state of the world but unsure how to act as a career professional? This presentation is for you.

Participants Will Explore:

The impact of ecological changes on mental health and career development.
The concept of Good and Decent Work in relation to psychological theories and a Just Transition.
Strategies for raising consciousness within counselling sessions and promoting broader societal change.

Trevor Lehmann

Chair, Climate-Informed Counsellors Chapter, CCPA

Trevor Lehmann holds an M.Ed. in Counselling Psychology and serves as the Chair of the Climate-Informed Counsellors Chapter of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). With a deep commitment to career development, grief and loss, organized labour, and climate psychology, Trevor has made significant contributions in these areas. His writings can be found at https://trevorlehmann.ca.

Career Highlights:

Founding President of the Climate-Informed Counselling Chapter of the CCPA
Former Co-Chair of the Advocacy and Community Engagement Committee of CERIC
First Humanist Chaplain at the University of Manitoba

Trevor brings over 10 years of experience in Canadian post-secondary education, where he has assisted domestic and international students of all ages and academic levels, from high school to PhD, in making informed academic and career decisions. His counselling expertise extends beyond academia, with experience in non-profit community organizations, providing mental health support, including career development and grief counselling. He has also spent five years with Palliative Manitoba, offering grief and bereavement support.