HSPC conference in Edmonton 'an absolute labour of love'
Next week, the Health and Safety Professionals Canada (HSPC) will host its 75th-anniversary Professional Development Conference in Edmonton, from July 15th to 17th. This milestone event promises to be a blend of nostalgia and forward-thinking, encapsulating decades of dedication to occupational health and safety.
“We're off and running here, preparing for a week that’s been in the making for a long time,” shares Christl Aggus, CEO of HSPC and one of the key organizers. This sentiment captures the collective excitement surrounding the event, set to draw over 300 delegates and 35 exhibitors from across the globe.
Engaging sessions and international insights
The conference will feature an array of sessions focusing on leadership, sustainable practices, and innovation in occupational health and safety. Among the anticipated highlights are presentations from international speakers, offering fresh perspectives on safety practices from different parts of the world. “It's a good thing for our Canadian health and safety people to spread their wings... to see that what we do is not that different,” Aggus remarks. This global dialogue aims to enrich the Canadian safety community with diverse, effective strategies.
The Steampunk Gala: A night to remember
A major highlight of the event is the gala, themed "Time Travelers' Ball," reflecting the journey from past to future. “The team has put a lot into that time traveler theme,” Aggus notes, expressing excitement about the creative decorations and interactive elements. Attendees are encouraged to dress in steampunk attire or costumes representing different time periods. “We chose that theme because of the 75 years and tying in the old and new,” she explains, adding that it will be a memorable night filled with food, music, and community spirit.
Awards and recognition
The gala will also include the presentation of three prestigious awards, including Safety Professional of the Year. This moment of recognition underscores HSPC’s commitment to celebrating excellence within the field. “We have three awards for top safety professionals that we will be handing out over dinner,” Aggus highlights. These awards not only honor individual achievements but also inspire ongoing dedication to workplace safety.
Emotional milestones and future aspirations
For Aggus, the conference holds personal significance. “It's going to be one of those super emotional things... an absolute labour of love,” she says. The event represents the culmination of HSPC's evolution, transitioning from the Canadian Society of Safety Engineering (CSSE) to its current identity. This transformation has been a meticulous process, aimed at aligning the organization with contemporary safety challenges and opportunities.
As the event draws nearer, Aggus remains optimistic and excited. “I’m so looking forward to seeing people back in their natural element,” she reflects, emphasizing the importance of face-to-face interactions after years of virtual meetings. The conference not only marks a historic milestone but also sets the stage for future advancements in health and safety practices.
For more details on the conference and to register, visit the official HSPC website. Join the celebration of 75 years of dedication to workplace safety and be part of shaping the future of the profession.
