Head To The Mountains Where Adventure Awaits
By / par Robin Baldwin
Thank you once again to everyone who joined us in Ottawa for the 60th Conference celebrations! As much fun as we had, Whistler will bring adventures and experiences that our Nation’s Capital just can’t.
Take in the breathtaking views along the Sea-to-Sky highway as you wind your way up the Pacific Coast from Vancouver into the Coast Mountains. Your destination—Whistler Village—is nestled between the Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains on the Traditional Territories of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and Lil̓wat7úl (Lil’wat) Nations.
Here’s What Has Been Planned So Far…
The Conference is being hosted at the Westin Resort & Spa, located in the heart of Whistler Village. The hotel is located at the base of Whistler Mountain, steps from the Whistler Village Gondola and Mountain Square.
The Conference will kick-off on Wednesday, August 23, with the Manufacturer and Distributor Reception. Join us to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. A destination like Whistler will be sure to attract many first-time attendees, so be sure to introduce yourself and welcome them to the TIAC family!
Thursday’s program will kick-off with a presentation from Dr. Kimberley Amirault-Ryan who is a Performance Consultant to the NHL, NBA, and Olympians. Kimberly has worked at five Olympic Games, including Whistler in 2010, with the gold medal winning women’s hockey, cross country skiing, and speedskating teams.
Up next will be Jamie McMillan, Founder of KickAss Careers and advocate for the skilled trades. Jamie became an ironworker in 2002 when women only represented 2% of the construction workforce across Canada and the United States. She thoroughly understands the struggles and challenges of working in a male-dominated workforce and is on a mission to break down the negative misconceptions and stereotypes. In 2019, Jamie was named a co-chair of a National Skilled Trades Advisory Committee to create a campaign to promote careers in skilled trades as first choice pathways for youth.
The spousal/family program will also be kicking off this day. Stay tuned for exciting activity announcements!
On Thursday evening, we will take a ride on the Whistler Village Gondola to 1,850 m above sea level. From the Roundhouse Lodge’s Glacier View Room, you will enjoy spectacular views of Whistler Peak and Blackcomb Mountain. Dinner with a view!
On Friday morning, we will hear from our friends at NIA and have a special presentation by Lisa “Longball” Vlooswyk. Lisa is a Peak Performance specialist, and she will share her journey with you, including how she went from a high handicap recreational adult golfer to being ranked second in the world and one of the longest hitters on the planet.
Lisa will then join us at the Whistler Golf Club, where you will be able to chat with her and get tips. Lisa was the first woman to ever hit the length of 3½ NFL football fields in competition (350 yards 2 feet 2 inches). Could she drive your ball that far? For a donation to the Western Canada Mesothelioma Fund, she just might!
Friday evening is the open night, so get out and have an adventure!
Saturday’s program will include more technical presentations and a preview of the 2024 Conference being held in St. John’s, NL, from August 21-24, 2024. For our adventurous members, we will also be offering ATV and zipline activities.
The Conference will wrap up with the President’s Ball, which will feature Whistler’s official anthem band, Ruckus Deluxe!
Your TIAC board is excited to see you and your families this summer! ▪
