Description

For small and medium-sized businesses, finding the right people is only part of the challenge. Competition for skilled, innovative and experienced talent continues to intensify, and many organizations find themselves competing against larger employers with greater resources. In this environment, relying on traditional hiring methods alone is no longer enough. Businesses that succeed are building deliberate pipelines that bring talent in and give people a reason to stay.

Caitlyn Bontje, Senior HR Generalist at Tenfold HR Solutions and Ian Stephenson, Director of PowerED, will examine how organizations can take a more strategic approach to recruitment and retention. It will explore how partnerships with post-secondary institutions can connect employers with emerging talent, support workforce development and strengthen long-term retention. They will also share practical strategies for developing alternative talent pipelines beyond conventional hiring, and for evaluating a candidate's work experience alongside their formal education to find the right fit.

The goal is to leave with a clearer picture of where your next great hire may come from and practical strategies to help your business remain competitive in an ever-changing economy. The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to partner with CPHR Alberta to present this session as part of Small Business Week 2026.