I was able to attend my first Vancouver Island Economic Alliance (VIEA) Summit in October. As I had never attended before, I did my research, mainly online as well as reading back issues of Douglas Magazine. I quickly learned what huge event this was; an Extreme Networking Event!
© 2016 HA Photography
© 2016 HA Photography
© 2016 HA Photography
© 2016 HA Photography
Day 1 of the event, I was able to register early and to take part in the Pre-Summit Bonus Session— Tech Showcase: Innovation on Vancouver Island. I was impressed and energized and wanted to learn more. I attended each Summit session eager to learn and take notes and network with those sitting next to me. By the end of the first day, I was pumped with all of the information I had gained and awesome people I was able to meet.
As Day 2 began, I was able to take a tour of the exhibitors at the Tradeshow before heading to Breakfast to receive the much anticipated State of the Island Economic Report. This report really solidified what I was learning from the Summit. As the day progressed I was able to attend a great session on Building the Makerspace Movement and then off to lunch where Premier Christy Clark was speaking. At the end of the day I shared the all of the information I had learned from the sessions with the team at my office.
Some tips for a first time attendee at the Summit: Bring lots of business cards and be ready to receive lots. Bring a notebook and extra pens as you will want to write down the innovative ideas and details of what’s happening on Vancouver Island!
Since attending my first VIEA event and being around so many awesome people, I can’t wait until the next Summit.
Chris Callanan
Employer Services Coordinator
North Island Employment
Campbell River, BC
