Colonel Chris Hadfield’s star will shine on region

The Columbia Basin Symposium SHIFT! Thriving in Change takes place in Kimberley, October 13 to 15, 2017

by Keith Powell — June 11, 2017

Chris Hadfield is the keynote speaker for Columbia Basin Symposium — Photo courtesy NASA

Canadian astronaut Colonel Chris Hadfield thrives in change. He became an astronaut in 1992 and went on to become the first Canadian to walk in space, operate the Canadarm in orbit and command the International Space Station. He has since become a bestselling author and sought-after public speaker, sharing his experiences about managing complexity and change.

Which makes him a perfect fit to be the keynote speaker for the Columbia Basin Symposium SHIFT! Thriving in Change taking place in Kimberley, October 13 to 15, 2017.

“Change is inevitable, here in the Columbia Basin and around the globe,” said Johnny Strilaeff, Columbia Basin Trust President and Chief Executive Officer. “Do we worry about these changes or do we find ways to become stronger because of them? The goal of this Symposium is to inspire the latter. I hope a wide range of people from around the region will join us to discover opportunities to thrive in the face of these new realities.”

Sessions and presenters will focus on how to harness opportunities from three global trends: shifting demographics in our communities, rapidly evolving technology and the changing climate. How can businesses offer new services that take advantage of a warmer climate? How can organizations increase productivity through technology? How can communities serve and benefit from populations that are becoming more culturally diverse?

Everyone is welcome to attend the symposium: whether you are involved with a non-profit, local government, business, industry, or are generally interested in the well-being of your community and this region. Some sessions will be streamed online; check the program for more details.

Are you already thriving in change and seeing success from embracing one of these three trends? Apply to be an exhibitor to showcase how you are making these changes work for your community, organization, business or region. Learn more at ourtrust.org/callfordisplays.

Columbia Basin Trust supports the ideas and efforts of the people in the Columbia Basin. We’re committed to hosting a Basin-wide symposium every three to four years to help the region work toward solutions to shared challenges, celebrate accomplishments and develop interconnectedness between residents.

Col. Chris Hadfield will also speak to youth and the public in Cranbrook on Friday, October 13, at Western Financial Place. Watch for more details in your local newspaper.

Registration for this free event is now open at ourtrust.org/symposium.