Dedicated to providing leadership and vision to support strategic economic growth within our community

April 1, 2026

April Notes

As we head into spring, there’s a lot coming up that I’m looking forward to sharing with you!

Our AGM on April 15 is an important moment for the Chamber as we reflect on last year and elect the board for the next year!

The Annual Mayoral Luncheon and State of the City Address will be held on May 27 is always a great opportunity to come together as a business community. Tickets will be released in mid-April.

We’re also getting ready to launch our non-profit workshop series, along with a new series designed to support business owners and their teams. More details will be coming soon.

If there’s a workshop topic you’d find valuable, I’d love to hear your ideas.

We are continuing our Thursday Spotlight on social media and newsletter spotlights. If you’re interested in being featured on our social media or in an upcoming newsletter, please reach out - those features are one of our favourite ways to showcase our members!

A quick reminder as well to continue supporting local. Our Business Directory is a great resource when you’re looking for services or products, and choosing Chamber members is a meaningful way to support the people and businesses that make our community what it is.

Thank you, as always, for being part of it.

Sincerely,

Christine Jontz-Barbour

Executive Director

New Members in March

Welcome to our new members!

Upcoming Events

Build Your Workforce

Build Your Future Workforce with Okanagan College

Looking to grow your team and tap into local talent? OC Works makes it simple to connect with Okanagan College students through Work-Integrated Learning (WIL).

This easy-to-use platform helps employers explore opportunities, access resources, and build a stronger workforce—without adding complexity to your day-to-day operations.

Why Consider OC Works?

Partnering with Okanagan College gives your business access to skilled, motivated students across key industries like food, wine, tourism, technology, and construction.

Here’s what that can look like for your business:

• Early access to emerging talent

• Reduced recruitment and onboarding costs

• Flexible placement options that fit your needs

• Extra capacity as students support projects and day-to-day work

• Guidance on available funding opportunities

• A stronger pipeline of future employees aligned with your business

What is OC Works?

OC Works is a centralized, employer-focused hub designed to make Work-Integrated Learning straightforward and accessible.



Through the platform, you can:

• Learn how WIL can support your business

• Explore different placement options and models

• Access tools, resources, and employer events

• Get real-time answers through an AI assistant

• Connect directly with Okanagan College Career Services

Flexible Ways to Work with Students

Whether you need short-term support or a longer-term placement, there are options to fit your operations, including:

• Co-op placements

• Internships

• Practicums and field placements

• Service-learning projects

• Applied research projects

Support Every Step of the Way

You won’t be navigating this alone. Employers receive:

• Clear onboarding tools and guidelines

• Training on working with students (including diversity and inclusion)

• Evaluation tools and best practices

• Ongoing support and engagement opportunities

Get Started

Join a growing network of employers investing in the future workforce—while strengthening your own.

👉 Visit OC-Works.ca to learn more and get connected.