APEGA Branch Orientation President’s Visits

The President’s visits to branches should be considered as a special event in the community during which the professions, community leaders and educators are brought together.

Event raises awareness of APEGA and the contributions the engineering and geoscience professions bring to their communities.

President’s visits to the Branches differ between the large urban centers (Edmonton and Calgary) and other Branches around the province.

Edmonton and Calgary President’s visits – luncheon only  President’s presentation is usually focused on a topic or theme.  Feedback received :  desire to see more interactive dialogue in future with members present and the President  More participatory in nature

 Event usually attended by a large number of dignitaries from all orders of government, as well as business leaders such as the Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development Authority, school officials and post-secondary officials.  A dignitary representing each order of government is invited to bring brief greetings.  These Branches present voluntary service awards throughout the year, including during the President’s visit luncheon.

 Life Membership, Engineers Canada Fellowships, and now the Geoscientists Canada Fellowships, and the new Member Induction Ceremony are stand-alone events during the year and do not occur during the President’s visit because of time constraints.  Visits with permit holders take place on an on-going basis throughout the year with the President and CEO.

Other Branch Visits by the President:  Usually take place during the day  Often commence with a private luncheon with the Branch Executive  Allows the Executive private time with the President and CEO to raise any issues they wish  If a private lunch is not possible because members are spread out in the Branch, a private reception is offered prior to the main public reception

 Activities during the day also provide an opportunity for the President to:  Meet with permit holders and tour their facilities  Visit with local officials  Mayor  Member of the Legislative Assembly  Chamber of Commerce  Economic Development Authority  College or University heads  Connect with local media

 Program for the evening includes:  Greetings from local dignitaries  Voluntary Service Awards  Life Membership Recognition  Engineers Canada Fellowships  Geoscientists Canada Fellowships  New Member Induction Ceremony  President’s presentation, followed by Q & A

 Some branches choose to hold their Annual Meetings at the same time, at the end of the program, allowing for dignitaries and other guests who are not members, to depart if they need to.

 Common theme from Past Branch Chairs who are now on Council or have been on Council  Attracting more local community leaders heightens the awareness of APEGA members in the community  Dignitaries add to the prestige of the event which is believed to be another factor that encourages members to attend  Event provides invaluable networking opportunity with business leaders and colleagues

 You are all important members of your community.  We are here to help raise the awareness of your professions and the many contributions you make.  Annamaria and I will work closely with you to ensure that you are consulted with respect to special invitations to your Branch President’s visit event and all other details.

 Encourage you to get involved in your community as well  Chamber of Commerce  Rotary  Other boards... ... to give you the foundation to run for APEGA Council and participate in policy direction for your professions.

 One last important comment... remember to vote in the Council elections and encourage your colleagues in the Branch to vote as well.  We hope to see many of your names on the ballot in the coming years!