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Overview

Since its launch in 1981, the Annual Alberta Labour Arbitration and Policy Conference has served as a cornerstone gathering for Alberta’s labour relations community—offering not only timely legal and policy updates but also valuable networking opportunities with leading voices in the field.

This year’s conference brings together top arbitrators, lawyers, union representatives, and HR professionals for in-depth discussions on the most pressing developments in labour arbitration and workplace policy. Expert-led panels will cover critical topics such as recent case law, legislative changes, policy trends, and the practical challenges shaping today’s labour landscape in Alberta.

The conference will feature concurrent panels and hands-on workshops, allowing attendees to customize their experience by choosing the sessions most relevant to their interests and professional roles. With a strong emphasis on connection and collaboration, this event is designed to foster dialogue, spark new ideas, and strengthen professional relationships across the labour relations community.

Whether you’re navigating complex arbitration issues or refining your workplace strategies, the Alberta conference offers the insight, flexibility, and network you need to stay ahead.

What to Expect

The event begins with an evening networking reception, providing a relaxed setting to connect with fellow attendees, speakers, and leaders from the labour community. This will be followed by an evening plenary session, offering thought-provoking discussion to set the stage for the next day’s program.

The following day features a full schedule of expert-led panels, including concurrent sessions that allow participants to tailor their experience by choosing the topics most relevant to their interests and professional needs. Panelists will represent union-side, employer-side, and neutral perspectives, offering balanced, practical insights through moderated discussions. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions—either verbally or electronically—at the end of each session.

In addition to the live content, participants will receive a comprehensive package of digital materials, including textbook chapters, case summaries, and other carefully curated resources. Developed through extensive research by Lancaster House program lawyers, these materials are designed to support continued learning long after the event.

Who Should Attend?

This conference will provide invaluable learning and networking opportunities for professionals involved in shaping and managing workplace policy, arbitration, and labour relations. It is designed for individuals across a range of industries, including:

  • Arbitrators & Mediators – Decision-makers and dispute resolution professionals seeking to stay current with evolving practices and jurisprudence.
  • Negotiators & Bargaining Agents – Professionals involved in collective bargaining looking to strengthen their strategies and deepen their understanding of recent legal and policy developments.
  • Human Resources Leaders – HR managers, directors, and disability management specialists navigating workplace accommodations, discipline, and compliance.
  • Employment & Labour Lawyers – Legal professionals seeking updates on arbitration trends, case law, and legislative changes.
  • Union Representatives & Labour Relations Experts – Advocates working to ensure fair treatment in the workplace and effective collective bargaining outcomes.
  • Corporate Executives & Compliance Officers – Business leaders responsible for aligning workplace policies with legal requirements and best practices.
  • Government & Public Sector Professionals – HR and legal representatives working within municipal, provincial, and federal public service contexts.

Whether you are resolving disputes, negotiating agreements, or developing workplace policy, this conference offers the insights and connections you need to stay informed and effective.

Learning Outcomes

By attending this conference, you will:

✔ Stay up to date on the latest developments in labour arbitration, workplace policy, and employment law across Alberta.

✔ Strengthen your skills in interpreting and applying arbitration awards, legislative changes, and policy decisions in real-world workplace contexts.

✔ Gain practical strategies for resolving disputes, drafting effective workplace policies, and navigating complex issues in collective bargaining.

✔ Learn from leading arbitrators, legal experts, union and employer representatives through engaging discussions and case-based analysis.

✔ Connect with fellow practitioners, negotiators, and decision-makers to expand your professional network and exchange ideas.

Sample Materials

Thursday, June 18, 2026

Coming Soon.

Friday June 19, 2026

Coming Soon.

Food and Beverages

Breakfast and lunch to be provided, with a variety of snacks and refreshments available during breaks. Breakfast is provided prior to the workshop and will be available starting at 8:00 am. Please share any dietary requirements at the time of registration so we can best accommodate your needs.

Pricing

Alberta Labour Arbitration and Policy Conference – Day 1

$1,495.00Add to cart

Alberta Labour Arbitration and Policy Conference – Day 2

$1,495.00Add to cart

Bundle pricing is available:

Alberta Labour Arbitration and Policy Conference – Bundle (Conference Day + Workshop)

$1,995.00Add to cart

Conference Co-Chairs

Tom Hesse

President
United Food and commercial workers Canada local 401

Jacqueline Lacasse

General Counsel and VP People & Culture
University of Calgary

Jeremy Schick

Vice-Chair with the Labour Relations Board

Advisory Committee

Mark Asbell, K.C.

Arbitrator, Mediator, and Adjudicator
Asbell Dispute Resolutions

Clayton Cook

Union Counsel
McGowan Cook

Marcella Clarke

Senior Labour Relations Advisor
Alberta Health Services

Jackie Laviolette

Employer Counsel
Matthews Dinsdale & Clarke

Nancy Schelsinger

Chair and Essential Services Commissioner
Alberta Labour Relations Board

Ben Zorn

Manager of Labour Relations
AUPE

CPD

Lancaster House provides professional education programs that qualify for CPD credit for human resources professionals, lawyers, and paralegals across Canada. More details regarding specific approvals from CPD accreditors to come.

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