Workforce Solutions:
Recruiting & Retention Lunch N Learn
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The Workforce Solutions: Recruiting & Retention Lunch & Learn is a targeted event crafted to support HR professionals in the transportation industry. This seminar addresses the unique challenges of recruiting and retaining top talent in a competitive and evolving market. Through expert-led discussions and an engaging panel, attendees will gain actionable insights, innovative strategies, and practical tools tailored to building a resilient workforce. The event also highlights best practices for creating a thriving workplace culture, reducing turnover, and driving sustainable growth, making it an invaluable resource for HR managers seeking to enhance their hiring practices and employee retention efforts.
- Feb 26, 2025
- 08:30 AM - 02:00PM
- Sandman Signature Mississauga Hotel 5400 Dixie Rd, Mississauga, L4W 4T4.
Conference Agenda
- 08:00 AM - 08:40 AM
Breakfast, Registration & Opening Remarks
Master of Ceremony
Ramon Calanza, CHRL, CPC, CCLP - HR Leader, Principal, Professor, Speaker, Advocate for the Transportation Industry - MERE HR & Consulting
Over 18 years of progressive HR experience, specializing in talent acquisition, recruitment strategy, and retention. - Expertise in HR strategy alignment, compliance, and employer branding across complex, regulated industries. - Led successful recruitment campaigns and introduced innovative programs like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, increasing talent diversity. - Proven track record in implementing AI-driven recruitment processes, improving efficiency and reducing administrative workloads. - Experienced in executive placements for mid-senior roles, focusing on transportation, logistics, and supply chain sectors. - Strong background in business development, workforce planning, and client relations, driving growth and revenue.
Francois Jeddi - Fleet Expert, Sales Manager Commercial Heavy Equipment Training (CHET)
I began my career in California back eighties as a professional driver. I was the youngest fleet trainer in Ontario. I transitioned into many sectors of the industry serving both Canada and the states. I have had my fleet Singing Authority since the nineties I served as director of safety for a major transportation company. I have been a leader in safety and countless students through my years of training. As the lead instructor / Sales Manager for CHET / Musket Transport Driving College, my purpose is to provide quality industry training to the new candidates so they are prepared for industry expectations.
- 08:40 AM - 09:00 AM
Trucking Industry Updates
Speaker
Hammad Hassan- Program Manager of Explore Trucking Careers at the Toronto Business Development Centre (TBDC)
Hammad is the Program Manager of Explore Trucking Careers at the Toronto Business Development Centre (TBDC). With a decade of experience in the trucking industry and recruitment, he has worked with notable companies like Challenger Motor Freight. Now, he leads all trucking-related initiatives at TBDC, helping connect job seekers with opportunities in the industry
Julien Bigras - President - Corporate Finance Services, Core Capital Group
He has been active in the Equipment Finance & Leasing Industry for the past 20+ years holding Senior Management positions at Canadian Banking Institutions, US Captive Finance Companies & Independent Leasing Companies. He currently sits on the Board of the Canadian Finance & Leasing Association (CFLA) and is Principal & President of CORE Capital Group spearheading the delivery of its deep value proposition to its wide range of Clients, Vendors & Finance Partners.
- 09:00 AM - 09:45 AM
Driver Training, Development & Mentorship - Effective mentorship programs for new and experienced drivers
Focus:
- The importance of structured training programs
- Strategies to enhance driver skills and retention
- The role of technology in driver education
Moderator & Panelists
Evelyn Cartmill - Risk Consulting at AIG Insurance Industry
Evelyn Cartmill works for AIG Insurance Company of Canada as a Senior Risk Consultant in Commercial Trucking for the 13 years. Evelyn worked for another insurer for 8 years and in the industry working for a carrier in both Human Resources and Safety.She has been in trucking since the early 90’s working for a large carrier who operated in Canada, US and Mexico.Obtaining her HR degree, CRM and CDS certifications during these years.
Josh Potts - HR Manager at Musket Transport Ltd
With nearly 20 years of experience in driver recruitment and management within the transportation industry, I am committed to connecting top-tier drivers with rewarding career opportunities. Additionally, I am passionate about supporting the next generation of drivers by identifying effective training and mentoring programs that equip them for success while meeting the evolving needs of modern fleets.
Jeremy Vittie - EHS & Compliance Manager GFL Environmental Inc.
Jeremy has over 25 years of experience in the transportation industry relating to Safety, training, fleet maintenance and general management. Jeremy built and implemented training modules for new hires, Train the Trainers, Driver retention programs, Mental Health initiatives, Standard Operating Procedures, Equipment design, Compliance Audits and Site inspections. Jeremy is a GFL representative for the Fleet Safety Council, GFL`s in house certified Air Brake Instructor and Certified Driver Trainer while overseeing all Ontario Solid sites with initiatives, Safety and Compliance measures, Driver vetting and remedial action planning while establishing a stronger Safety Culture at all levels of operations.
Randy Ramkissoon - NFP at Aon Company
RIBO certified,
CAIB accreditation,
Risk Management accreditation,
Over 10 years of extensive experience in the trucking industry as an insurance broker.
- Attends, supports and speaks at Driver Meetings to help create awareness
- Risk Management advice
- Arranges Training for drivers based on violations, convictions and accidents
- Supports safety and compliance team
- Accident Committee sit in and review
- Discussed various topics Posted on YouTube (nothing as of late)
- Insurance Audit preparations
- Longstanding relationships wit the insurance companies in this line of business
- Action Plan advice and input
Denise Peavoy - Driver Safety & Development Manager at Innocon
My name is Denise Peavoy. I have been in the ready mix industry for 27yrs. I have been fortunate in my time to work in many different positions which has provided me with a well rounded understanding of our industry. My current position is Driver safety & development manager for Innocon ready mix. I have a great respect for our drivers and enjoy supporting them through education, training and on site safety visits, and in cab ride alongs.
Abdullah Raja - Director of Operations at Day To Day Logistics Inc
Abdullah has been immersed in the trucking and transportation industry from an early age, growing up around 18-wheelers with both of his parents being truckers. He joined Day To Day in 2016 and has played a key role in its growth, helping the company expand from just 30 power units to a thriving operation with over 150 power units actively running across North America.
- 09:45 AM - 10:30 AM
MELT Program & Ontario Career Colleges
Focus:
- Updates on MELT requirements and new regulatory changes
- How career colleges are shaping the future driver workforce
Moderator & Panelists
Michael Zelek - Sales Manager - Ontario and Western Canada for DataDis
Mike Zelek has been working in transportation for nearly 15 years. He has worked in Logistics, Dispatch, Recruiting and Human Resources before settling into his role Sales Manager at DataDis. Mike was named the National Recruiter of the Year at the National Recruiting and Retention Symposium in 2021 and has led Wellington to six straight years of being named one of the Best Fleets to Drive For. Mike has presented at many industry events and currently volunteers on several transportation related committees. He strives to improve the driver recruiting and retention process on an industry level. When not at work, he can likely be found on the golf course, hockey rink or squash courts.
Jim Campbell at Operations Manager OTDS EAST Ontario Truck Driving School
Employed in the Manufacturing and logistics sector from 1978 to 2005 specializing in “just in time” order completion for scheduled shipments.ABMZ licenced, Air Brake Signing Authority, School Bus Driver Improvement Instructor, Insurance Directed Driver Improvement Instructor, Women Trucking Federation of Canada advocate, Impirica’s ExeleRATE evaluator, certified IMVR instructor, OTDS program creator, corporate client liaison.2007 attended a 6 month program at CATI (Canadian Automotive and Transportation Institute) in Cambridge ON (followed by co-op training with Zavcor Trucking and Spring Creek Carriers)2008 hired by Ontario Truck Driving School to manage their 5th Campus located in Niagara On The Lake ONadded Managing Brantford Campus and Kitchener Campus to my duties since then.2010 to 2018 Held various Board of Directors positions for the Truck Training Schools Association of Ontario2020 founding member of the Continental Transport Safety Association holding the position of President.
Sandra Graham - Operations Manager at CHET
My career started in 1989 as a professional truck driver / owner operator was a professional driver to 2010 travelled all of Canada, America states also delivered freight to Dawson City and Whitehorse.2010 went back to school to become a safety professional and driver trainer, spent 10 years working for various companies as their Driver Trainer for new recruits, Recruiter, Safety Manager and now in 2022 became the Operations Manager for Commercial Heavy Equipment Training (CHET) this is an unbelievable achievement as I am the only female manager of a school that is not owned by a female. To be able to spread my knowledge and expertise to the new members of the industry is a phenomenal achievement. I will be training the new generation of professional drivers for as long as I can.
Christine VanderZwaag - Manager - Product & Business Development at Techni-com Inc
Techni-Com has been part of the commercial transportation industry in Canada and the USA since 1996. Producing and publishing compliance, safety, and training products for the trucking industry.Our major product brands include the terms "practical" and "essential" and that says a lot about the approach we use to create products that support training and compliance.We help reduce compliance paperwork, improve completion and ensure accuracy.Christine specialties include an in depth understanding of the Commercial Truck Driver Training standard, Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005 and rules relating to DCP organizations.
Yvette Lagrois - President of Ontario Truck Training Academy
Yvette Lagrois, President of Ontario Truck Training Academy. With over 25 years in developing Commercial Drivers for a extensive list of Corporate Canada Clients, she has a first hand understanding of what can be accomplished at the entry level driver training and what is employable. Key Performance Indicators are an impressive 100% satisfaction by employers for Ontario Truck Training Academy.Yvette, and her school are members of the TTSAO for over 20 and past chairwoman of TTSAO, During her Presidency, Yvette has co-ordinate training standards for a core members. Ontario Truck Training Academy is respected members of the Ontario Trucking Association, Private Motor Truck Council, Durham Region Transportation Association and Durham Fleet Safety Council.
Sukhi Parhar - CEO & Lead Instructor - Caledon Truck Driving School
I’ve spent nearly 15 years in the trucking industry, gaining hands-on experience from the field to management. Currently, I serve as the President of Caledon Truck Driving School, where I focus on delivering top-tier driver training. In addition to my leadership role, I hold an Air Brakes Signing Authority, underscoring my technical expertise. I’m passionate about helping new drivers succeed and advancing the trucking industry through professional development and training.
- 10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
Power Break
- 10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
The role of compliance, insurance, and legal considerations
Focus:
- Best practices for fleet safety and risk management
- The role of compliance, insurance, and legal considerations
- How mentorship can contribute to long-term safety success
Moderator & Panelists
Scott Cober - National Practice Leader , Transportation at BFL CANADA
He is joined BFL CANADA in October 2018 after leaving one of the largest Global Insurance Brokerages where for 12 years he also held the role as National Practice Leader for Transportation. He has 30 years of insurance experience and holds an Insurance Diploma from Mohawk College. He has achieved the Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) designation, and Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker (CAIB) designation. His experience and skills in off-shore captives, alternative risk solutions, expertise in Telematics / Behaviour Technology and the Sharing / Gig Economy have proven to be beneficial and profitable to many clients.
Gregg Iannuzzi - Executive Director at Joseph haulage
With over 20 years of experience in the trucking industry, Gregg has spent the last 15 years with Joseph Group. Starting as a field safety officer, Gregg quickly advanced to safety manager through a combination of formal courses and hands-on experience. This growth journey culminated in Gregg's role as Director of Safety, where he honed leadership and operational expertise.Throughout his career, Gregg gained valuable knowledge in various operational roles, from dispatch to divisional management. Today, as the Executive Vice President of the Liquid Bulk Group, Gregg continues to embrace learning and growth, driving safety and operational excellence every day.
Nasir Awan - Director Safety and Compliance - Hunter Express
Experienced Safety and Compliance Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the transportation /trucking/railroad industry. Skilled in Negotiation, Operations Management, Analytical Skills, Government, and Quality Management.
Faraz Cheema - Vice President at CHEEMA CARRIERS CORP
As Vice President of Cheema Carriers Corp, I bring over 10 years of experience in logistics and transportation. I lead efforts to optimize operations, drive business growth, and ensure the safe, timely delivery of goods across Canada and the U.S.I am focused on leveraging technology and sustainable practices to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact. My leadership is centered on collaboration, integrity, and empowering teams to excel.With a proven track record in scaling operations and fostering client relationships, I am committed to driving Cheema Carriers Corp’s continued success.
Jamie Beaudoin (he, him) - Senior Risk Control Consultant, Transportation and fleet - Intact Insurance
Jamie Beaudoin is a seasoned transportation safety and risk management professional with a career spanning from the driver’s seat to key advisory roles in the insurance industry. Beginning as a commercial driver, Jamie gained firsthand experience navigating North America’s transportation sector before transitioning into management and training roles.As a driver trainer and signing authority, Jamie played a pivotal role in mentoring new drivers and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. This expertise led to a position as a field safety specialist and later as a safety supervisor for one of Canada’s largest carriers, where they were responsible for fleet safety, compliance, and risk mitigation strategies for over 1,000 power units.Building on this extensive operational knowledge, Jamie transitioned into the insurance sector as a risk control consultant. In this role, they provide critical insights to underwriters, conduct fleet risk assessments, and support insured parties with compliance strategies, loss prevention, and safety improvements. With a deep understanding of both transportation operations and risk management, Jamie is dedicated to enhancing fleet safety and reducing exposure for insurers and motor carriers alike.
Kirsten Hinz - Director of Eastern Truckload Operations at TransX Group of Companies
Kirsten is a seasoned leader in the trucking and transportation industry, bringing nearly 20 years of in-depth experience across various sectors of the field. Her extensive background spans a wide range of roles, from operations to strategic management, giving her a comprehensive understanding of the industry's complexities and challenges. Her progression within the company reflects her strategic thinking, strong leadership abilities, and commitment to the field. She has hands-on knowledge of the industry, having navigated technological advancements, regulatory changes, and shifting market trends. As the Director of Eastern Truckload Operations at TransX Group of Companies, she brings valuable insights into transportation, logistics, and the critical role of safety compliance in success. Her experience will offer a practical, real-world perspective for our panel.
- 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM
Lunch Break
- 12:15 PM – 12:45 PM
Fireside Chat: Trucking Workforce Trends and Developments
Focus:
- Current conditions in the industry’s workforce
- Long-term trends and their implications
- Bridging the gap that still exists
Panelists
Jonathan Blackham - Director, Policy and Public Affairs - Ontario Trucking Association
Jon Blackham is the Director of Policy and Public Affairs with both the Ontario Trucking Association (OTA) and the Canadian Trucking Alliance (CTA). Jon has worked for both organizations for over ten years and leads many of the provincial and national files related to labour, immigration, and taxation. Jon has undergraduate degrees in political science and communications from Wilfrid Laurier University and a Master of Public Policy degree from the Hertie School of Governance in Berlin, Germany.
Chris Davies – Chief Strategy Officer at TruckRight and KAT Media
Prior to joining TruckRight and its sister company KAT Media in 2022, Chris Davies spent more than 25 years as a writer, creative director, marketer and business strategist at renowned agencies such as Taxi (VML), Hill & Knowlton Strategies (WPP), Sharpe Blackmore Euro RSCG (Havas) and Bimm (Kyu). Chris has across a wide range of channels and business verticals, with a particular focus on technology, energy, automotive and transportation.
- 12:45 PM - 01:30 PM
Recruiting and Retention - Case studies on successful recruiting and retention strategies
Focus:
- Innovative Recruiting Methods
- Effective Onboarding Processes
- Strategies for maintaining a positive company culture and improving job satisfaction
- Training and Development Opportunities
- Work-life balance strategies and flexible scheduling to reduce burnout
Moderator & Panelists
Terry Gardiner - Business Development Manager at ISAAC Instruments
Helping fleets reduce cost and improve safety using our leading in-cab truck telemetry solutions. Experienced Logistics professional with skills in Business Development, Operations, Negotiation, Supply Chain Optimization, Freight, and International Business.
Jen Knight - Director of Talent Acquisition at Canada Cartage
As the Director of Talent Acquisition at Canada Cartage, I focus on cost-effective talent strategies to strengthen both our workforce and culture. I love what I do because it’s about connecting people to opportunities that matter and helping organizations build workforces that drive success.
Boysie Dindyal - Director, Driver Recruiting and Retention at Challenger Motor Freight Inc
A motivated self starter who enjoys building and being part of high energy teams that execute and deliver change through communication and commitment.
Nestor Garcia - Recruitment, Retention & Engagement Specialist at Joseph Group
With over 24 years of experience in the trucking industry, Nestor Garcia is an accomplished Recruiting, Retention, and Engagement Specialist. Throughout his career, Nestor has held a diverse range of roles, including Package Handler, PT Dock Manager, FT Dock Manager, HR Generalist, Operations Manager, and General Manager. His extensive experience has equipped him with a deep understanding of both the operational and human resources aspects of the industry. Nestor has a proven track record of fostering a positive work environment, enhancing employee engagement, and driving retention strategies that improve overall productivity and morale.Nestor's expertise spans across workforce management, talent acquisition, employee relations, and operational efficiency. He is passionate about connecting talented professionals with the right opportunities and ensuring long-term success for both employees and organizations.When he's not working, Nestor enjoys staying up to date with industry trends and exploring innovative approaches to recruitment and employee retention.
Holly French Boyle - Nova Driver Services
Accomplished, driven, results-oriented and enthusiastic sales and operations leader with a history of successfully organizing and driving daily operations, full cycle recruiting and retaining a solid team, creating and enacting policies, strategies and new business development.
- 01:30 PM - 01:40 PM
Power Break
- 01:40 PM - 02:10 PM
Trucking Industry Recruitment Trends for 2025 and Beyond
Focus:
- Key shifts in driver recruitment strategies
- How to adapt to evolving driver expectations and preferences
- What the next five years look like in driver recruiting and retention
Moderator & Panelists
Craig Faucet - Chief Program Officer at Trucking HR Canada
I am passionate about working in the non-profit sector. I very much believe in the idea of being able to help others and have felt privileged to be able to do that as part of my career. My 18 years experience has given me a wide range of skills and competencies that I makes me the right fit for many organizations in the non-profit sector.
Jen Knight - Director of Talent Acquisition at Canada Cartage
As the Director of Talent Acquisition at Canada Cartage, I focus on cost-effective talent strategies to strengthen both our workforce and culture. I love what I do because it’s about connecting people to opportunities that matter and helping organizations build workforces that drive success.
Charmaine Kapasky - Driver Recruitment & Retention Manager at Caravan Group of Companies
Driven, experienced and well-rounded Recruitment and Retention Professional with 22+ year’s experience in high-volume recruitment within the transportation/Logistics Industry.
Greta Krasteva - Recruiting Manager at Kriska Transportation Group
- 02:10 PM - 02:25 PM
Industry Awards - Recruiting Professional of the Year ⇨
Industry Awards - Recruiting Professional of the Year
- 02:30 PM
Closing Remarks
TTN Organizing Committee & TruckRight
Dirk Kupar – Cofounder & President of TruckRight, KAT Media and Kupar
Dirk Kupar has been in the transportation industry for more than 40 years, including 12 years as a multi-truck owner operator, and 25 years at the helm of an international truck driver leasing business. Dirk is a frequent speaker and writer on industry best practices, with a focus on recruiting, HR and regulatory compliance. He brings insights gathered from working with hundreds of different fleets across North America.
Conference Agenda
Conference Agenda 2026 is coming soon! Stay tuned for details.
Who Should Attend ?
The Recruiting & Retention Symposium is ideal for:
- HR Professionals: Managers, recruiters, and specialists seeking strategies to improve hiring and retention practices.
- Transportation Leaders: Fleet managers, operations executives, and decision-makers aiming to enhance workforce stability.
- Business Owners: Transportation and logistics company owners focused on building a resilient and engaged team.
- Industry Consultants: Advisors working on workforce solutions in the trucking and transportation sectors.
- Educational Partners: Institutions and training providers interested in aligning programs with industry needs.
This event is perfect for anyone committed to addressing workforce challenges and driving sustainable growth in the transportation industry.
Take Away From This Event
Participants will gain:
- Actionable Strategies: Practical solutions to improve recruitment efforts and retention rates in the transportation industry.
- Expert Guidance: Insights from industry leaders and HR professionals on overcoming workforce challenges.
- Workplace Culture Development: Tools to foster a positive and engaging environment that attracts and retains talent.
- Peer Learning: Valuable perspectives and best practices from other HR managers facing similar challenges.
- Enhanced Networking: Opportunities to connect with industry peers, build relationships, and explore collaborative ideas.
- Sector-Specific Insights: Tailored approaches to address the unique demands of transportation workforce management.
This symposium equips attendees with the knowledge and tools needed to build a resilient and productive workforce.
Admission Fee
- Single Ticket: $150 + HST
- Special Discount: $125 + HST (for March 22, 2025, Mega Job Fair Exhibitors)
- Sponsorship Fee: $550 + HST(2 tickets included) Become a Sponsor
- Single Ticket: To Be Announced
- Special Discount: To Be Announced
- Sponsorship Fee: To Be Announced Become a Sponsor
Click Here To Register
Registration is opening soon! Stay tuned for details.
Please fill the fields below to register for Workforce Solution Recruiting & Retention Lunch N Learn Event, Scheduled on February 26, 2025 @Sandman Signature Mississauga Hotel 5400 Dixie Rd, Mississauga, L4W 4T4.
Note: * fields are mandatory. (Special discounted pricing is available for exhibitors attending the March 22, 2025, event)
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