Future-Proofing the Central Okanagan: COEDC’s Workforce Strategy Takes Center Stage

Advisory Committee October 28, 2025

At the October COEDC Advisory Committee meeting, members gathered with a shared purpose: to drive one of the region’s most critical strategic directions identified in the COEDC Strategy 2025 to 2030 —supporting regional business growth and attracting investment by cultivating a resilient, future-ready workforce. As businesses across the region face rapid shifts in technology, demographics, and global competition, proactive workforce planning is no longer optional—it’s essential.

Krista Mallory, Manager of the COEDC, introduced the Workforce Strategy Project, a bold initiative designed to align labour market development with the evolving needs of both employers and job seekers. This forward-looking strategy is being powered by key financial partnerships with Global Affairs Canada, Okanagan College, and the University of British Columbia Okanagan—institutions whose collaboration is instrumental in shaping a regional approach that’s both data-driven and deeply responsive to local realities.

Workforce Strategy: Insights and Priorities

Jen Kanters, Senior Consultant at Deetken Insights, presented an overview of the project’s progress to date, showcasing key findings from the workforce profile and laying out a clear roadmap for the next phases. The strategy aims to anticipate future workforce needs and position the region to adapt swiftly to shifting economic, industry, and talent demands.
Committee members identified priorities such as better connecting job seekers with employers, retaining skilled workers in sectors like aerospace, and improving transit to link workers with jobs in nearby communities. They also discussed equitable wealth generation, the local impact of global economic trends, and streamlining processes for temporary foreign workers in agriculture.
Other priorities included enhancing administrative capacity for construction employers, matching seasonal workers to year-round jobs, and expanding industrial space and hands-on manufacturing experience for younger workers The committee also discussed adopting AI, aligning education with labour needs, and retaining older workers for mentorship and knowledge transfer. Housing affordability was highlighted as a key issue as well, with suggestions to explore intergenerational shared spaces, better transportation, and community initiatives to support workforce stability.

Business Resource Hub: A New Tool for Growth

Alongside the workforce strategy, the COEDC Advisory Committee received an exciting update on the upcoming Business Resource Hub—an innovative platform designed to empower entrepreneurs and businesses across the Central Okanagan. Krista Mallory and Brianne Ververda, Business Development Coordinator at the COEDC, shared that the hub is set to launch in the new year and will feature nearly 300 carefully curated resources tailored to the diverse needs of the region’s business community.

At the heart of the hub is an AI-powered ecosystem mapping tool that helps users navigate key areas such as industry sectors, business stages, financing, permitting, and support organizations. Developed in collaboration with local business support organizations, the hub aims to be comprehensive and relevant. Planned enhancements include permitting guidance, personalized notifications, and event integration. Demonstration training and subscription options will be available.

To maximize impact, COEDC plans to partner with regional business licensing departments to share the hub directly with license holders, expanding awareness and delivering immediate value to businesses across the region.

The COEDC Advisory Committee, a 45-member group of industry leaders, community shapers, and elected officials, meets monthly to share information, collaborate, and work together towards sustainable economic growth.

For COEDC Advisory Committee meeting minutes click here.