63rd Annual TIAC Conference

August 13-16, 2025

Sternwheeler Hotel and Conference Centre
201 Wood Street
Whitehorse, YT

Conference OverviewProgramRegistrationPresentationsAdd-on ActivitiesSponsorship OpportunitiesTravelling to WhitehorseSponsors

Conference Overview

There are strange things done in the midnight sun
By the men who moil for gold;
The Arctic trails have their secret tales
That would make your blood run cold;
The Northern Lights have seen queer sights,
But the queerest they ever did see
Was that night on the marge of Lake Lebarge
I cremated Sam McGee.
– – Robert W. Service (1874-1958)

Welcome to the land of the midnight sun!

Bring your swimsuit and sunscreen (the beaches, yes beaches, are gorgeous!). Bring your appetite (restaurants, breweries, distilleries, oh my!). Bring your sense of adventure (you’ll need to extend your stay!) And definitely bring your sense of awe!

This Conference will check so many things off of the bucket list you never knew you had!

See you there!

Andre Pachon
2025 Conference Chair

Accommodation
The Conference will be held at the Sternwheeler Hotel and Conference Centre. Visit the Traveling to Whitehorse page for the reservation instructions.

Getting There
Flight discounts are now available. We encourage you to book through Air North, Yukon’s airline (to read more about the history of the airline, go to https://www.flyairnorth.com/about/history-air-north)

Program
The 2025 Conference program will feature timely presentations by industry experts and leaders, business meetings where you can engage in sector-specific discussions and networking opportunities to connect with friends new and old.

The Conference will kick-off on the Wednesday evening with the Manufacturers and Distributors Reception where you will get to experience some of Whitehorse’s colourful history.

Thursday’s program will feature several invited speakers, as well as the contractor, manufacturer and distributor breakout sessions. The optional program will also be running this day. For those of you planning to bring your children, please register by June 1 so that we can organize age-appropriate activities for them. This day will wrap up with a very special off-site evening at the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre, located on the banks of the Yukon River.

Friday morning will include more presentations, followed by some exciting activities that could really only be offered in Whitehorse. Friday evening is a night off and delegates are encouraged to get out and explore!

As we reach Saturday, the final day of the Conference, join us for the last morning of presentations, including a sneak-peak at the 2026 Conference scheduled for August 19-22, 2026 in Québec City, QC.

The Conference will be wrapped up at the President’s Dinner and Dance.

Visit the Travel Yukon website to learn more about the 2025 TIAC Conference host city! We recommend you book extra time following the conference to explore beyond the city limits.

REMINDERS!
If you are bringing your children to Whitehorse, please register by June 1 so that we can organize age-appropriate activities for them.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

   

 

AGENDA

Wednesday, August 13, 2025
 
9:00 am – 3:00 pm Outgoing Board Meeting (Private)
Tagish
5:30 pm – 6:00 pm First-Time Attendee Meet & Greet
Courtyard
6:00 pm – 11:00 pm Manufacturer & Distributor Reception and Dinner
BallroomWelcoming Address
Mayor of Whitehorse (invited)Keynote Presentation
The “Real” History of the Gold Rush
Thursday, August 14, 2025
8:00 am – 1:00 pm Registration Desk Open
Foyer
8:00 am – 8:45 am Breakfast
Ballroom
8:45 am – 9:00 am Welcoming Remarks
Andre Pachon, 2025 Conference Chair
Ballroom
9:00 am – 9:30 am Keynote Presentation
BERINGIA!
Ballroom
9:30 am – 9:45 am Refreshment Break
Ballroom
9:45 am – 10:45 am Technical Presentation
TOPIC TBC
Ballroom
10:00 am – 1:00 pm Add-on Activities
Activity 1: Yukon Wildlife Preserve
Activity 2: Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs
10:45 am – 11:45 am Technical Presentation
TOPIC TBC
Ballroom
11:45 am – 2:30 pm Contractor Breakout Session (Lunch to be provided)
Ballroom
11:45 am – 1:30 pm Lunch (on own)
TIME BLOCKED FOR INTERNAL MEETINGS, WORK CATCH-UP, ETC., TO ENSURE PARTICIPATION IN ALL CONFERENCE PRESENTATIONS / ACTIVITIES.
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm Manufacturers Breakout Session
Conference Room 4
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm Distributors Breakout Session
Conference Room 5
1:30 pm – 3:30 pm Add-on Activities
Activity 3: Glass Blowing at Lumel Studio
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm Breakout Session Recap (NEW)
Ballroom
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm Training Providers Breakout Session
Ballroom
5:00 pm – 5:30 pm Walk to Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre
5:30 pm – 10:00 pm Off-site Evening
Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre
Friday, August 15, 2025
7:00 am – 9:30 am Registration Desk Open
Foyer
7:00 am – 8:00 am Breakfast
Ballroom
8:00 am – 8:30 am CAN/AM Meeting
Ballroom
9:00 am – 1:00 pm Add-on Activities
Activity 4: Half-Day Fishing Excursion (AM)
9:00 am – 1:00 pm Add-on Activities
Activity 5: Canoeing the Historic Yukon River (AM)
9:00 am – 1:00 pm Add-on Activities
Activity 6:
Carcross Sightseeing
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm Add-on Activities
Activity 7: Half-Day Fishing Excursion (PM)
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm Add-on Activities
Activity 8: Canoeing the Historic Yukon River (PM)
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm Presidents and Managers Meeting
Conference Room 4
OPEN EVENING
Saturday, August 16, 2025
8:00 am – 9:00 am Breakfast
Ballroom
9:00 am – 10:00 am Annual General Meeting (TIAC members only)
Ballroom
10:00 am – 10:15 am Award Nominee Showcase
Ballroom
10:00 am – 12:00 pm Add-on Activities
Activity 9: MacBride Museum of Yukon History
10:15 am – 10:30 am Refreshment Break
Ballroom
10:30 am – 11:15 am Technical Presentation
TOPIC TBC
Ballroom
11:15 am – 12:00 pm Technical Presentation
TOPIC TBC
Ballroom
12:00 pm – 12:15 pm 2026 Conference Presentation
QUEBEC CITY
Ballroom
12:15 pm – 1:15 pm Lunch
Ballroom
1:30 pm – 3:30 pm Incoming Board Meeting (Private)
Conference Room 4
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm President’s Reception (Private)
Conference Room 5
5:30 pm – 6:30 pm Reception
Counrtyard
6:30 pm – 12:00 am President’s Dinner and Dance
Ballroom

Registration

Register Online

Registration fees include: Presentations and Meetings; Manufacturer and Distributor Reception and Dinner; Off-site Dinner; Delegates and Guest Breakfasts/Lunches; and, the President’s Dinner and Dance.

NOTE #1: Due to an increase in spam/fraudulent email solicitation, be advised that TIAC DOES NOT SELL IT’S CONFERENCE ATTENDEE LISTS. 

NOTE #2: Due to fraudulent phone solicitation received by a member regarding their participation in the 2024 Conference and their hotel reservation, the delegate list is no longer being published. If you would like to know who is participating to plan your activities/meetings, please reach out to us directly.

NOTE #3: Do NOT book your hotel using links/instructions provided by anyone other than the TIAC office. If you are unsure about an email you’ve received, or want to confirm the best way to book your hotel room, please contact us directly.

 

Member Rates
*SPECIAL* 2024 Registration Rate Freeze
(to December 31, 2024)
Earlybird Registration
(January 1 to June 1, 2025)
Regular Registration
(After June 1, 2025)
Single
With guest
Family (16 and over)
Children (Under 16)
Life Member
$1150
$1875
$725 per family member
FREE!
$675
$1210
$1970
$725 per family member
FREE!
$675
$1265
$2065
$725 per family member
FREE!
$675

 

Non-Member Rates
*SPECIAL* 2024 Registration Rate Freeze
(to December 31, 2024)
Earlybird Registration
(January 1 to June 1, 2025)
Regular Registration
(After June 1, 2025)
Single
With guest
Family (16 and over)
Children (Under 16)
$1400
$2225
$825 per family member
FREE!
$1470
$2345
$825 per family member
FREE!
$1540
$2450
$825 per family member
FREE!

 

Presentations

The Conference Planning Committee is confirming speakers who will speak to both industry and general business strategies to provide you with insights to improve your day-to-day operations. Updated speaker information will be posted here so be sure to check regularly.

 

Wednesday, August 13, 2025
Welcoming Address
Keynote Presentation
Thursday, August 14, 2025
Keynote Presentation
Technical Presentation

 

Technical Presentation
Friday, August 15, 2025
Saturday, August 16, 2025
Technical Presentation
Technical Presentation
2026 Conference Presentation: QUEBEC CITY

 

 

Add-on Activities

Additional family programming will developed based on the registrations received by June 1, as required.

Date Time Activity Cost
Thursday, August 14, 2025
10:00 am – 1:00 pm Yukon Wildlife Preserve $65
Thursday, August 14, 2025
10:00 am – 1:00 pm Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs $75
Thursday, August 14, 2025
1:30 pm – 3:30 pm Glass Blowing at Lumel Studio $50
Friday, August 15, 2025 9:00 am – 1:00 pm Half-Day Fishing Excursion (AM) $435
Friday, August 15, 2025 9:00 am – 1:00 pm Canoeing the Historic Yukon River (AM) $250
Friday, August 15, 2025 9:00 am – 1:00 pm Carcross Sightseeing $200
Friday, August 15, 2025 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm Half-Day Fishing Excursion (PM) $435
Friday, August 15, 2025 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm Canoeing the Historic Yukon River (PM) $250
Saturday, August 16, 2025 10:00 am – 12:00 pm MacBride Museum of Yukon History $30

ACTIVITY INFORMATION
Yukon Wildlife Preserve

Welcome to the Yukon wilderness! Experience 12+ iconic Yukon species spread over 350 acres on a 5km loop. This guided tour will take you past open grasslands, forest, wetlands and cliffs. There will be lots of stops for closer viewing and photos!

The Yukon Wildlife Preserve’s knowledgeable wildlife interpreters will give you a greater appreciation of Yukon’s incredible wildlife. Will you see all of their animals? Check out the list here – https://yukonwildlife.ca/learn/yukon-wildlife/.

The package includes:

  • Guided bus tour

$10 discount offered for children under 18 years.

Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs

Slide into the hot springs and soak away your aches and worries! The Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs Ritual combines thermotherapy with the benefits of a soaking in mineral hot spring waters. The sense of vitality and well-being generated by the hot/cold/relax therapy cycle is enhanced by the volcanically heated, mineral rich water of the hot spring pools, which are known to diminish muscle pain and positively affect a score of common health complaints. The result is a fusion made in heaven – designed to promote unique state of restful, peaceful relaxation and invigoration.

19+ activity.

The package includes access to:

  • The pools
  • The relax rooms
  • The saunas and steam rooms
Glass Blowing at Lumel Studio

Step into Whitehorse’s “happiness factory”! The Lumel Studio hot shop will amaze you. The seemingly endless colour options. The intensity of the heat from the kilns. Awaken the creative side of your brain and bend molten glass to your will!

No experience needed!

Meet Lu and learn about the Studio’s sustainability practices https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I2my0MP27vk.

The package includes:

  • One creation: flower, ornament, pillow bowl, heart or paperweight.
Half-Day Fishing Excursion (Morning and Afternoon)

Enjoy the scenic drive to Little Atlin Lake, keeping your eyes peeled for roadside wildlife. Arrive at the boat launch and embark on your motorboat for your guided fishing trip. Head out onto the lake and cast your rod. Little Atlin Lake is home to Northern Pike, Lake trout and Whitefish.

The package includes:

  • Half day of fishing on a motorboat with a knowledgeable guide
  • Fishing rod, tackle, lures & safety equipment
  • Snacks & refreshments

Not included:

NOTE: We will have four boats and will limit participation to 5 people per boat so that everyone can fish. Maximum of 20 people can participate in each of the morning and afternoon excursions.

Canoeing the Historic Yukon River (Morning and Afternoon)

Canoe down the historic Yukon River and enjoy the peaceful scenery, while keeping your eyes out for eagles and other wildlife. Begin your paddle right from downtown Whitehorse and continue your scenic paddle for 20 kms to the confluence of the Takhini River. A great day trip for beginner paddlers.

The package includes:

  • Half day guided trip down the Yukon River from our downtown location to Takhini river Bridge
  • Safety equipment (pfds, bailer, sponge, throw bag)
  • Knowledgeable guide
  • Canoe rental (based on 1 canoe for 2 to 3 people)
  • Snacks & refreshments
Carcross Sightseeing

Enjoy the scenic drive with photo opportunities at both Miles Canyon lookout and Yukon’s famous Emerald Lake. Continue to the picturesque community of Carcross. Enjoy free time to enjoy the Carcross Commons shops and coffee shop, grab an ice cream or relax on the beach of Bennett Lake.

Did you know that Carcross is also the home of the smallest desert in the world? Before we head back to Whitehorse, you will get the chance to walk among the dunes and take in the incredible surroundings.

The package includes:

  • Carcross and area tour including Carcross Commons (local product boutique shopping and coffee shop), World’s smallest desert and Emerald Lake
  • Photo stop at Miles Canyon viewpoint
  • Snacks & refreshments
MacBride Museum of Yukon History

The MacBride Museum offers a comprehensive view of the resilient people and ground-breaking events that have shaped the territory’s history. Home to 40,000 objects, its galleries illustrate stories from Yukon First Nations, the natural world, the Klondike Gold Rush and more.

MacBride is also home to incredible art pieces, including a Ted Harrison collection and the Northern Lights icicles, created in partnership with Lumel Studio.

Yukon stories live here!

The package includes:

  • Two-hour guided tour of the museum
  • Gold panning experience
  • Waterfront Trolly ride

$15 discount offered for children under 12 years.

 

 

 

Sponsorship Opportunities

Download the 2025 Sponsorship Kit

 

Download the sponsorship participation form. To confirm your sponsorship, please complete and return the participation form to info@tiac.ca. Prices exclude tax. Payment is due before the Conference.

ALL EVENT SPONSORS WILL BE ACKNOWLEDGED AND RECEIVE THE FOLLOWING:

  • Corporate profile on TIAC website with links
  • Logo and recognition on TIAC Social Media
  • Recognition in Conference app
  • On-site recognition throughout Conference, through verbal announcements, signage and sponsor slides
PLATINUM SPONSORSHIP LEVEL
Off-site Dinner Event at the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre – $5,000
Benefits
  • Exclusive opportunity
  • Title recognition as host of TIAC’s Dinner Event at the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre
  • Speaking opportunity at the Dinner Event at the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre
  • Corporate logo on the Dinner Event tickets provided to registered delegates
  • Complimentary banner ad in Conference app*
  • Five complimentary Dinner Event at the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre tickets for local colleagues/or clients
Program / Conference App – $4,000
Benefits
  • Exclusive opportunity
  • Opportunity to submit a 1/4 page corporate statement to be included in Conference app*
  • Complimentary banner ad in Conference app*
  • Two complimentary Dinner Event at the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre tickets for local colleagues/or clients

GOLD SPONSORSHIP LEVEL
Simultaneous Interpretation – $2,500
Support TIAC’s desire to offer a fully bilingual program in Whistler. Multiple opportunities are available to assist with the cost offset. All sponsors will receive the full benefit package.
Benefits
  • Complimentary banner ad in Conference app*
Audio Visual – $2,500
Benefits
  • Exclusive opportunity
  • Sponsor’s logo included on ALL schedule related documentation and slide presentations throughout the Conference, achieving branding at all sessions and events
  • Complimentary banner ad in Conference app*
Keynote Speaker Introduction – $2,000

Benefits
    • Exclusive opportunity
    • Opportunity to introduce the speaker
    • Complimentary banner ad in Conference app*

 

Name Badge – $1,500

Benefits
    • Exclusive opportunity
    • Sponsor’s name and logo featured on ALL name badges distributed to delegates, speakers and guests.
    • Opportunity to provide branded lanyards. Note: The sponsor will be responsible for the design, production and shipping expenses.
    • Complimentary banner ad in Conference app*
Hotel Key Cards – $1,500
Benefits
    • Exclusive opportunity
    • As the sponsor of the conference key cards, you’ll be “in the pocket” of attendees. Note: The sponsor will be responsible for design, production and shipping costs.
    • Complimentary banner ad in Conference app*
Registration Desk – $1,500
Benefits
    • Exclusive opportunity
    • Sponsor’s logo featured on the registration desk for the duration of the Conference
    • Complimentary banner ad in Conference app*

 

SILVER SPONSORSHIP LEVEL
Translation – $1,000
Support TIAC’s desire to continue offering a fully bilingual program. Multiple opportunities are available to assist with the cost offset. All sponsors will receive the full benefit package. 
Benefits
    • Acknowledgement of translation services included in Conference program
Manufacturer and Distributor Reception and Dinner – $750 (UNLIMITED OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE)

Benefits
  • Onsite VIP signage at Manufacturer and Distributor Reception

 

BRONZE SPONSORSHIP LEVEL
Breakfast or Lunch – $700 ea

Benefits
      • Signage on display at food tables distributed throughout venue at one breakfast or lunch service
Refreshment Break – $500 each

Benefits
  • Signage on display at food tables distributed throughout venue at one refreshment break

 

ADD-ON ACTIVITY SPONSORSHIPS
Fishing Derby – $550
Benefits
    • Onsite recognition through verbal announcements at the tournament

The following contests are available:

  • Biggest fish (morning or afternoon)
  • Smallest fish (morning or afternoon)
  • Most elusive catch (morning or afternoon)

This year’s program includes a lot of outdoor activities and, with almost 16 hours of daylight every day, here are some great ideas for you to help everyone keep their skin healthy and bodies hydrated.

Have a different idea? Reach out! Let’s talk!

NOTE: The sponsor is responsible for design, production and shipping expenses.

Activity Gift Bag – $350

  • Sponsor’s name and logo featured on gift bag distributed to all activity registrants. Suggest including items for outdoor activities such as sunscreen, lip chap, sunglasses, etc.

Hats – $350

  • Sponsor’s name and logo featured on a hat distributed to all activity registrants.

Water Bottles – $350

  • Sponsor’s name and logo featured on a reusable water bottle distributed to all activity registrants.

 

*Digital artwork must be provided August 1, 2025.
**All sponsorship fees exclude tax.

 

Traveling to Whitehorse

Accommodation
The Conference will be held at the Sternwheeler Hotel and Conference Centre. The room rate is $259 plus taxes and fees.

To make your reservation, you can now book online. Be sure to use group code 081125TIA. If you have any issues or require additional assistance, please send an email to frontdesk@sternwheelerhotel.ca or call the hotel directly at 867-393-9700.

Reservations must be made by July 12, 2025. After that date, TIAC cannot guarantee rates or availability. Accommodation options in Whitehorse are limited in the summer due to tourist and work travel. Don’t wait to book.

NOTE: Due to fraudulent phone solicitation received by a member regarding their participation in the 2024 Conference and their hotel reservation, we are advising you to NOT book your hotel using links provided by anyone. There is NO online booking option to get the group rate.

 

Getting There

TRAVEL DISCOUNTS
Promotion Code: TIAC2025

Applicability Rules:

  • The booking is to be made to the following city: Whitehorse, YXY (CA)
  • The travel period begins Wednesday, July 30, 2025 and ends Wednesday, August 27, 2025.
  • 10% discount off the best GoYukon or Optimum fare available at the time of booking (taxes, fees and surcharges are extra). All fares are subject to change. Seat sale fares do not apply.

www.flyairnorth.com

Promotion Code: TAGFRWJ1

Applicability Rules:

  • The booking is to be made to the following city: Whitehorse, YXY (CA)
  • The travel period begins Wednesday, August 06, 2025 and ends Saturday, August 23, 2025.
  • For North America, 5% applies on standard fares, 10% on flex fares & higher. For International Travel, 10% on standard fares & higher.
Promotion Code: 2J9X6FK

Applicability Rules:

  • The booking is to be made to the following city: Whitehorse, YXY (CA)
  • The travel period begins Wednesday, August 06, 2025 and ends Saturday, August 23, 2025.
  • For travel within Canada, 5% off Econo* and 10% off EconoFlex and Premium fares. For guests travelling Trans-border, 2% off Econo*, 5% off EconoFlex and 10% off Premium base fares. No discount will apply to Ultra Basic or Business class bookings.

 

 

THANK YOU TO ALL OF TIAC’S SPONSORS!