The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce has developed a strong educational initiative for its members with a little help coming from the Battlefords.
Battlefords Chamber executive director Linda Machniak was very much involved in the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce’s Chamber College initiative.
She spent a few days teaching Chamber College in Saskatoon. The most recent sessions were held June 1-3 in Saskatoon, in which 11 professionals graduated.
In an update to Battlefords Chamber directors at their meeting Tuesday Machniak mentioned her involvement in participating in the development and execution of Chamber College and used the words “it was awesome” to describe her experience. The director’s meeting was the last one before their summer break.
About a year ago, Chamber College Level 1 was launched as a partnership between the Saskatchewan Chamber and the Chamber of Commerce Executives of Saskatchewan.
“The Chamber College concept is the first of its kind in Canada,” said provincial Chamber CEO Steve McLellan in the release.
“It gives chamber leaders knowledge in key areas including non-dues revenue, bylaws and governance, membership, finance and event planning.”
According to the Chamber, Chamber College was delivered in the summer of 2014 for the first time, with the aim to provide knowledge to chamber of commerce leaders and volunteers so they can develop a stronger local chamber.
This year they added Level 2, which the Chamber describes as going into greater depth of knowledge, giving managers additional tools to move forward.
Machniak was involved with delivering both Level 1 last year, and Levels 1 and 2 this year. Her work in both developing the program and then presenting it drew words of appreciation from McLellan.
“Linda played a very important role in putting together and helping us present the Chamber College content,” McLellan said.
“Her knowledge of the chamber network, and her strong leadership skills were invaluable to us as we put together what the Chamber College could be.”
McLellan concluded by saying “we are very grateful for her help, and support of her chamber and its members.”
