Looking ahead to another great year with IABC BC

Back to Blogs By Kris Olsen Posted: October 6, 2026

Welcome back to IABC BC!

Over the summer, our board came together to reflect on what members value most and how we can continue delivering meaningful experiences throughout the year.

As we head into fall, I’m excited to share a glimpse of what our board has been working on and what we have planned for the year ahead.

Here’s a preview of what’s ahead.

Building connections

At its core, IABC BC is about people.

Our networking events remain some of our most popular offerings, and we’re excited to bring members together both in person and online throughout the year.

This year, we’ll continue creating opportunities for members to connect with peers from across industries and sectors. Whether you’re looking to meet new colleagues, reconnect with familiar faces or grow your professional network, we want to help make those connections happen.

You’ll also see familiar favourites return, including our holiday gala and monthly coffee chats with CPRS, as well as Comms to the Table dinners. We’re excited to build on these events and create even more opportunities for members to connect, learn from one another and strengthen their professional networks.

Learning and professional development

Communications is evolving faster than ever, and we’re committed to helping members stay ahead of the curve.

Our goal is simple: to provide relevant, valuable learning experiences that you can apply in your work right away.

To do that, we’ll be offering a variety of learning opportunities, including workshops, panel discussions, keynote speakers and practical sessions focused on emerging trends, strategic communications, leadership and career development.

Certification support

Professional certification is an important milestone for many communicators.

If you’re considering the Communication Management Professional (CMP) or Strategic Communication Management Professional (SCMP) designation, we’ll continue to share resources, guidance and opportunities to connect with others on the same journey.

- We’re planning an in-person exam for CMP and SCMP candidates for late January, 2027. Be sure to check back for the date and time.

Members who have earned certification often tell us it strengthened their confidence, credibility and strategic thinking, and we’re proud to support those pursuing this path.

Supporting emerging communicators

We know how important it is to support the next generation of communication professionals.

From students and recent graduates to those making career transitions, we’ll continue offering opportunities to learn from experienced communicators, build confidence and expand professional networks.

If you’re early in your career, we want you to feel welcome and supported within our community.

Volunteering with the chapter

Everything we do is made possible by volunteers.

While we currently have a full board of directors, there are many other ways to get involved.

- Volunteer opportunities are available across several chapter portfolios, and they offer a great way to develop leadership skills, meet new people and help shape the future of our chapter.

Many of our current board members began their IABC journey as volunteers, and we’d love to help you find the right opportunity if you’re interested in getting involved.

Giving back through communications

One of the most rewarding aspects of our profession is using our skills to make a difference.

We’re exploring opportunities to continue supporting community-focused initiatives that connect communication professionals with organizations that can benefit from strategic communications expertise.

Events to look forward to

Of course, no IABC BC year would be complete without a great lineup of events.

From networking socials and professional development sessions to conversations with industry leaders, we’re planning a calendar filled with opportunities to learn, share ideas and be inspired.

If you missed our fall kick off social event on October 7, don’t worry we’ll have more opportunities to connect!

- Special Interest Group, October 15: PR in the age of AI. Register to join us.
- Professional Development, October 22: Mapping your communications career. Register to join us at UBC Robson Square.
- Holiday gala, December 3, in partnership with Canadian Public Relations Society. Save the date and stay tuned for more information!
- We’re planning to bring Comms to the Table dinners to more communities across BC, giving members more opportunities to connect, exchange ideas and learn from one another.