Sean Wiltshire is a seasoned leader in workforce development and a vocal advocate for the business benefits of diversity. As the CEO of Avalon Employment Inc., he has dedicated his career to demonstrating how inclusive hiring practices strengthen businesses, foster innovation, and drive economic growth.

With decades of experience working alongside industry leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs, Sean has helped businesses unlock the potential of diverse talent pools. His pragmatic approach—grounded in real-world solutions—has made him a trusted advisor to companies seeking to enhance productivity, improve employee retention, and expand market reach through inclusive hiring.

Beyond his professional role, Sean is known for his dynamic speaking style, blending humor with insightful strategies that resonate with business leaders. He believes that diversity is not just about social responsibility—it’s a key driver of profitability and long-term success. At this conference, Sean will share invaluable strategies on how businesses can harness the power of inclusivity to maximize their bottom line. Whether you’re looking to boost employee engagement, refine your hiring practices, or future-proof your company for long-term success, Sean Wiltshire is the expert to turn to.

Prepare to shift your perspective on workforce diversity—and discover how it can transform your business.

Eugene Hamilton is a global speaker, consultant, and corporate trainer. His 20-year career as an organizational leader has afforded him the opportunity to impact the lives of company executives, school administrators, nonprofit organizations, human resource teams, and students all over the world. With his extensive background in leadership, coaching, and public speaking, Eugene knows what truly drives understanding, connection, and relationships that have a lasting impact. Eugene is in high demand to inspire change and ignite passion within the lives of audiences of all ages. He is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Eugene Hamilton Group, a professional speaking and consulting firm.

Marilyn Calkins is a Literacy Program Manager at Connect Society with over 15 years of experience in coordinating Deaf adult literacy programs. She has worked within the disability sector both professionally and as a parent of a child with special needs. She is passionate about making opportunities accessible to all Deaf adults. She is a strong advocate for barriered learners and has gained valuable insights in working with Deaf immigrants.

Kamil Burnat is an ASL LINC Instructor at Connect Society, where he supports Deaf immigrants in developing language, literacy, and life skills for education, employment, and Canadian experience. He also serves as President of the Edmonton Association of the Deaf (EAD), with over a decade of leadership in the community. Kamil has led major initiatives such as the Deaf Alberta Expo 2018 and 2023, the Deaf Youth Alberta Retreat, and support for approximately 100 Deaf Ukrainians in Edmonton. Born and raised in a Deaf Polish immigrant family, he is passionate about accessibility, equity, and inclusive practices.

David Hamen is a proven leader and passionate advocate with 25+ years of experience transforming lives through education and empowerment. As the Co-Chief Executive Officer of Connect Society, I lead with a focus on communication and accessibility, championing the rights and needs of the Deaf, Hard of Hearing and DeafBlind communities. My career is built on a foundation of mentorship and instruction, having served as a Professional Tutor for over two decades. I’ve successfully bridged gaps in literacy, employment, and education, holding key roles like Employment Consultant and Adult Literacy and Settlement Consultant. My work is not just a profession; it’s a mission to create a world where everyone has the tools and support, they need to succeed.

At this conference, Marilyn, David and Kamil will be presenting on: Inclusive Hiring and what it means to Deaf community.

Ope Fletcher is a Caseworker at the Workers’ Resource Centre (WRC) with nearly 10 years of experience in the human services sector. Their work is rooted in advocacy, equity, empowerment, and inclusion. Throughout their career, Ope has helped workers navigate complex systems and access essential resources, with a strong focus on breaking down barriers.

David Plamondon is a Cree professional from Treaty 8 Territory with a passion for Indigenous advocacy and helping navigate the complex layers of colonial oppression that has impacted Indigenous Peoples for generations. David embodies intentional leadership through engagement and collaboration and has years of experience in professional development and community empowerment work.

Teresa started her career in the fashion Industry after graduating from Seneca College and completing her degree in Psychology at York University. She worked as a District Manager working for various brands where she became a certified facilitator. Her journey continued to transition to the telecommunications industry. She thrived in driving sales, training, people development and leading change through difficult times.
Her next steps led her to YES, currently as the Regional Manager of the Work Ability program. She is passionate about contributing in a meaningful way to the lives of the people she encounters.

Stacey is a Regional Manager with Workability, YES’ national education program focused on building employer capacity to hire, retain, and promote individuals with mental health barriers. Joining YES in 2021, Stacey brings over 10 years of diverse experience across the public and private sectors, with a strong foundation in program management, sales, and social innovation.
With a BA in Psychology and certificate in Business Management, Stacey is also currently pursuing an HR certification. Her career began supporting youth involved with the criminal justice system. During this time, Stacey recognized the critical role mental health plays in these young people’s lives—a realization that ignited a passion for advocating for mental health awareness in all her subsequent roles, from sales management to social innovation. Her experience and dedication drive her work with Workability, where she continuously works to break down barriers and create opportunities for individuals with mental health challenges to thrive in the workforce.

Thomas Stenson is an HR strategist and leadership coach who helps leaders decode the hidden patterns that shape team success. As the founder of Stenson HR Consulting, he blends behavioral psychology, systems thinking, and a touch of roleplaying creativity to make leadership practical, memorable, and impactful. With more than a decade of experience across industries including retail, healthcare, and nonprofit, Thomas has guided organizations to build inclusive workplaces, strengthen team dynamics, and lead with foresight.

Thomas openly shares his experience as an AuDHD leader, using it to challenge stereotypes and highlight the power of inclusion through lived experience. Known for his interactive “Roll for Leadership” and “Heroes Academy” sessions, he equips leaders with tools they can apply immediately.

Jens Kilden is leading the Virtual Reality Soft Skills project. With ten years of research experience at NAIT, he has led multiple projects. Jens holds a green belt in LEAN/Six Sigma, a Bachelor of Technology, and an MBA from Cape Breton University. His expertise extends to project management, prototype development, industrial design, and additive manufacturing, providing valuable insights for project development.