About this Event
Black Engineers of Canada (BEC) is proud to invite you to the BEC National Conference 2026: Build & Bridge – Engineering Black Enterprise, our inaugural national gathering on August 14 at Arcadian Court in Toronto. This dynamic event will convene Black engineers, technology professionals, students, industry leaders, and strategic partners from across Canada and beyond for a purpose-driven experience focused on equity and impact.
Anchored in BEC’s mission to advance equity, excellence, and opportunity in engineering and technology, the conference spotlights innovation, leadership, entrepreneurship, and career advancement. We will celebrate Black engineers' achievements, elevate emerging talent, and explore Canada's engineering future through inclusion—addressing talent shortages, retention, procurement, and global expansion into markets like Africa and the Caribbean.
Featuring keynote addresses, thought-provoking panel discussions, interactive workshops, a pitch competition for startups, a showcase of Black entrepreneurs building Canada strong, and curated networking opportunities, the conference fosters connections, knowledge exchange, and collaboration. It honors trailblazers while equipping next-generation leaders with tools, confidence, and vision to drive sustainable change across industries. Register now to join us!
Duration: 2 days (August 14-15, 2026)
- Day 1: BEC National Conference – Keynotes, panels, workshops, pitch competition, startup showcase.
- Day 2: Boat Cruise Networking & AGM – Casual connections and business updates.
Tickets: Flexible options available
- Full access starts with Day 1 (Conference): Keynotes, panels, workshops, pitch competition, startup showcase.
- Add Day 2 (Boat Cruise Networking & AGM) at 15% discount when bundled with Day 1—maximize value with exclusive connections!
Agenda Day 1
🕑: 08:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Guest Registration, Breakfast & Networking
Info: Attendees gather for registration and a networking breakfast, creating space for meaningful connections between professionals, entrepreneurs, sponsors, and industry leaders.
🕑: 09:15 AM - 09:30 AM
Welcome Address & Organizational Vision
Info: An inspiring message outlining BEC’s mission, long-term vision, and strategic direction.
🕑: 09:45 AM - 10:30 AM
Keynote Address: Build Canada Strong Plan
Info: Positioning BEC as a leading source of engineering talent, a trusted industry partner, and a strategic supporter of Canada’s Building Canada Strong plan.
🕑: 10:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Presentation: Overview of the BEC Research Paper
Info: Presentation of key findings, trends, and insights shaping the future of engineering and economic development.
🕑: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Keynote Talk: Opportunities to Bridge Business with Africa and the Caribbean
Info: Notes: 1. Visit each country’s booth for additional details.
2. Concurrent activity: BEC Startup Showcase (demo area at the back of the hall)
🕑: 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
Demo & Connect: BEC Startup Showcase
Info: Emerging startups present innovative ideas and solutions to a panel and audience of industry stakeholders.
🕑: 11:45 AM - 01:00 PM
Lunch & Networking
Info: A dedicated networking opportunity to foster partnerships and collaboration.
🕑: 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Infrastructure Modernization
Info: A high-level group discussion on infrastructure development across federal, provincial, and municipal levels.
🕑: 02:00 PM - 02:45 PM
Entrepreneurial & Recruitment Pitch Session
Info: Entrepreneurs and recruitment-focused firms present opportunities, connecting talent with employers and investors.
🕑: 03:00 PM - 03:45 PM
The Business of Engineering: Turning Expertise into Enterprise
Info: Exploring how engineers can transform technical skills into scalable businesses and consulting ventures.
🕑: 03:45 AM - 04:30 PM
Volunteering Awards Presentation & Day Recap
Info: Recognizing outstanding volunteers and summarizing key highlights from the day.
AFTERNOON BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Info: These breakout sessions will take place in different rooms between 1:00 - 4:00 PM
🕑: 01:15 PM - 02:00 PM
Afternoon Breakout Sessions
Info: Breakout Room 1: Patents and Contract Laws in Engineering |
Breakout Room 2: Interview Space for Sponsors |
Breakout Room 3: Women & Intersectionality in Engineering
🕑: 02:00 PM - 02:45 PM
Afternoon Breakout Sessions
Info: Breakout Room 1: Sustainable Infrastructure |
Breakout Room 2: Interview Space for Sponsors |
Breakout Room 3: Engineering Change: Equity & Inclusion
🕑: 03:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Afternoon Breakout Sessions
Info: Breakout Room 1: Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning in Engineering Opportunities for Canadian engineers and graduates |
Breakout Room 2: Interview Space for Sponsors |
Breakout Room 3: Systemic Barriers & Pathways Forward
🕑: 03:30 PM - 04:30 PM
Afternoon Breakout Sessions
Info: Breakout Room 1: Black Engineers Shaping Canada’s Future Canada’s global role in STEM and international trade |
Breakout Room 3: Creating Inclusive Workplaces
Agenda Day 2
BEC 2026 National Conference Day 2: Boat Cruise Networking & AGM
Info: Saturday, August 15, 2026
🕑: 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
Boarding & Guest Settling
Info: Guests board the cruise vessel and prepare for an engaging afternoon.
🕑: 12:30 PM - 01:45 PM
Annual General Meeting (AGM)
Info: A formal session reviewing organizational updates, governance matters, and strategic direction.
🕑: 01:45 PM - 02:45 PM
Fireside Chat
Info: An intimate and insightful discussion with a distinguished speaker.
🕑: 02:45 PM - 03:45 PM
Informal Networking Session
Info: An open networking session allowing attendees to strengthen connections in a relaxed setting.
🕑: 03:45 PM - 04:00 PM
Closing Remarks & Off boarding
Info: Final reflections and official closing of the BEC National Conference 2026.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Arcadian Court (Oliver & Bonacini Hospitality Venue Name: Arcadian Court Simpson Tower, 08th Floor ), 401 Bay St, Toronto, Canada
CAD 81.73 to CAD 2675.74
