As we move further into 2026, I want to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation to the many volunteers who serve on the leadership team of the IIBA® Calgary Chapter. Each of you gives generously of your time, your expertise, and your passion for the Business Analysis profession. Whether you are organizing events, supporting membership, coordinating volunteers, strengthening partnerships, or helping shape the direction of the chapter, your contributions make a meaningful difference. Our chapter continues to grow and thrive because of the commitment and quiet leadership demonstrated by each of you.

 

I would also encourage our members to consider becoming involved as volunteers. Our chapter is built on the spirit of members helping members. Volunteering is one of the most rewarding ways to deepen your professional network, grow your leadership capabilities, and contribute to the advancement of the Business Analysis profession in Calgary. If you have ever wondered how you might get more involved, I encourage you to reach out to one of our board members or our volunteer coordinator. There is always room for enthusiastic professionals who want to make a difference.

 

Later this month we have a very special opportunity for our community. On March 26 from 6:30–8:30 PM, we will host a unique, hands-on, in-person event at the Improving offices featuring our special guest presenter Roger Burlton, one of the foremost thinkers in Business Architecture and business process transformation. 

 

Roger’s latest book, Business Architecture: Collecting, Connecting, and Correcting the Dots, has been a great read that I am personally enjoying. One of the central ideas that resonates with me is how organizations must first collect an understanding of their core components, then connect how those components interact across the enterprise, and finally correct or redesign them to achieve strategic outcomes. For Business Analysts, this perspective elevates our profession beyond documenting requirements. It positions us as professionals who help architect enterprise understanding. Through practices such as capability modeling, value stream mapping, and integrated process design, the Business Analyst becomes the professional who helps align strategy, operations, information, and technology to enable meaningful and sustainable organizational transformation.

 

This event will be a practical and engaging opportunity to explore these ideas with one of the leaders in our field. I strongly encourage you to attend. You can learn more about the evening including Roger’s biography, the agenda, and what you will learn by visiting the Helpful Hacks for BAs event page.

 

On April 23, our very own Ola Ifidon will be speaking about her latest book, SELL ME!, where she will share practical insights on how professionals can effectively sell themselves on paper and during interviews. This session will focus on communicating your value clearly and confidently in today’s competitive job market. You can learn more here Ola Ifidon – SELL ME!
 

Then on Saturday, April 25, Ola will lead a hands-on workshop focused on refining and strengthening your resume and LinkedIn profile. This practical session will help participants dress up their professional presence so that their experience, skills, and accomplishments stand out to recruiters and hiring managers. More details can be found here Ola Ifidon-Resume Workshop
 

We are also planning something a little different for May 9. Plans are currently being finalized for an event where members will be able to book appointments and “speed date” with local technology recruiters. This will provide a unique opportunity to make direct connections with recruiters, learn what organizations are looking for, and receive immediate feedback on how to position yourself effectively in the market. Stay tuned for more details as this event is finalized.

 

Finally, on a personal note, I would like to share how energized I am by the work I am currently doing in my contract with a global energy services company with strong roots in Alberta. The project I am involved in is somewhat new for me. For more than 25 years, most of the initiatives I worked on were focused on delivering a defined end-state system or solution. This project is different. It is centered on continuous improvement and operational excellence, applying best practices and automation to support the people doing the work.

 

The goal is simple but powerful: wherever possible, reduce re-entry, rework, and manual data handling so that talented staff can focus on activities that truly add value. When organizations intentionally free people from repetitive or menial tasks, they create more space for innovation, service, and meaningful engagement with customers—both internal and external. It is inspiring to see firsthand how this kind of thinking is one of the reasons companies with Alberta roots continue to grow and lead in their industries.

 

Thank you again to all of our volunteers, and thank you to each of our members for being part of the IIBA® Calgary Chapter community. I hope to see many of you on March 26 for what promises to be a very insightful evening with Roger Burlton.

 

If you ever have questions, ideas, or suggestions for how we can continue strengthening our chapter and provide value to you, please feel free to reach out to me directly. I always welcome hearing from our members and learning how we can continue to serve you better.