WTC Talks April

Name: FITTskills: Feasibility of International Trade
Start: 2026-02-03
End: 2026-02-24

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Join us for an engaging evening with Manitoba’s vibrant business community at our next edition of WTC Talks.

Each month, we spotlight the story behind a remarkable Manitoba business, offering insights into their journey, challenges, and achievements.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a professional, or someone passionate about Manitoba’s thriving business landscape, WTC Talks is your chance to connect, learn, and be inspired.

Date: Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025

Time: 4 – 6pm

Registration price: $20.00

Location: Kilter Brewing Co.

450 Rue Deschambault, Winnipeg, MB

Featured Guest

Ernest Rempel

CEO, Vidir Vertical Storage Solutions

Ernest Rempel is the CEO of Vidir Vertical Storage Solutions, a family company that has been a fixture in Arborg for over 35 years. Vidir was originally launched in 1979 by Willie Dueck as a repair shop for farmers, eventually expanding into a lumberyard.

Dueck and his sons realized there was a need for a storage solution for their lumber business, developing their own carousel storage product. Today, Vidir is still owned by Peter and Sid – it is now an industry leader, and was recognized as one of Manitoba’s top employers in 2024.

Featured Guest

John Pollard

Co-Chief Executive Officer, Pollard Banknote

John Pollard oversees all financial and operational aspects of Pollard Banknote. He has helped lead the company from its beginnings in the lottery industry in the 1980s to the world-class lottery partner that it is today. John’s leadership has been instrumental in guiding Pollard Banknote’s strategic investment to solidify the company’s position as a proven lottery partner and innovator. As Co-CEO with his brother, Doug, John continues to drive the company’s ongoing expansion into new business sectors within the lottery and charitable gaming industries.

Before joining Pollard Banknote, John worked for the accounting firm of Deloitte & Touche (now Deloitte).

John holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree from the University of Manitoba and is a former member of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Manitoba. He was inducted into the Public Gaming Research Institute Lottery Hall of Fame in 2020.

Janice Gair

Co-founder and President; eiADVANTAGE

In 2016, Janice co-founded eiADVANTAGE, an emotional intelligence training and coaching company. Their work with individuals and organizations focuses on developing essential skills for navigating change, building resilience, and enhancing both leadership and employee performance. Having completed a trade accelerator program with World Trade Centre Winnipeg in 2021, they have since expanded their business to include serving clients in the US and abroad.

Janice brings over two decades of international experience in corporate strategy, human resources, and organizational development. She holds the designations of Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR), Professional Certified Coach (PCC) through the International Coaching Federation, and Master Trainer in Emotional Intelligence with Multi-Health Systems Inc.