Re-branded CanWest
Grow West Coast is a re-branded version of the old CanWest horticulture trade show. CanWest was a fantastic two-day event held at the Abbotsford airport every year, until the pandemic killed it. I have great memories from CanWest because I managed to convince my boss to give me time off, pay for my seminars and cover my missed hours. I don’t even remember how I did it.
For me the highlight was the one-day Urban Forestry Symposium where most of the presenters were smart, articulate Ph.D.s.
Grow West Coast has a similar format with education seminars, exhibitor booths, party space, job boards and, my favorite, a plant ID station. You have to match the plant list with live specimens and, if you score well-enough, you get entered for a draw prize. I love this challenge but I usually smash the test. We’ll see. I might turn it into a blog post and let you have a crack at it.
Networking is also great at trade shows. You’re bound to run into old co-workers or managers and friends. It’s important to stay in touch with people. I know that some of them read this blog! (Thank you.) Bring your mask.
Standing in one memorable lunch line-up, the dude behind me noticed my name badge and told me he followed this blog. Awesome news! Almost better than the delicious lunch.
Confession
Now, I have a confession to make. I didn’t see any super interesting seminars this year that would make me ask for time off work. Perhaps I’m spoiled. I hope you find one or more that look interesting.
So, I just paid the low C$15.75 fee for access to the trade show for both days. My plan is stop by after work and see what’s on sale. Considering it’s the only horticulture trade show we have, I suggest you also make time for it. Look around, meet some people, have a drink and maybe find a new job on the job board.
See you there!
