2026 Conference Speakers
Cultivating Brave Spaces
Wednesday, September 16, 2026
1:30 p.m.
Circle is a method to facilitate challenging conversations and cultivate spaces that support dialogue and learning, which are critical for belonging, connection and inclusion.
Participants will engage in a circle practice as we look at increasing our understanding of cultivating brave spaces and what may be holding us back. We will introduce practices that help to release those fears and set intentions for progressive paths forward for all.
Susan Crowley
Executive Director, CWB Foundation
Meet Susan
Susan Crowley is the Executive Director of the CWB Foundation and a CWB Group Senior Leader. Joining the CWB Group in September 2018, Susan was tasked with evaluating the impact and effectiveness of the CWB Foundation’s programs and investments across Canada, developing and implementing a strategic plan to transition the organization from ‘start up’ to sustainable.
Over the past five years, its portfolio of programs, grants and investments, supported by external corporate, government and philanthropic partners, has expanded by more than 5 times, consistent with its purpose and aspiration. By building the pipeline of talent for industry and academia through changing perceptions of the trades with awareness-based programming, system support and pre-employment initiatives, she works to close the skills gap and skills shortage, future proofing Canada’s welding and allied processes technological and workforce needs through expanding education and career pathways accessible and inclusive to all Canadians.
Susan’s career began in education, moving to corporate finance and external communications in financial services industry roles before embracing the not-for-profit sector, most specifically, within healthcare, services for children and youth, and education.
