Canadian Design and Construction Report staff writer The Economic Developer’s Association of Canada’s (EDAC) 46 th Annual Conference Sept. 27 through 30 at the Westin Calgary focused on the ways energy – collaborative, social, creative, en- trepreneurial, innovative and global – can be ap- plied to promote development in Canadian communities and regions. The event kicked off Thursday with a network- ing and logistical overview meeting followed Fri- day by a pre-conference oil sands tour in Fort McMurray with presentations about technological innovations for resource extraction and land recla- mation. On Saturday participants were invited to take part in the annual golf tournament, this year at Sil- verwing Links. The trade show started at noon, fol- lowed that evening by an opening reception and introductory speeches by Calgary Economic De- velopment president and CEO Bruce Graham and EDAC president Serge Cote. On Sunday, the EDAC annual general meeting kicked off the day’s trade show and speaking events. The next day, participants could select among four study tours sponsored by Calgary Economic Development. Tuesday’s speakers and breakout sessions wrapped up with the closing president’s reception and dinner. The conference is also the setting for the asso- ciation’s EDAC professional certification exams. Awards ceremonies each day of the conference recognized members for their economic develop- ment contributions and marketing achievements. Throughout the year, EDAC promotes and ad- vocates to government and other regional groups to enhance understanding of professional eco- nomic development practices. The association also works with universities to develop program- ming and skills to support members' professional development. The association, which represents officials in municipal, regional, provincial and federal eco- nomic development offices (and associated sup- pliers and services), reflects the interests of government officials who spend much of their time connecting with both elected officials and private sector businesses to facilitate community economic growth. The conference is hosted in a different Cana- dian city each year. The Canadian Design and Construction Report — Fall 2014 – 19