Change maker and Employer Impact Conference keynote speaker: Mark Chapeskie
By: Micaela Kelly (she/her)
With a career marked by diverse experiences and a commitment to lifelong learning, Mark Chapeskie’s (he/him) journey is anything but conventional. From navigating international conflict zones to leading transformative initiatives in Canada’s energy sector, Chapeskie’s path reflects a unique blend of curiosity and purpose.
Mark Chapeskie, VP of Programs, Electricity Human Resources Canada
As vice president of programs at Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC), Chapeskie channels his expertise and passion into driving sustainable and inclusive change in Canada’s energy future.
He is a change maker who values the power of collaboration and works to create meaningful impact.
We are delighted to welcome Chapeskie as the keynote speaker at the 2025 Co-operative and Experiential Education Employer Impact Conference!
An unconventional career path
Chapeskie grew up on a hobby farm in rural Ontario where he cultivated a strong sense of community. The teamwork mentality he learned on the farm shaped many of his future career choices.
Initially he planned to study engineering and science, however Chapeskie found a love for political science, philosophy and the social sciences when he studied at St. Lawrence University in New York state.
Graduating into a challenging job market, Chapeskie pursued a passion for language and culture by teaching English in Taiwan.
He used the opportunity to travel through Southeast Asia, which ignited his interest in global development.
Chapeskie continued his international work while completing a Master’s Degree in Human Security and Peacebuilding at Royal Roads University in British Columbia, where he earned a grant to research livelihood development in Uganda.
Chapeskie (far right) teaching in Taiwan, 2004
Upon graduation, he worked in Liberia managing projects focused on reducing sex and gender-based harassment and violence and increasing access to justice and public health initiatives.
Returning to Canada, Chapeskie leveraged his international experience in leadership roles at BioTalent Canada, a biotechnology sector council and eSolutions Group, a digital consulting agency. At EHRC, he channels his expertise and experience into creating a sustainable and inclusive energy future.
Chapeskie (centre) working in Liberia, 2009
Chapeskie working in Liberia, 2009
Chapeskie (far left) teaching a training seminar in Liberia, 2009
Chapeskie (top row, middle) teaching in Taiwan, 2004
Chapeskie (far right) during his research trip to Uganda, 2007
Chapeskie (centre) working in Liberia, 2009
Chapeskie working in Liberia, 2009
Chapeskie (far left) teaching a training seminar in Liberia, 2009
Chapeskie (top row, middle) teaching in Taiwan, 2004
Chapeskie (far right) during his research trip to Uganda, 2007
Chapeskie (centre) working in Liberia, 2009
Defining change maker
For Chapeskie, being a change maker means identifying a passion, finding a role in driving change and taking incremental steps toward positive outcomes. His advocacy focuses on mitigating human-induced climate change and improving services for people with disabilities, particularly those on the autism spectrum.
Being a change maker isn’t about taking on the world alone. It’s about building relationships and harnessing the power of collaboration to achieve meaningful impact.
Cultivating a change-maker mindset
Chapeskie believes that fostering a change-maker mindset within an organization begins with a clear vision.
“While the organizational ship may occasionally be rocked in rough seas, having a solid north star is critical,” he notes. Paired with detailed planning, timelines and appropriate resourcing, this approach ensures progress continues through challenging periods. He adds that flexibility, adaptability and attracting supporters who share the organization’s mission are key.
At EHRC, Chapeskie credits his team and strong network of members and partners for their achievements. Together, they work toward the organization’s vision for a more electrified Canada that generates electricity responsibly, safely and inclusively. His work at EHRC exemplifies how a strong network can amplify impact.
Chapeskie speaking at House of Commons National Resources Committee about need for investment in training, education, career pathing and awareness on behalf of EHRC.
2025 - the year of AI
At the moment, Chapeskie is particularly intrigued by the role of artificial intelligence (AI) as an agent of change in recruitment. With both recruiters and candidates leveraging AI tools, he wonders if we’re approaching a future where “AI talks to AI.” While the implications remain uncertain, the potential to streamline hiring processes and improve outcomes is significant.
Chapeskie is eager to explore how technology is reshaping recruitment and the hiring landscape in his keynote presentation.
Collaboration is the cornerstone of success
We asked him what the core message will be in his keynote speech at the Employer Impact Conference. Without hesitation, he spoke about the value of collaboration and team work.
Whatever it is you’re attempting to do, you cannot do it alone. Building a network of supporters who share your vision is critical to achieving your goals.
Join Chapeskie and other industry leaders on April 29 at the CEE Employer Impact Conference. As the keynote speaker, Chapeskie will share his insights on bridging the gap between education and industry, fostering a change-maker mindset and navigating the evolving landscape of recruitment and engagement.