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Kelly VanBuskirk, K.C., PhD, C. Arb. is the Principal of VanBuskirk Law, a boutique Labour, Employment, and Human Rights Law firm which is based in New Brunswick. He has represented clients in hundreds of hearings before tribunals and courts, including the New Brunswick Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court of Canada.

He is also an adjunct professor in the Faculty of Business at the University of New Brunswick, where he teaches courses including Employment Law, Labour Law and Negotiations. Additionally he is a part-time instructor of Employment Law, Trial Practice, Sport Law, and Negotiations in the UNB Faculty of Law. He also co-developed and teaches the UNB Workplace Investigations certificate course.

He has designed and implemented respectful workplace training programs for international organizations in three countries. His research and articles have been published in a multitude of workplace magazines and law journals and in April 2017 he published a book titled Why Employees Sue: Rethinking Approaches to the Resolution of Employment Conflicts.

Chris Pelkey is a Fredericton-based lawyer with McInnes Cooper, specializing in labour and employment law. He works with employers – both unionized and non-unionized – helping them navigate complex workplace issues, from collective bargaining and grievances to wrongful dismissals, employment contracts, workplace policies, occupational health and safety and human rights matters.

With a background as an electrical engineer designing power systems in New Zealand, Zambia, and Canada, Chris brings a problem-solving mindset to the legal challenges his clients face. He takes a proactive, strategic approach to employment law, helping HR professionals and business leaders mitigate risks, resolve disputes, and build strong, compliant workplaces.

Chris is known for his ability to understand the unique operational needs of his clients, offering practical, business-focused legal advice. Whether advising on day-to-day HR matters or representing employers before courts, labour boards and arbitrators, his goal is to deliver results that align with his clients' broader business objectives.

Join us for the Labour Law Summit, presented by VanBuskirk Law!

This premier event will bring together leading legal experts to explore key issues in labour law, providing valuable insights for HR professionals, business leaders, and legal practitioners. Hosted by Kelly VanBuskirk, the summit will feature presentations from five distinguished legal counsel, each addressing critical topics shaping the ever-evolving landscape of labour law.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain expert guidance, stay informed on legislative changes, and engage in meaningful discussions that impact workplaces today.

Members : $125 full day

Non-Members: $200 full day

Please note: A refund will only be issued for cancellations submitted at least one week prior to an event or workshop. Attendee substitutions are permitted; however, member/non-member rate differences will apply. Please submit cancellation or substitution requests by e-mail admin@cphrnb.ca