Publication

April McCann, Government of New Brunswick
CICS employment dates: 2018 to present

What was it like moving and adjusting to living and working in a different province than your own?

Moving to a new province for the first time provided an opportunity for me to grow. Discovering the National Capital Region and all of its history is a very rewarding process. My coworkers at CICS have been supportive from the very start, making sure I felt comfortable in my new environment.

What do you like best about working for CICS?

I very much enjoy having the opportunity to work with different sectors, getting a feel for the priorities of each individual department. The travel, of course is a major draw to my position. I get to see areas of the country that I’ve never seen before!

How would you describe your experience as a PT employee at CICS?

I believe that I add something beneficial to the secretariat through my background working in the public service in my home province. I have an intimate understanding of the values within my home government that I have brought with me into my new role here at the secretariat.

Would you recommend working at CICS to other PT employees? If yes, Why?

I would absolutely recommend a secondment with the secretariat to other PT employees. This secondment is a wonderful opportunity to work on different levels within the structure of Canada’s government.

Does CICS and other employees inspire you to do your best work?

Working in such a small group really does encourage me to do my best work. When you’re on a conference site, you’re part of a team. The goal is always to provide the best client service possible.

Do you find your supervisors to be encouraging and helpful when you need it?

My supervisors were directly involved in my formation within the secretariat. They are always available to answer my questions on procedure and protocol. They are present at every conference, to ensure the smooth operation of the event.

How do you like working in the National Capital Region?

I’ve really enjoyed my experience in the NCR since this past spring. There are no shortage of cultural events to experience. I can’t wait to experience my first winter in Ottawa!

Do you feel you are treated with the same respect as other employees?

I feel that each employee of the secretariat is treated with respect, and I am no different. CICS is a very inclusive group, giving opportunities for each member to contribute to workplace committees and various humanitarian campaigns.

In 2018–19, CICS will launch a significant modernization project: the digitization of our archives.

What is digitization?

Digitization is the process of converting documents, photographs, audio and video files into a digital format, conserving and putting less strain on the original.

Why digitize?

An ambitious and time-consuming venture, the digitization of our archives will be a long-term investment for the Secretariat that will ensure the preservation of the historical documents in our care. Once digitized, the records will be easily stored and managed, and preserved for delegates and Canadians alike.

Number of FTEs in Conference Services

22

In 2017–18, the Secretariat once again experienced an increase in virtual conferences as these steadily become the most cost- and time efficient way for federal, provincial and territorial governments to confer. As technology rapidly advances and becomes more readily accessible, CICS recognizes that this practical and “green” approach to intergovernmental discussions will only continue to grow in popularity and cannot be ignored even at the highest echelons. Innovation is a government–

wide priority in jurisdictions across Canada and CICS’ ability to innovate is at the forefront of the trend, ready to support clients who are eager to connect virtually.

Anticipating the surge in the popularity of virtual meetings within its client base, CICS took advantage of a recent relocation to a Workplace 2.0 environment to build a state of the art video- and teleconferencing facility at the centre of its new offices in the National Capital Region. Virtual conferences made up 36% of the total amount of conferences served by CICS in 2017–18, an increase of 3% compared to the previous year. Going forward, the studio will not only reduce or eliminate off-site space rental fees for the agency, but it will also ensure a superior quality service to meeting organizers and participants alike.

The studio, including a permanent booth for simultaneous interpretation, was built in accordance with current ISO standards and is equipped with the latest technology, ensuring that interpreters and CICS personnel can do their work effectively and safely. The studio is operated by an experienced CICS team who have been fully trained in the use of the equipment and the best practices related to virtual meetings.

As with any event, advance planning is essential for a successful virtual meeting. Ideally, two full months are required to secure the necessary facilities, equipment, software, and professional support at all participating locations across Canada. The Secretariat understands that such advance notice is not always possible, and it will continue to search for effective ways to fulfill clients’ needs for shorter lead times, for example, while also ensuring a safe and effective work environment for interpreters and others.

In the context of the more traditional in-person meetings, this sustainable and cost-effective way to connect is increasingly providing an effective way for some delegates to contribute and participate remotely from anywhere in Canada.

At CICS, we embrace the future of virtual meetings, and their successful implementation is our priority. We encourage interested clients to contact us to help pilot their next virtual meeting.