On March 1, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) hosted the region’s 1st Annual International Case Competition at Canisius College’s Montante Cultural Center in Buffalo, New York. Student teams from Brock University, Canisius College, Niagara University and the University at Buffalo’s business and international programs competed, presenting their recommendations on a case based on real-life scenarios provided by WTCBN board member Rich Products. The team from Brock University’s Goodman School of Business in Thorold, Ontario, Canada captured the inaugural event’s title.

“Every region is trying to wrap their arms around workforce development, and the biggest challenge is often making the connection between employers with their future workforce,” said Craig Turner, WTCBN President. “Our International Case Competition initiative grew from conversations with higher ed to match companies desperate for talent with talented students looking for their career paths. We couldn’t be more pleased with how it turned out.”

Judges for the event were Steve Briggs, Dynabrade, Inc.; Robert Clark, Rich Products; Kevin Jacobi, CanadaBW Logistics and Rosanna Masucci, U.S. Department of Commerce. WTCBN Board member John DeLuca from Liberty Pumps provided the keynote address for the students.

World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara serves a binational region crossing the U.S.-Canadian border that includes Western New York, the Southern Tier, the Finger Lakes, and Southern Ontario.

“World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara is unique among our partners in the WTCA, as we represent companies and stakeholders in two countries,” said Craig Turner, WTCBN President. “To be able to celebrate that relationship with our outstanding regional higher ed institutions was a treat, and a tremendously rewarding experience for everyone involved. We’re already planning for Year Two!”