The three-day gathering centered around the theme of “Learn, Connect, Experience.” It brought together facility managers, ice rink operators, and other North American industry stakeholders from both the public and the private sector for an intensive program of training, presentations, and networking opportunities. Front and center were discussions around budgets, pressing environment goals, and achieving high performance.

Expert Knowledge Sharing

The event kicked off on November 7 with fully booked breakaway training sessions, providing attendees with hands-on industry-specific presentations. Attendees could choose between various expert sessions with topics ranging from ice resurfacing to district heating and cooling essentials.

The second day featured a comprehensive lineup of presentations, beginning with an introduction by IRMA's founding members: Greg Taylor (CEO, Jet Ice Limited), Andrew McRae (CEO, Athletica Sport Systems Inc. and IRMA Chairman), Greg Dean (COO, Zamboni), and David Fauser (VP – Sales, Marketing and Strategy, CIMCO).

The founding companies formally introduced IRMA to attendees, welcoming everyone to the first Innovation Day organized by the association. Previously, CIMCO hosted the Innovation Day event, the first of which occurred in 2014.

“Watching the evolution of Innovation Day has been inspiring. The addition of the IRMA partners allows for broader, deeper, and more impactful topics that address the challenges and opportunities faced by today’s ice rinks,” said David Fauser, VP Sales, Marketing and Strategy, CIMCO.

The day continued with presentations from various organizations, including the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA), the City of Edmonton, the World Curling Federation, the Edmonton Oilers, and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM).

Exhibition and Networking Highlights

A focused mini trade show of a variety of exhibitors followed the presentations, with exhibitor booths generating significant interest among attendees,

The day culminated in a memorable fireside chat during the networking dinner reception, where David Fauser of CIMCO engaged in a 90-minute conversation with Kevin Lowe, Current Ambassador for the Edmonton Oilers, and five-time Stanley Cup Champion and Dan Craig, the NHL's former Operations Manager and leading ice maker. Their discussion covered the rich history of ice arenas and included numerous anecdotes that kept the audience thoroughly engaged.

The evening concluded with CIMCO presenting their Innovator of the Year award, which was awarded to Dan Craig for his contribution to the industry.

Behind the Scenes Tour

After the morning presentations, the final day offered attendees exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Rogers Place, showcasing the facility's state-of-the-art ammonia refrigeration system installed by CIMCO, complete with their IQ automation system. Participants toured the Blatchford district heating and cooling community, providing insight into modern sustainable cooling solutions.

"Innovation Day 2024 exceeded our expectations in every way," said Andrew McRae, IRMA Chairman. "The sold-out attendance and high level of engagement demonstrate the industry's commitment to collaboration and sustainable innovation."

Looking at 2025