Cathy Yakimec understands that a committee comprised of employers, labour associations and the Workers’ Compensation Board may make for an odd partnership, but representatives of the three groups have been remarkably effective in dealing with the difficult issue of how to re-integrate back into the workplace people who have been injured on the job or have suffered from a non-occupational injury or illness.

Cathy and her fellow committee members have developed an innovative toolkit that helps employers develop modified work programs that allow workers to continue to contribute in ways that are safe, meaningful and productive.

"It’s important for workers to know that their employer cares about their situation," says Cathy. She also notes significant upsides to employers through reduced WCB claims and disability costs. Alberta was the first province in Canada to implement such a program; others are now following suit and adopting the Alberta model.

Says Cathy, "Our work shows how employers and labour groups can come together to solve mutual issues; I am proud to have helped develop and share this best practice."