2026 Conference Committee elects Rick Smith (Vice President of Business Development, CareRx) as new Commercial Representative

BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA) is pleased to announce Rick Smith, Vice President of Business Development, CareRx, as the Commercial Representative for the 2026 Conference Committee. Elected by exhibitors from the 2025 Annual Conference, Rick will serve as their voice on the Conference Committee, a subcommittee of the Events and Recognition Committee (ERC), as it plans for the 2026 Annual Conference.

Rick is a seasoned conference and tradeshow professional with over two decades of experience as both an exhibitor and delegate across multiple industries, including hospitality and seniors’ care.

He is also deeply committed to strengthening the seniors’ care sector. Rick has served as a subject matter expert, contributing to recommendations for the Ministry of Health on Bill 16, and was invited by Fraser Health Authority to help develop guidelines on preferred pharmacy use in Assisted Living.

Rick says, “having partnered with the BCCPA for many years, I’ve seen firsthand the value the organization brings to the seniors living, wellness and care sector in B.C. I’m excited to contribute again as part of the Conference Committee. I look forward to bringing a practical, exhibitor-informed perspective while contributing actionable ideas that help support an even more engaging and meaningful experience for all fellow participants. This is a great opportunity to support the continued growth of the largest seniors housing conference in Western Canada that plays a key role in connecting and strengthening the sector.”

“We look forward to working with Rick and the expertise and enthusiasm he brings,” says Cathy Szmaus, VP of Operations and Corporate Partnerships. “In addition to attending the past 13 BCCPA conferences, Rick participates in conferences across Canada and the U.S., and we look forward to gaining insights from his experiences at those events.”