2024 Annual General Meeting and Awards Banquet Recap

The 2024 AGM and Awards Banquet held on March 5, 2024, in Edmonton, Alberta, is still the talk of the town over a week later. The morning AGM sessions delved into the current landscape of Alberta’s resource sector, touching on topics such as labour markets, water resources, and the perspective of Canada’s youth on the industry. In the evening, a celebratory energy swept through Hall D of the Edmonton Convention Centre as distinguished individuals and organizations were recognized for their contributions toward a sustainable resource sector. Notable award recipients included Cenovus, John Zhou, Wade Eno, Adam Martinson, and Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation all of whom were celebrated for their outstanding achievements.

Alberta Chamber of Resources 2024 Annual Awards Banquet

The 2024 Annual General Meeting started with a warm welcome from Gordon Giles, the outgoing President of ACR. Randy Geislinger, ACR Treasurer, presented the financial report for 2023 and outlined the budget for the upcoming year, setting the stage for a discussion on the association’s financial health and future plans. The nominations for the Executive Committee and new board members were then put forth by Paul Taylor, who assumed the role of Vice President. The fresh perspectives and new leadership offer a new chapter for ACR and set the stage for a promising future.

Kim Sturgess, the Chief Executive Officer of WaterSMART Solutions, was recognized by the ACR Executive for her remarkable ten-year tenure on the ACR Board of Directors, as well as her invaluable contributions during her time on the ACR Executive team. Following this recognition, Naomi Tercier, the new President of ACR and Director of Sales and Distribution Western Region at Graymont, took the stage to highlight the evolving landscape of the resource industry. She emphasized ACR's commitment to grow and provide continued value to its members and the resource sector.

The afternoon sessions, following the formal AGM, included three insightful panel discussions covering labour, water resources, and youth perspectives of industry. The labour market panel discussion was moderated by Paul Taylor and included Bonnie Smith, Chair at CLR-A and Vice President of Human Resources, NCSG Crane and Heavy Haul; Alicia Planincic, Economist and Manager of Policy, Business Council of Alberta; and Laura Jo Gunter, President, NAIT. This panel delved into the prevalent labor challenges faced by businesses today while also presenting innovative solutions to address them.

Kim Sturgess moderates a panel discussion at the Alberta Chamber of Resources 2024 Annual General Meeting

After a panel from Young Canadians for Resources, moderated by Lyn Exner, Chief Operating Officer, Canada Action Coalition, Kim Sturgess returned to the stage to moderate a water resource panel. Joining her was Randall Barrett, Executive Director, Regulatory Assurance, North Region, Environment & Protected Areas Department; Tamara Miyanaga, Reeve, Municipal District of Taber; Jason Krips, President and Chief Executive Officer, Alberta Forest Products Association; and Steve Herman, Director of Engineering, WaterSMART Solutions, to explore the pressing water resource needs in the region from various perspectives.

After a quick wardrobe change, attendees reconvened at the Edmonton Convention Centre at 5:00 PM for the much-anticipated Annual Awards Banquet The atmosphere was electric, filled with the sounds of live music and conversation that set the tone for the evening. The Honourable Rick Wilson, Minister of Indigenous Relations, and Naomi Tercier, ACR

The Honourable Rick Wilson delivering a welcome message for attendees at the Alberta Chamber of Resources 2024 Awards Banquet

President, kicked off the event with opening remarks. Following dinner, the award presentations were emotional and inspiring as recipients expressed gratitude to their peers, friends, and family members, creating a heartwarming and memorable experience for all in attendance. The winners of the 2023 ACR Awards included:

·       Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation (2023 Resource Leadership Award)

·       Adam Martinson, President & Founder, AJM Environmental (2023 Young Resource Leader Award)

·       Wade Eno, Chief Executive Officer, ONSITE3D (2023 Indigenous Resource Leader Award)

·       John Zhou, Chief Cleantech Officer and Vice President, Clean Resources, Alberta Innovates (2023 Technology and Innovation Leadership Award)

·       Cenovus Energy (2023 Indigenous Rewarding Partnership Award)

Left to Right: David Hood, John Zhou, Naomi Tercier

To wrap up an exciting day, Henry “Gizmo” Williams took the stage for an energetic keynote presentation on pushing through barriers, triumph and resilience. By sharing his insights and experiences, he encouraged the audience to face challenges head-on, overcome obstacles, and never give up on their dreams. With his dynamic delivery and powerful message, Henry "Gizmo" Williams left a lasting impression on all those in attendance.

Henry “Gizmo” Williams delivering the keynote presentations at the Alberta Chamber of Resources 2024 Awards Banquet

Thank you to everyone who attended the AGM and Awards Banquet. More information on the Alberta Chamber of Resources and upcoming events can be found at www.acr-alberta.com.