Our forum will feature high-level speakers from all levels of government—federal, provincial, and municipal—as well as industry leaders, policymakers, and leading academics. These distinguished guests will provide invaluable insights and perspectives, making the SMR Forum 2024 a must-attend event for anyone involved in the energy sector.
Brian Jean was sworn in as the Minister of Energy and Minerals on June 9, 2023. He previously served as the Minister of Jobs, Economy and Northern Development. Prior to his service as an elected official at the provincial level, Mr. Jean was a Member of Parliament from 2004 to 2014 where he served as the Parliamentary Secretary to 3 different Ministers of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. He has also previously dedicated 11 years to private legal practice as partner at a large Northern Alberta law firm, primarily as a litigator, and owned several successful small businesses. Mr. Jean holds a Bachelor of Laws as well as a Bachelor of Science and a Masters in Business Administration. Brian Jean was first elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Fort McMurray-Conklin May 5, 2015, and as the Member for Fort McMurray-Lac La Biche on March 16, 2022 and was re-elected on May 29, 2023.
The Hon. Stephen F. Lecce is the Minister of Energy and Electrification for the Province of Ontario and the Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for King-Vaughan. As the Minister of Energy and Electrification, Stephen is dedicated to keeping energy costs down for residents and businesses across Ontario while building a reliable and affordable electricity system that is among the cleanest in the world. Notably, Ontario stands as the first jurisdiction in the G7 to build a grid-scale, small modular reactor (SMR). This innovative technology will play a vital role in powering economic growth and increasing electrification across the province. In his mission to expand the electricity resources to meet future demands, Stephen engages with leaders from Ontario's world-class energy sector and partners, including Indigenous communities, local distribution companies, transmission companies, and energy agencies. Stephen's efforts will further leverage Ontario's clean energy advantage, ensuring the province is poised to support historic investments while meeting the energy needs of tomorrow. Stephen's political journey began in his hometown of Vaughan, where he actively participated in the 1999 election of the late MPP Al Palladini. Since then, he has served in various influential roles, including as the Chief Spokesperson for former Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Deputy Government House Leader, and Minister of Education. A committed community leader, Stephen has devoted over half his life to public service. He continues to support the people of King-Vaughan as MPP and remains involved as the former First Vice President of the National Congress of Italian Canadians, an active member of the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce, and the former Youth Education Chair of Vaughan’s Royal Canadian Legion (Mackenzie Branch 414). Living in Vaughan, where he grew up, Stephen stays actively engaged in his community, ensuring that Ontario's energy future is bright and sustainable.
On October 21, 2022, Nate Glubish was sworn in to lead the newly created Ministry of Technology and Innovation where he continued to lead the modernization of government services and led efforts to attract more investment in Alberta’s technology sector. On June 9, 2023, Nate was sworn in again as Minister of Technology and Innovation. Prior to entering politics, Minister Glubish spent 15 years as a venture capital investor, where he invested in and helped build dozens of Alberta-based technology companies. As Minister of Technology and Innovation, he is focused on ways government could harness technology to provide better public services at a better cost and higher value to Albertans.
With over four decades of experience in the nuclear energy industry, Rumina is a senior leader
and strategic advisor to investors, project proponents, and technology developers worldwide, as
well as governments, international organizations, and regulatory agencies.
Rumina is sought after by organizations around the world for her strategic and operating advice
on matters ranging from safety, compliance, and regulatory issues, leadership, to investment
due diligence, strategic transactions, and innovative nuclear projects, including small modular
reactor projects.
Over the course of her career Rumina, worked in various capacities as a senior executive at
Ontario Hydro and Ontario Power Generation. She most recently served as President and CEO
of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, a role she held for five years after previously
serving as a Commission member for seven years. Rumina is currently on the Board of
Directors of SaskPower and Hydro Ottawa. She is also a cofounder and principal of a startup
nuclear energy company, ZettaJoule,in Japan and Strategic Advisor at Torys LLP.
Rumina also holds numerous positions with international nuclear organizations, including:
- Member, International Nuclear Safety Advisory Group to the Director General of the
International Atomic Energy Agency;
- Chair, OECD Nuclear Energy Agency High Level Group on Stakeholder Engagement
and Trust; and
- International Expert Advisor to Japan’s Nuclear Regulation Authority.
- Recognition and Awards
- In November 2023, Rumina was presented the “Icon of Nuclear” award by the
International Framework for Nuclear Energy Cooperation in recognition for her global
leadership as a nuclear regulator, the vision she has demonstrated as an agent of
change and the mentoring she has provided to people around the world, especially
women in the nuclear sector.
- Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Nuclear Energy Policy initiative, May
2024
- Distinguished Fellow at Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy
Tony has had a long and distinguished career in politics, law, and business spanning four decades. Tony served as a Member of Parliament from 2006 to 2019 and a member of the provincial legislature in Ontario from 1995 to 2003. At the federal level, Tony held senior portfolios in Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s Cabinet, including Minister of Health, Minister of Industry and President of the Treasury Board. Among the many mandates given to him by the Prime Minister, he was tasked with initiating the cost reductions and business transformations that allowed for balancing the federal budget, and he negotiated the deal with Chrysler, GM, auto sector unions, and the US Government, which helped save the domestic auto sector in 2013. He also helped to fashion the first National Pandemic Plan and helped to establish the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer and the Mental Health Commission. As Industry Minister, he initiated Canada’s Digital Strategy and later Canada’s open data strategy as part of the worldwide Open Government Partnership. Before federal politics, Tony Clement served in the cabinets of Ontario Premiers Mike Harris and Ernie Eves, where he was Minister of Transportation, Minister of the Environment, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, and Minister of Health and Long-Term Care. Since leaving elected office in 2019, Tony has engaged with several entrepreneurial projects, led IT startup companies, and served on various IT and healthcare boards while providing strategic advice to clients nationally and internationally. He also served as Pierre Polievre’s fundraising director during the 2022 leadership campaign and was subsequently appointed to the Conservative Party’s fundraising committee. Today, Tony works internationally, with strong connections in the USA, UK, Europe, South America, Asia, and India. He is a trained lawyer who enjoys analyzing and supporting clients with strategic advice from legal, geopolitical, and financial perspectives. Tony hosts the daily television program “Boom and Bust” on The News Forum, focusing on business, the economy, tech and national security. He also co-hosts his regular podcast, “And Another Thing Podcast,” and hosts a monthly radio program. Tony Clement lives in Muskoka, Ontario, with his wife Lynne, a lawyer and successful author. They have three adult children.
Daniel Poneman most recently served as President and CEO of Centrus Energy Corp. (2015-2023), restoring the company to profitability and deploying the first U.S.-technology uranium enrichment facility to begin production since 1954. Earlier he advised on corporate transactions as a principal of The Scowcroft Group. Mr. Poneman served as Deputy Secretary of Energy from 2009 through 2014. As Chief Operating OƯicer of the Department, Mr. Poneman’s responsibilities spanned all energy technology and nuclear security issues. He led 2009 negotiations to address Iran’s nuclear program, chaired the Credit Review Board approval of $30 billion in projects accelerating the widespread deployment of electric vehicles and renewable power, played an instrumental role in the Department’s response to crises from Fukushima to the Libyan civil war to Superstorm Sandy, and led eƯorts to strengthen emergency response and cybersecurity across the energy sector. He served six years at the National Security Council under Presidents Bush and Clinton, including three as Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Nonproliferation and Export Controls. Mr. Poneman received A.B. and J.D. degrees with honors from Harvard and an M.Litt. from Oxford. He is the author of Double Jeopardy: Combating Nuclear Terror and Climate Change, Argentina: Democracy on Trial, and Nuclear Power in the Developing World. His third book, Going Critical: The First North Korean Nuclear Crisis (co-authored with Joel Wit and Robert Gallucci), received the 2005 Douglas Dillon Award for Distinguished Writing on American Diplomacy. In 2020, he was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun by the Japanese government.
Aaron Johnson is Senior Vice President, Nuclear, with the responsibility of leading the successful pursuit and execution of all nuclear projects within Aecon’s portfolio. Beginning with Aecon in 2006, Aaron has diverse experience across many of Aecon’s operational and corporate teams, including the industrial, nuclear, and urban transportation sectors. He has been responsible for the pursuit and execution of some of Aecon’s most complex multi-disciplinary projects, including the Darlington Refurbishment project, GO Expansion On-Corridor project, and Scarborough Subway Extension project. Aaron holds Bachelor of Applied Science and Masters of Engineering degrees in Electrical Engineering from the University of Waterloo and is licensed as a Professional Engineer in the Province of Ontario. He also serves on the Board of Directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hamilton-Halton.
Adam joined Clean Prosperity from the Government of Alberta, where he helped establish Canada’s first ESG Secretariat as its Executive Director, ESG Coordination and Integration. Prior to this, Adam led the Government Relations team at the University of Alberta and held various roles with local economic development, consulting, and business organizations, and also led a local strategic advisory firm. Adam returned home to Alberta in 2013 following many years in Ottawa working on Parliament Hill, including in Canada’s Environment Minister’s Office in 2011-13. Prior to that, Adam spent time in Canada’s Embassy in Washington, D.C., and served nearly two years on the ground in Afghanistan deployed with the Canadian Government. A fervent believer in the power of people to create positive change in their communities, Adam is a former Canadian Army Reservist and very active national, provincial, and local volunteer, currently serving on the Concordia University of Edmonton’s Business Advisory Council, Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation’s Board of Trustees, and as a local minor soccer coach.
Adrian Foster is serving his fourth term as Mayor of Clarington. Adrian and his wife Deborah live in Courtice. Deborah is an ordained Minister with The United Church of Canada. After graduating from the University of Toronto, Adrian worked as a counsellor, helping developmentally disabled children and their families in a behaviour management setting. Later he started a career as an investment advisor, working in that field for over 26 years. Since making their home in Clarington, the Fosters have been active in the community supporting numerous groups and causes. Adrian has volunteered with numerous organizations. He is a past President of the Clarington Board of Trade, a former charter member of the Rotary Club of Courtice and is involved with the Lion’s Club of Courtice. Adrian has been formally recognized twice for his service to the community. He was awarded the Queen's Golden Jubilee medal in 2002, the Queen's Diamond Jubilee medal in 2012 and was presented with a Paul Harris Fellowship by the Rotary Club of Courtice in 2008. Adrian has represented the Municipality on a variety of boards and committees. Amongst other commitments, he sits as Chair of Durham Region Finance, sits as Chair of the Canadian Association of Nuclear Host Communities, and is a Board Member of Elexicon Corp.
Andrew joined the Ministry of Affordability and Utilities (AU) in November of 2022 as Assistant Deputy Minister of Utilities. Before joining AU, Andrew worked with the Ministry of Jobs, Economy and Northern Development in the role of Executive Director – Industry and Regional Relations. Prior to joining JEND, Andrew spent 7 years with the Department of Energy as Executive Director of Generation, Transmission and Markets working on electricity files related to generation, transmission and markets policy and regulation, the interplay between environmental policy and the electricity system, as well as the development and implementation of the Renewable Electricity Program. Andrew has held various energy/environment policy related positions over a 20+ year career with the Government of Alberta, including over five years working in the area of oil sands environmental policy. He is married with two young sons.
Bartek Rzentkowski is a Senior Project Officer for the Advanced Reactor Licensing Division at the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC). Bartek’s current focus is leading the licensing and regulatory review of the Darlington Small Modular Reactor project, the first reactor of its kind in North America. In addition, Bartek is leading the development of a lessons-learned report to support future applicants. With a background that includes project management for nuclear power regulatory oversight, compliance verification, and mechanical engineering, Bartek has contributed to key regulatory developments and international nuclear safety initiatives.
Bevin Eldaphonse is a Machine Learning Project Manager with the Advanced Tech Team at Amii, bringing over 10 years of progressive experience in program management and technical leadership within deep-tech and engineering domains. He has strong expertise in translating business requirements into effective technical solutions and driving innovation in AI and ML across diverse use cases, including energy projects and safety-critical systems. In addition to pursuing MEng in Aeronautical Engineering from Imperial College, Bevin is trained in Systems Engineering from the University of Oxford. He also holds a Master of Laws degree with a focus on International Business Law from the University of London (QM/UCL)
A Senior Executive with 37 years of extensive experience in the energy business, including over 20 years in the nuclear industry at Ontario Hydro and Ontario Power Generation between 1981 and 2002. He worked as a Resident Project Engineer at Bruce and Darlington during the construction and commissioning phases, and subsequently advanced to a senior leadership role as the Vice President of Supply Chain where his responsibilities included all nuclear procurement, materials management and source surveillance activities. In 2002, Mr. Smith joined Siemens Canada rising to become the Senior Vice President of Siemens’ energy business in Canada, which included power generation and transmission, oil and gas and smart technologies across the energy sector. He was responsible for all sales and marketing, manufacturing, service delivery and project management and successfully built the business into a billion-dollar enterprise. During Mr. Smith’s tenure in both the private and public sector, he has developed deep experience and capability in major project execution, building team capability and managing external interfaces with clients, suppliers and regulators. Mr. Smith holds a B. Eng (with Distinction) from Carleton University and an MBA from the Schulich School at York University. He is a P. Eng registered with the Professional Engineers of Ontario (PEO) and with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA).
Bill Whitelaw is Managing Director of Strategy and Sustainability of geoLOGIC systems, a global energy insights firm based in Calgary, AB. He sits on a variety of industry boards and is current chair of the Canadian Society for Evolving Energy. He speaks and comments frequently on sustainability, innovation, emissions, and future workforce development. He is currently a key organizer with The Banff Protocol, an initiative advocating for improved global emissions data standards.
Brian Fehrenbach joined the Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries (OCNI) in 2021 after 20 years of developing nuclear business opportunities around the world. Starting with Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd followed by Candu Energy and Ontario Power Generation, Brian has worked with governments, private companies and partners to develop and implement business strategies for market entry and growth. With the Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries, Brian leads international activities as well as the develpoment of a pan-Canadian nuclear supply chain through OCNI’s Ready4SMR Program. Brian studied mathematics at The University of Waterloo and three sons who all understand the importance of nuclear energy in a clean economy.
Chad is an experienced business leader and entrepreneur, having founded Sunexo Solutions and developed software used by over 500 projects across North America. As the former VP of Innovation at Communica, he was responsible for Stakeholder Information Management software and services, and has led the creation of the IRIS SIM software. With on-the-ground experience in indigenous community engagement, Chad has a unique perspective on clean energy through infrastructure. Additionally, he is a board member at the Canadian-American Chamber of Commerce for Western Canada, Director at the Founder Institute, the founder of Startup Grind Calgary, and a recipient of the Rising Stars award for his contributions to the energy industry. Chad Ford boasts a wealth of experience in public speaking, having participated in numerous industry-specific events as a panel member. His involvement includes events such as The Oil Sands Conference & Trade Show, Western Aboriginal Consultation & Engagement, and the Williston Basin Petroleum Conference. At these events, Chad shared insights on stakeholder and Indigenous engagement trends and best practices, emphasizing the role of technology in enhancing these relationships and streamlining the regulatory process. In addition to his public speaking engagements, Chad is a skilled educator. He mentored for a year at SAIT's Energy Asset Management program, where he shared his knowledge of the regulatory process and the adoption of technology in the energy sector with students. He also co-Directed the internationally recognized Founder Institute startup accelerator for Western Canada for two and a half years, leading weekly sessions and moderating public discussions with top investors and entrepreneurs.
Chantelle de Jonge was appointed the Parliamentary Secretary for Affordability and Utilities on July 13, 2023. Ms. de Jonge was also appointed as one of Alberta's Pacific NorthWest Economic Region Delegate Council members and to the US Energy Council. Ms. de Jonge earned a bachelor’s degree with distinction in economics and philosophy at the University of Calgary and was awarded the Professor Z.M. Kubinski Prize in Economics for 2 research projects on Canadian economic issues. She also has her Master of Public Policy from the University of Calgary. Ms. de Jonge believes in giving back through volunteer efforts, and dedicates a lot of her time to volunteering, both at home and abroad. Chantelle de Jonge was first elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Chestermere-Strathmore on May 29, 2023.
Daffyd Roderick is a partner in Diplomat Consulting and the Managing Partner of its subsidiary, Pathfinder Strategic Communications. As a journalist, he told stories for wire services, newspapers and magazines, finishing his career at Time magazine as a staff writer based in Hong Kong and then Toronto. He then led communications, public consultation and social responsibility teams at Hydro One Networks Inc., one of North America's largest transmission and distribution utilities through Ontario's smart grid transformation, storms -- actual and corporate -- and its Initial Public Offering. He lives in Toronto, Ontario, with two dogs, two cats, two sons and one partner who puts up with them all.
Dale Swampy is a member of the Samson Cree Nation in Maskwacis, Alberta and a graduate of the University of Alberta with a B.A. degree majoring in Economics. In 2006, after working for 22 years with his band, Mr. Swampy left his position as CEO with the Samson Cree Nation to start his own business as an Indigenous Relations consultant working on a variety of projects including the Alberta Clipper and Southern Lights Pipeline projects. In 2009, after the completion of these projects, Mr. Swampy was honored by the Dakota Sioux Tribe of Manitoba with their highest honor, the Horse Medallion, for service to their communities. In 2010, Mr. Swampy joined the Indigenous Relations team for the Northern Gateway Pipeline Project as Director of Indigenous Relations for the BC terrestrial region. Mr. Swampy was then appointed by Indigenous leaders as mediator for the newly formed Northern Gateway Aboriginal Equity Partners group, or AEP – a coalition comprised of 31 Indigenous leaders working as part of an unprecedented partnership with Northern Gateway. In 2016, after the cancelation of Northern Gateway, Mr. Swampy started the National Coalition of Chiefs (NCC). Today, the NCC works with Chiefs from across Canada to advocate for the natural resource industry and the clean energy transition. The NCC is also committed to “Defeating On-Reserve Poverty” through positive dialogue and partnership with Canada’s Natural Resource Industry.
Daniel Jurijew is currently Vice-President, Regulatory, Siting and Stakeholder Engagements (SMR) for Capital Power. Prior to his appointment to this role in April 2024, Daniel served as Vice-President, Government Relations, Regulatory & Environmental Policy for Capital Power since 2020, and prior to that was Vice-President, Government & External Relations. Daniel has over 23 years of experience in electricity markets. In his current role, Daniel is responsible for leading Capital Power’s regulatory and policy activities, stakeholder and Indigenous community engagement, and government relations initiatives relating to potential development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and nuclear power generation in Alberta. Daniel has participated on behalf of Capital Power in numerous processes undertaken by the Government of Alberta, AESO and other market agencies regarding a range of issues, including reviews relating to Alberta’s climate change policies and electricity market design, and has also led Capital Power’s advocacy and engagement in various policy initiatives undertaken by the Federal government on environment and carbon policy matters. Daniel also served as Chair of the Board of Directors of the Independent Power Producers Society of Alberta (“IPPSA”) for a two-year term from 2018 – 2020, and as Vice-Chair from 2016 – 2018. Prior to Capital Power, Daniel was with EPCOR Utilities Inc. from 2001 - 2009, where he held roles relating to regulatory affairs as well as strategic initiatives. From October 1990 – July 2001, he was employed with the Alberta Department of Energy in various capacities including Economist, Senior Economist and, at the time of his departure, Director, Natural Gas. Daniel graduated from the University of Alberta in 1990 with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours), with a specialization in Economics.
Diane Cameron is Head of the Nuclear Technology Development and Economics Division at the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA). In her role at the NEA, she leads an expert team of economists and scientists that supports energy policy and nuclear energy policy development among NEA Member Countries by advancing evidence-based, authoritative assessments and analyses in the areas of nuclear economics, financing, and cost reduction, as well as nuclear technology, innovation, and the fuel cycle. From 2014 to 2021, Ms Cameron was Director of the Nuclear Energy Division with the Government of Canada. As Director, she headed up the division responsible for leading and co- ordinating Canadian public policy on nuclear energy and served as Chair of Canada’s Small Modular Reactor (SMR) Roadmap and Action Plan. She joined the Government of Canada in 2007 to work on energy, environment, and economic policy – including international relations and negotiations. Prior to her tenure with the Government of Canada, she worked in management consulting and engineering in the private sector specialising in global value chains and international logistics. A Canadian national, Diane holds a Master’s degree in Technology Policy from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) where she was named Alfred Keil Fellow for Wiser Uses of Science and Technology. Diane also holds a Bachelor’s degree of Applied Science in Systems Design Engineering from the University of Waterloo.
With more than 35 years’ experience, Doug Ford is widely known as a leading regulatory engagement resource. Doug has planned, developed, and implemented a diverse number of Indigenous and public consultation programs for some of Canada’s largest companies. As a regulatory engagement and information management specialist, he has extensive experience working with a wide range of provincial and federal regulatory bodies including the British Columbia Oil and Gas Commission, British Columbia Environmental Assessment Office, the Alberta Energy Regulator, Alberta Utilities Commission, Alberta Natural Resources Conservation Board, as well as the Canadian Energy Regulator and Canadian Impact Assessment Agency. Doug has participated as an expert witness at regulatory hearings, and as an expert witness in a legal review at the Quebec Court of Appeals with respect to engagement thresholds and practices.
Duane Bratt is a political science Professor in the Department of Economics, Justice, and Policy Studies at Mount Royal University (Calgary, Alberta). He teaches in the area of international relations and Canadian public policy. His research interests include Canadian nuclear policy, Canadian foreign policy, and Alberta politics. Recent publications include: co-editor of Blue Storm: The Rise and Fall of Jason Kenney (University of Calgary Press, 2023), co-editor, Orange Chinook: Politics in the New Alberta (University of Calgary Press, 2019), co-editor, Readings in Canadian Foreign Policy: Classic Debates and New Ideas 3rd edition (Oxford University Press, 2015) and author of Canada, the Provinces, and the Global Nuclear Revival (McGill-Queen’s University Press, 2012). Current projects include a book on the politics of covid in Alberta. Duane is also a regular commentator on political events.
Chief Emily Whetung grew up in Curve Lake First Nation and left long enough to pursue a higher education at Trent University and Osgoode Hall Law School. Chief of Curve Lake from 2019-2022, Chief Emily is passionate ensuring the grandchildren of her great-grandchildren have bright future. Chief Emily is currently the Director of Indigenous Partnerships, Business Development at Ontario Power Generation. In 2023 Emily was appointed to the Canadian Electricity Advisory Council which produced a report for the Minister of Natural Resources Canada. Before joining OPG. Chief Emily was an active participant in the Anishinabek Nation Leadership Council, the vice-chair to the Indigenous Advisory Council for Small Modular (Nuclear) Reactor Action Plan, and was a Panel member for Ontario’s Electrification and Energy Transition Panel. Chief Emily currently sits as a member of the Canadian Electricity Advisory Council and on the Board of Governors for Ontario Tech U. She continues to use her expertise and knowledge to ensure that that voices of Indigenous people are heard and respected.
Canada is the National Voice of Electricity and serves its electricity industry members through the work of expert professionals led by Francis and directed by a Board of Directors made up of member CEOs. Francis is the co-chair of the National Cross-Sector Forum, overseeing Canada’s Action Plan for Critical Infrastructure. He also sits on the Steering Committee for the Electricity Sub-Sector Coordinating Council (ESCC), the Board for the Energy Council of Canada (ECC), the Positive Energy Advisory Council, and is a founding Board member of the Canadian Transportation Alliance. At the North American Electric Reliability Corporation’s (NERC) Member Representatives Committee and Board of Trustees’ meetings, Francis represents Electricity Canada and advocates strongly for its members in their activities related to the Electric Reliability Organization Enterprise, and its role in ensuring the reliability and security of the North American bulk power system. Prior to being named CEO in June 2019, Francis managed Electricity Canada’s day-to-day activities as Chief Operating Officer since 2014. During that time, he also acted as a member of the National Advisory Committee of Canada’s Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction and was a co-chair with the Standards Council of Canada of the Smart Grid Standards Advisory Committee. In 2019 Francis created and continues to host “The Flux Capacitor” podcast, featuring discussions about the future of electricity with CEOs, regulators, political figures, and leaders from civil society.
Frédéric (Fred) joined Natural Resources Canada in January 2023 as director general of the Nuclear Energy and Infrastructure Security Branch, with responsibility for the development and implementation of programs and policies related to the life cycle of nuclear energy, as well as energy infrastructure security and cyber security. Fred has also held leadership roles at Environment and Climate Change Canada, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and Finance Canada. Over the course of his career in the public service, Fred has worked on a variety of policy, program and regulatory issues in both line departments and central agencies. Fred is an economist by training, with degrees from McGill and Dalhousie. Frédéric (Fred) a rejoint Ressources naturelles Canada en janvier 2023 en tant que directeur général de la Direction générale de l'énergie nucléaire et de la sécurité des infrastructures, responsable de l'élaboration et de la mise en œuvre de programmes et de politiques liés au cycle de vie de l'énergie nucléaire, ainsi qu'à la sécurité de l’infrastructure et de la cybersécurité dans le secteur de l’énergie. Fred a également occupé des postes de direction à Environnement et Changement climatique Canada, à Pêches et Océans Canada et à Finances Canada. Au cours de sa carrière dans la fonction publique, Fred a travaillé sur diverses questions de politique, de programme et de réglementation, tant dans des ministères que dans des organismes centraux. Fred est économiste de formation, diplômé de McGill et de Dalhousie.
Grace Meikle is the Director for Technology Impact at Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA). Through the Government of Alberta’s Technology Innovation and Emissions Reduction (TIER) fund, ERA reinvests carbon tax from heavy industrial emitters into emissions reduction and technology innovation projects from technology readiness levels 7-9. Grace has over 12 years’ experience in clean energy technology scale-up, business development and project management. Previously, Grace worked in the US and Canadian nuclear industries and in oil and gas field operations in Alberta. She has a B.Sc. in Physics and Mandarin from the University of Notre Dame.
Greg joined Aecon Nuclear in January 2021 to lead the sector’s Nuclear Strategy and Business Development activities focusing on medium to long term opportunities aligned with Aecon’s growth objectives. In early 2022 he assumed additional responsibility of Business Services including Engineering, Procurement, Proposals & Estimating. Greg has held progressively senior level roles within Supply Chain, Project Management, Commercial Strategy and Business Development over the past 17 years in the nuclear industry working for both Bruce Power and Ontario Power Generation (OPG). Prior to his career in Nuclear, Greg has experience in various industries including Manufacturing, Defense, and Automotive. He has traveled extensively and conducted business internationally while established and building long-term strategic relationships for various organizations. Greg lived in Germany in 2005-2007 to lead and support a strategic growth initiative for the Volvo AB in the central European Market, focusing on European Supply Chain development initiatives for European operations. Greg has a Mechanical Engineering Diploma from Fanshawe College in London, Ontario and a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) from the Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario.
Mr. Lonechild (White Bear First Nations- Treaty #4) is a well-known advocate in creating new economic opportunities and serves as President and CEO of First Nations Power Authority connecting both Indigenous and Industry leaders in renewable and alternative energy development. As a first of its kind organization, Mr. Lonechild heads the organization as our strategic leader and serves the FNPA Board and provides leadership direction to the FNPA Team. Guy served as Vice-Chief and Chief of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (1999- 2008 and 2009-2011), where he oversaw the 25-year Economic Development Strategy highlighting important work in Alternative Energy, Oil and Gas, Agriculture, Tourism, Gaming, Housing and Community Infrastructure, Education, Health and Social Development. Before entering politics, Guy served in various capacities as band administrator and private consultant to First Nations in Business and Community Development. He holds a Masters of Business Administration in Strategic Leadership from Cape Breton University and Associates Degree in Golf Complex Operations Management. He and his wife Leah have one child, Darian Lonechild and enjoy quality time with friends and extended family.
Isaac Werner is the Senior Advisor for Government Relations at the Canada’s Nuclear Waste Management Organization. He has been with the organization for over a decade and leads federal and provincial government and political engagement and supports the organizations international collaboration efforts. Prior to his current role, Isaac worked on the NWMO’s Indigenous engagement team, assisting in siting Canada’s deep geological repository for used nuclear fuel. With his extensive experience, Isaac has become a well-respected voice within the energy industry and government. He is a graduate of University of Waterloo and Queen's University. In his free time, he actively volunteers in his community and enjoys reading, running, and playing hockey.
Jay-An brings over 20 years of combined experience working in regulatory, government, and international organizations in Canada and other countries, in broad areas such as standards development, oil & gas regulatory management, environment and sustainable development, and disaster risk reduction. Jay-An joined CSA Group initially as a Project Manager, Petroleum & Natural Gas, where she managed complex standards development projects in liquefied natural gas, well design and well integrity, underground storage, and pipeline safety metrics. She also contributed to the evaluation and execution of new opportunities related to hydrogen and other energy transition topics. She is currently the Manager of Strategic Initiatives at CSA, looking at new opportunities for standards development, research, and education and services in the Power Generation and Petroleum and Natural Gas Programs, including cross-sectorial initiatives related to energy transition and decarbonization. She is also leading the enabling Small Modular Reactors (SMR) portfolio at CSA. Prior to joining CSA in 2021, Jay-An has held critical roles at the United Nations and two provincial jurisdictions in Canada (Alberta and Saskatchewan). She holds a Bachelor of Science (Biology) and Master’s Degree in Development Management and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP).
Justin McKeown is a Senior Advisor for the Indigenous Consultation and Engagement team at the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC). Justin has a background as an Environmental Assessment practitioner and specialist having led and managed numerous large environmental assessment filings for multi-component projects to the Canada Energy Regulator. Justin’s current focus is on building relationships and working collaboratively with Indigenous Nations and communities, other government entities, and proponents to ensure that Indigenous communities’ issues and concerns are substantially addressed through CNSC’s regulatory processes. Justin has a keen interest in cumulative effects and assessing cumulative impacts on Indigenous and Treaty Rights.
As the Director, Government and Stakeholder Relations for western Canada at the Chemistry Industry Association of Canada, Kai Horsfield represents the association in the western provinces. He has full responsibility for the development and implementation of government relations strategies to effectively communicate and advocate for the chemistry and plastics sector in the region. Prior to Joining CIAC, Kai spent over seven years leading and supporting government relations, public policy and regulatory initiatives with the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association. Kai holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Economics from the University of Alberta and a Master of Public Policy from the University of Calgary
Kevin Bosch is the Chair of the Advisory Board of the Canadian Association of Small Modular Reactors (CASMR). The Canadian Association of Small Modular Reactors (CASMR) is a organization dedicated to advocating and promoting SMRs as a transformative wave of nuclear energy innovation that meets Canada’s environmental, economic, and social objectives. The mission of CASMR is to accelerate the development and deployment of SMRs to fulfill Canada’s net-zero ambitions. Kevin is also a managing partner and co-founder of Sandstone Group. Kevin was named one of the Top 100 lobbyists in Canada in a ranking compiled by the Hill Times in 2021. He has a vision and a commitment to helping clients. After over four years as Vice President of Hill and Knowlton he co-founded Sandstone Group to continue delivering outstanding government relations support to clients. He is a seasoned government relations and communications professional who has helped clients achieve success across a wide range of industries including technology, health, finance, environment, infrastructure manufacturing, energy, defence, transportation, telecommunications and the charitable sector. Prior to his work as a consultant, over a period of nineteen years, Kevin held senior roles in successive Liberal governments and opposition leaders’ offices including for Jean Chrétien, Paul Martin, Bill Graham, Stéphane Dion, Michael Ignatieff, Bob Rae and Justin Trudeau. From 2015- 2017, Kevin was deputy director of the Liberal Research Bureau. He has worked on countless political campaigns and was part of the rapid response and research teams in the national Liberal Party of Canada campaign headquarters for six consecutive elections from 2000-2015. Kevin previously worked in the offices of the federal Minister of the Environment and the Minister of Human Resources Development. Originally from Calgary, Kevin worked for the Alberta Liberal Caucus at the Alberta Legislature from 1993-1998 In 2019, Kevin was elected by his peers to serve a three-year term on the Board of Directors of the Government Relations Institute of Canada and currently serves as Chair of its Legislative Affairs Committee. He is bilingual in both official languages.
Dr. Niemer leads Worley’s Global Nuclear business. He brings over 35 years of nuclear industry experience in leadership, project management, engineering and technology development, construction, equipment design and fabrication, and licensing/safety analysis for several First-of-a-Kind (FOAK) multi- billion dollar Engineering Construction Procurement (EPC) mega nuclear projects, as well as commercialization of several SMR technologies. He has successfully worked in the commercial and government segments of nuclear industry including national laboratories, utilities, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), architect/engineers (AEs), and construction firms throughout the full nuclear lifecyle. Prior to Worley, he was the SMR Project Manager at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories. He has a Ph.D. in nuclear engineering and an MBA.
Lance has over 25 years of experience in senior leadership positions for major energy and resource developments in power, oil & gas and metals. He is currently VP, Commercialization and Strategy for ARC Clean Technology, one of three SMR companies in Canada that has a License to Prepare site application in progress with the CNSC. Previously, Lance was Vice President – Commercial and Strategy for Maritime Iron where he led the strategic planning, site selection, partner and government negotiations for a $1.5 billion iron smelter in the United States and Canada. He has also been engaged in recent years as an expert advisor by McKinsey, KPMG and Long International on project strategy and execution. Previously, Lance has held strategic leadership and commercial roles with Nalcor Energy (Lower Churchill Project), Fort Hills and Terra Nova (Petro-Canada), Hebron (Chevron), White Rose (Husky) and Hibernia (Exxon). He has seasoned commercial, project delivery and strategic leadership expertise including partnership negotiations, strategic risk & planning, government relations, supply chain, contract relationship management, dispute resolution, project finance & insurance, labor relations and organization development
Lisa is the Country Leader, GE Hitachi’s SMR Canada business. In her role, Lisa is responsible for the vision & strategy to lead the deployment and implementation of the BWRX-300 Small Modular Reactor in Canada. She leads the collaboration with customers, Canadian government, industry, and partners and provides leadership and oversight of the GEH SMR Canada business operations. Lisa has over 22 years’ experience in the nuclear industry, starting her career with Ontario Power Generation. Her drive and commitment have propelled her into several key leadership roles in both nuclear and corporate functions. Lisa’s diverse experiences have positioned her to engage in several critical initiatives, where her experience across the business has resulted in her leadership of several multi-disciplinary teams. Lisa holds a Master of Arts Degree in Leadership from the University of Guelph. Lisa McBride is also the President of Women in Nuclear (WiN) Canada. In this role, Lisa provides vision, strategic direction, and oversight of the day-to-day operations of WiN Canada, an organization with over 6000 members across Canada. Lisa is a Director on the Canadian Nuclear Association Board, the Vice Chair of the Board of Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries Board, is a Director on the WiN Global Executive Board and is also a Governor at the Ontario Tech University.
Matt has been an integral member of the Bird team since 2008, showcasing a dynamic skillset throughout his tenure as he’s navigated various positions within both business development and operations. Currently the Senior Vice President of Industrial East, Matt brings nearly 20 years of construction industry experience and has propelled Bird’s success in Eastern Canada under his exceptional leadership. Spearheading the establishment of the successful full-service industrial team headquartered in Ontario, Matt is leading the team to grow the portfolio into critical sectors including nuclear, hydro-electric, renewables, manufacturing, and environmental sectors. He holds a Bsc in Civil Engineering from the University of Alberta and is LEED Accredited.
With 17 years of combined experience in the Energy Sector, Melissa has held various roles throughout her career, including Finance, Royalty Analyst, Land Analyst, Policy Advisor, Environment Lead, Regulatory & Compliance Advisor, and Strategist. She has contributed to prominent news outlets such as The National Post, The Toronto Sun, The Globe & Mail, and The Hub. Melissa has worked on major pipeline projects spanning three provinces and the United States, as well as a large-scale acquisition/divestment project involving billions in oil and gas assets and land transfers for a Treaty Land Entitlement Settlement. She has testified before the Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs regarding Bill C-29, which aims to establish a National Council for Reconciliation, and in 2022, she was invited to testify before the Standing Committee on Finance. Raised on a reserve, Melissa is passionate about helping Indigenous communities achieve economic reconciliation. Her deep industry knowledge, combined with candid discussions about poverty and disparity on reserves, has given her a unique voice on the topic of reconciliation. One of the most rewarding aspects of her career has been working with environmental firms on well decommissioning and land reclamation, allowing her to integrate traditional knowledge passed down from her grandfather with modern practices. Melissa is a strong advocate for the oil and gas sector, recognizing its role in providing her with a diversified and fulfilling career, as well as helping to break cycles of poverty. She is committed to addressing misinformation and advocating for economic opportunities in Indigenous communities.
Michael assumed responsibility for L3Harris’ Power Systems and Simulation business’ sales more than 25 years ago. He and his team grew sales and market presence, establishing the company as the world leader in the delivery of nuclear power plant simulators. The globally envied Orchid® software brand was also developed under Michael’s leadership. He is supported by sales professionals, a proposal development team and sales representatives globally. As the head of business development, he is often involved with defining the company’s technological needs/innovations. Prior to his roles in marketing and business development, Michael held various positions in project management implementing both energy management and power plant simulator projects. Michael holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) degree from Concordia University in Montreal, Canada. L3Harris unlocks value in training and engineering with classroom training technology, plant systems trainers, engineering simulators, full scope operator training simulators, 3D Digital Twins and training services.
Michele Evans provides leadership to the federal government’s regional economic development agency in Alberta. Prior to joining PrairiesCan, Michele served with the Government of Alberta for over 17 years, most recently as Assistant Deputy Minister for Workforce Strategies at Alberta Labour and Immigration. She also held senior leadership positions at Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism; Alberta Health; and other departments. Michele has a background in health administration, economic development policy and program delivery. She has successfully led teams across a variety of mandates, including initiatives that have increased access to capital for entrepreneurs, enhanced Alberta’s economic competitiveness, and generated business growth and investment in key sectors such as life sciences, digital technology, and tourism. Before entering public service, Michele worked in the private sector in the pharmaceutical industry. She is an active volunteer who believes in our collective power to strengthen communities. Michele holds a Master's of Health Science from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from the University of Saskatchewan. Michele is grateful to her husband, David, two teenage children (Dominic and Faith), and a boxer, Pepper, who keep her grounded.
Naresh Raghubeer is a managing partner and co-founder of Sandstone Group. Naresh was ranked by the Hill Times as one of the top 100 lobbyists in Canada. He is passionate, driven and results-oriented. He has proven that effective public affairs and government relations depend on clear communications, building trust and working collaboratively with all stakeholders across government. After four successful years at Davie Shipbuilding (Quebec) and its sister company, Federal Fleet Services (Ottawa), holding executive roles as Vice President – Communications and Regulatory Affairs and then Vice President – Federal Government Relations, Naresh decided to establish Sandstone Group to continue to deliver exceptional government relations support to clients across the spectrum. During his time at Davie Shipbuilding, he was able to help the senior executive management team reset the company’s public image and relationship with the Government of Canada during extremely difficult times and then supported the efforts to win contracts and significantly increase its order book. Naresh is also an advocate for a strong national security and defence posture for Canada. This has been demonstrated during his work in the Senate of Canada, where he supported Senators on the National Security and Defence Committee, including its Chair, between 2012-2017. Prior to working in the Senate, Naresh was a consultant supporting clients in the public policy and energy sector. He has also worked at the provincial government level in Ontario between 1996-2003. In April 2021, he was appointed a Director to the Board of the Conference of Defence Association Institute, Canada’s premier national security and defence association.
Norm, as he is known by his friends and colleagues, built his extensive knowledge base on an early technical and regulatory foundation, leading to C-Suite Executive roles. Norm’s distinguished career in the energy field has included significant experience in both the commercial operation, and the regulation of, large Canadian nuclear generation facilities, as well as supporting a number of Small Modular Nuclear Reactor (SMNR) technology reviews, including industrial SMNR integration strategies for large energy corporations. Through ION Nuclear Consulting Limited, Norm provides Canadian and International clients with extensive knowledge and experience to support the design, development and successful implementation of various proven strategies and approaches to enhance performance, support supply chain business opportunities and assist Investors and Executive teams with critical decision making. Norm has previously served as President & Chief Executive Officer at ARC Clean Energy Canada Inc., a Small Modular Reactor technology vendor. Before these roles, Norm served in key Nuclear Industry Leadership roles such as the Executive Vice President & Chief Nuclear Officer at Bruce Power, which is the only privately owned nuclear operator in Canada, and at that time, was the largest nuclear generating site in the world. Additionally, Norm served in senior leadership roles at the Hydro Quebec Gentilly-2 nuclear generating station and at the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission. Early in his career, Norm fulfilled several key roles at the New Brunswick Point Lepreau Generating Station, including holding a license to operate the nuclear facility. Internationally, Norm spent time assisting the World Association of Nuclear Operators.
As the Vice President of New Nuclear Development for Ontario Power Generation (OPG), Sandra oversees the company’s long-term new nuclear growth strategy, building external relationships and creating a pipeline of opportunities. OPG is paving the way for the deployment of new nuclear development in Canada and abroad, building the first-ever, commercial scale Small Modular Reactor (SMR) at its Darlington New Nuclear Site. The New Nuclear team is helping capitalize on OPG’s first-mover advantage contribute value back to Ontario. Prior to moving to the New Nuclear team, Sandra was OPG’s Director of Provincial Relations, where she provided counsel and support to OPG’s Management Team on all provincial government relations matters, including new business growth opportunities. Prior to joining OPG, Sandra spent a decade in the federal government on both the political and civil service sides. She graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Carleton and is a proud alumnus of the Laurentian Leadership Program in Ottawa and the Institut d’Etudes Politiques (IEP) in Grenoble France.
As Candu Energy’s Specialist, Indigenous Participation, Sean Conway works to develop Indigenous opportunities for participation in the CANDU ® MONARK™. A Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg from Curve Lake First Nation, Sean has experience working with First Nations as the lead in advocacy and intergovernmental affairs with a tribal council, and as an elected Councillor in his home community overseeing Consultation, Infrastructure, Lands, Environment, and Education Prior to joining AtkinsRéalis, Sean spent several years supporting the Mississauga Nation, advancing the political, economic, and intergovernmental interests of the six Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg communities across Ontario. In 2022, he was appointed to serve as a Trustee for the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board representing Alderville, Curve Lake, and Hiawatha First Nations. Sean sits on Canada's Indigenous Advisory Council for the Small Modular Reactor Action Plan and has also spent time as an instructor for Fleming College A lifelong learner, he is completing a degree in Public Administration and Governance at Toronto Metropolitan University with the First Nations Technical Institute. Sean lives in Curve Lake First Nation with his partner and two daughters.
With over a decade of expertise in strategy development and applying Technology to drive business growth, Sean helps companies navigate the complexities of AI implementation. His interdisciplinary approach and passion for communicating the value of applied AI make him a trusted advisor to executives and business users seeking data-driven solutions. Sean is dedicated to ensuring clients capitalize on the opportunities presented by this rapidly evolving field.
Tom Vernon is a Senior Consultant with Crestview Strategy, based in Edmonton. Tom offers strategic counsel through the lens of a former journalist, seamlessly guiding clients through media relations, crisis and issues management, and corporate communications. A national award-winning storyteller with nearly two decades of experience in the radio and television industries, Tom built his career reporting on breaking local, provincial, and national news with a heavy focus on politics and the economy, including nine years as the Provincial Affairs Reporter for Global News in Alberta. In this time, he cultivated contacts and built strong relationships in the business world and across partisan lines. Tom also acts as a media pundit and regularly provides insights and analysis of provincial issues from a non-partisan lens on television and radio stations in Alberta. I’m happy to go through any materials you have on this session and will make sure I’m fully briefed up and prepared for the day. I’m looking forward to this!
Tracy Primeau began her career in 1990 at the Ontario Power Generation Pickering Nuclear Generating Station as a Nuclear Operator in Training and was qualified as a Nuclear Operator at Pickering A in 1992. Three years later, she moved home to Kincardine and became a qualified Nuclear Operator at Bruce A, progressing to Authorized Nuclear Operator and eventually to Shift Manager in 2010. She is one of the few women (and the only Indigenous one) to become a CNSC licensed operator at Bruce Power (the first at Bruce A) and the only female Shift Manager to work her way up from the shop floor. Ms. Primeau is also a mentor and role model to many men and women in the energy sector, often sharing insights from her nuclear career at conferences, professional development events and other initiatives. She offers insights on diversity, women in STEM and Indigenous relationship building through her company Agile Bear. Tracy is a proud member of the Nipissing First Nation and was a founding member of the Ontario Hydro Native Circle in 1992 and was the first Chair of the Bruce Power Native Circle, a position she held for many years. She strives to use the Seven Grandfather Teachings in her leadership every day. Raising her two boys with her husband Dave, Tracy has always been active in her community. Tracy currently serves on the Board of Directors for Women in Nuclear Canada, Ontario Power Generation, Ingenium, United College Board of Governors and the University of Waterloo. Within her community, she actively strives to establish creative and lasting solutions for the systemic hurdles faced by Indigenous populations. Among her many aspirations is the global expansion of clean energy, with a special focus on extending its benefits to remote Indigenous communities across Canada and equity partnerships on the path to economic reconciliation.
