Presented by
Roadmapping The Future
Objectives + Outcomes
- Discuss the current and emerging economic landscape of Northern Manitoba
- Identify key priorities and projects to drive economic growth and increase local capacities
- Strengthen networks between all levels of government, agencies, and organizations
- Highlight the pathways between students, post-secondary, and the job market
Program Highlights
Monday, February 24th - Pre-Conference Programming - Click on the event for more information and registration.
Tuesday February 25
Wednesday February 26
Thursday February 27 | Province of Manitoba - Mining Day
Tuesday April 28
Wednesday April 29
Keynote Speaker
Jordin Tootoo
The First Inuk Player in the NHL | Founder, Team Tootoo Foundation
Jordin Tootoo made history as the first Inuk player to be drafted by the NHL. Over his 13-year career, he played for the Nashville Predators, Detroit Red Wings, New Jersey Devils, and Chicago Blackhawks, banking 161 points, including 65 goals, in 723 career games. A trailblazer both on and off the ice, Tootoo has since become a vocal mental health advocate dedicated to giving back to his communities. He delivers a powerful message about resilience and overcoming challenges and adversity to reach our dreams.
Tootoo is the bestselling author of All the Way: My Life on Ice, a searing, honest look at the tragic loss of his brother and his ensuing battle with alcoholism, and Mind Over Matter: Hard- Won Battles on the Road to Hope. He is also the co-founder of the Team Tootoo Foundation with his wife, Jennifer, and in 2016 was awarded a Meritorious Service Medal through the Order of Canada in recognition of his work.
As a keynote speaker, Tootoo openly shares his journey from rising star and fan favourite to losing it all, including his addiction and fight to claim sobriety. This is the story of family, mentors, and tragedy, and one man’s journey to understand how his past struggles gave him the strength to find his own truth.
Our Speakers
Hon. Renée Cable
Minister Advanced Education and Training
Renée Cable was elected as the MLA for Southdale in 2023. She is a proud Métis mom who is passionate about building stronger, healthier communities.
Prior to becoming an MLA, Cable’s background was in management, HR, advocacy and public policy including working in various staff roles in the Manitoba legislature. She has also served on several child-care, community centre and non-profit boards. Cable holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and diplomas in human resource management and management, all from the University of Winnipeg.
Cable grew up in Brandon and now lives in Windsor Park in the Southdale constituency with her family.
Tim Brigham, MA (Geography)
Royal Roads University
Tim is a Learning and Development Advisor with Professional and Continuing Studies at Royal Roads University. In 2004-05, Tim was part of the team that established the first research centre at Royal Roads University focused on the management and utilization of non-timber forest products. Tim’s lifelong fascination with everything our forests have to offer and teach us led to his involvement in designing and delivering training with UCN’s groundbreaking Northern Forest Diversification Centre. This work was the start of Tim’s deep affection for the landscape and people of northern Manitoba.
Tim’s ongoing work focuses on developing and delivering community-based training initiatives to support capacity-building in Indigenous communities. In 2017-18, Tim led the development of Healing the Land, an in-community training program focused on ecosystem restoration, which has been successfully delivered in five communities in northern BC. In 2018-19, Tim led the development of the Certificate in Cultural and Natural Resources Assessment, which provides learners with the skills and knowledge to work as field technicians and conduct biophysical and cultural inventories. Deliveries with both the Kitselas and Haisla Nations achieved an employment rate of more than 80 percent for graduates. Since 2020, much of Tim’s work has focused on the development and delivery of the Professional Project Administrator (PPA) program, funded through the Future Skills Centre (FSC). This innovative program has been delivered for Indigenous learners across eight cohorts and three provinces, with an over 90 percent graduation rate and the majority of learners moving into employment and/or further education. Tim’s most recent work, with support from the FSC, has included building relationships and program delivery projects across northern Canada, including northern Manitoba, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut.
Jamie Dumont
Chadwick Consulting
Bruce Gray
Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures
Bruce Gray has served in many senior management capacities in his career as a member of Manitoba’s Public Service. He has demonstrated leadership in natural resource management, environmental stewardship, and financial management. He has helped teams effectively provide advice and support to inform government decisions related to complex files and has actively led and contributed to several diverse cross-departmental initiatives involving Indigenous, intergovernmental, community, stakeholder and industry engagement.
Bruce holds a Master of Public Administration degree and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Winnipeg.
Michael Jack
Deputy Minister of Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation
Michael Jack was appointed Deputy Minister of Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation on November 13, 2024.
Prior to assuming this role, he had a 24-year career in public service at the municipal level, serving the City of Winnipeg in a variety of capacities. A lawyer by profession, he commenced employment with the City of Winnipeg in 2000 as its by-law prosecutor, progressing through a number of roles focused on litigation, and becoming City Solicitor and Manager of Legal Services in 2012.
Since 2014, Michael served in a number of capacities in the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer, with his most recent role having served as CAO.
Michael has earned a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours), as well as a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Manitoba.
James Lindsay
Thompson Regional Airport Authority
James Lindsey is the President and Chief Executive Office of the Thompson Regional Airport Authority. Mr. Lindsey is an experienced aviation executive with over twenty-years industry experience. Prior to joining the Thompson Airport, Mr. Lindsey held executive roles within the aviation consulting, airline and airport sectors of the aviation industry. Mr. Lindsey is active as a board volunteer, with experience serving on the Board of Directors with Regional Community Airports of Canada, Manitoba Aerospace and Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance and has served as an Advisory Council Member for Hope Air and Georgian College’s Aviation Management program. Mr. Lindsey has a Master of Science from Loughborough University, an Advanced Diploma from Georgian College and is accredited with IAAE – Canada.
Tara Munro
University College of the North
Tara Munro’s career spans 25 years of early childhood education, K-12, adult, and post-secondary education, all rooted in her love of learning and belief in human potential. She’s passionate about using AI as a tool to help students and educators reach new heights, seeing it as a way to personalize learning and support every individual’s growth and mental health. For Tara, student success always comes first – her work is driven by a simple goal: helping learners live their best possible lives.
Consul Rebecca Molinoff
U.S. Consulate Winnipeg
Rebecca Molinoff arrived in Winnipeg as Consul in September 2024. She most recently served as the Acting Deputy Political Counselor in Bucharest, Romania.
She has also served overseas in Jamaica and Moldova and in Washington D.C. as the Latvia and Lithuania Desk Officer, as well as short stints at U.S. Embassy London and the U.S. Mission to the United Nations in New York.
She has an MPhil degree in International Relations from the University of Oxford and a BA in Government from Dartmouth. She speaks Spanish, French, Icelandic, and Romanian.
Prior to joining the Foreign Service in 2014, Rebecca worked in finance in London, including group strategy roles at multinational corporations Prudential and Lloyds Bank.
Rebecca grew up just across Lake Erie in northeastern Ohio and has fond memories of visiting Canada with her family. She and her husband Alastair have three sons, ages 10, 8, and 2.
Hon. Mike Moroz
Minister of Innovation and New Technology
With years of experience in public administration, teaching, theatre and community service, Mike Moroz was proudly elected as the MLA for River Heights on Oct. 3rd, 2023. Having worked across Canada, Mike is pleased to have chosen River Heights as his home with his spouse Christine. Mike is the proud father of five children and four grandchildren who inspire him to continue to serve the community with investments in health care, education and innovation.
Mike was sworn in as Manitoba’s first minister of innovation and new technology and looks forward to working with his colleagues to continue to grow the new economy.
Jaye White
Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc.
Jaye White is a seasoned Workforce Development professional with more than 30 years of experience in training, recruitment, and retention across diverse sectors including manufacturing, construction, health care, and government. A member of Norway House Cree Nation and raised in The Pas, Manitoba, Jaye has dedicated her career to advancing Indigenous representation in the workforce and strengthening employment and training systems across Manitoba and Alberta.
Jaye’s expertise spans training plan development, client case management, labour force analysis, funding applications and execution, budget management, policy development, and organizational reporting. Throughout her career, she has supported hundreds of individuals in securing meaningful employment and has assisted numerous organizations in achieving and maintaining representative workforces.
During her tenure as Director of Workforce Development & Health Education with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority’s Aboriginal Health Programs, Jaye cultivated a strong partnership with WRHA Human Resources, co-developing strategies to increase Indigenous participation and promote Aboriginal Cultural Awareness Training across the region.
Over 15 combined years with the Manitoba Métis Federation, Jaye developed and sustained successful recruitment and retention partnerships with large employers such as Manitoba Hydro, Interlake Health Authority, and the City of Winnipeg.
Before returning to Manitoba, Jaye served as Executive Director of Helping Circle Employment Services in Calgary, where she built the organization from two staff to a thriving, well‑funded employment service centre. Many of the processes she developed—including financial practices and case management systems—were later adopted across 16 employment centres operated by the Métis Nation of Alberta. Her work included program development, staff management, employer relations, conflict resolution, policy compliance, and building strong partnerships with multiple levels of government.
Driven by her commitment to improving employment and training opportunities for Indigenous people, Jaye has worked extensively with large corporations, Indigenous organizations, and federal partners to expand Indigenous workforce participation. She is currently the Program Director for the Indigenous Skills & Employment Training (ISET) Program with Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) Inc., where she has served since November 1, 2021.
Panelists
Dr. Christine Bovis-Cnossen
Brandon University
President Christine Bovis-Cnossen brings to Brandon University more than 30 years of leadership experience from universities in Canada and the UK — but she is equally passionate about people, community, and building an inclusive future together.
Her career has taken her across the globe: she has been Acting Vice-Chancellor at the University of East Anglia in England, Interim President at Thompson Rivers University in British Columbia, and Vice President Academic at OCAD University in Toronto. Along the way, she has led major projects to strengthen student success, expand research, and grow international opportunities. At UEA, she helped guide the institution back to financial health and expanded recruitment into new markets. At TRU, she championed open learning, supported Indigenous education, and helped secure accreditation that put the university on the world stage.
Christine is also a sociologist by training, with research focusing on equity, gender, and military service. She has been recognized as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and is a lifelong advocate for transparency and collaboration in academic leadership.
Outside the office, Christine has a love of theatre, film, and art, and is happiest when exploring a new exhibition. She also has a soft spot for classic cars and motorcycles. Whether she’s at a graduation ceremony, walking through campus, or joining a community event, she brings warmth, openness, and a genuine interest in the people around her.
Hon. Renée Cable
Minister Advanced Education and Training
Renée Cable was elected as the MLA for Southdale in 2023. She is a proud Métis mom who is passionate about building stronger, healthier communities.
Prior to becoming an MLA, Cable’s background was in management, HR, advocacy and public policy including working in various staff roles in the Manitoba legislature. She has also served on several child-care, community centre and non-profit boards. Cable holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and diplomas in human resource management and management, all from the University of Winnipeg.
Cable grew up in Brandon and now lives in Windsor Park in the Southdale constituency with her family.
Hugh Grant, PhD
Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics, University of Winnipeg
Hugh Grant (PhD, Toronto) is a Professor in the Department of Economics and currently serving as the Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics at The University of Winnipeg. His primary research fields are Canadian economic development, labour economics, and the economics of health care. In addition to his academic publications, he has experience in policy work with the government agencies (Industry Canada, Law Commission of Canada, Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples, Manitoba Housing, Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care) and non-governmental organizations. With respect to the latter, he has done significant work in aboriginal economic development and land claims negotiations. He served for ten years on the Manitoba Public Utilities Board and for five years as a public representative on the Board of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Manitoba (CPA MB).
Dr. Ute Kothe
Dean of the Division of Extended Education, University of Manitoba
An experienced academic leader, Dr. Kothe is known for her collaborative approach, commitment to inclusive learning environments, and strong advocacy for equity, diversity, and accessibility in education. Alongside her administrative leadership, she remains an active faculty member in the Faculty of Science, bringing a research‑informed and learner‑centred perspective to program development and institutional strategy.
Doug Lauvstad
University College of the North
Doug is currently President and Vice Chancellor of University College of the North, a position he has held since August, 2017. This unique institution provides educational and training opportunities on campuses and centres throughout northern Manitoba. Prior to joining UCN, Doug was the Executive Director, of the Northern Manitoba Sector Council, an association of northern Manitoba largest industry sectors (mining, forestry, energy) The focus of Doug’s career is on building and sustaining a skilled, prosperous northern Manitoba.
Fred Meier
RRC Polytech
Fred Meier became President and CEO of RRC Polytech – Manitoba’s only polytechnic institution – in 2020, leading the College through transformative academic and institutional growth.
Fred’s vision has guided RRC Polytech in embracing its identity as a polytechnic, launching a bold strategic plan to anticipate industry needs and prepare a workforce for the jobs of tomorrow. Key priorities include delivering industry-aligned programming for over 20,000 students, advancing Truth and Reconciliation, embedding equity, diversity, and inclusion, and deepening industry partnerships in Manitoba and beyond.
Under Fred’s leadership, RRC Polytech surpassed the $60-million target for its largest-ever fundraising campaign in under two years. He also played a pivotal role in establishing the Price Institute of Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics and the Schroeder Institute of Entertainment and Media Arts, solidifying the College’s leadership in applied research and work-integrated learning.
Fred emphasizes collaboration and fostering a positive, inclusive work environment, recognizing employee engagement as essential to institutional success. He is also deeply committed to Truth and Reconciliation, seeking guidance and learning from Knowledge Keepers, Elders and Grandmothers in Residence to incorporate Indigenous knowledge into College practices, from policies to the naming of spaces.
Before joining RRC Polytech, Fred held senior leadership roles in Manitoba’s public service, including as Clerk of Executive Council and Secretary to Cabinet. He holds a Master of Science from the University of Manitoba. An avid cyclist, Fred enjoys exploring the outdoors, curling, and spending time with his family.
Medicine Teachings Facilitator
Caroline Sanoffsky
Facilitators
Bonnie Crocker
Senior Consultant, Academica Group
Bonnie Crocker is a Senior Consultant at Academica Group with over 35 years of experience in the post-secondary sector. She brings deep expertise from leadership roles across the Registrar’s Office, Institutional Research and Student Services, including 15 years at McMaster University and more 12 years at Huron University College at Western University. Over the past 8 years at Academica, Bonnie has led numerous strategic planning and enrolment management projects for institutions across Canada, including work with institutions in Manitoba and across Canada’s North, bringing a strong understanding of regional contexts and community priorities. Her work has included supporting institutions in strengthening community connections, expanding access, and aligning programming with regional and workforce needs. She holds a Master’s degree in Strategic Enrolment Management and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Performance Improvement Leadership in Higher Education. Bonnie is a passionate advocate for student-centred, community-informed practices in higher education.
Monte Koshel
University College of the North
Monte Koshel learned some of his best lessons on the trapline near his family’s farm near The Pas.
After earning his B.A. in communications at the University of North Dakota, he focused his sights on making a career in higher education communications and digital branding. His experience includes more than 25 years in strategic communication, brand management, and digital storytelling.
Moderators
Melanie Belmore
University College of the North
Melanie Belmore is an Anishinaabe member of Whitesand First Nation in Northwestern Ontario. She holds a four-year Bachelor of Arts (double major in Aboriginal & Northern Studies and English) from University College of the North and a Master of Arts in English from Lakehead University. With 12 years at UCN, Melanie has served in Enrolment Services, the Faculty of Arts, Business, and Science, and Academic Development. She is currently Associate Dean of Mihcet Meskanawah Teaching and Learning. Passionate about student success, Melanie empowers learners to build confidence and academic independence.
Chuck Davidson
President & CEO of the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce
Chuck Davidson is the President & CEO of the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, representing 64 local chambers and nearly 10,000 organizations throughout the province. Under his leadership since 2013, the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce has seen a renewed focus on policy and advocacy as the Voice of Business in Manitoba and is continually recognized as an accredited Chamber of Commerce with distinction. A dedicated community booster and champion of economic development, Chuck is also Chair or Co-Chair of the Rural Manitoba Economic Development Corporation, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Accreditation Council, the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund and Travel Manitoba’s Provincial Tourism strategy, as well as a Board member of the Community Economic Development Fund.
Lorie Henderson
University College of the North
Book Your Stay!
Super 8 by Wyndham
Phone: 204-778-0040
Best Western Thompson Hotel & Suites
205 Mystery Lake Rd
Thompson MB R8N 1Y8
Phone: 204-778-8887
For information on registration, please contact Kelly Watters: ucnlinkages@outlook.com
CONTACT US
Kelly Watters
Kelly Forgala Events
ucnlinkages@outlook.com
204 391 4419