AGM Questions and Answers

Designated representatives from econext membership have the opportunity to ask questions and be provided with answers during the AGM period (April 25-30, 2024). Questions can be sent to CEO Kieran Hanley at kieran@econext.ca.

Your name and question will be published below. You will be notified when an answer has been provided (which will also be published).

Questions and Answers

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2023-25 Board of Directors Candidates

econext‘s Board of Directors provide direction and support to the organization’s staff in their work to accelerate clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The following ten (10) candidates, in alphabetical order by last name, have been nominated for a total of five (5) positions:

  • Laurie Coady
  • Kris Costello
  • Don Drew
  • Ian Froude
  • Thomas Green
  • Neil Heffern
  • Heather Murphy
  • Ron Parrott
  • David Pinsent
  • Justin So

Nominee bios follow below.


Laurie Coady

Chief Financial Officer, North Atlantic

Biography:

Laurie Coady, CPA/CMA, is a strategic, collaborative, and results-oriented leader with over 25 years of experience in energy, education and financial services in Newfoundland and Labrador and throughout Canada. She has an extensive background in corporate finance, commercial negotiations and risk management and a deep knowledge of the province’s energy industry.

Currently, as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at North Atlantic, Laurie oversees all the financial and technology-related activities for the network of residential, commercial, and wholesale business divisions while supporting its long-term renewables strategy. Laurie’s depth of experience across various finance disciplines, combined with her energy industry knowledge are key to driving North Atlantic’s operational acumen and delivering sustainable growth. While maintaining robust financial strength for North Atlantic’s ongoing business, Laurie will play a key role as the company advances its position at the forefront of the integrated renewable energy sector.

Prior to joining North Atlantic, Laurie held senior finance and commercial positions within the energy sector, including ExxonMobil Canada and the Oil and Gas Corporation of Newfoundland and Labrador. In these roles, Laurie led major initiatives in areas such as offshore crude marketing and transportation, acquisitions, joint venture negotiations and system and control implementations.

In addition to her CPA/CMA designation, Laurie has an MBA from Queen’s University, and her Bachelor of Commerce (Co-operative) degree is from Memorial University. Laurie has been actively involved in volunteer activities with several non-profit organizations including the Writers Alliance of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Avalon Minor Hockey Association and the Newfoundland and Labrador Lacrosse Association.

Laurie is currently a member of the Audit Committee with the Canadian Kennel Club, a position she has held since 2019.

Interest in econext’s Board of Directors:

The role of econext in the expanding and evolving energy sector, aligned to environmentally sustainable growth for Newfoundland and Labrador, has arguably, never been so important. As you support your members and remain true to your position as the environmental steward in this province, the challenges ahead will require an integrated approach to thought leadership and innovative solutions. My enthusiasm to collaborate as a member of econext’s Board of Directors, comes from my passion to advance your mandate together with other people who care as deeply about our province and its future as I do.

In summary, my objectives for serving on the econext Board of Directors are as follows:

  • Help shape the sustainable, clean growth strategy for the province. I would like to use my integrated finance experience, energy knowledge and passion for the environment to work with a dynamic team of change-makers as we advance our province’s position in clean energy and related industry sectors.
  • Strengthen stakeholder relations and partnerships. I can use my professional and volunteer experience to strengthen and broaden econext’s outreach and strategic alliances.
  • Interest in the environment and desire to make positive change. Our approach to how we live and work in a more environmentally conscious way, is changing. Being a part of the econext Board of Directors will allow me to make a positive difference in the community. I am energized to work together in raising awareness and igniting positive action aligned to the evolving needs of the world in which we live.

Kris Costello

Director – Development and Operations, OilCo

Biography:

Kris is Director – Development and Operations with the Province’s oil and gas corporation. He is a civil engineer with a masters degree in oil and gas and a law degree. He has over 23 years of experience across a broad range of areas in the onshore and offshore industry. Kris is firmly focused on the responsible development of our offshore resources through the energy transition. Since 2016 he has been advancing the understanding of our offshore industry’s environmental performance in the global context, specifically our emissions intensity performance. Over the last four years he been working on studies related to our potential role during the energy transition to 2050 and beyond. The last two years have specifically seen Kris working on the Net Zero Project with econext and Energy NL, and he sees great potential in our offshore continuing to set the standard for environmental performance.

Interest in econext’s Board of Directors:

econext represents the best our Province has to offer in the environmental industries. The innovation and technical expertise in our Province is second to none. This means we can not only lead the way in our Province, but our member’s expertise can and should be exported worldwide. My background in the offshore will help to keep a focus on environmental oversight and performance in what continues to be an extremely important economic pillar in our Province. Furthermore, I believe the continued development of our offshore is not mutually exclusive from transitioning to a green economy. They can be complementary and econext members will be integral to that success.


Don Drew

Operations Manager, Newco Metal and Auto Recycling

Biography:

Donald Drew along with his wife Rosalynn are proud to call the historic Town of Bay Bulls home. As Operations Manager with Newco Metal and Auto Recycling Ltd he has assumed the responsibilities relate to acquisition and distribution of material and equipment. His duties also include Regional, Municipal, Provincial, and Federal approvals and agreements. Other responsibilities include corporate material acquisition, international export, health and safety requirements, environmental approvals and regulations. Mr. Drew is presently serving as a board member with ECONEXT and chair of the Finance Committee. He has 15 years’ experience as mayor, deputy-mayor, and councillor with the Town of Bay Bulls; duties included Chair of Finance, Public Works, Development, and Tourism. During that time Bay Bulls was honoured with more municipal awards than any other town in the province.

He has also served as Chair and Vice Chair of the Northeast Avalon Joint Town Council. 29 years as president of the Harbour Authority of Bay Bulls ( Longest serving Port Representative in Eastern Canada), 25 years as owner/operator of a commercial fishing enterprise, 8 years as a Marine Emergency Duties instructor, and 9 years as a Red Cross first Aid Instructor. He is the 2006 recipient of the Irish Loop Economic Development Board Volunteer of the Year Award and was the proud recipient of the National Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Small Craft Harbours 2011 Prix d ‘Excellence for “Individual Commitment” to the Canadian Ports and Harbours Program. He holds diplomas or certificates in Marine Diesel Engineering, Fishery Science Technical, and Marine Safety Instructor from the Marine Institute. Mr. Drew has also completed a certificate in Economic Development Tourism Relate with the University of Moncton, (Bouctouche training), along with training in Environmental Awareness, Health and Safety, and Community Leadership. He also serves as a volunteer on numerous committees and boards throughout the province, and is a volunteer fundraising organizer with a number of charities. Newco Metal & Auto Recycling Ltd is also proud to have received the Econext 2021 Business Excellence Award.

Interest in econext’s Board of Directors:

Since forming over 30 years ago Econext (Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industries Association) has continued to grow, expanded, and evolve into one of the most respected industry association of its type in the country. Allowing our members to benefit from the growth the association has experienced. Whether trade missions to other countries, partnerships with industry or government, network opportunities, or educational programs Econext has continued to be the catalyst for growth. As a member company representative its been a pleasure to play a part in the growth and experiencing the benefits of being involved. The diversity and involvement of the board along with the hard work and dedication of the staff has played a key part in the success of Econext. If I am re-elected to the board it will be my goal to continue on the strategic path that has been created. Always evolving as to what the industry, province, and the members require. The environment and all the industry that supports it have come a long way in the past 30 years in this province and I am please to say I have been actively playing a part in that growth. I ask for your support to continue that work with the association and an active position on the board.


Ian Froude

Manager of Business Development and Operational Excellence, Tiller Engineering

Biography:

Ian is Tiller’s Manager of Business Development and Operational Excellence and has been a St. John’s City Councillor since 2017. He has a degree in Civil Engineering from Memorial University. Ian founded the social enterprise St. John’s Tool Library and has extensive community involvement, including senior Board leadership locally and nationally. With experience in two-levels of government, national organizations, and business, Ian brings a solutions-oriented leadership approach.

Interest in econext’s Board of Directors:

As a highly experienced Board Director, my primary objective as a member of the Econext Board of Directors would be to utilise my expertise and extensive board experience to advance the organisation’s mission of promoting sustainable business practices, accelerating clean growth and transitioning to a low-carbon economy in Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada.

I have a strong track record of strategy development, Board leadership, partnership development and organisational oversight. I’m currently the Manager of Business Development and Organisational Excellence at Tiller Engineering where I lead the pursuit of growth and business modernization. I am also a St. John’s City Councillor for Ward 4 and have been since October 2017. As a City Councillor, I have focused on a range of key issues, including climate change and environmental protection, public transit, parks and open spaces, reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, representation of vulnerable communities, and budget oversight. I have provided strategic priority and financial oversight to senior staff managing the City budget and have liaised with government officials, community organisations, and stakeholders.

Additionally, I have served as Chair (and am currently Vice Chair) of the St. John’s Transportation Commission, which is the Board of Directors of the public transit operator in the St. John’s region. In this role, I guided the development of 5-year strategic priorities, capital plans, performance objectives and evaluation approaches.

Overall, I believe that my experience as at Tiller, as a City Councillor, engineer, and Board Director make me a valuable candidate for the Econext Board of Directors. I am confident that I can leverage my experience to help guide the organisation’s strategic direction and contribute to its efforts to accelerate clean growth in our province.


Thomas Green

Director of Operations at ASL Energy – CMCI

Biography:

Thomas Green, TJ as most know him, is a Canadian business executive with a passion for the environment and a proven track record of success in operations management. He is currently the Director of Operations at ASL Energy.

TJ’s experience in operations management includes Operations Lead and Operations Manager at Pennecon Marine from 2014 to 2021, where he oversaw the daily operations on-site, prepared for upcoming projects, pursued future work opportunities, and built a reputation as a leader in client satisfaction.

TJ’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to found Composite Mats Canada, where he served as CEO before merging the company with ASL Energy in 2023. Under his leadership, the company became a leading provider of composite matting solutions in Canada, while also working with industry players to form a plan for developing his ideas on new lines of environmentally sustainable products that will revolutionize the aerospace and subsea construction industries.

With a background in offshore oil and gas, he started his career as an Engine Room Operator at Canship Ugland Limited where he spent time working in Europe, Brazil and throughout the Eastern Seaboard of North America. TJ went on to work in the Subsea Engineering department on semi-submersible drilling rigs offshore Newfoundland. His diverse experiences have given him a unique perspective on the energy industry, which he leverages in his current role to excel in business development, project management, site management, and LEED initiatives.

TJ’s passion for the environment and innovative spirit makes him an ideal candidate for a role on the board of Econext, focused on driving change in the green economy. His expertise, experience, positive attitude, and innovative mindset, make him an asset to any team looking to make a positive impact in the world.

Interest in econext’s Board of Directors:

As a member of Econext’s board of directors, my primary objective is to help the organization achieve its mission of accelerating clean growth in NL by sharing my skills, expertise, and network. My extensive background in business development, project management, and operations management, combined with my passion for environmental sustainability, makes me an asset to the Board. As a millennial I offer a youthful and in-touch perspective that combines the values of conventional and progressive ways of working and conducting business.

My main goals as a Board member are to provide strategic guidance to the organization to help develop and implement plans for sustainable growth, and to support the advancement of innovative solutions for clean growth within our province. I will work to promote the organization’s values of sustainability, innovation, and collaboration, and help to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, investors, and community organizations.

I will actively participate in the organization’s activities and initiatives to lend support and to bring attention to the valuable work we do as an organization. I will support the organization’s leadership team to identify new opportunities for growth and innovation, and provide input on key initiatives, to help develop and implement plans to address challenges and opportunities in the green economy.

I am excited about the opportunity to serve as a member of Econext’s Board of Directors and to contribute my skills, expertise, and passion to help the organization achieve its mission. Together, we can create a more sustainable and prosperous future for our planet and future generations.


Neil Heffern

Commercial Energy Manager, Nunacor Development Corporation

Biography:

Neil Heffern is an experienced professional engineer passionate about climate action through the development of clean energy projects to displace fossil-fuel combustion sources. He is presently employed by Nunacor Development Corporation (the economic development arm of NunatuKavut) as Commercial Energy Manager charged with leading the development of clean energy and demand-side management projects throughout NunatuKavut’s territory of Southern Labrador. In addition, Neil is the principal consultant of Heffern Consulting Inc., offering freelance engineering and construction management consulting services in the energy sector.

Neil graduated from MUN in 2005 with a degree in mechanical engineering (co-op), before going to work fulltime on mining and O&G projects in various field engineering and project engineering roles. His first clean energy project was the Wuskwatim Hydroelectric Facility in Northern Manitoba where he served as Engineering Manager. Upon completion of this project, he was promoted to Corporate Equipment Manager for a large heavy civil and mining contractor to manage the mobile heavy equipment business.

In 2013 Neil returned to construction and went to work with Exxon Mobil on the Hebron GBS project, where he was responsible for project owner oversight of all mechanical and electrical installations. Upon completion of this contract in 2014, Neil was awarded a long-term contract with Nalcor as Field Engineering Manager at the Muskrat Falls Hydroelectric Facility. In 2017, Neil was promoted to Area Construction Manager of hydromechanical systems and turbine/generator installations where he served until 2019.

In 2021, Neil went to work as Construction Manager for the Pesâkâstêw Solar Project in Weyburn, SK. Pesâkâstêw is a 10 MW AC utility-scale solar project between Natural Forces Inc. and two First Nation partners. Following completion of this project, Neil moved to Vancouver, BC in 2022 where he completed a Masters of Engineering Leadership – Clean Energy Engineering at UBC. During his time at UBC, Neil completed graduate studies in renewable energy technologies, energy storage, energy and the environment, leadership, strategy and innovation, indigenous economic reconciliation, energy policy, and data analytics. In addition, Neil focused on the hydrogen economy and production technologies for his masters projects.

Following completion of his graduate studies at UBC, Neil and his family returned home to Sandringham, NL where he continues to focus his business interests in clean energy transition. Outside of work, Neil enjoys backcountry adventure, automotive mechanics, and cycling. Neil volunteers at the local schools in his area at children’s bike riding clubs.

Interest in econext’s Board of Directors:

My objectives to serve on the board of directors for Econext are:

  • Add value to Econext and its members through knowledge from my work experience and education in clean energy.
  • Help advance clean energy transition and energy efficiency measures in Newfoundland and Labrador.
  • Help expand Econext’s network through my known industry affiliates.
  • Participate in energy policy analysis and recommendations.
  • Advocate for private sector clean energy business opportunities in Newfoundland and Labrador.
  • Advocate for diesel reduction and clean energy development in remote grid communities in Newfoundland and Labrador.
  • Add general knowledge regarding Indigenous community energy security and sovereignty. Advocate for proper consultation regarding energy project developments.
  • Help connect industry and academic resources where possible.
  • Add expertise on clean energy project development and construction.
  • Add expertise in northern project construction.
  • Build my industry network to help advance clean energy transition.
  • Assist with business and career development opportunities in clean energy.
  • Expand my knowledge base to better serve clean energy transition in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Heather Murphy

Environmental Scientist, SEM Ltd.

Biography:

Heather has 14 years experience in the environmental sector in both regulatory and consulting roles. Her career started as an environmental assessment technical reviewer and salmon habitat restoration coordinator for the Department of Natural Resources in New Brunswick. Since then, Heather has experience working as a consultant in environmental regulatory compliance and permitting for projects ranging from mining, renewable energy, offshore oil and gas and large-scale transmission projects both locally and internationally. Her technical expertise lies in freshwater aquatic biology and permitting/regulatory compliance surrounding environmental assessment and all associated acts.

Heather spent 8 years as a consultant on the Lower Churchill Project with the environment and regulatory compliance team. Heather’s role as a permit coordinator involved obtaining permits and navigating (very public) environmental constraints for both Muskrat Falls and the Labrador-Island Link. In addition to permits coordinator, Heather also served as an environmental coordinator for all on-site environmental monitors during construction and acted as a liaison between the project and regulatory agencies.

Since working with SEM, Heather has managed and executed several projects for operating mines in the province including IOC’s Carol Mine, Vale’s Voisey’s Bay Mine and Tacora’s Scully Mine. Heather has also worked with several mining companies on the island of Newfoundland including Envirogold’s Buchans River Delta Rehabilitation Project, Matador’s Cape Ray Exploration Project and Marathon’s Valentine Gold Project. The scope of these projects ranged from reducing reliance on diesel through wind energy implementation, completing Schedule 2 Amendments under the Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations, stakeholder consultations, aquatic baseline studies, overall project environmental assessment/permitting and more. Besides several mining clients, Heather has also contributed to projects for Growler Energy on several of their renewable projects and recently for NL Hydro on their Bay D’Espoir Unit 8 expansion project.

Outside of her full-time employment at SEM, Heather has a passion for fitness and owns a small business in St. John’s called “Islander Athletics” which is a CrossFit gym located in center city. Through her involvement at Islander, Heather has led a team of 12 staff, managed the business portfolio/finances and grew the business from 38 members to over 700 members in 6 years of taking ownership (and during a pandemic). The community and facilities that has grown at Islander is something that Heather is very proud of accomplishing. Now that the gym is a self-run machine, Heather has more time to focus on her career, spend time on her hobbies (sewing and being outdoors) and hanging out at home with her family.

Interest in econext’s Board of Directors:

Serving on the Board of Directors for a non-profit organization like econext is an excellent opportunity to be a part of a group of other like-minded, yet diverse, individuals that develop opportunities and learn about the future green economy in Newfoundland and Labrador through experience and interaction with the members. Exploring my passions for environmental sustainability through becoming a board member would not only mark a career goal of mine, it would also bring more meaning to my role as an environmental scientist. My objectives for serving on the board for econext would be to first support the vision for a clean energy economy in Newfoundland and Labrador. With that in mind it is important to foster environmental sustainability through advocating policy and regulatory frameworks that allow for industry success. In addition, my objectives for serving on the board will be to network with industry and other stakeholders to solidify and develop key partnerships for moving projects forward. Finally, I’d to keep an open mind, learn about and support developing cleantech industries in our province.


Ron Parrott

Chief Technology Officer, enaimco

Biography:

Since January 2022 I have been working as the CTO of a recent entrant into the clean-tech space called Enaimco. Our mission is to apply intelligence in support of a sustainable world, and we plan to do that by developing digital technology to help energy producers deliver cleaner energy. Personally, I spend most of my days working with my team, figuring out how to best build software to achieve this vision, and the remainder of my time is spent helping the company identify ways to enter the challenging market of energy producers.

Prior to that, I spent almost two years at another local tech company called ClearRisk as their VP of Product, fulfilling a similar role as I do currently but navigating the unique challenges of building upon an already existing software foundation.

And before that, I spent more than a decade in various roles at one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s most successful tech companies, Verafin. During that time, my role transitioned between software developer and team lead in various capacities until I left the company in 2020. It was during that time that I gained technical experience by learning from some of the best software developers and engineers in the province, and leadership and business experience by learning from the very people who made Verafin’s success possible. There was also a pretty great reading list that helped fill in the blanks along the way.

While it is difficult to compete with the experience gained from working with great companies, I would be remiss not to mention the completion of my MBA from Memorial University in 2021. Having completed my B.Sc in Computer Science several years earlier, entering into the Faculty of Business was a bit of a different world and I’m thankful for having done it. The professors were excellent, and I learned just as much from my peers doing the program alongside me.

Beyond working with others to solve interesting business and technical problems, which I truly love doing, I try to round out life with other activities. I’ve recently started a family and I’m loving every minute of it (I’d be telling you all about that, but I don’t think the information would be quite as useful). I enjoy being active – playing sports, hiking, donating to a gym. I read as much as I can and catch the scattered episode of whatever series is on the go. And one day, I hope to actually be able to play guitar.

While it may be noted that I don’t have much in the way of experience, beyond my current job, working towards a cleaner future, many who know me would agree that I’ve been passionate about environmental causes for quite some time. I was struck by Gore’s An Inconvenient Truth while in high school, I’ve read books by Naomi Klein, and I drive an electric car (and not just because it’s cool). I figure it’s about time I start helping to make a difference for real!

Interest in econext’s Board of Directors:

Given technology’s necessary role in accelerating clean growth, my objective will primarily be to bring a level of technical expertise that can contribute to the board and organization’s ability to identify and assess any opportunities that arises. I believe there are also opportunities to further exploit technology currently in use or brand-new technology, such as the now popular large language models like ChatGPT (which was not used to write this document – even though it did a better job), to generate new ideas and further accelerate the clean growth mission.

In addition, with my experience working for and leading in high growth companies, a secondary objective will be to leverage that background, along with my business, education, to create more, and more meaningful, engagements with businesses and other stakeholders to help in the mission to foster environmentally sustainable economic development within the province. This can involve anything from sharing insight and resources into relevant tactics and strategies that have helped these companies succeed to making introductions to some of the real experts in the field that I have worked with in the past.


David Pinsent

Environment and Sustainability Manager, World Energy GH2

Biography:

David was born and raised in Newfoundland and Labrador and completed Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Marine Biology at Memorial. He started his career as an environmental scientist after 5 years in fisheries research. He worked for 14 years as an environmental consultant conducting and managing environmental assessments and environmental effects monitoring programs for various industries in the province. The subsequent 11 years were spent in the oil and gas industry as an environmental and regulatory advisor. During that time, David served on several advisory committees related to environmental effects monitoring including IAAC’s Regional Assessment Follow-up Committee for Exploratory Drilling Offshore NL, CAPP’s Environment and Sustainability Committee, IPIECA’s Operating in the Marine Environment Task Force and the CSA’s committee to develop a standard for oil and gas operations in the Arctic. In 2021, David took on the role of Policy and Regulatory Lead with the Net Zero Project, where he studied and reported on the regulatory and policy frameworks for emissions reduction and pathways to net-zero within the offshore energy industry. For more than a decade, David has been a trusted resource for industry, during opportunities for engagement with government and in formulating advocacy positions around environmental policy and environmental assessment legislation. David is currently the Environment and Sustainability Manager with World Energy GH2, where is responsible for the environmental assessment, compliance, and monitoring for project Nujio’qonik. In his current role, David is also supporting an understanding of the regulatory framework of the hydrogen and wind energy in Newfoundland and Labrador. In his spare time, David enjoys cooking, hiking and salmon fishing.

Interest in econext’s Board of Directors:

I am interested in becoming a member of the Board of Directors at econext to help member companies advance opportunities within the traditional and emerging energy sectors. I see generational opportunities arising from the sustainable development of the natural resources within Newfoundland and Labrador. We can play a leading role at the local, national, and international levels in the fields of clean energy production, emissions reduction, blue economy, and green rural economic development, for example. We are incredibly fortunate to have an abundance of the clean power, wind, land, and water that are required to produce green hydrogen. Green hydrogen is becoming the transitional fuel used to power the hard-to-abate industries and sectors. I would like to help econext members identify the opportunities within this emerging sector. My background in environmental and regulatory consulting can also be leveraged to assist members identify new and emerging opportunities in resource development. I have a solid understanding of governments policy direction around emissions reduction and the green economy and how it creates opportunity. As an experienced advocate for responsible development, I can help position econext and its members in their engagement with governments and stakeholders.


Justin So

Senior Biologist, WSP

Biography:

Justin So is a biologist with WSP E&I Canada, with expertise in marine environmental surveys, environmental effects monitoring (EEM), and environmental assessment (EA). He holds a B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Biology from Memorial University and a Graduate Diploma in Science Communications from Laurentian University. He specializes in assessing the impact of natural resource projects on the marine environment and has worked on numerous baseline characterizations, environmental assessments, and monitoring projects for coastal and offshore developments.

Interest in econext’s Board of Directors:

Exploring opportunities for industry is important considering the challenging economy in Newfoundland and Labrador. Justin is keen to support Econext’s initiatives in fostering of the green economy; in particular through sector growth, and training and development opportunities. He believes that consideration of the environment is key in developing a sustainable path forward.


Atlantic Canada Trade Mission to the Bahamas



Since 2014 econext (formerly NEIA) – with support from the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology (IET) and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) – has been helping Atlantic Canadian firms pursue international business opportunities in the Caribbean region.

Our Caribbean program is comprehensive, comprising in-depth market research, information sessions, customized firm-level supports, and the coordination of incoming and outgoing trade missions to markets. Our 2023 trade mission will see 9 organizations visit The Bahamas.

For more information, visit https://econext.ca/caribbean-program/.

Organizations participating in the Fall Trade Mission:

If you have any questions about the econext Trade Mission to The Bahamas please contact Abbie Hodder, econext‘s COO & Director of International Business, at abbie@econext.ca.

RFP – Strategic Communications Services: Professional Document Design and Finishing Services

econext is currently accepting quotes for the professional design and finishing services for a 30-page technical document.

Click here to download the RFP.

Caribbean Customized Consulting and Advisory Services 2023 | Caribbean Region

econext is offering another iteration of the Caribbean Customized Consulting and Advisory Services for a limited number of companies. The services will be delivered between January and April 2023. Companies who are new to the Caribbean marketplace and are considering applying for econext’s Spring Trade Mission (May 2023) may find it beneficial to utilize this program for market research, strategy development and pre-mission virtual engagement.

Application Deadline has been Extended to January 11, 2023

Each participant firm/organization will benefit from the following services:

  • 50 consulting hours per firm to address the unique needs of project participants. Participants will be able to select from a variety of services to generate a customized work plan of consulting service support. This support could range from mentorship and strategy development, to support with development of Expressions of Interest (EOIs) and project proposals. (See attached application form below).
  • During the course of the consulting services cycle, the consultants will monitor relevant procurement portals regularly to identify and disseminate relevant Caribbean procurement opportunities to participating organizations in a timely fashion.

Admission criteria include:

  • Clear articulation of interests and objectives in the application form
  • Demonstrated completion of follow-up activities including exit surveys (for past participants in the econext/NEIA Caribbean Program)
  • Export readiness
  • Substantiated rationale for interest in the Caribbean region
  • Commitment to necessary level of effort to execute workplan

Company participation:

This program has a limited number of spaces and requires a fair amount of commitment from companies, particularly at the outset. As such, please note the following expectations/requirements.

Companies who cannot commit to the timeline indicated below should not apply to this program.

Selected companies will be expected to:

  • Complete an introductory interview and provide the consultant with a clear and concise (one-page) description of your company’s product and service offerings to enable accurate procurement opportunity identification by January 13, 2023
  • Work with the consultant to develop and finalize a work plan by January 25, 2023
  • Maintain regular communication during the project period
  • Adhere to the workplan and schedule as agreed upon with the consultant
  • Complete a detailed exit survey upon conclusion of consulting engagement to report on activities completed, outcomes and results achieved
  • Companies failing to meet minimum communication criteria will forfeit their remaining consulting hours

Notes:

  • This is not an “on-call” consultant advisory service. Selected companies will agree (in writing) with the consultant on a clearly defined workplan for this engagement
  • Bios are available below for the team that will be delivering this consulting service. If you are interested in applying for this program but would like to have a preliminary call with the lead consultant, Amber Mackereth, to discuss your objectives prior to application, please do not hesitate to reach out.
  • There is a cost of $600+HST per firm/organization, which will be invoiced upon successful admission to the program
  • Applicants must be in good standing with project partners (econext, IET, ACOA)

Please download and fill out the application below. Completed applications must be sent to abbie@econext.ca by COB on Wednesday, January 11, 2023.

Download Application Form

Consulting Team

Amber Mackereth has worked closely with econext and its members on international business development initiatives in the past and has a wealth of experience and well-established networks throughout the Caribbean. She provides guidance to firms across Atlantic Canada on the subject of international business development, conducts international market research, and provides business matchmaking services for international trade missions. In addition to work experience in most of the English-speaking Caribbean, Amber has also lived in the Spanish-speaking markets of Cuba and Costa Rica. She is fluent in English, French, and Spanish. Amber has led, or played an integral role in, the successful execution of more than 20 international trade missions, including fifteen trade missions to the Caribbean region. She has worked with more than 30 of econext’s members to develop customized market entry strategies for the Caribbean region (including English, French and Spanish-speaking markets) and has prepared research reports for NEIA focused on Caribbean Blue & Green Economy initiatives (2020); opportunities and market entry tactics for Spanish-speaking Caribbean markets (2020); and Caribbean Climate Finance.

Marlene Power, International Program Officer at MI International, Marine Institute, and MI International’s lead on engagement in the Caribbean, has worked in the business, education, development, and humanitarian sectors in multiple regions of the world for over 20 years. She has secured and managed numerous international initiatives in the Caribbean, Latin America, Asia, and Africa ranging from short consultancies to multi-year projects, working with a variety of clients and funders. Her experience in the Caribbean region includes projects and initiatives within the Blue and Green economy in Barbados, Grenada, Anguilla, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, and Suriname across multiple sectors. In 2020, Marlene was a member of a team retained by NEIA to conduct research on Blue and Green Economy opportunities in the Caribbean Basin. Marlene has been both a participant of Trade Missions to the Caribbean as well as an organizer of various independent business development missions into the region. She is thus intimately familiar with their challenges and success factors of and brings unique perspective to the team.

Hugh Wilkinson, principal of Coral Hill LLC, is an expert in business development in emerging markets. With a focus on ‘IFI Procurement’ and the strategic pursuit of business funded by the World Bank and other IFIs, he provides end-to-end consulting in international business planning, strategic engagement, partnering, and bidding to win. His clients have included the major IFIs, foreign governments, consulting, law and technology firms, NGOs, and Canadian federal and provincial government agencies. He has been a trusted advisor and business consultant to companies like Microsoft, HP, GE, Hachette Livre, Gowlings, Dillon Consulting, and dozens of Canadian SMEs. With 30+ years’ work experience in global development, Hugh is also a specialist in the design, management, and evaluation of development projects. He has undertaken numerous market assessments throughout the English and Spanish-speaking Caribbean, led multiple project assignments in Guyana, the Bahamas, Trinidad & Tobago, and Belize, and maintains a broad network of contacts throughout the region. Most recently he was contracted by NEIA to conduct an in-depth analysis of markets in ten Spanish-speaking countries in the Caribbean and to provide related support to five NL CleanTech/OceanTech firms in developing and implementing strategic market plans in the region. He resides in St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador.

econext Fall Trade Mission to the Caribbean Region



Since 2014, econext (formerly NEIA) has been collaborating closely with the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology (IET) and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) to deliver a suite of programming for Atlantic Canadian firms to pursue international business opportunities in the Caribbean region. Our Caribbean program is comprehensive, comprising in-depth market research, information sessions, customized firm-level supports, and the coordination of incoming and outgoing trade missions to markets.

Our Fall 2022 mission will see 9 organizations touch down in Barbados, St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines..

For more information, visit https://econext.ca/caribbean-program/

Organizations participating in the Fall Trade Mission:

If you have any questions about the econext Fall Trade Mission to the Caribbean Region please contact Abbie Hodder, econext’s COO & Director of International Business, at Abbie@econext.ca

Contaminated Sites Health & Safety Training (40-Hour Hazwoper)

econext, in partnership with Atlantic Environmental Training & On-Site Services Inc., annually conducts a 40-Hour HAZWOPER (hazardous waste operations & emergency response) training course.

This event has been cancelled. 

NEXT COURSE:

Dates: November 18-22, 2024

  • Member price – $1625.00 + hst
  • Non Member price – $1800.00 + hst

Register: Contact us at info@econext.ca

Location: St. John’s, NL

Please note: A $400.00 + hst non-refundable (administration) charge will apply to registrant cancellations following the deadline date (November 1, 2024). A full refund will be granted if the course is cancelled.

COURSE DETAILS

Also known as the 40 hour contaminated sites course, this training is compliant with the requirements of the OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.120 HAZWOPER. Successful completion of the classroom and practical exercises will result in ‘certification’ for the attendees. This certification is recognized in the US and Canada for work performed at uncontrolled waste sites. DCC and PWGSC are now requiring contractors to have this certification to qualify for some tenders involving hazmat.

This course focuses on understanding US and Canadian health & safety regulations and practices; hazmat recognition; PPE/CPC selection; decontamination procedures; spill control & containment; exposure monitoring; spill reporting and spill response planning. Practical exercises include level ‘A’ and ‘B’ responses to simulated hazmat incidents. Full exposure to realistic spill scenarios designed by instructors with over 40 years experience, will make this one of the best training courses you have ever participated in.

For those who currently have valid 40 Hour certification (certificate training within the last two years), an 8 Hour Refresher is also offered. Click here for information on the 8 Hour Refresher.

The HAZWOPER course is designed for hazardous waste clean up (remediation) workers, treatment, storage and disposal workers, emergency response personnel, health and safety staff and environmental consultants. Course content is compliant with 29 CFR 1910.120(e) which satisfies municipal, provincial and federal requirements for health and safety training for site workers at uncontrolled waste sites in the US and Canada.

The 40 Hour Contaminated Sites Health & Safety Training (40 Hour HAZWOPER) meets the mandatory requirements of the OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.120(e) which also satisfies the requirements of Public Works and Government Services Canada for delivery on projects such as the Argentia Remediation Project.

About Atlantic Environmental Training & On-Site Services Inc. (AET)

Atlantic Environmental Training & On-Site Services Incorporated (AET) is a Nova Scotia company with over forty years of experience in regulatory compliance, environmental training and project management of environmental issues. AET is Atlantic Canada’s largest provider of HAZWOPER training and a leader in Canada providing Hazmat Awareness and Spill Response Training to DND, industry and numerous government agencies from coast to coast.

Areas of expertise include:

  • EMS development & implementation
  • development and implementation of environmental training courses
  • environmental auditing including ISO 14000 series audits
  • hazardous waste management including PCB wastes
  • environmental health and safety planning
  • pollution prevention and sustainable development
  • conducting environmental assessments
  • environmental project management
  • development of household hazardous waste collection programs.
  • Staff currently hold a number of certifications including Certified Environmental Auditor (ISO 14000), Certified EMS Lead Auditor, Certified NFPA 472 Operations Level; TDGA and WHMIS Trainer, econext Certified Environmental Trainer (USA Standard), Certified Environmental Technician and DFO Certification in Engineering and Aquatic Environments.

Training courses offered by AET include:

  • 40-Hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Training (HAZWOPER)
  • Environmental Awareness and Environmental Assessment Training
  • Environmental Liabilities and Due Diligence
  • Environmental Management Systems
  • Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act and Regulations (TDGA)
  • NFPA 472 Awareness & Operations Level

2022 Annual General Meeting

Please find below the materials required to participate in NEI Association Inc.’s 2022 Annual General Meeting.

The assigned representative for each of econext‘s voting members will receive an email with specific instructions.

CEO Presentation

Coming soon

Questions and Answers

Please email your questions to kieran@econext.ca.

Guidelines:

  • All questions must be posed by the designated representative of a voting member
  • All questions must be posed by 17h00 on Thursday, September 15
  • All questions received will be published with answers provided

econext CEO responds to Canada’s 2030 emissions reduction plan

econext‘s CEO Kieran Hanley joined the VOCM Morning Show on March 31, 2022 to discuss Newfoundland and Labrador’s opportunities as they relate to Canada’s recently released 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan.

econext · econext CEO responds to Canada's 2030 emissions reduction plan

Overcoming Barriers to Environmental Employment

Environmental Job Funding & Training for Employers | Learn About Wage Subsidies to Help You Onboard and Train New Talent

With many young people experiencing unemployment or underemployment, how can established organizations and start-ups participate in helping youth overcome barriers to employment? In this webinar we’ll discuss strategies and supports available to:

  • Empower organizations to invest in emerging workers
  • Assist youth facing barriers employment
  • Develop employability skills
  • Obtain meaningful work experience in the sustainability sector
  • Access training and employment support services

ECO Canada’s team will discuss pathways to employability and workforce development programs.

Thanks to the support of their funders – Natural Resources Canada, Climate Change Canada, Social Development Canada, and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada – they can offer you dollars to increase organization capacity and support your business participation in the green economy.

By helping your team with wage and training costs, they make hiring new talent more attractive.

Benefits for Employers:

  • Increase work capacity
  • Access talented youth with new ideas & skills
  • Increase employee retention
  • Reduce staff training costs
  • Strengthen overall business operations
  • Support the growth of new qualified environmental workers

Join ECO Canada and econext for a virtual session to explore ECO Canada’s Employment Programs, Training & Wage Subsidies for Environmental Jobs

Click here to register!

Speakers:

Brenden Stephen: has been finding creative solutions to training and Human Resources needs for 10 years now. Having grown up in the small town of Vanderhoof, BC, Brenden understands the need for clear communication and teamwork. After attending University at the University of Alberta, Brenden continued to educate himself and endears to be a lifelong learner. Brenden is committed to helping improve the environmental industry and works hard to live with an intentional focus on renewability and sustainability

Emma Duffy: works on the Employment Programs team at ECO Canada, focused on the strategy and outreach to elevate the Employment Programs team and our reach across Canada. Emma collaborates with all departments at ECO and external stakeholders to build relationships and increase opportunities for all.