Manitoba Economic Summit:

12:00 PM – Registration

1:00 PM – Welcome Remarks

1:15 PM – Opening Keynote “Advancing Manitoba’s Prosperity: The Future of Rural”

Margot Cathcart, CEO, Rural Manitoba Economic Development Corporation (RMED)

1:45 PM – Panel: The Future of Workforce in Manitoba

Moderator: Jamie Dumont, Owner & Principal of Chadwick Consulting

Panelists:

1. 1. Jody Gillis, Associate Dean, Regional Campuses & Adult Learning Centres, RRC Polytech
   2. Reis Pagtakhan, Corporate Immigration Lawyer & Partner, MLT Aikins
   3. Tory McNally, Vice President of Professional Consulting at TIPI Legacy HR+

2:30 PM – Sponsor Speech – Manitoba School Boards Association

2:50 PM – Networking Break

3:00 PM – State of the Chambers – Manitoba’s Momentum: Policy, Progress & Prosperity

3:40 PM – Manitoba Green Advantage Presentation

3:50 PM – Manitoba AI Pathways Presentation

4:00 PM – Break

6:00-8:00 PM – Chair’s Reception

at Penn-co Construction Canada LTD, 1A Langill Wy, Steinbach

8:00 AM – Breakfast & Networking

8:30 AM – Opening Remarks

8:45 AM – Keynote: Honourable Jamie Moses, Minister of Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation, Province of Manitoba

9:15 AM – Mayors’ Panel – Municipal Leadership & Manitoba’s Advantage 

Moderator: Elisabeth Saftiuk, Vice-President Policy & Government Relations, Manitoba Chambers of Commerce

Panelists:

1. 1. His Worship Earl Funk, Mayor of Steinbach
   2. Her Worship Sandra Smith, Mayor of Stonewall
   3. His Worship Scott Gillingham, Mayor of Winnipeg

10:00 AM – Networking Break

10:15 AM – Panel: The Manitoba Advantage

Moderator: Chuck Davidson, President and CEO, Manitoba Chambers of Commerce

Panelists:

1. 1. Andrea Ladouceur, President, Bioscience Association of Manitoba
   2. Jacqueline Keena, Managing Director, Enterprise Machine Intelligence and Learning Initiative
   3. Carla Devlin, President, Sio Silica

11:20 AM – Lunch and Networking

12:00 PM – 95th Manitoba Chambers of Commerce Annual General Meeting

Swearing in of 2026/27 Board of Directors.

Review the 2026/2027 Board Slate.

2026 AGM Booklet

1:00 PM – Sponsor Speech – Travel Manitoba

1:15 PM – Keynote: Desiree Scott – Dedication, Drive and Delivering Results

2:00 PM – Wellness Break

2:15 PM – Closing Remarks 

Honourable Jamie Moses

Minister of Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation

Jamie Moses was first elected as the MLA for St. Vital in 2019. He is Minister of Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation. Before becoming minister, he passed legislation to recognize Emancipation Day in Manitoba and to establish anti-racism training for provincial employees.

Moses was born in Winnipeg and is a graduate of River East Collegiate. He holds a Bachelor in Agribusiness from the University of Manitoba. Moses is an athlete and is a former Manitoba AAAA provincial male athlete of the year. He currently holds the Winnipeg High School Football League record for the most receiving yards in a game. He also played football for the University of Manitoba Bisons. Moses is a tireless advocate for safer sports and is passionate about helping young people reach their full potential.

Prior to his political career he worked at the Investors Group, technology company Rapid RTC and the Canadian Wheat Board. Moses and his wife are long-time residents of St. Vital and are raising their two children in the neighbourhood they love.

Desiree Scott

Olympic Gold Medalist

Desiree Scott is a former professional soccer player and one of the most accomplished defensive midfielders in the history of the Canada women’s national soccer team. Born in Winnipeg, she earned the nickname “The Destroyer” for her relentless ball-winning ability, tactical intelligence, and leadership on the field.

Over a distinguished 15 year international career, Scott earned 188 caps for Canada, becoming one of the most capped players in program history. She represented Canada at four Olympic Games, playing a pivotal role in the nation’s rise on the world stage.

Major Achievements & Awards

• Olympic Gold Medalist – Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics
• Olympic Bronze Medalist – London 2012 Summer Olympics
• Olympic Bronze Medalist – Rio 2016 Summer Olympics
• 3 Fifa World Cup Appearances
• 188 International Caps – Among Canada’s all-time leaders
• CIS First Team All-Canadian – U Sports
• Canada West Hall of Fame Inductee
• Member of the Order of Manitoba

Margot Cathcart

Chief Executive Officer, Rural Manitoba Economic Development Corporation (RMED)

Respected for her consistency, professionalism, and commitment to community impact, Scott’s legacy extends beyond medals — she remains an influential ambassador for sport development and youth empowerment in Canada.

Margot Cathcart grew up in rural Manitoba, graduated from Brandon University, and after living in Japan and Winnipeg, returned to Brandon with her husband to raise their two sons. Describing herself as a “builder,” she has been involved from the ground up in product, business, and industry development.

Her private sector experiences span television, news media, information management, technology, agriculture, food, and financial services. Over the course of her career, she has held numerous private sector management roles.

Prior to joining RMED, she held senior management positions with Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development, developing province-wide economic development programming and re-engineering operations to enhance knowledge management and operational efficiencies.

In addition to her public and private sector experiences, Margot is a Certified Executive Coach and Working Genius Facilitator.

Reis Pagtakhan

Partner, MLT Aikins

Reis Pagtakhan is a Canadian corporate immigration lawyer with more than 30 years of experience advising businesses and individuals on Canadian immigration matters.

A partner with MLT Aikins, Reis is a member of the Premier of Manitoba’s Business and Jobs Council. From 2024 to 2026, he served as Chair of the Council’s Immigration and Skills Alignment Subcommittee and, since 2026, has served as Co‑Chair of the Trade Diversification – Internal and International Trade Subcommittee.

Reis has presented position papers to the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, appeared before House of Commons and Senate committees on immigration legislation, and participated in stakeholder consultations related to the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement.

Reis has written on immigration issues for the CBC and the Winnipeg Free Press and has guest lectured on immigration law at the University of Manitoba. He is a frequent speaker to Canadian and international audiences including: the Conference Board of Canada; Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters; Dairy Farmers of Canada; World Trade Centre Winnipeg; and CPHR Manitoba.

Jody Gillis

Associate Dean, Regional Campuses & Adult Learning Centres, RRC Polytech

Jody Gillis (he/him) is the Associate Dean, Regional Campuses and Adult Learning Centres at RRC Polytech. Since joining RRC Polytech, his career has evolved at the intersection of teaching, technology, and leadership—beginning with developing and delivering Continuing Education programming, moving into information technology education, and later driving program growth as Chair of IT and Professional Studies.

Today, Jody leads work that strengthens workforce pathways across Manitoba, with a focus on communities served by RRC Polytech’s regional campuses and Adult Learning Centres. His work emphasizes aligning training with community and employer needs through program development and innovation, community and industry engagement, and recruitment approaches that include open houses and dual-credit pathways. Jody brings a people-first leadership style to building partnerships that help learners access training close to home and support Manitoba employers in developing talent.

Outside of work, Jody Gillis enjoys outdoor adventures and cherishes time with his family.

Tory McNally

Vice President of Professional Consulting at TIPI Legacy HR+

Tory McNally has built her career at the intersection of people and workplaces, with a focus on helping organizations function effectively through clear expectations, strong relationships, and practical HR strategies.

Currently the Vice President of Professional Services at TIPI Legacy HR+ (formerly Legacy Bowes), Tory works closely with organizations to strengthen their internal systems and support leaders in navigating complex workplace situations. She is known for a pragmatic, relationship-focused approach and for emphasizing that policies are only effective when they are applied consistently and supported by trust.

Before moving fully into HR consulting, Tory spent a decade as Director of Operations at McNally Robinson Booksellers, her family’s business. That experience shaped her perspective on leadership and workplace culture, reinforcing the importance of consistency, accountability, and treating employees with respect. It also informed her decision to pursue formal HR training and leadership development.

In addition to her consulting work, Tory writes a weekly column on HR and careers for the Winnipeg Free Press, where she explores workplace trends, leadership challenges, and evolving expectations in the world of work. She is a regular media contributor and advocates for clear, direct communication as a foundation for effective workplaces.

Outside of work, Tory can usually be found sewing, spending time with her two cats, or thinking about how work could be just a little more human for everyone.

Moderated by:

Jamie Dumont

Principal, Chadwick Consulting

Jamie Dumont is Principal with Chadwick Consulting LTD, specializing in Indigenous and northern economic development. Jamie is Past-Chair of the Board of Directors of the Indigenous Chamber of Commerce, sits on the board of directors of the Manitoba Chamber of Commerce, and the Indigenous Affairs Policy Committee of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. In 2022, Jamie was re-elected as Trustee for Ward 1 of the Winnipeg School Division.

His Worship Earl Funk, Mayor of Steinbach

Earl Funk is a life-long resident of Steinbach. He is married to Lori, and they have two daughters, one son, one son-in-law, one daughter-in-law, and six grandchildren. Mr. Funk has been working in the meat industry for 42 years, and, 21 years ago, together with his wife, started Earls Meat Market on Main Street in Steinbach.

Through operating a business on Main Street, Mr. Funk has been able to get involved in the Steinbach community in many different capacities. He has volunteered in many local church groups and organizations, and has always had a great love for Steinbach and area.

Mr. Funk has always had a great desire to serve, which is why it felt natural for him to run for office as a councillor, and now Mayor. He is committed to working hard to promote business issues, is dedicated to solid economic growth and development within Steinbach, as well as using all his experience to help Steinbach continue to be a great city to live and work.

His Worship Scott Gillingham, Mayor of Winnipeg

Scott Gillingham believes great cities are built by people who roll up their sleeves, work together, and tackle big challenges head-on.

Raised on a farm near Carman, Manitoba, he learned early that results don’t come without effort – and that success is built by teamwork. Whether it was early mornings on the farm, grinding through four seasons in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, or climbing 60-foot poles as a young lineman with Manitoba Hydro, Scott developed a deep respect for those who put in the work to keep communities running.

That same commitment to service led him to spend more than 20 years as a pastor, working with people to strengthen communities and tackle tough challenges. Over time, he saw how city policies directly impacted the lives of families, businesses, and neighbourhoods—and he knew he wanted to do more. That’s what led him to run successfully for City Council in 2014.

During his time at City Hall, Scott has built a reputation as a collaborative leader with a long-term vision for Winnipeg. As Chair of the Finance Committee, he led the development of the city’s first-ever multi-year balanced budget—a critical move that helped Winnipeg navigate a $220 million revenue shortfall during the pandemic while protecting essential services. He has worked across governments and industries to invest in infrastructure, strengthen public safety, and grow Winnipeg’s economy.

Since being elected as Mayor in 2022, Scott has focused on delivering real results: fast-tracking a whole new transit network, driving the most ambitious housing reforms in decades to get more homes built, and finally ending the 45-year debate about re-opening Portage & Main to pedestrians. These landmark changes reflect his belief that leadership is about collaboration and action.

He’s also taken Winnipeg’s voice to the national stage as Vice-Chair of the Big City Mayors’ Caucus, pushing for progress on housing, public safety, and economic growth.

Her Worship Sandra Smith, Mayor of Stonewall

Sandra Smith is a dedicated community leader with a lifetime connection to Stonewall. She brings a strong foundation in municipal governance, having previously served as a Town Councillor, along with extensive involvement in local organizations supporting community well-being and development.

Sandra’s professional background spans both the private and public sectors. She spent 28 years with a leading Manitoba law firm before serving within the Manitoba Legislature, supporting Ministers in key portfolios including Economic Development and Training, Agriculture and Resource Development and Seniors and Long-Term Care. Through this work, along with having served as an Interlake Director for the Association of Manitoba Municipalities, she developed deep insight into policy, partnerships, and the economic forces that shape communities.

As Mayor, Sandra is a strong advocate for economic development, recognizing it as a critical driver of growth, investment, and long-term sustainability. She is committed to supporting local business, fostering regional collaboration, and strengthening Stonewall’s role as a regional hub in the Interlake.

Moderated by:

Elisabeth Saftiuk 

Vice-President of Policy and Government Relations, Manitoba Chambers of Commerce 

Elisabeth Saftiuk is the Vice-President of Policy and Government Relations for the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. She works collaboratively with the President and CEO to ensure that the strategic focus of the Chambers addresses the changing needs and priorities of Manitoba’s business community. 

Elisabeth is a Registered Professional Planner, and has a background in urban planning, economics, and public policy development, having previously served as executive director of the Brandon Downtown Development Corporation, as a land use planner in the Interlake and southeast Manitoba, and as a policy analyst at the Manitoba Legislature. 

Elisabeth is Vice-Chair of the Capital Planning Regional Board, has a Bachelor of Arts in economics, a Master of City Planning, and is in the process of obtaining a Master of Business Administration from the University of Manitoba.

Jacqueline Keena

Managing Director, Enterprise Machine Intelligence and Learning Initiative

Jacqueline is Managing Director of EMILI, a Manitoba-based non-profit, working to increase the integration and adoption of intelligent technologies into the agriculture industry. She is a professional agrologist (P.Ag.) and holds degrees in agribusiness and public policy. Jacqueline is also a vice-chair for Assiniboine Credit Union and past Chair of the Manitoba Women’s Enterprise Centre. In 2023, Jacqueline was appointed to serve on the Premier’s Business and Jobs Council in Manitoba.

Andrea Ladouceur

President and CEO, Bioscience Association Manitoba

Andrea is an innate leader that designs, delivers and realigns strategic and transformation plans in multiple, complex arenas including finance, technology, energy and climate, and health and the economy. She consistently achieves desired outcomes by maximizing partnerships and true collaborations, understanding risks, and unleashing the power and talent of the BAM team to support and elevate the Bioscience industry.

Carla Devlin

President, Sio Silica

Carla Devlin brings over two decades of experience across entrepreneurship, construction, and public service. She has a strong track record of advancing complex initiatives through strategic leadership, effective stakeholder alignment, and disciplined execution.

Her work is grounded in building productive partnerships across industry, government, and communities, with a focus on delivering long-term economic and operational value. Devlin is recognized for her ability to navigate complex environments, manage competing priorities, and drive projects forward with consistency and accountability.

She is committed to fostering collaborative relationships with Indigenous communities, supporting inclusive approaches to development that emphasize transparency, respect, and shared outcomes.

Devlin has led successful ventures in real estate development and construction and has held roles in municipal leadership, currently the President of Sio Silica advancing a critical mineral mine in Manitoba, bringing a well-rounded perspective to project development and governance.

Moderated by:

Chuck Davidson

President and CEO, Manitoba Chambers of Commerce

Chuck Davidson serves as President and CEO of the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, the province’s largest business advocacy organization, representing 64 local chambers and nearly 10,000 organizations. Since 2013, he has led the organization with a renewed focus on policy and advocacy, maintaining its status as an accredited Chamber of Commerce with distinction for over 15 years.

He is a dedicated advocate for economic development in Manitoba, holding leadership roles such as Co-Chair of the Rural Manitoba Economic Development Corporation and the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund, Co-Chair of Travel Manitoba’s Provincial Tourism strategy, Board Member of the Community Economic Development Fund, Chair of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Accreditation Council, and Past President of the Chamber of Commerce Group Insurance Plan.

Recently, Chuck was honored with the King Charles III Coronation Medal for significant contributions to Canada and recognized as one of THE WEST 20: Impactful Leaders in Economic Development and Business Growth in Western Canada by the Western Canada Economic Forum.