ISSUE NO VII • SYNCRUDE CANADA LTD. ABORIGINAL REVIEW 2016

Courage A Flett The Quintal Cory Jahelka Fort McKay Tyler Hart Under Family Dynamic Battles for Provides in a League Fire Welcome Duo Heart and Home Northern Comfort of His Own 02 08 10 12 14 34 Welcome

There are many different pathways to success. It region, our province and across our country. Pathways could be sculpting a work of art, preparing dry fish captures these stories and connects with First Nations and listening to the wisdom of Elders. It could be and Métis people making positive contributions, studying for certification, a college diploma or bringing new perspectives to the table and university degree. Or it could be volunteering to influencing change in our society. be a firefighter in your home community. Join us as we explore these many diverse pathways There is no end to the remarkable successes and and learn how generations young and old are working accomplishments among Aboriginal people in our to make a difference.

THE STORIES in Pathways reflect the six key commitment areas of Syncrude’s Aboriginal Relations BUSINESS EMPLOYMENT program: Business Development, Community Development, Education Wood Buffalo is home to some of As one of the largest employers and Training, Employment, the the most successful Aboriginal of Aboriginal people in Canada, Environment, and Corporate businesses in Canada. Syncrude Syncrude’s goal is to create Leadership. As a representation of works closely with Aboriginal opportunities that enable First our ongoing work with the local business owners to identify Nations, Métis and Inuit people First Nations and Métis communities opportunities for supplying goods to fully participate in all aspects to create and share opportunity, and services to our operation. of our operation. Pathways is one among many initiatives meant to foster dialogue and celebrate shared achievements.

EDITORIAL COMMITTEE COMMUNITY ENVIRONMENT Kara Flynn, Lana Hill, Jo Anne Hulan, Mark Kruger, Colleen Legdon, Paul Manuel, Canada is a country rich in diversity We work with local Aboriginal Marty Quintal, Christine Simpson, Tracey and culture. Syncrude helps communities on such matters as Stephen, Jamie Sullivan, Doug Webb Aboriginal communities celebrate end-land use and how we can WRITERS success and continue to build minimize the long-term impacts of our Tara Abraham, John Copley, Will Gibson, capacity for further progress operations on traditional land uses. Stephanie Johnston, Mark Kruger, and achievement. Mike Lupien, Paul Manuel, Bob Nyen, Chelsey Pynn, Lilian Rubilar, Leithan Slade, Tracey Stephen PHOTOGRAPHY Adam Gaumont/University of Alberta, Art Gallery of Alberta, CAREERS: The EDUCATION LEADERSHIP Next Generation, Curtis Trent/Alberta Venture, Jeremy Fokkens, Government Learning unlocks the door to reward Leadership is found among young of Alberta, Josh Cardinal, Marcus and personal growth. Syncrude and old alike. As a member of many Oleniuk/Toronto Star, Chelsey Pynn, Darren Jacknisky, Bob Nyen, Roth & works with Aboriginal communities regional and national organizations, Ramberg, Leithan Slade, Daniel Wood to explore and create diverse Syncrude works with business and DESIGN & PRODUCTION educational opportunities. governments to champion the Karo Group Calgary continued advancement of Aboriginal ILLUSTRATION people across the country. Chris Pecora PRINTING Blanchette Press YOUR THOUGHTS FRONT COVER Through Pathways, we hope to bring you inspiring stories that Jeremy Fokkens capture the heart, spirit and success of Aboriginal people and INSIDE BACK COVER Daniel Wood communities. We invite you to share your opinion and tell us how BACK COVER we’re doing. www.syncrude.ca/pwfeedback Bob Nyen PATHWAYS | 1

ISSUE NO VII • SYNCRUDE CANADA LTD. ABORIGINAL REVIEW 2016

02 08 10

COURAGE UNDER FIRE IN GOOD HANDS DYNAMIC DUO The expertise of Aboriginal Fighting the wildfire Father and son firefighters proves vital time and becomes a family affair. join forces to again when attacking wildfires. fight the flames.

12 Brave 14 Northern 18 Opening 25 An Order of 28 Building Heart Comfort Doors Magnitude Futures

30 Honour 31 Academic 32 Courage 33 Music 34 A League Roll Achiever to Dream Man of His Own

Happy Trails page 16 Aboriginal Art Exhibition page 22 Pursuit of Excellence page 24 Fort McKay Group of Companies page 26 Mechanics of Success page 27 Aboriginal Youth Initiative page 36 Aboriginal Edge Report page 37 Insect Research page 38 Fort McKay's New Recycling Program page 39 Environmental Update page 40 Aboriginal Relations Scorecard page 42 Celebrating Our People page 44 Aboriginal Relations Program page 45 Aboriginal Relations Team page 46 Thoughts from the CEO page 48 Fort McKay First Nation fire chief Mel Grandjamb has responded to his share of emergencies and is used to battling the occasional structural fire in and around his community. But nothing could have prepared him for the scene he and his 12-person crew of firefighters witnessed upon their arrival into Fort McMurray on the afternoon of May 3rd, 2016. “The city was aflame; the smoke was thick and the whole community was in the process of a mass exodus,” explains Mel. “Beacon Hill was engulfed and Abasand was in a similar state. Our destination was Grayling Terrace, where about 200 homes were under threat of being destroyed.” PATHWAYS | 3 COURAGE

The expertise of Aboriginal firefighters proves vital time and UNDER again when attacking wildfires in FIRE Alberta. PATHWAYS | 4

“I commend the efforts Hugging the far shoulder of the road to avoid emergency and work ethic of every vehicles and escaping residents, they made their single person who way into the community. played a role in helping Mel, together with deputy fire chiefs Ron Quintal and to stop the fire.” James McIsaac, formed FORT MCKAY FIRE CHIEF MEL GRANDJAMB their plan. “This wasn’t an ordinary whose department has gained situation; a more complex plan of widespread recognition at action was needed,” explains Mel. firefighting competitions across the “We got 65 lines out, dropped two country, winning four consecutive at each house and immediately provincial championships and one began to hose the properties national title. “I commend the efforts down. Two were already on fire.” and work ethic of every single The crew launched its attack person who played a role in helping at 4:19 p.m. and, by 5:30 p.m., to stop the fire in Fort McMurray both fires were extinguished. and the woodland firefighters who Several hours later, most of the eventually managed to get Grayling Terrace neighbourhood everything under control.” was secured. By mid-May, more than 49 “It was a real team effort wildfires were burning in Alberta and among our greatest with seven deemed to be out of accomplishments,” notes Mel, control. More than 1,200 firefighters, PATHWAYS | 5

including those from local First “I was dispatched with the those folks and their contribution Nations and Métis communities, 25-man crew,” he explains. to extinguishing the Horse River were brought into action. They “We were dropped off in the fire has been above and beyond were supported by 145 helicopters, middle of the bush and far from the call of duty.” 22 air tankers and more than 140 any modern convenience.” The role of the wildland pieces of heavy equipment. Though he was the senior firefighter hasn’t changed much ranger at the site that day, he over the decades, but the training remembers the actions of the programs are continually evolving. Bernie Schmitte, Fort all-Aboriginal crew and “watching “The training is more intense McMurray fire district manager in awe as they sprang into action, today,” says Bernie. “Fire with Alberta Agriculture and setting up the camp, marking out behaviour – why one fire does Forestry, knows first-hand the the perimeter and patrolling the one thing and another similar tremendous contributions area for hot spots and fire does something totally Aboriginal people bring to unwelcome wildlife.” different – plays a much bigger fighting wildfires. The cooks, from Meander role than it has in past years. “Even before the settlers River, also took good care of the Safety awareness and instruction arrived, Aboriginal people were team. “Their eyes widened when is also very important. If a putting out fires on their own; the wolves howled but they sure situation arises, everyone has to they have a natural ability as could cook,” says Bernie. “They be on the same page.” firefighters,” he says. “For some made the best stew and bannock people, this is the life and I’ve ever had.” because Indigenous peoples are Bernie has been equally akin to the land, they really excel.” impressed with the crews in Wood Bernie remembers an Buffalo. “The firefighters here are A crew of Aboriginal experience with a team of some of the hardest working in firefighters who Aboriginal firefighters shortly after the province,” he says. “This has responded to the he moved to High Level in 1993. been a very busy summer for 2016 wildfire. Firefighters from both Fort McKay and Fort Chipewyan responded to the emergency. Above, the proud members Training, education of the Fort McKay Fire Department. and great courage were ▲ Left to right: essential for 28-year-old James McIsaac Cole McKenzie Josh Cardinal. A former Shelley Cyprien Tyler Young Firetack crew member Destiny Young Mel Grandjamb with five years’ experience Trace Quintal as a wildland firefighter, Dwight Flett Felix Faichney he joined the Helitack Ron Quintal Absent: Mike O’Neil crew earlier this year and was in fact still training for his new assignment when word came that Fort McMurray was under siege. PATHWAYS | 7 “The fire behaviour was erratic and we really had to keep our wits about us.”

JOSH CARDINAL

pushed us to become professional, Aboriginal Firefighter Training reliable and team-oriented Program (AFTP) celebrated its 50th workers. They achieved that goal.” anniversary in 2015, recognizing Josh notes when his crew arrived Indigenous firefighters for in Fort McMurray on May 26th, the helping to launch the first training nearby forests were still burning. programs offered in the province. “That was our destination,” he Hugh Boyd, retired executive says. “The fire behaviour was director of the Wildfire erratic and we really had to keep Management Branch at Alberta our wits about us. Trees were Agriculture and Forestry, burning and swaying and falling remembers how important it was over throughout the forested area to tap into the local knowledge we were working. The work we did of the Aboriginal people in each was actually quite routine but it is area he was stationed. “It was important to cut burning trees invaluable,” he says. “It was because when they uproot it can something that made the Alberta be extremely dangerous.” Forest Service what it was. They Josh, who is studying at the [Aboriginal firefighters] shaped the Northern Alberta Institute of Alberta Forest Service. They were Technology (NAIT) to be a forest the structural backbone for us to technician, praises the actions of do all our wildfire management.” everyone who contributed to the For the many communities fight. “Thanks to our training and to located in the boreal forest, “Fort McMurray was the most people like our strike leader John, Aboriginal firefighters remain an high-profile wildfire I have ever and the great crew that worked important asset in the ongoing been a part of,” he says. “It was with us, we all came out of the effort to protect people and physically draining, mentally bush intact and without injury.” property. Their knowledge, strength intimidating and overall quite With Aboriginal firefighting and bravery have proven essential difficult, but the instructors and having such a long history in in the past and will surely help save mentors knew their jobs and they Alberta, it’s not surprising the the day when fire threatens again. In Good

HandsFighting the wildfire becomes a family affair PATHWAYS | 9 WILDFIRE PROFILE

As Dwight Flett battled flames the boys off at my mother-in-law’s place. We got to the fire hall and eight of us were dispatched on in neighbourhoods around a pumper truck and rescue vehicle.” Fort McMurray in early May, Miranda Flett was welcoming As Dwight headed south towards the flames, thousands of evacuees headed north and many displaced residents into their were welcomed with open arms in Fort McKay. Fort McKay home. “We just started inviting people home. During “We both have strong connections to Fort the first couple of days, we had about 25 people, McMurray – we actually met while we were 10 dogs and a couple of lizards go through our attending Father Mercredi High School,” Miranda house,” says Miranda. “Once the roads opened explains. “So of course, we wanted to help. It was up, people began to leave. We did invite people very painful to see what happened to our friends who were staying in their vehicles on site to and neighbours so opening up our home seemed come in for a shower and watch a little television as natural as having Dwight go down with other so they could catch up on the news. We knew it volunteer firefighters from Fort McKay.” was tough for them and wanted to do what we could to help by opening our homes.” A heavy-duty technician who joined Syncrude Back in Fort McMurray, as an apprentice in Dwight’s crew faced a fierce 2010, Dwight noted the battle in Grayling Terrace but distinct red hats of the managed to help save the volunteer fire brigade neighbourhood. “That was shortly after beginning to very important," he says, work at Mildred Lake. “I "because they were worried was always interested in about the fire spreading to being a firefighter from a downtown if we couldn’t very young age but didn’t stop it at Grayling and we pursue it until I joined were very happy to have Syncrude and joined the helped save those homes.” volunteer fire brigade about six months after Even with those victories, I first started working Dwight – a self-described there,” says Dwight, “Fort McMurray kid” – says a member of the Athabasca Chipewyan First it hurt him to see the damage caused to his Nation. “I spent three years with the fire brigade hometown. At the same time, he and Miranda before joining a mine rescue team and received take pride in how the entire region responded extensive training in both roles. I was able to in a crisis. “It was amazing to see the whole grow my medical skills and completed my EMR province come together to fight the fire and it (Emergency Medical Responder certification) a was a tremendous feeling,” Dwight says. month before the wildfire started.” “We managed to come together as a region With those skills, he also volunteers with Fort and open up our hearts and homes for McKay’s fire department. “I live in Fort McKay with each other,” Miranda says. “It showed the Miranda and our twin sons and was sort of waiting rest of the country what we are as people for the call,” says Dwight. “Miranda went to town and as a community.” to grab some groceries on the Tuesday and texted me pictures of the smoke above Abasand from the downtown Sobeys. I went and dropped

PHOTOS: LEFT – Miranda and Dwight Flett relax with their twin boys in the backyard of their Fort McKay home. ABOVE – Wearing the firefighter outfits that their mom bought for them, Axel Gracen (left) and Lawson Creed (right) pose with Dwight on the back of the Fort McKay fire truck. WILDFIRE PROFILE

DYNAMICFather and son join forces to DUO fight the flames

I was proud to stand with my dad and our fire team. “ We saw so much damage and destruction but we also saved so very much. ” Trace Quintal PATHWAYS | 11

For Fort McKay deputy fire chief Fighting the flames in different neighbourhoods Left: Ron and Ron Quintal, May’s wildfire represented provided an exacting test for both Quintals, Trace Quintal the single biggest challenge in his career particularly wrestling with the emotions of as a firefighter. watching the flames consume homes.

But the blaze also forged a strong bond “I felt a lot of guilt and so did a lot of the between Ron and son Trace, who battled firefighters,” Ron explains. “When we were up flames alongside his father and a dozen other in Abasand, we were fighting the fires and we volunteer firefighters from Fort McKay. had heavy equipment go through a unit to build a fire break near the condos. It exposed “Believe it or not but Trace just turned 18, a little girl’s room – it was decorated in pink which is when you can become a fully-fledged and there were all sorts of dolls, stuffed member of the fire brigade in Fort McKay and animals and those kinds of toys. And that really are allowed to respond to emergencies. And got to me because I knew this child’s life would this fire was his first-ever call,” says Ron, who be forever altered because of this event.” also serves as President of the Fort McKay Métis Community. “Trace joined the At the same time, the pair managed to share department at 16, when you are allowed to small victories together with their fellow take part in the training and help out around firefighters from across the province. the hall. But no amount of training or “When we were at Walnut Drive, a bunch of the experience can prepare you for something like departments were in a big line and we had our that. It was something completely different.” deck guns soaking down this neighbourhood Ron himself has spent more than a dozen as we watched the fire rolling towards us,” Ron years as a firefighter, starting when he joined says. “Even at 1 a.m. you could feel the heat. the fire team at Shell’s Muskeg River Mine as But we all held the line and it was a win. I’ll remember that night until the day I die.” an auxiliary member. Like others in industry, the heavy equipment operator received “Being a firefighter always interested me. extensive training through the National Fire Protection Association before volunteering his I wanted to pursue a career where I could talents with Fort McKay’s volunteer brigade. help people and serve the public.” “Being a firefighter always interested me. I Ron Quintal wanted to pursue a career where I could help Along with memories and lessons learned, the people and serve the public. I received great father and son walked away from their baptism training from working in industry and most of by fire with a great deal of pride in each other. our members in Fort McKay have the same background,” says Ron. “The Fort McKay “As a father, you hope your children surpass brigade is part of the overall emergency what you do,” Ron says. “Trace was amazing. response service for the region. But the He worked his butt off. He did everything wildfire was the first time we had ever been he was told to do. He was like any of the called into Fort McMurray.” other firefighters.”

Having watched his father volunteer his time Trace looks back on the wildfires as a chance at the hall, Trace was always interested in to reflect on what we have in this world and joining him on the brigade. also gain a new understanding of what’s really important: his family. “I wanted to follow in my dad’s footsteps and help my community as a firefighter,” says “I was proud to stand with my dad and our fire Trace, who grew up in Fort McKay but spent team. We saw so much damage and plenty of time in Fort McMurray, where he destruction but we also saved so very much. recently graduated from high school, and I’m just proud to say that I got to battle ‘the played minor hockey. Beast’ alongside my dad and we won.”

PATHWAYS | 13

WILDFIRE PROFILE

hen the Fort Syncrude’s emergency responders thought I would fight a fire alongside McMurray Fire train regularly and rigourously them. It was amazing to see the and there’s a real pride within the support we got from other places in WDepartment called department on the preparedness of its the province.” Syncrude Emergency personnel to handle emergencies. But Response to get help to fight all that training couldn't prepare Cory While firefighters have received a lot the wildfire racing through for the physical and emotional toll of of praise for their bravery in beating fighting the flames trying to destroy back the flames from the community, the southern end of the his community. Messages from friends Cory, in turn, salutes the volunteers community, Cory Jahelka and family lifted his spirits while food who worked the water trucks as well answered the call and prepared and distributed by the Fort as fellow Syncrude employees who McKay First Nation proved invaluable operated heavy equipment to build jumped on the truck. The for firefighters. fire breaks that stopped the flames. son of a firefighter, Cory had been ready for this kind of “There are plenty of heroes out moment for most of his life. there who deserve a lot of credit for helping, including Syncrude retirees, But what he didn’t realize was like my dad Tom and Pierre that he would watch his Savard. They were both trying childhood memories burn to come up and counsel us. down in front of him. Cory One of our retired members grew up in Beacon Hill came up and helped out and arrived in the by preparing equipment neighbourhood as and helping us do the flames began maintenance because he consuming homes is a former mechanic,” along Beacon Hill Cory says. “The Drive, including the commitment of volunteer ones that he and his brigade members and mother May-Britt other brigades in the Jensen lived in when region such as Saprae he was a child. Creek, Fort McKay and Anzac was amazing. Those volunteers don’t get very “We drove in after receiving much money for what they a mutual-aid request from the do and only do it in their spare Fort McMurray Fire Department time. They didn’t really have a and arrived in Beacon Hill just as schedule and stayed up here during everybody was trying to leave the the entire event.” neighbourhood in the early afternoon,” says Cory. “It was tough for all of us to pull out of Beacon Hill after about The wildfire also brought out the best only 30 minutes. I grew up there and “We had our bad days, in the wider community, something had a lot of friends with homes up where you wish you could that left a mark for Cory as much as there but we had to try to protect have done something the razed homes and burned timber. more neighbourhoods.” differently. Then you’d go “I don’t have kids yet and I’m sad I and see messages from Like many other emergency will not be able to show them where friends and family telling I grew up or their grandmother responders, Cory put aside his feelings you how proud they were of loss and spent up to 16 hours during grew up,” he says. “But I’m glad Fort each of the next nine days trying to of what you were doing and McMurray is seen in a different light. save his hometown. “I got into this that meant so much to me People are seeing the beauty of it job because I didn’t want a regular and the other people,” through the old pictures that were mundane job and this is the perfect says Cory. shared. That’s important to me. career for that,” he says. “You spend a And we showed that people who live lot of time training so you are prepared The camaraderie between firefighters in this region are amazing. That’s why when the call comes in. While you hope from different parts of the province we managed to beat this fire.” you never get the call, the reality is it also provided a real lift for Cory, who comes and you have to be ready. This renewed many acquaintances and was the biggest fire I ever fought and it friendships. “It was a reunion of sorts – will probably be the biggest fire any of I kept running into people that I had us of will ever fight.” got to know over the years and I never FORT MCKAY RESIDENTS REDEFINE WHAT IT MEANS TO A BE A GOOD NEIGHBOUR WILDFIRE PROFILE

PHOTO L to R: Rose Bouchier, Rose Beaton, Linda McDonald, Janet McDonald

When people from Trisha Bouchier was just amazing. So Bouchier is a really good friend of my Fort McMurray began was Maureen McDonald,” says Rose. mom’s and I’ve known her since I was “That’s how we were raised. When you a little kid so I spoke to Jenica to ask flooding into Fort see people in trouble, you don’t ask her aunt if she could put something McKay on May 3rd, the questions or ask for money, you just together for the guys.” community opened its help. We just volunteered and did what homes. Elder Rose we had to do because it needed to Rose was happy to set aside plates Bouchier, meanwhile, be done. We had lots of help. People for the firefighters. They, in turn, were opened her kitchen and cooked food and brought it to the hall. delighted to receive care packages of pantry to feed hundreds It was unreal.” bannock and stew. of hungry evacuees When Rose’s pantry was emptied, “We were basically existing on potato and firefighters. other people in the community chips, chocolate bars and whatever stopped off with groceries. we could get from vending machines “When I heard there was a fire and during the first couple days,” says they were evacuating Fort McMurray, “Donations came in. The band ordered Syncrude firefighter Cory Jahelka. I just started cooking and baking food. We cooked for four days and it “Then bannock and stew arrived bannock because I knew people was 20 hours a day of steady going. from the Fort McKay First Nation. The would come,” says Rose, whose We ran out of vegetables Friday so it Elders who made it need to know how delicious cuisine has fed thousands of was just straight meat and bannock much everybody appreciated that people who’ve hired Bouchier Dene but people were happy.” meal. I probably won’t have a meal Catering over the past two decades. “I that ever tastes that delicious – it was had lots of food – meat, potatoes and In addition to helping evacuees, so good.” other vegetables – so I was there until Fort McKay also helped feed the 9 p.m. My son Nathan Loitz was there firefighters fighting the flames Even with the long hours of cooking until one in the morning. When we around the region thanks to the and baking, Rose never thought about woke up the next morning and went help of Syncrude employee Cynthia leaving the stove and oven. to the hall, there were a lot of people Courteoreille and her sister-in-law there so we started making breakfast.” Jenica Boucher. “The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few,” says the Star Trek Rose wound up staying over a stove “My partner Ron Foy was fighting the fan, quoting Mr. Spock. “I received so for the rest of the week to feed hungry fires and I was asking him how they much help. It was amazing to see all evacuees. She was joined by an army of were doing and he was telling me these volunteers come out to support volunteers from the community. “There they were struggling to get fed,” says people in their time of need.” were many who joined me in cooking. Cynthia, a heavy equipment operator Rose Beaton and Linda McDonald from at Syncrude’s Aurora Mine and captain Fort McKay Daycare worked tirelessly. for Team 504’s fire team. “Rose WILDFIRE PROFILE

HAPPYHAPPY TRAILSTRAILS WOOD BISON PROVE RESILIENT DURING FORT MCMURRAY WILDFIRE

The manager of the So Brad Ramstead did the next Yet, despite the wildfire and the Beaver Creek Wood Bison best thing to monitor the health evacuation of the Syncrude site, of the herd and ensure they the month of May saw 54 healthy Ranch knew transporting had food and water – he stayed calves welcomed to the Beaver roughly 200 head of prepared and ready to return to Creek Wood Bison Ranch, which bison on short notice was the ranch as soon as he could. is co-managed by Syncrude and not an option when the It was right in the peak of calving the Fort McKay First Nation. By the May wildfire forced the season after all, and like any end of the calving season, 90 new rancher, Brad didn’t want to animals were born, bringing the evacuation of Fort McMurray, be too far away. Not being able herd count to 280. shut down oil sands to properly care and check on operations a few days later these animals daily is a rancher’s Syncrude received many questions and threatened air quality worst nightmare. from media and others about the status of the herd during the throughout the region. wildfire, but Brad was confident the animals would continue to thrive. PATHWAYS | 17

“The early days following the fire, The part that I have learned people tried to get a grasp on the most from being in the bison what had just happened. It was an industry for nearly 15 years, is unbelievable reality that was really that this animal looks after itself hard to comprehend and one did a and is a better keeper than most lot of soul searching,” says Brad. any other ranched or farmed animal. When a bison rancher is “Nobody really knew what was left in need of help, the need or want or if we would even have a place to help from others is staggering.” to go home to. But there was still a family and a bison herd that needed “Bison are used to a certain to be looked after. That part was degree of smoke, they evolved one of the hardest things I have with it and don’t have a problem ever had to do, and the other part with it,” explains Brad. “In some that was so overwhelming is the areas in Canada where biting extreme kindness and friendship flies and insects are really bad, “Ask any bison rancher and that exploded from all over. My wife ranchers have eased the pressure they’ll tell you that these animals Carmen and I had call after call from on their livestock by burning old always seem to amaze you in their all over Canada and the United straw or hay to create a smudge. resilience and ability to persevere States offering any form of help, Bison will migrate to the thick through adverse conditions,” says from prayers, to trucking, to ranch smoke and seem to enjoy the Brad. “It gives you a real sense of hands, to a place to stay, whatever reprieve from the insects.” pride to think that you are involved was needed. I actually had to get with family, friends and an entire Carmen to send information out to The wildfire of 2016 will long be community that could have only several key contacts so they could remembered for its devastating made it by working together. relay it forward to the associations effect on this region and the We got through the main event and all that were interested as I people who call Wood Buffalo and continue moving forward by could not talk to everyone.” home. No doubt it will also be working together and supporting seen as the catalyst that brought one another much the same way Some community members had a community closer together a bison herd lives each and questions specifically about how throughout the rebuild. We only every day.” smoke from the wildfires would have to look at the wood bison impact the bison. grazing on reclaimed land for inspiration. Northern students Carmen Martin is a Grade Six student inspired by visit to experiencing life on a university campus University of Alberta for the very first time. With more than 38,000 students, staff and faculty, the University of Alberta is nearly 50 times the size of her hometown of Anzac. She came here with dreams of one day becoming a veterinarian. Now she knows that dream is within her grasp. PATHWAYS | 19

Carmen is attending U School, U School began in the 2009-2010 which introduces Grade Four to Nine school year with three classes and students from outlying regions to has gradually expanded its reach to university life. Organizers work with 27 classes and 650 students in 2015- classroom teachers to develop a 2016. This year marks the first time week-long experience related to what the school has accepted students for is being covered in their classes. overnight visits with participation from “We want to inspire and encourage schools in the Wood Buffalo region students to think about post- including Fort McKay, Fort McMurray secondary education – college and Catholic School division and Anzac, trade school included,” says Tiffany with support from Syncrude. Smith, program lead. “We show them Expanding U School’s focus to what the University of Alberta has to northern Aboriginal communities was offer and students also get a glimpse a result of Dr. Lorraine Bray’s efforts of what campus life is like.” during her six years on the University of Alberta Senate. One of the roles PATHWAYS | 20

U School gives children self- confidence and the understanding of Senate members is to connect the “U School gives children self- university to the communities it serves, confidence and the understanding that post-secondary so including northern communities in that post-secondary education is an education is an the U School program was a natural fit. option for them. There’s no reason option for them. Dr. Bray’s research supported the why Aboriginal children shouldn’t be inclusion of First Nation, Métis and given a chance to participate.” There’s no reason Inuit students from remote areas in University might seem unattainable why Aboriginal the U School program because they to some, let alone those from remote children shouldn’t are less likely to have exposure to northern communities. On this be given a chance a post-secondary environment and particular visit, students from Bill information about the real value Woodward School in Anzac are into to participate.” of moving beyond high school. their fourth day of the camp. Dr. Lorraine Bray Aboriginal students in the Fort “Students from the north probably McMurray area have high rates of won’t get an opportunity to see the high school completion and university university before they leave high should be one of their options. school, so when they graduate and get

In 2016, U School opened its doors to schools from Fort McMurray, Fort McKay and Anzac.

U School organizers work with teachers to develop a week-long experience relevant to the students’ curriculum.

“The foundation has been laid by here it’s their first experience and it can organizations like Syncrude, Shell be scary,” offers Tess Lamer, U School Canada, CNOOC Nexen, ATB, Suncor, volunteer and second year Biological CAREERS: The Next Generation and Sciences student. She has volunteered the local school boards who have with U School for two years and enjoys been working for decades to create showing the students the university opportunities for Aboriginal people and sharing her experience. “U School in northern Alberta,” says Dr. Bray. piques their interest in university. PATHWAYS | 21

I want to be a veterinarian, and this week has inspired me They see there is diversity here. It’s activities the students experienced big but it’s accessible, regardless of during the week. He came into even more to go where you come from.” U School thinking about a career for that dream.” In addition to showing the students in mechanics, and four days in his Carmen Martin what university is like, U School works opinion hasn’t changed. “I’m definitely directly with teachers like Annie more focused now,” he says. “I want Claveau from Bill Woodward School to become a heavy equipment well before their visit to plan sessions technician and be able to fix engines that meet class needs and are related of any size. That’s my goal.” directly to the Alberta curriculum. Carmen is also motivated. “I want For example, these students are to be a veterinarian, and this week learning about the forest so they has inspired me even more to go for spent a session in the university’s that dream.” Forestry department. “They have Those words mean success to some very interesting technology and Tiffany, the U School program lead. samples to show us that we wouldn’t Despite the many ways to measure have access to at home,” says Annie. She also recognizes that this week is making an impression on her In 2015, U School held 27 students. “The program lets these classes for 650 students. students know that it is possible for them to attend post-secondary regardless of their circumstances. It’s an option for them, and some of these students have great university potential.” Candace Black sees that potential in her son, Coltin, a Grade Five student attending U School. Her family lives in Janvier and she spent two years driving her three children and three others to Anzac to attend Bill Woodward School until a regular bus was provided. Her son wasn’t sure what he wanted to study after high school but after four days at the university he’s talking about chemistry and engineering. “Janvier to Anzac is one thing for the program outcomes, it’s the these students. Anzac to Edmonton feedback she gets from students, and the U of A is a totally different parents and volunteers that means world,” says Candace. “It’s a the most. “I’ve been told many times welcoming place. Everyone’s needs that post-secondary education has and wants are met here.” become a topic in the home now Mitch Janvier is in fifth grade when previously it hadn’t. That tells and he was impressed by all of the me U School is having an impact.” PATHWAYS | 22 1

1 – Jackson Beardy, Flock, 1973, 4 – Daphne Odjig, Medicine Man acrylic on canvas. Photo credit: in the Shaking Tent, 1974, drybrush Courtesy of Aboriginal Art Centre, acrylic on paper. Ermi Tano Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Collection. © Daphne Odjig. Development Canada. © Estate of Jackson Beardy. 5 – Joseph Sanchez, Ghost Shirt, 1979-80, stone lithograph. Courtesy 2 – Eddy Cobiness, Watering the of the artist. © Joseph Sanchez. Horse, 1974, pen and ink, Courtesy of Woodland Cultural Centre. © Estate 6 – Alex Janvier, The Four Seasons of Eddy Cobiness. of ’76, 1977, acrylic on masonite, Courtesy of Janvier Gallery. 3 – Carl Ray, Medicine Bear, 1977, © Alex Janvier. acrylic on canvas, Collection of Sunita D. Doobay. © Estate of Carl Ray.

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ABORIGINAL ART EXHIBITION GARNERS NATION-WIDE PRAISE

5 PATHWAYS | 23 2 3

World-acclaimed artist artists is internationally “The magnitude of the Catherine Crowston, Alex Janvier has said that renowned; the impact project, reflected by executive director and chief art “is an ideology that they’ve had on the art the profoundness of curator of the AGA, says it lives on, and surpasses world over the decades the collection and the was a proud moment for many civilizations.” And remains just as strong expertise of the seven everyone involved. “The nowhere has this been today,” she says. contributing artists, is AGA acknowledges the more recently evident something that every traditional lands of the First than through a celebrated The work was created Canadian can appreciate Nations and the Treaty exhibition of Canada’s during a decade of and admire,” notes Michelle. Six territory on which we leading Indigenous artists. achievement that helped to “The collection has been live and work. We are very create a new awareness and well received across the grateful to our partner he exhibition 7: appreciation of Indigenous country and Edmonton Syncrude who supported Professional Native art and the important role was no exception. We are the exhibition and all of the TIndian Artists Inc. Indigenous artists have very pleased to see that associated community and (PNIAI) closed out its six-city, played in the development many Albertans took the education programming three-year tour at the Art of Canadian society. time to visit the exhibit and at the AGA. These highly Gallery of Alberta (AGA) enjoy the works of these influential and important earlier this summer. The rare The PNIAI exhibition took outstanding artists.” artists had a profound and unique collection of more than five years to impact; together they set a more than 80 paintings and organize. Curator Michelle Comment cards reflected new course for the creation, drawings was created LaVallee, who also the joy, pride, courage exhibition and reception of primarily in the 1970s by designed, wrote and edited and appreciation felt by contemporary Indigenous ground-breaking Indigenous the 359-page catalogue those who visited. “I am art in Canada.” artists Jackson Beardy, that accompanied the tour, an Ojibwa woman living in Eddy Cobiness, Norval works with the Mackenzie Treaty Six territory,” wrote And perhaps acclaimed Morrisseau, Carl Ray, Art Gallery in Regina. one visitor. “Daphne Odjig PNIAI member Norval Alex Janvier, Daphne Odjig “The works chosen for the is my relation; I am moved Morrisseau, who passed and Joseph Sanchez – exhibition considered their to tears with pride and joy away in 2007, summarized together known as the collective artistic impact as and also humility by this it best. “I am a born artist,” “Indian Group of 7.” well as the distinctive styles beautiful exhibit.” he said. “I have as much and experimentation of the interest in my people as any Exhibition coordinator artists,” she explains. Edmonton Composite anthropologist, and I have Laurie Ritchie calls it one High School student, studied our culture and lore. of the largest and most Sponsored by Syncrude, the Megan, noted “this exhibit My aim is to reassemble important exhibitions of art exhibition was a huge hit for makes me realize the good the pieces of a once proud to showcase in Canada this the AGA and attracted over that comes from humans culture, and to show the year. “The work of these 7,500 visitors, including more and that this is a world full dignity and bravery of exceptional Indigenous than 300 on opening day. of beauty.” my people.” PATHWAYS | 24

Certified Success Best in Class The Canadian Council for The Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Business (CCAB) has Aboriginal Business Association once again recognized Syncrude (NAABA) recognized Syncrude’s with gold level certification in its contributions last fall when the Progressive Aboriginal Relations company received the NAABA Best (PAR) program. This is Syncrude’s Practice Indicators Award in the sixth consecutive time receiving Industry – Major Producer category. the gold standard. The award celebrates successful To qualify for gold level PAR, partnerships between Aboriginal companies are required to businesses and industry clients, demonstrate sustained and recognizes demonstrated leadership in Aboriginal business excellence, based on a set relations and of measured best practice criteria. maintain a strong commitment to An increased focus on identifying working with business opportunities and Aboriginal integrating greater awareness businesses and within the procurement process led communities. to a record high in Syncrude’s 2014 In addition, purchase of goods and services organizations from Aboriginal companies. The are encouraged total Aboriginal business volume to build a was $228 million – an increase of business case 55 per cent over 2012. This brought that other total cumulative procurement to companies can more than $2.2 billion. aspire to achieve. The PAR designation Syncrude is a founding industry process is also validated member of NAABA and currently through independent, conducts business with more than third-party verification. 40 Aboriginal-owned companies in the region. PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE PROFILE

ROBERTA JAMIESON receives Canada’s top honour An Order of Magnitude

he’s had a career of many firsts. She was the first woman “I am proud and grateful for to be elected Chief of the Six Nations of the Grand River Roberta’s unparalleled leadership S Territory in Ontario. She is the first First Nations woman in and her life-long commitment to Canada to complete a law degree. And she’s been named advancing Indigenous youth one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women three times. And now, with through education,” says David her recent appointment as an Officer of the Order of Canada, Roberta Gabriel Tuccaro, chair of Indspire. Jamieson’s list of recognitions continues to grow. “Roberta is an outstanding humanitarian who has changed the The president and chief executive officer of Indspire, Roberta lives of thousands of First Nations, oversees one of Canada’s most influential not-for-profit Inuit and Métis students.” organizations, supporting Indigenous people to realize their full potential through post-secondary education and training. She is also The Order of Canada honours executive producer of the annual Indspire Awards, funded in part outstanding achievement and by Syncrude, which represents the highest honour the Indigenous dedication to the community with community bestows upon its own achievers. service to the nation. It recognizes people in all sectors of Canadian “Roberta is one of the most exceptional people I have met,” says society, who have all enriched the Kara Flynn, Syncrude’s vice president of government and public lives of others and made a difference affairs. “Her dedication to empowering Indigenous youth and to this country. advancing opportunities is unwavering. She continues to break new ground for women and Aboriginal people, and her contributions have Congratulations, Roberta. truly strengthened the fabric of our nation.”

Roberta, a Mohawk, has led Indspire over the last two years to award more than $12 million through 3,700 bursaries and scholarships. She also developed Indspire’s K-12 Institute, a virtual resource centre focused on increasing high school completion rates and success. Fort McKay Group of Companies Celebrates 30 Years

Syncrude congratulates “The strong management and the Fort McKay Group of governance structure of the Fort Companies as it celebrates McKay Group is a home-grown three decades in business. success story and Syncrude could not be more proud of everything The Fort McKay Group of it has achieved,” says Greg Companies (FMGOC) got its Fuhr, Syncrude’s vice president start with an intra-site people of production, mining and transportation operation at extraction. “We are honoured to Syncrude in 1984. Since then, be a part of these 30 years and to its range of services has have contributed to this wonderful continually evolved. They now success story. I look forward to include Fort McKay’s Environment the future, as we continue to build Division, which co-manages the upon our partnership.” Beaver Creek Wood Bison Ranch; Fort McKay Logistics, which Congratulations to Chief Boucher, collects and delivers various the members of the Fort McKay materials; and the Earthworks First Nation Band Council, chief division, which provides support executive officer Adam King and to mining operations. all of the employees whose daily efforts make FMGOC such a great success. PATHWAYS | 27 The MECHANICS of Success

t may come as a employees working seven surprise to some, but days a week, Eric says ISyncrude owns and the experience has operates dozens of boats. been excellent. The vessels are used on tailings ponds and other “Of all of the companies bodies of water for a up here in the region I’ve variety of jobs. Because worked with, Syncrude is the mechanics of boats definitely the leader when and marine equipment it comes to supporting local differs from trucks and Aboriginal companies,” other large equipment says Eric. “It has been more commonly absolutely phenomenal.” associated with an oil sands operation, While the number Syncrude sources marine fluctuates, Eric says mechanics to keep the the company currently fleet afloat. employs around 30 people, half of whom are In 2014, Syncrude brought Aboriginal. Committed on Inner City Diesel Ltd., to growing that number, a Fort McMurray-based Eric is always looking and Aboriginal-owned for opportunities to train company to supply marine Aboriginal youth and hire maintenance. Founded residents of the Wood in 2008, the company, Buffalo region. a full member of the Northeastern Alberta Those extra hands will Aboriginal Business certainly be needed as the Association (NAABA), company’s relationship is run by president and with Syncrude grew even chief operating officer Eric stronger in October, with Tevely. Originally from Inner City Diesel becoming Prince George, British the company’s supplier of Columbia, Eric arrived in light vehicle rentals. the oil sands region in 2000 to work with local “It’s really nice to see the Aboriginal business leader focus for Syncrude with Dave Tuccaro through their Aboriginal partners,” an apprenticeship. says Eric. “I’ve been up here in the region for Since starting up, Inner quite a few years now City Diesel has seen and really appreciate steady growth. In addition the effort Syncrude goes to marine maintenance, to in supporting local the company supplies Aboriginal businesses.” mobile mechanics, towing, major commercial truck To date, Syncrude and trailer services, and has spent about standard automotive $2.5 billion with maintenance and repair. Aboriginal-owned businesses and in 2015 Having seen his business alone procured around Ryan Bartsoff, Inner City Diesel lead field with Syncrude grow from $199 million in goods heavy duty mechanic. just one employee and and services. one truck to four PATHWAYS | 28

NorQuest College Creates New Possibilities in Construction and Trades Careers

Depending on how one heard about the Alberta Aboriginal Feeling confident thanks to the looks at it, patience is Construction Career Centre, I was AACCC’s support, and using one completely drawn to it.” of her many provided contacts, either a rewarding virtue she reached out to WBF to see if or the procrastinator’s Regan now works full-time as an there was any way she could help. guide to failure. engagement advisor with Edmonton’s In the end, following an extensive Women Building Futures (WBF), one interview, a way was discovered. There are many who have excelled of this province’s leading education thanks to deliberate thought. grounds for women in trades. Seeing Regan’s tenacity and However, there has been equal determination, WBF recognized that success gained by those who don’t But before that happened, she she would be a valuable asset when just wait around for good things to needed help in her new city. Initially, it came to attracting other Indigenous happen. Take Regan Gamble, for she thought of going into the safety women to the trades. Today, because example. Contrary to her surname, side of the construction industry. she reached out and asked for help, the 40-year-old was leaving nothing So she used the AACCC’s services utilizing the training and services the to chance when she arrived in to help her earn safety tickets AACCC provides, and promoted her Edmonton looking for career options though the Alberta Construction talents with confidence, Regan has in the fall of 2015. Safety Association. more than a job — she has a career.

That’s why one of the first places she “The centre completely While the AACCC is helping to visited was the Alberta Aboriginal catered to my needs.” advance employment opportunities Construction Career Centre for Indigenous people, its mandate (AACCC) at NorQuest College. Through it all, Regan was given is to assist career seekers of all emotional support by AACCC staff as backgrounds and cultures. Syncrude “I knew that there were organizations a newcomer to Edmonton, provided is a proud sponsor of the AACCC out there that could help me,” with help to find information for things and joined as the largest single says Regan, a member of the like funding, given assistance with contributor to date in 2016. Beardy’s & Okemasis First Nation writing resumés and cover letters, and in Saskatchewan. “I just needed to offered a treasure trove of employer get out there and find them. Once I contacts and other helpful services. Regan Gamble, engagement advisor with Edmonton’s Women Building Futures (WBF), one of this province’s leading training providers for women in trades. PATHWAYS | 30

PROFILE Honour Nicole Bourque-Bouchier was honoured this year as the 30th Allard Chair in Business at Roll MacEwan University. NICOLE BOURQUE-BOUCHIER recognized by MacEwan University

icole Bourque-Bouchier can add another accolade to As a highly involved community her growing list of accomplishments. In March, she member, Nicole serves on the Keyano N was named the 30th Allard Chair in Business at College Board of Governors, co-chairs MacEwan University. the Pacesetting & Leadership For three decades, the Allard Chair in Business has recognized Committee for the Northern Lights business executives and community champions for their outstanding Regional Health Foundation, and is a achievements, while also providing students an opportunity to meet member of the provincial First Nations and learn from these influential leaders. Women’s Economic Security Council. Nicole has established herself as one of the North’s most prominent Past recipients of the Allard Chair businesswomen and philanthropists. A Fort McMurray resident and include ATB president and CEO Dave member of the Mikisew Cree First Nation, she is the chief executive Mowat, now retired president and officer (CEO) and co-owner of the Bouchier Group. Starting up in CEO of Peace Hills Insurance 2004 with 10 employees, the Bouchier Group now employs more Diane Brickner, Venture Publishing than 850 people across northern Alberta. president and CEO Ruth Kelly, and “It’s important, more than anything else, to raise awareness The Brick founder Bill Comrie. of women in non-traditional roles and Aboriginal people in business, Congratulations, Nicole! especially in our Wood Buffalo region,” she said in accepting the honour. PATHWAYS | 31 Academic Achiever LUCAS PUNKO explores the future by finding strength in the past

PROFILE

ucas Punko knew he wanted to follow in his father’s Playing a positive role in footsteps. As a child, he’d watch him arrive home in the lives of Aboriginal youth is L his RCMP Auxiliary Member uniform, thinking he too another reason Lucas pursued wanted to give back to his community. a career in policing. Knowing Born and raised in Fort McMurray, Lucas recently started interactions between teens and his second year of Police Studies at MacEwan University. The those in uniform aren’t always two-year diploma program teaches theories of criminology, positive, Lucas wants to show investigative techniques, law, psychology, evidence collection that police are in fact there and forensics. to help. Lucas also wants the “It’s been a good experience. It’s teaching me all about younger generation to be excited the job of being a police officer and what I’ll be facing every day,” about continuing their education. Lucas says. “I want them to know that Lucas is also learning to live on his own. Away from home graduating Grade 12 is the start for the first time, the 20-year-old admits fending for himself, of a whole new branch of their including shopping and cooking, has matured him. Normally, lives,” he says. “You get to go out this would mean finding part-time work to pay the bills. Instead, on your own and choose what Lucas has more time to focus on his studies and volunteer thanks path you want to follow. It’s a new to receiving a Belcourt Brosseau Métis Award. beginning in life.” The scholarships, funded in part by Syncrude, are based on Lucas is also passionate to a holistic assessment of financial need, connection to the Métis learn more about his Métis community, likelihood of improved opportunities, personal heritage. He hopes to enlist in circumstances, and references. Awards generally range between the RCMP Academy and one $2,000 and $10,000, and cover a portion of education-related day return home to serve costs such as tuition and fees. his community. “It helped a lot,” says Lucas. “Without it, I wouldn’t have been able to volunteer with Bent Arrow’s Coyote Pride Mentoring Program.”

Lucas Punko proudly displays a ribbon shirt made for him by his grandmother Marguerite Punko. He says it symbolizes who he is and where he is from. PATHWAYS | 32

PROFILE

KENDAL NETMAKER shares messages of empowerment and gratitude Courage to Dream ✁

simple act of kindness can mean the world to a His company has seen national struggling family. And in the case of entrepreneur and international success, with a A Kendal Netmaker, it also brought new meaning to portion of proceeds donated to the word ‘friend.’ non-profit athletic organizations. Bouncing around Saskatchewan’s women’s shelters with As well, Kendal has been his mother and three sisters, the future looked uncertain for honoured with the Canadian young Kendal. But then, in Grade Seven, a friend offered him Council for Aboriginal Business a ride to soccer. (CCAB) National Youth Aboriginal “When my friend’s parents learned I had no way to pay the Entrepreneur Award and named registration fees, and no way to travel to practices, they changed one of “Canada’s Future Leaders my life forever and offered to provide both,” says Kendal, who under 25” by Maclean’s magazine. grew up on the Sweetgrass First Nation but attended elementary Forever grateful, much of school in nearby Cutknife. “The family eventually gave us a Kendal’s time is spent traveling vehicle and it opened a new range of opportunities that allowed across Canada speaking with me to be involved with sports through high school and college.” students about their opportunities. Last year, Syncrude sponsored his “I’m committed to giving underprivileged visit to local high schools, where kids the same opportunity I received, he offered words of personal advice to Aboriginal students. and it all started with help from a friend.” “I can’t even count the number Kendal graduated high school in North Battleford and received of times I wanted to throw in the a volleyball scholarship at Keyano College in Fort McMurray from towel and quit,” he said to one 2005 to 2007. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree at the group. “But you have to challenge University of Saskatchewan, and started his business in 2012. yourself to get uncomfortable, For the company, he chose the name Neechie, Cree slang for and find your courage.” ‘my friend.’ “I’m committed to giving underprivileged kids the same opportunity I received, and it all started with help from a friend,” says Kendal. “Sports opened up the world for me.” PROFILE Music

Twenty years on the air is only the beginning Man for CFWE radio host WALLY DESJARLAIS is voice resonates across the airwaves. His music, turned out to be a half hour. Her interviews and commentary reach out to every music is sensational and it’s not H First Nation and Métis community in Alberta. just her voice that has given her His name is Wally Desjarlais and he’s currently a wide audience, but also the celebrating his 20th anniversary with CFWE, the province’s messages she spreads through only Aboriginal-owned radio station. her artistry.” Wally, born in Lac La Biche and raised on the Buffalo Lake One of Wally’s fondest Métis Settlement near Caslan, hosts the station’s morning show. memories occurred earlier this “I’m inspired by the people I work with and the company I year when he emceed the talent work for,” says Wally. “I’m inspired by Canada’s Aboriginal musicians show in Fort Vermilion. and I like keeping our listeners up-to-date on everything from “They were looking to start a community news to what’s happening in the world of music.” dance troupe in the community Wally is in fact no stranger to music; it’s been a family tradition to promote square dancing,” he for decades. explains. “It’s amazing when you “I grew up to the sound of music, especially country music,” he watch those kids; there’s a great says. “My grandmother always loved the jig and she was a good deal of talent in the Aboriginal dancer. She also shared stories from the past as we helped her community and whether they in the kitchen. She was a real inspiration to me and many others.” are writers, singers, dancers or artists, I really enjoy promoting “I’m inspired by meeting with, interviewing them all.” and playing the music of Canada’s Aboriginal musicians.” Hear more stories from the Indigenous community on CFWE Some of Wally’s interviews have both enlightened and by tuning into Aboriginal Pathways encouraged him over the years. Among those were with Buffy every Tuesday and Friday at St. Marie and Nathan Cunningham. 9:20 a.m., Wednesday at 5:20 p.m., “We were the first station playing Cunningham’s music; it’s Saturday at 11:20 a.m. and Sunday at almost like we kind of help these aspiring musicians along their 3:20 p.m., supported by Syncrude. career path,” he smiles. “When I interviewed Buffy St. Marie, we were supposed to talk for five or ten minutes, but the interview Tyler Hart used his life experience and hockey skills to help Aboriginal youth explore career pathways this summer.

Meet youth education’s most valuable player PATHWAYS | 35

yler Hart is using the skills he gained and workplace readiness. He also found employers from years of playing hockey to help to take on students and offered tips to workplace Aboriginal youth succeed in school mentors. Tyler checked on the more than 50 students and in their careers. All while building he placed in summer internships and their employers. a future for himself. “It wasn’t always work-related A member of when I stopped by,” says Tyler. the Métis Nation of “What I tell students “Sometimes I checked in on a Alberta, Tyler was personal level to see how the born and raised in Fort McMurray is that school might student was doing.” and found his passion for hockey at be difficult but it’s He gained the trust of his an early age. He had enough skills students, learned about their to take him through a fairly lengthy worth it to do the skills and developed individual amateur career in the Alberta approaches to help them. Junior Hockey League playing hard work now. “I was successful because I can for the Spruce Grove Saints and relate to them,” says Tyler. “I wasn’t the Drayton Valley Thunder. Then Education opens a typical A student, and high it was off to the Western Hockey so many doors.” school wasn’t easy for me. What League with the Vancouver Giants I tell students is that school might and the Prince Albert Raiders. be difficult but it’s worth it to do the hard work now. With several scholarships in hand, including a WHL Education opens so many doors.” scholarship and a Belcourt Brosseau Métis Award, As a hockey player, Tyler learned the importance Tyler took on university. He played collegiate games of communication and working as a team when while attending Dalhousie University until injuries you play sport at a high level. He also developed forced him to consider life after hockey. a strong work ethic that was instilled in him at a He upgraded his courses and young age. “I had to work transferred to a Commerce degree hard for my opportunities and that he will finish at the University overcame a lot of adversity but of Alberta. “My goal is to pursue that has made me a better person more schooling after my undergrad today,” he says. “I let my work and eventually own a business one on the ice speak for itself and I day,” says Tyler. built the trust and respect of With hockey behind him and his my teammates.” sights on academics, Tyler focused By passing that ethic on to his his skills on Aboriginal youth as a students, he’s gained their respect career coach and facilitator with and helped them succeed in their CAREERS: The Next Generation summer jobs. The experience this and its Aboriginal Youth Initiative summer also made him consider program this past summer. ways he will continue to help CAREERS and Syncrude have people within his community. been partners in youth career Alex Gordon, director of the CAREERS “I understand how fortunate exploration for nearly 20 years. Aboriginal Youth Initiative (left) and Tyler I was for the experiences I had Tyler collaborated with career Hart teamed up to prepare Aboriginal growing up,” Tyler explains. counselors in the Alexander First youth for summer internships. “Working with Aboriginal youth Nation and Fort McKay First Nation this summer was a rewarding to work with students on their job applications through experience. I feel I made a difference in some lives resumé and cover letter workshops, interview skills and that’s important to me.” Fast

New program prepares youth for the Forward work world

A new initiative through CAREERS: The Next Generation is creating opportunities for students to succeed and thrive after graduation.

The CAREERS Aboriginal Youth Initiative, in partnership with the Government of Alberta, aims to increase the number of Aboriginal youth engaged as paid apprentices or interns working in an industry “The more youth learn about and experience their worksite setting. In addition, CAREERS plans to expand career options and how to achieve them, the more the number of employers providing paid workplace prepared they will be after high school to join the experiences for Aboriginal youth apprentices or interns world of work and show us what they can accomplish,” in the Registered Apprenticeship Program, dual credit says Jerry. programs and health care work experiences. Through the new initiative, paid internships are “The more youth learn about and offered in trades and technologies; health, recreation and human services; business, administration, experience their career options and how finance and information technology; media, design to achieve them, the more prepared and communications arts; and natural resources, they will be after high school to join the engineering technology and engineering. Students world of work and show us what they also learn to create a resumé, write a cover letter and practice their interviewing skills. can accomplish.” JERRY HECK Unique educational experiences are also arranged, “Aboriginal youth are the fastest growing segment such as the Aboriginal CAREER Explorers Academy held of the population in Alberta and yet they have the at Northern Lakes College in Slave Lake this summer. lowest participation rates in employment,” says Jerry It provided 12 high school students with workplace Heck, CAREERS senior vice-president of growth. “Our training, a four-week paid internship with local approach connects high school learning to a career employers, and skills to help them live on their own. path. It’s about opening doors to help Aboriginal youth in school and towards a career they enjoy.” Increasing the number of Aboriginal student interns is an important indicator of the initiative’s success The CAREERS organization has long supported and CAREERS set a high target for student numbers Aboriginal youth in career exploration and internship, this year. In 2015, CAREERS placed 129 Aboriginal particularly in the trades. In fact, it’s been part of students with 87 employers. This year, they provided their mandate since forming in 1997 with help from internships for 212 – three more than planned and Syncrude – a founding partner and still actively involved. proof of the initiative’s continuing success. PATHWAYS | 37

PARTNERSHIPS

Trudy Boostrom is a graduate of the Syncrude Aboriginal Trades Preparation Program which ran at Keyano College from 2010 to 2012. Kicking into High Gear

anada’s Aboriginal peoples play a crucial role in the But if the positive examples outlined competitiveness of resource industries. That’s according in the report can lead to other C to a report released by the Canadian Chamber of collaborative projects, it could set an Commerce. Aboriginal Edge: How Aboriginal Peoples important trend for Canada.” and Natural Resource Businesses Are Forging a New Competitive Advantage looks at the often untold story of successful partnerships Syncrude employees Tabitha Quintal between industry and Aboriginal communities. and Trudy Boostrom are both profiled in the report while the company’s “Many Aboriginal communities understand that resource industries contributions towards a mobile heavy offer employment for their people, markets for their businesses and equipment operator (HEO) training investment in their communities,” the report reads. “Resource program at Keyano College is also businesses, for their part, understand that establishing productive highlighted. Announced in 2015, the relationships with local Aboriginal peoples offers them the potential program is set up in remote northern advantages of a local pool of skilled labour, reliable suppliers and Alberta communities enabling the access to traditional knowledge about the environment in which they college to deliver training and skills operate.” As a sponsor of the report, Syncrude was proud to help tell development for Aboriginal students. the story of mutually beneficial outcomes that stem from meaningful engagement and aligned interests. Syncrude’s Aboriginal Relations The Fort McKay Group of Companies program dates back decades and remains a core component of its is another success story shared business today. in the report. Fully owned by the Fort McKay First Nation, the Group The report showcases a number of successful partnerships between provides a range of services including the resource sector and Aboriginal communities, focusing on heavy equipment operations, five areas: investment and ownership, employment, procurement, warehouse logistics, roads and partnership on community development and partnership on grounds maintenance, environmental environmental impacts. services and land leasing. The Group has annual revenues of around “Our report noted that there are already more Aboriginal people $600 million and employs up to employed or who own businesses in the natural resources sector 1,000 people, approximately than in any other sector, and this has positive impacts in 20 per cent of whom are Aboriginal. communities across the country,” noted Chamber president and chief executive officer Perrin Beatty in a blog post releasing the More information and a link to the full report. “Not everything is perfect, and there is still a long way to go. report can be found at www.chamber.ca. PATHWAYS | 38

Beetles are running all over reclaimed pasture land. And that’s a good thing.

As a result of the findings, a Known in the scientific world as a biodiversity investigation was keystone species, bison have a launched in 2015 to learn more huge effect on the environment about the insects occupying around them. Syncrude’s reclaimed areas with and without bison. “This documentation provides important benchmark data that “It was incredible to see how many will allow us to have better other species of insect life was indicators for measuring present in the samples,” adds ranch biodiversity on our reclaimed supervisor Brad Ramstead. “The lands,” says Syncrude field services volume and diversity from just one coordinator Sylvia Skinner. week of findings provided a diverse and abundant collection. It shows Although it is early in the dung us the reclamation is maturing and beetle study, evidence suggests there is a lot left to discover.” larger environmental diversity than originally thought. Preliminary There are many reasons to results found five species of dung try and better understand the beetles on the study site, one of behaviour of insects on Syncrude’s which has never been recorded bison pastures. In the spring, in Canada. This is the farthest large numbers of robins were seen north any of the five species ven small animals can have big hopping around hunting for insects have been recorded throughout consequences for Syncrude’s on the ground – a time when North America. Ereclamation program. So when insects are typically sparse. a species of dung beetle was found on a bison pasture in 2014, “Areas like these pastures are researchers took notice. referred to as stop-over sites; places that are rich in forage “I searched the literature and could resources for insectivorous find no evidence that anyone else birds,” says Wes. “These sites had ever seen that specific dung are critical for many of these beetle, Aphodius fimetarius, in this birds because they need to part of the province,” says Wes regain the weight they have Olsen, Canada’s leading expert in lost during migration. As many bison and bison habitats. “Their as 80 per cent of the birds that presence in bison dung indicates breed in the boreal forest the reclaimed ecosystem is are insectivores and working at a very complex level.” are entirely dependent upon being able to find enough insects to survive and reproduce.” L to R: Fort McKay Métis President Ron Quintal, Fort McKay First Nation Chief Jim Boucher and Syncrude President and CEO Mark Ward. IT’S EASY BEING GREEN ometimes what we’ve been looking for has allow the community to add household cardboards to the been right under our noses all along. Or, list of recycled products. The new truck offers quicker pick in the case of Fort McKay’s new recycling up to and from homes and, as a result, fewer trips around S the community for the driver. program, it may have been under the kitchen sink.

On April 20th, Chief Jim Boucher and Council were joined With the new system in place, the Fort McKay Sustainability by residents, Syncrude president and chief executive Department is continuing to work with community members officer Mark Ward, and Regional Municipality of Wood to educate residents on how to get the best results from the Buffalo representatives at the Fort McKay School to waste management program. The programming offered by celebrate the launch of the community’s Green-Eye the department will further this positive, forward-looking Waste Recycling Program. initiative for years to come.

“The environment is very important to the residents of Fort McKay,” says Chief Boucher. “By incorporating a recycling Did you know? program, we are demonstrating and teaching our young about reducing garbage on Mother Earth and taking care • Recycling one aluminum can saves enough energy of our community.” to run a TV for three hours.

A new recycle ranger and garbage truck were on hand at • Each ton (2,000 pounds) of recycled paper can the event so residents could learn about the equipment. save 17 trees, 1,400 litres of oil, 2 cubic metres The program also features an educational component, as of landfill space, 4,000 kilowatts of energy and programming will be offered on recycling and waste 26,500 litres of water. management for all residents. • Recycling plastic saves twice as much energy as Syncrude donated $600,000 towards the program. Mark burning it in an incinerator. notes it could go a long way toward reducing the amount of waste that enters the community landfill and even • A glass bottle would take 4,000 years or more to reduce or eliminate the need for more in the future. “It’s a decompose – and even longer if it’s in the landfill. significant investment that will go towards a new garbage collection truck, curbside garbage and recycling bins for • Out of every $10 spent buying things, $1 (10%) every resident, new garbage containers in public areas, goes for packaging that is thrown away. Packaging a recycle ranger and community education,” he says. represents about 65% of household trash.

The Fort McKay Sustainability Department developed the • A typical family consumes 690 litres of soft drinks, project and is working on the implementation. Bear-proof 110 litres of juice, 394 litres of milk and 98 litres of garbage receptacles have been placed in various locations bottled water a year. That’s a lot of containers – around the community to help in high traffic areas where so let’s all recycle! there may be more garbage. The next phase of the program is focused on the enhancement of the Fort McKay landfill to Source: www.recycling-revolution.com ENVIRONMENTAL UPDATE

The 85-hectare Kingfisher site is Syncrude’s newest reclamation project. It will evolve into a similar landscape as the Sandhill Fen, pictured here, another reclaimed area in Syncrude’s former East Mine. PATHWAYS | 41

New reclamation area taking shape Learnings continue on water capped tailings Syncrude’s latest reclamation project continues to develop in the northeastern corner of the When Syncrude closed the west quadrant after former East Mine, alongside Highway 63. mining, the company filled the empty pit with fluid fine tailings and capped it with water so that one Around 14 hectares have been planted so far on day the resulting lake will be an important part of the Kingfisher landscape, an 85-hectare area that the reclaimed closure landscape. combines both upland forest and lowlands. Filling the mine pit was the easy part. Understanding “We planted two different eco-sites with various the lake – its movements, the settling of the tailings trees native to the region,” says Syncrude vegetation and the developing ecosystem – is the goal of an specialist Eric Girard. “Near the edge of the predicted ongoing monitoring and research program. wetter area, we planted black spruce and tamarack. In the upland area, we planted spruce, aspen and “Understanding what’s happening in the lake is birch. Eight species of shrubs were also planted, the role of monitoring. Understanding why that’s including green alder, beaked hazelnut, Labrador happening is the role of research,” says Syncrude tea and red osier dogwood.” technical lead Carla Wytrykush.

Eric notes the reclaimed area will eventually look similar Monitoring involves setting baselines for a long list to the Sandhill Fen which was completed in 2012 (see of water quality and lake processes. It also includes photo page opposite). detecting and measuring changes in the lake in the first few years to develop a baseline of biophysical Like the entire East Mine, the Kingfisher landscape data to track lake performance. sits atop a foundation of composite tailings, capped with tailings sand. It will serve as the template for Today there are six research programs underway with reclaiming the rest of the former mine during the multiple activities to explore different aspects of the coming years. water body as it evolves over time. PATHWAYS | 42 ABORIGINAL RELATIONS SCORECARD

SYNCRUDE DIRECT ABORIGINAL REPRESENTATION IN: WORKFORCE Total Aboriginal Employees Permanent Syncrude Leaders and Management Administrative, Professional, Trades and Operators (#) 2015 Workforce (%) 2015 (%) 2015 Technical (%) 2015 (%) 2015 461 9.4 6.1 6.5 11.9 2011 2012 2013 2014 2011 2012 2013 2014 2011 2012 2013 2014 2011 2012 2013 2014 2011 2012 2013 2014 492 474 452 451 8.6 9.1 8.7 8.9 5.5 6.0 6.2 5.8 5.5 5.9 6.0 6.2 11.2 11.7 10.6 11.1

In 2015, Aboriginal workforce representation rose to a 10-year high of 9.4 per cent.

Business Community Environment Spending with Investing in Aboriginal Communities Permanent Land Reclaimed Aboriginal Companies $ millions annually hectares per year $ billions cumulative $ millions, cumulative since 2001 hectares cumulative

Total Aboriginal business spending for the year was Syncrude invested over $1 million in Aboriginal Syncrude has permanently reclaimed over 3,500 $199 million. Despite lower overall spending at initiatives and projects during 2015. hectares to date. Another 1,000 hectares are ready Syncrude in 2015, the percentage of procurement for revegetation. with Aboriginal companies increased to over six per cent. The cumulative total for Syncrude business with First Nations- and Métis-owned companies is now about $2.5 billion. RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION Oil Sands Reclamation* Hectares, Permanent New Hires Attrition Rate Average Years of Service and Certified (% of all hires) 2015 (%) 2015 (# of years) 2015 Syncrude all other oil sands mining Oil Sands Mining Active Footprint* 14.7 7.5 12.3 Hectares Syncrude 2011 2012 2013 2014 2011 2012 2013 2014 2011 2012 2013 2014 all other oil sands mining 15.4 9.8 6.3 11.6 5.6 10.4 8.2 6.0 10.2 10.2 10.7 10.7

Syncrude has planted close to eight million trees and shrubs on reclaimed land.

Environment Wildlife Incident Tracking Education Trees and Shrubs Planted # of Incidents Interested in a Syncrude scholarship? Since starting operations in 1978, avian1 Syncrude has provided ongoing millions, cumulative other animal2 financial support towards the educational endeavours of students throughout the province. Our goal is to continue building on this success and ensure even greater accessibility to financial resources in the future. Through major endowments at several Alberta education institutions, students are able to access scholarships focused on a variety of fields, including engineering, nursing, education and environmental sciences. For a complete list of available In 2015, over 272,000 tree and shrub seedlings 1 Includes all bird and waterfowl mortalities related were planted, including around 1,500 water sedge to oiling. Incidents are reported to the Alberta scholarships, please visit in wetland areas. Government Environment and Parks department. syncrude.ca and click on An additional 30 mortalities were reported related Community-Scholarships and to vehicle collision or natural or unknown causes. Awards. Many of the awards 2 Includes all animal mortalities, regardless of cause, including those in which the cause was available are prioritized for Aboriginal natural, due to predation or unknown. and northern Alberta recipients.

* Data Source: Government of Alberta Regional Reclamation and Disturbance Tracking by Company, to December 31, 2014 PATHWAYS | 44

Celebrating OUR PEOPLE

Syncrude’s greatest resource is our people.

Today, over nine per cent of our workforce is of First Nations, Métis or Inuit descent. Here, we recognize our Aboriginal employees who reached service milestones between October 2015 and October 2016. Congratulations and thank you for making a career with Syncrude!

5 YEARS 10 YEARS 15 YEARS 20 YEARS 30 YEARS Dawn Abel David A. Balmer Paul Balmer Fred Cardinal Paul Cyprien Justin C. Beaudry Wayne Brake Ken Bell Jennifer Janvier Clifford Flett Robert Berland Greg E. Buffalo Joel Blake Robert Lepine Richard Grandjambe Cordell A. Cassell Terry G. Connock Barney N. Cartwright Michael G. McPherson Lowen Hurford Andrew Cobbledick John Farrington Dana Chartrand Elaine Rose Gary Middlebrook Jake Couture Holly Lavallee Ian C. Doka Tony Muswagon 25 YEARS Arlene Deschamps Jerry L. Marten Wayne Evasiuk Peter Powder Jesse Dewolfe James Marten Shannon Flett John G. Davids Sharon Wright Kurtis Girard Loretta McCallum Carrie Jazwinski Adam Richard Gladue 35 YEARS Annette Gladu Terryl N. Phillips Colter D. Kuntz David Hynes John Renton Kevin Mandeville Art Forbister Amythyst James Mason A. Richard Jesse Parker Gary Plante Cindy Lays Tyler Richter Kurt Russell William G. Ronnenberg Gerry M. Letendre Kirby Russell Carla Scrivener John McCullough Michael G. Shelvey Alice Tucker John Penney Troy Thompson Dylan Roberts Elizabeth White-Dover Conway Rumbolt Naomi L. Shaw Arron Sinclair Retirement Congratulations Shawn Sinclair Daniel E. Brown Tracey Gallagher Sherry Tremblay Vicky Tremblay Patricia Cobbledick Patricia Golosky Roxanne Tuccaro Real Couture Ron Groat Tyrone Tuccaro Raymond Dube Bonnie S. Jones Randy Wood Jeanette Flynn Rick McDonald Kingsley Woods Chantelle Zalluski PATHWAYS | 45

Our Aboriginal Relations Program PROGRESS TOWARDS SYNCRUDE’S GOALS is stewarded by our Aboriginal Relations Steering Committee, which includes executives, senior managers and advisors who meet quarterly to guide and champion strategies to ensure positive outcomes for Aboriginal stakeholders. An Aboriginal Relations team supports the Committee; they manage the day-to-day interactions and relationships with local communities.

BACK ROW (L TO R) FRONT ROW (L TO R) Missing: Peter Read Vice President, Dr. Tom Lawley Kara Flynn Strategic Planning Chief Medical Officer Vice President, Colleen Legdon Manager, Lana Hill Government and Public Affairs Community Relations Advisor, Stakeholder Relations Isabelle Shelvey Greg Fuhr Vice President, Mark Ward President and Senior Regulatory Specialist, Production Mining Chief Executive Officer Regulatory Affairs Doug Webb Aboriginal Suzanne Hutchings Manager, Michelle Velez Manager, Business Liaison, Procurement Human Resources Services Environmental Affairs Prashant Mehta Chaim Lum Manager, Site Services Manager, Procurement OUR ABORIGINAL RELATIONS TEAM

THE GOALS OF SYNCRUDE’S ABORIGINAL RELATIONS PROGRAM ARE TO: • Be recognized as a leader in Aboriginal • Ensure regional communities have the relations and business development, and capacity to engage with Syncrude regarding an employer of choice consultation, employment, business, and • Attract and retain qualified candidates environmental and socio-economic impacts from local Aboriginal communities • Ensure environmental programs are • Maintain support from regional communities well understood by our stakeholders and of Syncrude’s role in the oil sands designed to mitigate impacts to traditional • Ensure effective, two-way relationships land uses, and incorporate traditional and consultation knowledge where possible • Focus community investment on • Achieve a balance of economic, education and recruitment, community environmental and social outcomes through relations, cultural retention and engagement and evaluation of impacts Aboriginal leadership • Achieve regulatory and social license to operate

COLLEEN LEGDON With DOUG WEBB joined JAMIE SULLIVAN For Jamie, nearly 30 years in various Syncrude in 1986 as an every day is a walk in the roles at Syncrude, Colleen automotive service technician, park. A native of Nova Scotia is appreciative of the later taking on leadership with Métis, Micmac and many people who have roles, and then entering his French Acadian roots, Jamie influenced her during her current position in 2012. Born is an outdoor enthusiast who career, the lessons she has and raised in Fort McMurray, enjoys paddle boarding, learned and the friends Doug has a deep appreciation yoga, and taking her dog for she has made. Always for his roots and how they’ve long walks. She is connected willing to grow and take on brought him into a position to her neighbours and local new challenges, Colleen where he has the privilege Aboriginal communities enjoys visiting the region’s of witnessing those around through the many cultural Aboriginal communities and him, many of whom he grew activities she attends in the engaging with community up with, succeed and thrive. region. When she isn’t busy in members because it A husband and father, his the community, you’ll find her provides opportunities to goals are to share work in Fort Chipewyan spending participate and learn about opportunities where they exist time with her brother and their culture and traditions. and create ones where they his family. When not at work, you’ll find may not, with the ultimate Colleen enjoying outdoor reward of bringing sustainable activities, volunteering in the work to the Aboriginal community, or spending time communities of the region. with her family. PATHWAYS | 47

TOP ROW L to R: Colleen Legdon, Community Relations Manager Doug Webb, Aboriginal Business Liaison Jamie Sullivan, Stakeholder Relations Advisor Tracey Stephen, Stakeholder Relations Advisor BOTTOM ROW L to R: Lana Hill (with daughter Addison), Stakeholder Relations Advisor Marty Quintal, Aboriginal Recruitment Advisor Jo Anne Hulan, Community Investment Specialist

TRACEY STEPHEN is a LANA HILL Family provides MARTY QUINTAL Leaving JO ANNE HULAN came recent addition to the team the strength for Lana to be her hometown of Conklin at to Fort McMurray from and more than a perfect fit. successful at whatever she the age of 13 to attend Newfoundland more than Raised in Fort McMurray, does. A proud First Nations, school in Fort McMurray, 30 years ago and since then she has deep roots in the Saulteaux, and member of Marty understands the has raised a family, helped region and community the Cowessess First Nation, commitment it takes to build the community, and investment and public affairs Lana says her daughter is her achieve big dreams. Marty never stopped learning experience in municipal, greatest influence and gift. began working at Syncrude throughout her lengthy provincial and corporate She credits her mentors for as a labourer over 25 years career. She started in an sectors. She is excited to making her a better person ago but, after quickly administrative position in learn about the local and for their guidance proving herself a great Mining and took advantage Aboriginal communities and throughout her career. Lana addition, was soon offered a of opportunities to try build relationships with enjoys the uniqueness of her permanent position as an different jobs in the them. Outside of work, job and the opportunity to instrumentation technician. company before landing a Tracey enjoys spending time engage with new people. In her current recruitment role in Government and with family and friends, Working with community role, she enjoys working Public Affairs. She is new to and volunteers for several members has taught her with local communities the Stakeholder Relations not-for-profit organizations. what she can do to ensure towards creating team and excited to keep Syncrude remains a great employment opportunities learning and strengthening neighbour and employer of and helping people find her ties within the region. choice. When not at work, rewarding careers. The Family and friends are very you can find Lana spending mother of a teenage important to Jo Anne. She time with family, traveling or daughter, she understands spends much of her spare volunteering. the value of education and time with her husband, the determination it takes to children and grandchildren, realize your full potential. and fundraising with friends. COURAGE. BRAVERY. KINDNESS. GENEROSITY.

There isn’t really one word that can truly and accurately describe the incredible heroism and amazing support we witnessed through this year’s wildfire event. While the call for help was answered by people across the globe, nowhere was the power of the human spirit more evident than here at home.

Thoughts from the President and CEO

his year’s Pathways explores the wildfire in Wood Buffalo this past year. And yet, these are T through the eyes of those who responded only a small sample of the extraordinary things that on the front lines and those who opened were accomplished in an extraordinary situation. To their homes and kitchens when it was needed most. everyone who assisted wherever and however they They are stories of hope and optimism, and victory could, my deepest gratitude. over unimaginable odds. While the impacts of the wildfire event will Take for instance 18-year-old Trace Quintal and undoubtedly be felt for some time yet, I hope the his father Ron, deputy chief of the Fort McKay Fire other stories in Pathways can remind us that tough Department. It was Trace’s first call as a full-fledged challenges are overcome every single day and great member of the volunteer brigade and he responded achievements are continually happening all around without thinking twice. us. Through Syncrude’s commitments in the areas of Aboriginal business and community development, Syncrude responders Cory Jahelka and Dwight Flett education, employment, environmental stewardship were also on the ground, fighting emotions as much and corporate leadership, I hope we can continue to as flames, while Dwight’s wife Miranda opened up provide the support and encouragement where their home in Fort McKay to help people fleeing north. needed to help along the way.

At the same time, Syncrude fire brigade team member Cynthia Courteoreille and Fort McKay Elder Rose Bouchier teamed up with other residents to help feed the souls and stomachs of firefighters and evacuees alike. Mark Ward President and Chief Executive Officer It was Helen Keller who said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” I can think of no greater examples than what we witnessed here

These organizations and initiatives recognize Syncrude for its expressed commitment and comprehensive programs to support Aboriginal people.

NEW BEGINNINGS

www.syncrude.ca

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