Issue #4 - April 2013
National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE)
Canada’s First Nations Energy Publication
LEADERSHIP New Directions
2013:
The Future Starts Now:
Economic Space for First Nations
a solar odyssey JAZZ Solar’s Mission In Solutions
Pipeline
Nation
Women in the Industry
Part 3 of 5 Q & A Series
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elements
Issue #4 - April 2013
National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE)
Table of Contents MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR Focus On How First Nations Are Getting Involved
Leadership - New Directions Interview with Cameron Alexis
2013: Solar odyssey Solar Energy For The First Nations
FUTURE STARTS NOW Economic Space For First Nations
Pipeline Nation
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Historic Look at Nations Pipeline’s
women in industry Cheryl Cardinal Director National Energy Business Centre of Excellence Indian Resource Council Nathan Elliott Contributing Editor David Blondeau (Maxpo Communications Inc.) Design and Layout Delree Dumont / Regional Chief Cameron Alexis Athabasca University /Padma Parthasarathy Photos Nathan Elliott and David E. Smith Cheryl Cardinal / Padma Parthasarathy Lynn Calf Robe Writers
Part 3 of 5 - Q & A Series
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NEBCE Mandate
“Supporting First Nations in their efforts to attain greater management and control of their energy resources.” Elements© is a monthly publication distributed by National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE) and IRC Inc. Any use of content or duplication without written consent is not permitted. For any information, please contact Cheryl Cardinal at cherylc@fnet.ca.
message
from the director Cheryl Cardinal
This month marks the fourth issue of Elements: a First Nations Energy Publication and the response, I am happy to report, has been positive from coast-to-coast-to-coast. Industry, the academy, First Nations, politicians, and the general public have embraced the publication and our mission to highlight First Nations engagement in energy and resource development.
approval and is in the process of implementation in the Calgary office. Through her many years of industry involvement, Delree understands the importance of building relationships and working with the communities to foster progress. These are just a few of the exciting pieces that adorn the pages of our ever-evolving publication.
As Elements has made clear since our inception, there are endless opportunities for our people to become involved in both renewable and non-renewable resource development. The articles included in this issue focus on how First Nations are getting involved in the energy and resource sectors. Whether it is solar, pipelines, stakeholder relations or leadership roles, our people and companies that we are working alongside are fostering innovation, and heightening First Nations inclusion in the economy.
As we have made clear in previous issues, Elements employs the elements of Earth, Fire, Wind and Water as common themes of understanding energy and resource development, both on and off reserve in Canada today. Earth includes mining as its main focus. Fire shares stories from the oil and gas sectors. Wind highlights a number of First Nations wind energy activities currently underway. Finally, Water includes information on protection and understanding of this great Canadian resource.
In our feature piece, we highlight the Ontario-based Jazz Solar which has developed solar photovoltaic Systems (PV) technology that converts sunlight into electricity. In Ontario, solar energy programs give priority to projects that involve First Nations communities. Jazz Solar partners with, and offers training to, First Nations interested in working in the sector in various capacities, offering new opportunities to become involved in this exciting space of the economy.
I am proud to announce that Elements now has international distribution. This expanded exposure has allowed others outside of our national borders to share in the success of our people. We hope to share more exciting news that is happening in our communities so we can create a greater understanding of the energy and resource sectors and our place within them. We hope that you will continue with the National Energy Business Centre of Excellence on our journey in information sharing.
Another piece, “Pipeline Nation,� written by contributing Editor Nathan Elliott and political scientist David E. Smith, compares the development of pipelines in this country to the construction of the railroad by focussing on the theme of nation-building. This riveting piece also examines the history of pipeline development, the Mackenzie Valley Pipeline debates, and public reactions to them. In a new regular feature, Elements examines leaders in the energy sector that are contributing to positive change. For our first piece, we sat down with Cameron Alexis who was elected to serve as Alberta’s Regional Chief of the Assembly of First Nations. Regional Chief Alexis had to step down from his role as Chief of the Alexis Nakota Sioux First Nation in Alberta, but his mandate has expanded to work with all First Nations in Alberta from Treaty 6, 7, and 8. He stresses the importance of gaining a firm understanding of the development issues that directly affect us, our people and our history to move our Nations forward.
Sincerely,
This issue includes the third instalment of our Women in the Industry series. It highlights Delree Dumont and her decades of industry involvement, focussing on her work as Stakeholder Relations Advisor for Kearl Oil Sands with Imperial Oil. Through a true love for working with First Nations and Metis communities, Delree created the Aboriginal Employee Network. This initiative has received elements
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Cheryl Cardinal
Director of the National Energy Business Centre of Excellence 4
National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE)
by Lynn Calf Robe
An Interview With
Alberta Regional Chief Cameron Alexis “First of all I would like to say I am very thankful for this opportunity given to me by my colleagues - the Chiefs of Alberta,” expressed newly elected Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Alberta Regional Chief Cameron Alexis from Alexis Nakota Sioux First Nation. The announcement came shortly after the elections took place at the Assembly of Treaty Chiefs (AOTC) meeting held January 31, 2013 in Calgary AB.
issues in Canada. He asserts, “I am very thankful for the grassroots movement, for seeing these kinds of situations in regards to bill C45 - we need to be active, in a good way, within lawful means.” Times have changed and the evolution of First Nations is moving forward in a way that no longer includes only government, but also industry and multinational investors; key players that also have their part and responsibility to understand the rules of the game and to embrace the overarching goal of generating a better quality of life for everyone involved. Alexis explains, “I think industry groups, multinational investors also the municipalities, the province and the feds need to be educated on what really is the international rule of law for implementation of our treaties. In this day and age we now need to implement treaties and then we can have a quality of life for all our nations within Treaty 6, 7, 8 and across Canada.”
“As Regional Chief, I represent the Treaty 6, 7 and 8 as the advocate and the voice and I take my direction from the Chiefs by majority,” added Alexis, who is no stranger to the political arena, having served two terms as Chief for his community, and as Grand Chief of Treaty 6, representing 17 First Nations under the Confederacy of Treaty 6 First Nations. Prior to his career in politics, Alexis spent 23 years with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police as a public servant and Corporal and worked in the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan. Alexis has stepped in to represent the First Nations of Alberta during a critical time when the political tensions are high. His mandate, however, is clear about where his focus will lie. It will be a mandate dictated by the Chiefs in Treaty 6, 7 and 8 who have expressed their concerns regarding recent legislation introduced by the Canadian government, concerns that they view will unfavourably impact their communities. He notes, “I am here to represent the people and certainly the Alberta Chiefs are concerned about the legislations and policies being presented in the House of Commons and the provincial legislature here in Alberta.”
The mandate is clear for the Alberta Regional Chief, who has assumed an entirely different set of responsibilities compared to his former position. This is a mandate which will focus more time on facilitating senior level dialogue between other First Nation leaders and members of the Canadian government. An opportunity that some Chiefs, he says, do not have, “Our jobs are at the federal level, advocating with the higher levels of government within this country with opportunities to meet and communicate and dialogue with other regions; whether we are championing meetings with perhaps the senators, members of parliament, members of the opposition, or top level bureaucrats or even the embassies. Sometimes the Chiefs don’t have time to address issues of that magnitude and my job is to open those doors at that level and bring attention to the issues.”
He continues, “The legislation that has been presented to a large degree is a direct violation of our treaty rights, it is a violation of section 35 of the (Canadian) constitution”, added Alexis. He believes that issues and concerns have to be dealt with on a case-by-case basis, treaty-to-treaty basis and government-to-government basis. All parties involved need to move forward by creating efficient processes that include First Nations from early in the process, as well as the issue of consultation and implementation at all levels of government. As Alexis firmly states, “the erosion of treaties is not an option.” He continues, “Everyone of us that carries a treaty card has an absolute responsibility in one way or another to defend our treaty rights and to educate fellow Canadians.” Alexis speaks fondly of the grassroots people who have organized their own movements to stand up for their inherit treaty rights, in particular the group from the Idle No More Movement who brought international attention to First Nation elements
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In accordance with election codes, Alexis had to step down as Chief of Alexis Nakota Sioux First Nation – a move he made with a heavy heart, but with a complete understanding on the considerable amount of time that must be dedicated to the task at hand. “Unfortunately”, he admits, “I had to give it up, it is with all due respect of customary election codes of each individual nations and I humbly believe with the heightened level of concern relevant to our treaties and all the legislation that’s been presented not only again at the provincial level but at the federal level, you have to have quality time addressing these issues.”
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understanding
blessed challenges nations
his alone, “It is something that came into play; I’ve had the privilege again to work with the RCMP, work in three different provinces, and work in different treaty areas. I’ve observed municipalities, I’ve observed different provinces and their interpretation of law and their interpretation of treaties and with that wealth of observation, knowledge and experience - I bring that to the table in my position; the elders asked me to come home to Alexis and to deal with the political issues and I have been very privileged, I was blessed with it.”
Only a couple months into the job, the current Alberta Regional Chief describes his experience as rewarding for the simple fact that he gets to visit the many First Nations across the country, and has made it a priority to visit all of the communities during his time as Regional Chief. “One of the things I enjoy,” he exclaims, “is visiting all the individual nations, and my intention is to go to all the nations. I have not yet but look forward to that.” His travels not only provide him with an opportunity to meet with the people and hear their concerns, but also allow for much-needed attention to be brought to the many communities. Alberta is home to over 45 First Nation communities, each with their own distinct culture, language, history and politics. Each community has its own definitions of success that will no doubt create a challenge for Alexis. With every job comes the challenges and the position of Regional Chief is no different. Looking ahead, Alexis identified three challenges that will be at the forefront – challenges that he is willing to take on. The first challenge is one posed by provincial and federal legislation, “legislations that are going to adversely affect us. We need to begin a process or system to lobby on the issues of the legislation. We should have
intervention before it is introduced.” The second challenge will focus on dealing with the funding cutbacks at provincial and federal level, “The constant reduction of funding is definitely an issue.” Thirdly, he strongly believes that First Nations have to be included in the revenue sharing, “the money coming from the revenue of this land is what we get back in return, and it is not tax dollars. Let’s share revenues so we can all benefit, that is a challenge for sure that I would like to take on.”
It was experiences away from home that have definitely worked to his personal advantage and also to the advantage of his community. They provided a greater worldview and understanding on the laws that run this country, as well as the politics. His message to the youth is clear, “I tell young people to leave the community for a while and go serve the public, go get your education and learn all facets of what goes on not only within the municipalities and provinces, also the cities, and international – gain your experience and bring that back to help your people one day.”
Despite the challenges as Regional Chief, Alexis is confident in his ability to help address contentious issues. His experience as a RCMP Corporal has been beneficial. His previous position provided a wealth of experience and knowledge that have proven useful in the political arena. The decision to enter into politics, however, was not elements
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country
life First Nations politics is not a new game, but there is a new generation of players who view it not just as a job, but as a way of life. Alexis believes it is crucial for everyone, including children, to understand the politics that impacts their daily lives, “When it comes down to it, people have to understand that everything is politics. There is no corner that is not affected by politics. We must be mindful of that all the time and the kids should understand that.”
He also gives credit to the late Dr. Harold Cardinal and Elijah Harper, two individuals who will go down in history for their political contributions in First Nations and Canadian politics. “My role models in Alberta would be Harold Cardinal from Sucker Creek. He was definitely a champion not only for Alberta but for Canada. In his day and age he was a very astute, very intelligent gentleman. First Nations people should really read about him and understand what he did with the 1969 White paper and the Red paper -- excellent stuff. The second one in my view would be (Elijah) Harper – when he stood up with his sacred feather and he stopped key discussions especially during the Mulroney era.”
For those who aspire for a career in politics, Alexis stresses the importance of education and courage to move into the murky waters of politics despite the naysayers, “Get educated to the highest level possible and don’t be afraid to become Members of the Legislature, Members of Parliament, Senators or even the highest bureaucratic level – some people may disagree with that however these people come from all walks of life too and they make decisions that adversely and positively affect our lives. Maybe one day our people will become Prime Minister of this country - I would love to see that day.”
As he embarks on another important chapter of his life, he remains grateful, humble and mindful of his choices and has developed his own moral compass which he lives by, “I ask myself - is it moral? Is it legal? Is it ethical? If I can answer these three questions the right way than I make my decision.”
Despite this era of increased conflict, Alexis remains grounded and credits much of this ability to his role models. Brought up by his grandparents, Alexis reflects back on the life they lived. They lived off the land as hunters and trappers and imparted much wisdom that has continued to keep him grounded today, “Without my grandparents teaching me cultural and spiritual responsibly, you know perhaps I wouldn’t be grounded and believe in what I believe in today.”
As we conclude the interview, the last question focuses not on politics, but on interests that he says combines family with spending time outdoors and sports, ‘’I enjoy the outdoors innately, I love being out there on the land. I love watching my grandchildren and First Nations people in general at the height of their sport. We have super talented athletes.”
“When it comes down to it, people have to understand that everything is politics. There is no corner that is not affected by politics.”
grateful, humble & mindful
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National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE)
2013:
a solar odyssey SOLAR ENERGY FOR THE FIRST NATIONS by Padma Parthasarathy With the strong belief that “Going Solar” is a large step towards helping communities grow and prosper, JAZZ Solar Solutions is on a mission to contribute to First Nations communities in a meaningful way. Ketan Bhalla, founder and CEO of JAZZ Solar is committed to helping First Nations communities generate income, build long-term infrastructure, and create jobs.
“Committed to help communities generate income, build long-term infrastructure and create jobs.” - Jazz Solar
In three years of business, JAZZ Solar has successfully delivered over 150 ground mount and roof mount Solar Photovoltaic systems in Ontario. The team has over 100 years of combined world class experience in renewable energy, engineering, construction and project management from work undertaken in Ontario, the United States and Europe. The company is qualified with more NAPCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioner) certified installers than any other solar company in Canada.
Provincial policies supporting grid connections of solar PV power have encouraged a number of PV systems throughout Canada. Ontario offers solar energy programs with priority for the First Nations communities. Benefits include 20 years of guaranteed income by a legal contract with the Ontario Power Authority (OPA). The contracts stipulate that any energy generated would be purchased by the local electricity utility company, such as Hydro One under the mandate of Ontario’s Green Energy Act. The contract pays a premium as a part of the microFIT feed-in-tariff program. It is an opportunity no First Nations community should miss.
Solar Photovoltaic Systems (PV) are used to convert sunlight into electricity. They are environmentally friendly, safe and reliable. Solar electricity produces no on-site pollution or emissions, PV systems incur only minor operating costs and are also easy to install. There are two types of PV, Grid-tied and Off-grid systems. Each type these helps to prevent: 1. Rising electricity cost 2. Increasing carbon footprint 3. Concerns with respect to reliability of continuous service delivery.
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With a proven team track record of renewable energy experience, JAZZ Solar has partnered with a number of First Nations to create Green Communities. The Objective is to bring progressive solutions to build environmentally-usable community power infrastructure. The project is a forward thinking example of an effective long-term energy needs solution for every participating community.
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In addition, JAZZ Solar offers solar training as employment opportunities for First Nations citizens. By making them a part of the solar install crew, JAZZ Solar initiated the use of local labour from the community to supplement their own crew in the installation process. The community citizens have the advantage of on-thejob training in the renewable energy sector. The team leader at JAZZ Solar also educates the building managers of communities to maintain and service the systems. The communities are trained to become independent in the regular upkeep of the installed system.
Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn First Nations Representatives and JAZZ Solar Install Crew
Apart from creating jobs, JAZZ Solar projects with the First Nations also serve as a revenue source. For example, the Chief and Council of Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nations (AoPFN), located at Golden Lake, Ontario has embarked on 60 kW of solar PV on building rooftops now commissioned and generating revenue. The lucrative contracts will pay the AoPFN, 80.2 cents for every unit of power they produce, totalling over $1,000,000 over the next 20 years. The environmental contributions of the AoPFN community by their solar installation systems are significant and are equivalent to planting 2752 trees, while saving over 200,000 kilograms of greenhouse gasses like carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide from being emitted. At the present, the company is working towards the vision to facilitate diesel displacement in remote communities. Integrating solar with other alternate energy experts, JAZZ Solar is defining the path to provide innovative, integrated solutions to fit the unique requirements of every First Nations community.
“Apart from creating jobs, JAZZ Solar projects with First Nations also serve as a revenue source.” (613) 288-JAZZ (5299) (613) 288-2440 | (888) 883-5201 Head Office Address: 200 Colonnade Rd., #7 Ottawa, ON, Canada K2E 7M1 Sales: iwantsolar@jazzsolar.com Public Relations: ilovesolar@jazzsolar.com
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The Future Starts Now
Economic Space for First Nations
Last year about this time, Insightwest released a ground-breaking report, “The Future Starts Now: Economic Space For First Nations.” The report is written by David E. Smith, Senior Policy Fellow, Johnson-
EARTH
WIND
Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy and Nathan Elliott, President of Insightwest Research. The foreword to the report is written by Blaine Favel, former Chief of the FSIN. Since the release of the “Future Starts Now,” industry, politicians and First Nations from coast-to-coast-to-coast have embraced the concept focused on increasing First Nations involvement and equity in the energy and resource sectors. One year later, the issues addressed in the report are as important as ever and the concept should continue to be used to frame and understand current debate. “The Future Starts Now” represents the beginning of serious debate on how to further build the Canadian economy with full First Nations participation as equity owners, goods and services providers, and employees to break ongoing cycles of poverty on reserve. The argument in this paper is that reserve-based First Nations need to think in terms of ‘economic space.’ The advantage of the concept is that First Nations may use it ‘to create’ economic benefits for themselves by channeling economic development initiatives into workable strategies. The report uses the elements of earth, fire, wind and water as a framework for understanding First Nations economies. Specific sectors are examined, including: agriculture, forestry, mining, oil, gas, wind, fishing and hydroelectricity. In so doing, the report positions First Nations within the statistical framework provided by these sectors, illustrating that there is activity, engagement, and opportunity in the area of First Nations and economic development across the country. The report also cites successful international examples where direct set asides in government procurement and licencing have been made available for First Nations. elements
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National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE)
a year in retrospect
by Nathan Elliott, Insight Group
“Old & Young. Both are needed. Those who possess the wisdom and knowledge of the Elders and those who possess the skills required to succeed in the economy of the 21st century.”
David Smith
Nathan Elliott
The authors argue that treaties must continue to serve as a guide
FIRE
WATER
for economic development today. If economic development is to take place today, which in any way affects First Nations, benefits must accrue to them. First Nations are portrayed as consumers of services and resources. The concept of First Nations economic space breaks that consumption cycle and takes as its rationale the promotion of First Nations as goods and services providers and resource developers. Using a balance sheet analogy (assets, liabilities and equity ownership), the authors stress that for far too long the balance sheet when applied to First Nations has stressed liabilities and that the time has come to recognize how wrong that assessment is. Despite the report’s emphasis on natural resources, the authors contend that the essential resource remains First Nations people – old and young. Both are needed. Those who possess the wisdom and knowledge of the Elders and those who possess the skills required to succeed in the economy of the 21st century. To this end, the first economic space for First Nations is to be found in the classroom. Here the discipline, skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the modern economy are learned. With these objects in mind, the concept of First Nations economic space was developed.
“The Future Starts Now: Economic Space For First Nations” is found on the Insightwest Research website: www.insightwest.ca. If you have any questions, or would like to request a copy of the report, please email Nathan Elliott, President, Insightwest Research: nelliott@insightwest.ca.
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National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE)
by Nathan Elliott and David E. Smith
bill to authorize the pipeline and to provide a loan for part of its construction. The opposition parties attacked the bill, while Liberal backbenchers mockingly sang ‘I’ve been working on the pipeline,’ in tune with the famous railroad chant. With a financing deadline looming, Howe introduced a motion for closure, sparking a series of procedural precedents, culminating in the only motion of censure of the Speaker in the history of Canadian Parliament.
Canada is a pipeline nation. A vast network of oil and gas pipelines stretches throughout the country with the exception of PEI and Nunavut. For over fifty years, pipeline debates have been significant in our history, politics and culture. At once, pipelines have served to mobilize and connect us, but also to demobilize and disconnect us. A look at the recent Keystone XL pipeline quagmire, and other projects planned by ConocoPhillips, Enbridge Inc. and Kinder Morgan Inc., among others, illustrates the centrality of pipeline debates in the Canadian economy and politics, as well as in the collective consciousness of First Nations and non-First Nations people. For Keystone, proponent hopes were dashed and reborn. Routing turned into re-thinking and re-thinking into re-routing. For another proposed pipeline, the Pacific Trails Pipeline (officially known as the Kitimat Summit Lake), news ongoing reports highlight the proponentopponent disconnect, contrasting Pacific Trail’s plans for a pipeline to the West Coast, with Wet’suwet’en desires to leave their traditional territory untouched.
Despite the legislative brouhaha, the Liberal majority carried the bill and the 3700 kilometre pipeline from Burstall, Saskatchewan to Montréal was completed in 1958. The pipeline debate discredited Howe and the Liberals and contributed to the party’s defeat in the 1957 general election. Another pipeline debate billed as “the biggest project in the history of free enterprise” left an indelible mark on this country, with a legacy still being written. The proposed Mackenzie Valley Pipeline was to transport natural gas from the Beaufort Sea to markets in southern Canada and the United States. In the early 1970’s, Canadian Arctic Gas Pipeline Ltd. proposed a route from Alaska’s Prudhoe fields, across the northern Yukon to the Mackenzie Delta and then south to Alberta while Foothills Pipe Lines Ltd. mapped a route from the Mackenzie Delta to Alberta.
In Canada, pipelines, like railways before them, are tied to constructions of nationhood. The historic TransCanada Pipeline and Mackenzie Valley Pipeline debates support this connection. With this in mind, the fiftieth anniversary of the TransCanada Pipeline, three years ago, is worthy of reflection. To meet the energy needs of Ontario and Quebec with Alberta’s natural gas, Prime Minister Louis St. Laurent and the “Minister of Everything,” C.D. Howe, proposed the building of a pipeline from Alberta to the St. Lawrence River. In need of public funds, Howe turned to Parliament and introduced a
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In response, Pierre Trudeau’s Liberals appointed B.C. Supreme Court Justice Thomas Berger in 1974 to lead a royal commission to study the proposed pipeline. What at the beginning seemed a practical engineering challenge, quickly assumed social, political and cultural importance when
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Berger began taking testimony from Dene, Inuit, Métis and non-aboriginal northerners. On the basis of this evidence, Berger recommended pipeline development along the Mackenzie River Valley be delayed 10 years to allow time for more study and to settle aboriginal land claims. Ottawa supported the findings. The report of 1977 proved historic. It offered a snapshot of a North many Canadians did not know existed, and set a standard for public engagement in inquiries not since matched. Nearly four decades of negotiations followed. Land claims, financial settlements and permit applications were signed and rejected; feasibility studies were organized and new gas line designs were proposed. Although it has gone down in history as the Mackenzie Valley Pipeline Report, in retrospect - and even at the time - it was not just about a mammoth pipeline project, not just about its impact on or the response by First Nations, not just about the incomprehension of a modern government far away in Ottawa to unfolding events, not just about the national realization - finally - that the environment, comprised of flora, fauna, resources, people (First Nations and non-First Nations), climate, and much more, was a treasure all Canadians shared. Specifically, the report set in motion understandings, even commitments, about how Canada and its peoples - young and old, new and native-born, First Nations and non-First Nations - should deal with their future. Implicit was the view that no one was to be excluded from the promise the future held.
“In Canada, pipelines, like railways before them, are tied to constructions of nationhood.”
If history does not repeat itself, there surely is sometimes a lot of echo. Today’s pipeline debates encapsulate the familiar cross-pressures of pipeline politics that have proven endemic. Among these are: a sensitive environment, concern for traditional lands and sustainable development, determination by First Nations that their interests be paramount, aroused public concern with conservation, the desire to maximize profits and disagreements over an appropriate regulatory regime. One outcome of the Berger report was recognition that decisions of this magnitude, when it comes to natural resource infrastructure, take a long time to implement. Today there is a government that boasts it is open for business, that champions Asian markets with the passion of European kings once lured by the promise of the Orient, and that treats the projected Northern Gateway as a latter-day Northwest Passage to unprecedented riches. Refreshing as that change in attitude may be, it has brought protests from coast-to-coast-to-coast. The legacy of previous pipeline debates is not that any specific policy is good or bad, but it is that the common good in energy and resource development is reached by seeking a common ground, which, when all is said and done, means pointing the way to a better future.
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WOMEN Industry
in the
by Cheryl Cardinal Delree Dumont has been in the oil and gas industry for 30 years. She has worked in various roles in the oil and gas sector including: Nova Corporation, TransCanada Pipelines and Terasen Gas. She also had the opportunity of working for an exploration diamond mine company. More recently, Delree has worked for Imperial Oil as a Buyer, and she is now a Stakeholder Relations Advisor for Kearl Oil Sands. A proud member of the Onion Lake Cree First Nation, Delree has promoted Aboriginal awareness throughout her career. Her dedication and passion to her work and advancing First Nations causes led to the formation of the Calgary Aboriginal Employee Network at Imperial Oil. Delree spends her spare time with family, ATVing, snowmobiling, camping, travelling, pow wow dancing as well as doing oil and watercolor painting. She has also volunteered for many associations throughout her career and serves as a Board Member with Ghost River Rediscovery Society.
Delree Dumont Stakeholder Relations Advisor for Kearl Oil Sands
5 Part Q & A Series - Part 3
Q: How long have you been working for the company? A: I have been working for four years with Imperial Oil. From March 2009 until August 2012, I was a buyer in the procurement department, purchasing operational materials for the Cold Lake plants and the Strathcona refinery. In August 2012, I began my role as Stakeholder Relations Advisor for Kearl Oil Sands. Q: Why did you choose a career in the industry? A: I started working in the oil and gas industry a year after graduating high school. I have been in the industry since 1982, having held various positions. Of these roles, I enjoyed being in procurement the most, and that lasted for 20 years. Three of those years were spent working for an exploration diamond mine company in Saskatchewan. Q: What kind of training is required for your occupation? A: My education consisted of taking PMAC courses (Purchasing Management Association of Canada) at the University of Calgary, where I took many hours of course work. Q: What qualities do you bring to the job? A: The qualities that I bring to the job are passion, perseverance, strong work ethic and accountability. I love my culture and very proud of my heritage. I want to share it with whoever wants to learn it. I love meeting people and I have met some inspiring and amazing people over the years. I am approachable and I am always willing to learn. I received an award from Exxon Mobil Global Procurement in 2011, recognizing my work in building lasting relationships with Aboriginal communities. Q: What is a typical day like for you? A: It varies day-to-day. When I am in the office I start by answering emails, work on presentations, organize and attend meetings and/or special events, site tours and open houses. I recently started an Aboriginal Employee Network in the Calgary head office, so I am often quite busy setting up committees and memberships and the network itself. Externally, I serve as an interface between Kearl Oil Sands and the surrounding communities, including both Aboriginal and Métis communities. I travel to Fort McMurray region regularly. When I am on the road, I attend networking events, regional community events, career fairs, advisory committee meetings and special events organized by the local communities. Q: Energy is perceived as a male dominated industry, what has your experience been like? A: For me, it has been very positive working in the oil and gas industry. During my time as a buyer, I feel that I have been able to earn the respect of those I work with by embracing a culture of respect in my dealings with suppliers and internal customers. This said, my one challenging (but still fulfilling) experience was working for the exploration diamond mine company in Saskatchewan. I was one of the first females at the plant site. Here I am, an Aboriginal female, explaining to all the male site workers how I plan to set up a procurement department from the ground up. At first, they were hesitant to my plans, but as things progressed and changed, they found how easy the process was in ordering and receiving their goods in a timely manner. At the end of the day, I had a warehouse with a million dollars of inventory, three warehouse persons reporting to me, a logistics plan and a procurement system in place. Q: What are three things you like about your job? A: I am really excited about being in the communities and supporting their initiatives. My role involves fostering Aboriginal Relations. Through this role, I have the opportunity to change people’s perception by promoting Aboriginal awareness at the Imperial Oil Calgary head office. It also provides me with an opportunity to make a difference in the northern communities that I work with. I have senior management support in implementing an Aboriginal Employee network. I enjoy organizing events and meeting people on and off reserve. One of my favourite quotes is, “Life happens, when you’re busy making plans.” Q: What have been some challenges associated with your line of work? A: I realize that First Nation and Métis groups are inundated with requests from oil and gas industry, so simply setting up a meeting can be a challenge. If done right, it usually works out in the end. Of course, building that relationship is a challenge when you are located in Calgary and the folks I need to talk with are up north. It takes time, but time I am willing to commit to the greater good. Currently, my supervisor and I are the only two people handling the Fort McMurray area. It requires a good amount of juggling to be where we need to be. I was also conflicted when thinking of the “Idle No More” movement. I support the spirit of the movement and often ask myself how I can best reconcile working in an industry which has been good to my family. I recently spoke to an elder and the first thing she said was, “stop struggling.” You have the opportunity to make a difference at Imperial Oil. By hearing these words, it felt like a weight was lifted off my shoulders. But, I still have a lot of work to do and I am determined to make that difference. Q: How did you overcome these barriers? A: I realize it takes time to build a relationship. I always keep the communication channels open, and I am pretty good at getting back to people in a timely manner. I am not afraid of saying I do not know or asking many questions. I persevere and I learn from my mistakes. I keep moving forward, but also realize that this involves taking three steps forward and two steps back. Still, it is progress. I would rather deal with issues and concerns head on instead of than wishing that a situation would go away. Q: What advice do you have for other women who are interested in pursuing a career in the industry? A: Education is key. Sciences, trades and engineering are what oil and gas is looking for. If someone asks if I have a degree; I say yes, I have a degree from School of Hard Knocks. My experience of 30s years in the industry speaks to my ongoing success. I have been able to develop professionally as a result of my many roles and responsibilities throughout my career. Making a difference is hard work, but the payback is worth it. I will leave you with another of my favorite quotes, “With ordinary talents and extraordinary perseverance - all things are attainable.”
elements
- Issue #4 / April 2013
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National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE)
INDUSTRY | PHOTOGRAPHY | IMAGES | DIGITAL | PROFESSIONAL
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National Energy Business Centre of Excellence 235 - 9911 Chiila Boulevard Tsuu T’ina Nation AB, Canada T2W 6H6 Tel: (403) 252-1702 Fax: (403) 252-3226 E-mail: cherylc@fnet.ca First Nations Website: www.fnresources.com Oil & Gas Website: www.nebce.com
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