AMBC Announces Keynotes for Upcoming Conference
Conference Day 1
Heading up the program on Day 1, AMBC is excited to announce Isaiah Robinson,councillor of the Kitasoo Xai’xais First Nation in Klemtu, B.C.
Isaiah Robinson, is a proud member of the Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation. Born and raised in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest, he later moved to Hope, where he spent his formative years. Over the years, Isaiah amassed invaluable management experience, which became particularly crucial during his tenure as the Housing and Public Works Department Manager. In that role, the emphasis on asset management was paramount due to the aging infrastructure, which faced significant wear and tear given the location in the very heart of the Great Bear Rainforest.
Having served his community for five years in the aforementioned capacity, Isaiah currently holds the position of General Manager for the Kitasoo Development Corporation. In this role, he is responsible for spearheading various projects aimed at enhancing both economic and social development. His commitment to his Nation also extends to governance; he is now serving his third term as an elected councillor.
In addition to his primary responsibilities, Isaiah serves on the boards of the Indigenous Zero Waste Technical Advisory Group and the Aboriginal Capital Committee. Each of these roles reflects an enduring commitment to fostering positive change and ensuring sustainable growth for the community.
Conference Day 2
On the second day, AMBC is fortunate to have confirmed, Jen Sheel, P.Eng., PMP, Director, Municipal Services at The University of British Columbia, who will be opening the program.
Jen is part of a diverse team of professionals, trades and skilled staff who provide critical services to the University of British Columbia. The Municipal Services team is responsible for urban and natural asset management, extreme weather response, waste management, materials management and fleet management. As the Director of Municipal Services in the Facilities group, Jen believes deeply in giving back to her community and volunteers on the VP Finance and Operations Equity Diversity and Inclusion Committee, UBC United Way Campaign Executive, Applied Science and EGBC mentoring programs, and convocations for graduates.
Jen believes inclusion is necessary for individual and team resiliency, and we each have a role to play. Before working at UBC, Jen worked in the Engineering Department at the City of Vancouver for over 20 years, where she is most proud of the work she led with her team and community on creating inclusive public spaces.
She recently completed a certificate in Intercultural Communications from UBC, is a Professional Engineer registered in BC, a Project Management Professional (PMP) and a passionate learner and outdoor enthusiast.