Cal Huntley
Former Mayor, City of Flin Flon (Chair)
Born and raised in Flin Flon, Manitoba, Cal has spent most of his life experiencing Manitoba’s northern communities. In addition to serving in his second term as the Mayor of Flin Flon, Cal is the chair of several initiatives and organizations in the north, including the Northern Regional Health Authority, Flin Flon and District Assessment and Referral Service, and most recently, the MMDF Application Review Committee. He also sits on the Board of Directors for the Mining Association of Manitoba, Community Futures Greenstone, SJHL Flin Flon Junior Bombers, and One North Rail.
Kathy Valentino
Councillor, City of Thompson (Vice-Chair)
Born and raised in Thompson, Manitoba, Kathy has an in-depth knowledge of the challenges and opportunities in northern Manitoba. She has knowledge and experience in the resource sector, tourism, and relationship-building with Indigenous partners and remote communities.
Tim Johnston
Manager, CF North Central Development
Tim Johnston, a proud Thompson local, grew up in a family deeply connected to the community’s roots. After graduating from R.D. Parker Collegiate in 1980, Tim earned a degree in administrative studies from the University of Winnipeg. Despite working in the not-for-profit and government sectors in both Thompson and Winnipeg, he was drawn back to his hometown in 1991, enticed by the unique opportunities and lifestyle it offered.
Chris Thevenot
CEO, Communities Economic Development Fund
Raised in Thompson, Manitoba, Chris grew up taking advantage of all the North has to offer; fishing, camping, boating and skiing. Chris has been with CEDF since 2012 and has over 15 years of experience in the field of finance. He spent the majority of his time at CEDF in the CFO position until December 2021 when he was appointed to his current role as CEO. Since entering the industry, he has found working in the field of economic development rewarding, seeing the impact it can leave on a community and an individual.
Glenn Laycock
Executive Director of the Northern Manitoba Sector Council (NMSC)
Glenn grew up and still lives in Thompson, Manitoba. He started working in the mining Industry in 1987 and retired from Inco/Vale after 32 years. During his time with Inco/Vale Glenn was granted an education leave and graduated from the University of Winnipeg with a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies. During his time with Inco/Vale Glenn worked in numerous positions including Underground Miner, Mine Engineering Blaster, Superintendent of Training. and Superintendent of Logistics at the T-1 Mine until his retirement in 2019. Glenn has been with NMSC for the past four years in the Thompson office.