Our Board is comprised of dedicated community leaders and professionals who bring diverse expertise and a shared commitment to fostering economic growth and development in the Kitimat region.
At KEDA, our mission is to support sustainable economic development by promoting local businesses, attracting new investments, and creating job opportunities. Our Board of Directors plays a crucial role in guiding our strategic vision and ensuring that our initiatives align with the needs and aspirations of our community.
Our Board members are drawn from various sectors, including industry, education, government, and non-profit organizations. Their collective experience and insights help us to navigate the complexities of economic development and to implement programs that benefit all residents of Kitimat.
Each member of our Board is deeply committed to the well-being of Kitimat. They volunteer their time and expertise to help KEDA achieve its goals, working tirelessly to create a vibrant and prosperous community. Their leadership and dedication are instrumental in driving forward our projects and initiatives.
Ron has lived in Kitimat since 1952 and is a retired businessman who continues to volunteer in the community. Currently, Ron is a direct the Kitimat Chamber of Commerce and president of the Kitimat Economic Development Society and the Terrace-Kitimat Airport Society. Ron is a former city councilor and regional director and a hospital trustee and Board chair.
Bill has over 40 years experience in the petro-chemical industry with a strong background in petro-chemical facilities construction, maintenance and start ups. Maintains strong relationships with a large base of industry leaders. Prior to retiring Bill’s roles included plant manager and general manager, world wide production for Methanex Corporation.
Raised in Kitimat, Debbie with her partner Jack started J. Oviatt Contracting Ltd. 1980 and is interested in seeing Kitimat evolve to its potential. Debbie has been an active director of the Kitimat Chamber of Commerce for the last five years and is involved with a variety of community organizations and annual community events. Debbie is also apart of the Northwest Regional Airport board.
Thom Meier grew up and worked the majority of his life in Kitimat. Thom co-owned and operated, as the President and General Manager, a successful family owned multi-disciplinary contracting company in Kitimat until his recent retirement.
Thom has served on the Kitimat Chamber of Commerce as a director and as the President. Thom was also active in Toastmasters including the President's role. Thom's most recent directorship was with the RCABC which is a highly regarded BC Roofing Contractors Membership Association. Thom has a continued interest in high quality, environmentally sound Industrial and commercial investment and construction activities in the Northwest of BC.
Tracey Hittel is a prominent figure in Kitimat, BC, known for his extensive involvement in the fishing and outdoor adventure industry as the owner and operator of Kitimat Lodge, which offers guided fishing tours for all five species of Pacific Salmon and Steelhead in some of British Columbia's most exclusive areas. Licensed to guide on both classified and non-classified rivers, Hittel ensures expert-led fishing experiences for his clients. Additionally, he is the CEO of Gateway Shipping and Transport, and has held leadership roles as President of the Kitimat Chamber of Commerce and Chairman of the Kitimat Sport Fishing Advisory Committee, earning significant respect for his contributions to the local community and economy through tourism and related services.
Roland was born and raised in Kitimat and has over 37 years of natural gas processing experience.Having worked in a leadership role for local industry he has acquired a keen understanding of what it takes to be successful in Kitimat's unique industrial environment. Retired in 2019 he now focuses his attention on working with stakeholders in a quest to bring prosperity back to our community in a way that creates opportunity as well as protects our pristine environment.
