Lunch with a Leader featuring Andrea Robertson

Lunch with a Leader featuring Andrea Robertson

Join us for an inspiring and exclusive mentoring opportunity with Andrea Robertson, a distinguished corporate director and community leader.

- - Date: Tuesday, January 14, 2025
  - Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM MST
  - Location: The Ranchmen’s Club, 710 13 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0K9

Registration Information:

- - Tickets: $50pp (includes lunch)
  - Availability: Limited availability so register early. If you have already attended a Lunch with a Leader in 2025 please see the note at the bottom of the page.
  - Registration Opens: January 1, 2025 @ 9am.

About Andrea Roberton

Andrea Robertson is a highly accomplished corporate director and former President and CEO of STARS Air Ambulance, where she led the not-for-profit helicopter air ambulance service for over a decade until her retirement in 2023. Andrea’s career in healthcare leadership spans nearly 30 years, with significant roles at Alberta Health Services, the Foothills Medical Centre, and the Alberta Children’s Hospital.

Currently, Andrea serves as the Board Chair for The Calgary Airport Authority and is a Board Member for CP Railway. She has also served on various boards, including Bow Valley College and United Way of Calgary and Area, and continues to offer her expertise to the Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) Board.

Who Should Attend:

This event is perfect for:

- - Professionals aspiring to join corporate or non-profit boards.
  - Leaders looking to refine their board-readiness.
  - Anyone eager to learn from a visionary leader in health care and governance.

Note to Attendees

Due to the high demand and interest in our Lunch with a Leader program, we kindly ask that if you have attended a recent lunch, please consider giving others who have not yet had the opportunity a chance to register.

If you have previously attended an event and are registered for an upcoming one, please note that the Axis Connects team may reach out to you to issue a refund in order to make room for new attendees.

Please note that Eventbrite fees are non-refundable. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at hello@axisconnects.com.

Thank you for your understanding and support in helping us create equal opportunities for all members to participate.

Lunch with a Leader featuring Kent Ferguson

Lunch with a Leader: Featuring Kent Ferguson, Senior Vice President, Strategy, Sustainability, and Corporate Development, Suncor

Join us for an exclusive Lunch with a Leader event featuring Kent Ferguson, Senior Vice President at Suncor. With over 25 years of experience in the energy industry, Kent brings a unique and comprehensive understanding of the Canadian energy market, sustainability, and corporate development. His impressive career includes a significant tenure at RBC Capital Markets, where he was a leader in global energy, Indigenous finance, climate change, and energy transition—key areas shaping the future of business and sustainability.

This session offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with one of Alberta’s foremost thought leaders on sustainable energy strategy and corporate growth. Kent’s insights into the evolving energy landscape, sustainable finance, and commitment to diversity make him an inspiring mentor for professionals interested in impactful, forward-thinking leadership.

Only 10 spots available! Registration opens Nov 18 @ 9am.

Must be an Axis Member to register (Register here)

- - Date: November 28, 2024
  - Location: The Ranchmen’s Club, 710 13 Ave SW
  - Time: Please arrive at 11:15 am. Lunch will start at 11:30 am.
  - Lunch is included.

Kent Ferguson

Senior Vice President, Strategy, Sustainability, and Corporate Development, Suncor

Kent oversees Suncor’s corporate strategy, sustainability initiatives, and investment portfolio, guiding the company’s commitment to responsible energy and sustainable growth. A CFA charter holder with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Saskatchewan, Kent has led transformative projects on emissions, energy policy, and environmental markets. Before joining Suncor, Kent was Managing Director and Co-Head of Global Energy at RBC, where he spearheaded initiatives focused on energy transition and inclusive finance.

Winter, Wine & Whiskey: Axis Connects Holiday Networking Event

Warm up this holiday season with wine, whiskey and meaningful connections! This exclusive event offers the perfect opportunity to expand your network, celebrate the year’s achievements and engage with Calgary professionals from a variety of industries.

- - Date: December 16, 2024
  - Location: Barbarella Bar, 110 7 St S.W.
  - Time: Drop in between 4:00 and 7:00 p.m.
  - Dress Code: Holiday sparkle is encouraged, or business casual.

Enjoy complimentary appetizers and a holiday-themed cocktail, as you network with Calgary professionals across industries in a relaxed, festive setting.

Lunch with a Leader featuring Denise Man

Lunch with a Leader: Featuring Denise Man, Chief Technology Officer, AIMCo

Join us for an exclusive Lunch with a Leader event featuring Denise Man, Chief Technology Officer at AIMCo. With over 20 years of technology and leadership experience, Denise is a trailblazer in Alberta’s tech community, bringing a wealth of expertise in areas ranging from AI and microprocessor development to innovation in financial services. She is a passionate advocate for growing Alberta’s technology skills and building an inclusive, future-ready workforce, making her an inspiring mentor for aspiring leaders in tech and beyond.

Only 10 spots available! Registration opens Oct 22 @ 9am.

Must be an Axis Member to register (Register here)

- Date: November 7, 2024
- Location: The Ranchmen’s Club
- Time: Please arrive at 11:15 am. Lunch will start at 11:30 am.
  - Lunch is included.

Denise Man

Chief Technology Officer, AIMCo

Denise leads AIMCo’s Global Technology and Data team to leverage the technology infrastructure of the organization to invest on behalf of AIMCo’s clients more efficiently. With more than 20 years of technology and leadership experience, ranging from artificial intelligent speech recognition research to the development of the 64-bit Itanium microprocessor at Hewlett Packard. During this time, she was awarded seven patents and has several publications with the U.S. Patent Office. Prior to joining AIMCo, Ms. Man served in a variety of executive roles including leading the Technology, Innovation and Engineering teams at ATB Financial, and the Technology Operations teams at Enbridge Pipelines, as Chief Technology Officer.

A University of Calgary alumni, Ms. Man holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering with a minor in Computer Engineering. Ms. Man’s vision is to grow Alberta’s technology skills through inclusive practices to mobilize a diverse and future-ready workforce. Denise is an active mentor, role model and sponsor in the Alberta technology and business communities, and she was recognized for her efforts as the 2021 recipient of the AXIS Calgary Influential Women in Business award in the Large Enterprise category.

Denise serves as Chair of the Band Capital Investment Advisory Committee and is a member of the Coril Board of Directors, and National Music Center Board of Directors. She is also a former member of the Mount Royal University Board of Governors, SAIT’s School of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Dean’s Technology Advisory, and Tua Financials Board of Directors.

Championing Change: Empowering Women to Lead

Join Axis Connects for a captivating Career Development Dialogue in partnership with ATB Financial.

Join Axis Connects for a captivating Career Development Dialogue in partnership with ATB Financial.

Championing Change: Empowering Women to Lead
This session will explore the pivotal role of leaders in advancing women’s careers through allyship, mentorship, and strategic initiatives. Join ATB Financial President and CEO, Curtis Stange, and ATB Vice President of Advisory Services Strategy and Growth, Allison Comeau, as they share personal insights from their own careers, the impact of gender-neutral leadership groups, and the transformative initiatives ATB is using to foster an inclusive environment. Together, we’ll discuss the future of the financial industry and the vital contributions women leaders can make in driving innovation and change

- - - Speakers: Curtis Stange and Allison Comeau
    - Moderator: Nuvyn Peters, Axis Connects CEO
    - Venue: Calgary Petroleum Club
    - Date: October 18, 2024
    - Time: 11:30am – 1:30pm
    - For: All Career Levels
    - Ticket Price: $40 (lunch included)

Agenda

- - 11:30AM: Registration & Networking
  - 12:00PM: Program Begins
  - 1:00PM: Program Ends
  - 1:30PM: Open networking

Seating for this event is limited, and tickets are expected to sell out rapidly. Don’t delay – secure your spot by registering now.

Axis Connects membership is free – register at www.axisconnects.com

Speaker Bios

Curtis Stange was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of ATB Financial on June 30, 2018. With courage, disciplined thought and precise action, he leads a team of more than 5,000 team members who are dedicated to ATB’s purpose—to make it possible for over 800,000 clients and business owners.

With more than 35 years of experience in financial services in Canada, Curtis has led teams across diverse geographic markets and through various economic cycles—always with an inquisitive nature and a desire to get to know the people and places around him.

Curtis is a Stanford alumnus and member of the Alberta Business Council and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Western Executive Council. In 2023, he was awarded as Canada’s Most Admired CEO by Waterstone Human Capital.

Along with his role on the Axis Board, Curtis serves on advisory boards for the Edmonton International Airport, Visa Canada, and Advancing Women Executives in Western Canada. He also co-chairs the STARS Air Ambulance board and is a strong advocate for mental health.

Allison Comeau is the Vice-President of Strategy & Growth, ATB Advisory Services. Allison joined ATB again in 2023 with over 16 years of experience in the wealth industry. In her role, Allison focuses on seeking and executing growth opportunities for ATB Wealth.

Allison’s prior experience includes being Chief Operating Officer and Chief Experience Officer as a founding member at Grayhawk Wealth where she had the opportunity to build a national business in the ultra high-net-worth segment. During Allison’s previous eight years with ATB Wealth, her focus was on business and technology transformation.

Earlier in her career, Allison grew her skill set and expertise in business growth and technology implementation across several industries including manufacturing, utilities, oil & gas and tech start-ups.

She is a big believer in the importance of approaching any strategic change using the lens of the people who are impacted by understanding their voices and ideas – including clients, team members and partners. Supporting through the journey as a team helps everyone embrace the change and drive results more effectively.

Lunch with a Leader featuring Katherine Emberly

Learn More

Join us for an engaging Lunch with a Leader event featuring Katherine Emberly, President & CEO of STARS, a transformational leader with over two decades of executive experience. Katherine is known for her dynamic communication skills, strategic leadership, and unwavering commitment to delivering critical care to the most vulnerable. Her expertise spans across multiple sectors, making her an inspiring mentor for aspiring leaders.

Only 10 spots available! Registration opens Sept 19 @ 9am.

Must be an Axis Member to register (Register here)

- - Date: October 3, 2024
  - Location: The Ranchmen’s Club
  - Time: Please arrive at 11:15 am. Lunch will start at 11:30 am.
  - Lunch is included.

KATHERINE EMBERLY

President & CEO, STARS

Katherine is a transformational leader and dynamic communicator with over two decades of executive experience. As President & CEO of STARS, she is accountable for the alignment and direction of the organizations’ strategy, as well as building on critical external stakeholder relationships with government, donors, and key partners. Katherine and her team have a singular focus – delivering critical care to the most vulnerable and sickest people wherever and whenever needed. They achieve this goal by being values and purpose driven.

Prior to joining STARS, Katherine spent the last twenty years with Shaw Communications, progressing through more senior roles until she spent the last five years as President, Business. Having grown with and across that organization, Katherine is a champion of building talent and providing opportunities to stretch, grow and learn.

Katherine is also committed to giving back to the community that has provided so many opportunities for her, and she sits on the boards of Alberta Blue Cross, Calgary Economic Development and Axis Connects.

Katherine is ICD.D certified, has completed the Harvard Executive Leadership program, and is a graduate of the University of Alberta.

Lunch with a Leader featuring Judith Athaide

Join us for an inspiring “Lunch with a Leader” event featuring Judith Athaide, a distinguished corporate director, entrepreneur, and engineer whose vast experience and strategic insight have made her a driving force in multiple industries. Judith’s leadership extends across energy, finance, technology, and more, making her a true multidisciplinary expert and a model for aspiring leaders.

With 30 years of executive and corporate governance experience, Judith currently serves on the Boards of Kiwetinohk Energy Corporation and Canada Pension Plan Investments. Her role as Chair of the Governance and Nomination Committee at Kiwetinohk reflects her deep expertise in shaping effective leadership teams and driving corporate excellence.

A lifelong advocate for continuous learning, Judith holds a Bachelor of Commerce, an MBA in Finance, and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Her commitment to professional development is further demonstrated by her certifications, including a Nuclear Governance Certificate from Emory University and a Certificate in Artificial Intelligence from MIT Sloan. As an instructor for the ICD DEP program and an examiner for mock boardroom examinations, Judith is dedicated to preparing the next generation of board members and leaders.

This lunch is an exceptional opportunity for those interested in corporate governance, engineering, and strategic leadership. Judith’s extensive experience across various sectors makes her an ideal mentor for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of board roles or aiming to enhance their strategic decision-making skills.

If your career path is aligned with corporate leadership, governance, or innovative entrepreneurship, this lunch will provide invaluable insights and guidance from one of Canada’s most accomplished leaders.

Only 10 spots available! Registration opens Sept 4 @ 9am.

Must be an Axis Member to register (Register here)

- - Date: Sept 17, 2024
  - Location: The Ranchmen’s Club
  - Time: Please arrive at 11:15 am. Lunch will start at 11:30 am.
  - Lunch is included.

About Judith Athaide

Ms. Athaide is an accomplished corporate director, entrepreneur, Professional Engineer (P.Eng.), and certified Corporate Director (ICD.D). She has 30 years of executive and corporate governance experience in a variety of sectors including energy, power and utilities, clean technology, software, oilfield services, banking and investments.

Ms. Athaide is currently serving on the Board of Kiwetinohk Energy Corporation where she Chairs the Governance and Nomination Committee and the Board of Canada Pension Plan Investments.

A proponent of life-long learning and continuous improvement, she has a Bachelor of Commerce degree (Honours), a Masters of Business Administration in Finance, a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and has been awarded the designation of ICD.D by the Institute of Corporate Directors. She has earned the Nuclear Governance Certificate from the Goizueta School of Business at Emory University and a Certificate in Artificial Intelligence from the MIT Sloan School of Business. She has been an adjunct professor at a number of Canadian universities and is an instructor for the ICD DEP program and an examiner for the ICD’s mock boardroom examinations.

Lunch with a Leader featuring Heather Culbert

Join us for an exceptional “Lunch with a Leader” event featuring Heather Culbert, a trailblazing leader whose contributions have profoundly shaped Calgary’s community landscape. Heather is more than a leader—she is an innovator and change-maker who has dedicated her life to advancing the causes that matter most to our city.

After nearly three decades in the oil and gas industry, Heather transitioned from her executive role to focus on enhancing our community. Over the past decade, she has made a lasting impact by serving as Chair of SAIT’s Board of Governors, co-chairing the Promising Futures Campaign, and founding pivotal initiatives like Board Ready Women, Axis Connects, and the Calgary Influential Women in Business (CIWB) Awards. Through these efforts, Heather has tirelessly championed the advancement of women on local boards and in Calgary’s business community.

Heather’s commitment extends far beyond these roles. As a trustee for the Alberta Cancer Foundation and past chair of United Way of Calgary and Area, she has consistently demonstrated her dedication to philanthropic leadership. Currently, she serves as Chair of the United Way World Leadership Council, continuing her mission to drive positive change.

One of Heather’s most significant undertakings is her work as co-chair of the OWN.CANCER campaign, where she leads efforts to raise over $250 million for the new Arthur JE Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre. Thanks to her leadership, $225 million has already been secured, bringing us closer to opening a facility that will revolutionize cancer treatment and improve survival rates across Calgary and Alberta.

This lunch is an invaluable opportunity for those aspiring to board leadership or seeking to make a meaningful impact in their careers. Heather’s extensive experience and passion for community enhancement make her the ideal mentor for anyone looking to become board-ready or take the next step in their professional journey.

Don’t miss this chance to learn from one of Calgary’s most influential leaders and gain insights that could transform your path to leadership.

Only 10 spots available! Registration opens August 21 @ 9am.

Must be an Axis Member to register (Register here)

- - Date: Sept 4, 2024
  - Location: The Ranchmen’s Club
  - Time: Please arrive at 11:15 am. Lunch will start at 11:30 am.
  - Lunch is included.

About Heather Culbert

Heather is a co-founder of Axis Connects as well as the founder of Board Ready Women, a non-profit focused on raising awareness of women on boards in Alberta and assisting with opportunities for women to serve on Boards.

Heather currently serves as Vice-Chair of Export Development Canada (EDC), Board Member of The Fraser Institute, Chair of United Way World Leadership Council and as a co-fellow of the Jarislowsky Foundation, benefiting the MBA program of the Haskayne School of business at the University of Calgary.

From 1996 to 2006 Ms. Culbert was the Senior Vice President of Corporate Services with Enerplus Resources Corporation.

Lunch with a Leader featuring Jane Fedoretz

Date: June 20, 2024
Location: The Ranchmen’s Club (McPherson Room)
Time: Please arrive at 11:00am. Lunch will begin at 11:30am.
Lunch is included!

Agenda
Welcome & Leader Introduction (15 minutes):
Networking and Discussions/Lunch (40 minutes):
Closing Remarks and Conclusion (5 minutes):

Registration Opens June 7 @ 9am!

Transformative Leadership: Unleashing Team Potential

Join us for a captivating Career Development Dialogue on the topic of Transformative Leadership: Unleashing Team Potential

Are you on a quest for the secret sauce that propels teams toward unprecedented success? Look no further. The upcoming Axis Connects Career Development Dialogue is your gateway to mastering the art of leadership that not only meets but shatters expectations. Dive into a treasure trove of innovative strategies and practical tools designed to elevate your team’s dynamics and results.

This session, orchestrated by Monark’s vanguards of leadership excellence and organizational psychology (visit them at leadwithmonark.com), promises to arm you with the cutting-edge techniques needed to amplify your team’s influence, harness collective strengths, and surge ahead in performance. Join us and transform the way you lead.

Topic: Transformative Leadership: Unleashing Team Potential
Speaker: : Amanda Julian, Chief Science Officer & Co-Founder, Monark
Venue: The Hyatt Regency Downtown (Thomson’s Social Hub)
Date: June 12, 2024
Time: 11:30am – 1pm
For: All Career Levels
Attendance: 100+ Axis Connects Members
Ticket Price: $40 (lunch included)

Agenda

11:30AM: Registration & Networking
12:00PM: Program Begins
1:00PM: Program Ends
1:30PM: Optional time for networking

Seating for this event is very limited, and tickets are expected to sell out rapidly. Don’t delay – secure your spot by registering now!

We hope to see you there!

Responding to our members’ valuable feedback, it’s evident that there’s a strong desire for increased networking opportunities during our sessions. To address this, we’re excited to announce that for this month’s event, we’ve dedicated time both before and after the presentation for meaningful networking opportunities.

Must be an Axis Connect’s member, membership is free – register at www.axisconnects.com

Amanda Julian, Chief Science Officer & Co-Founder, Monark

Amanda holds a PhD in Industrial Organizational Psychology, and is passionate about bridging the gap between leadership research and practice. Together with co-founder Kelsey Hahn, Amanda recognized the opportunity to apply her extensive experience in leadership and organizational assessment and development, as the basis for Monark’s innovative approach to improving access to leadership development and training.