- Need Technical Assistance? powc25@getvfairs.io
Welcome to the official website for the 2025 Power of Water Canada Conference!
As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we invite you to join us for an inspiring and transformative event dedicated to advancing water management and sustainability. This landmark event will bring together industry experts, thought leaders, and water enthusiasts from across Canada, US and internationally to explore cutting-edge solutions, share insights, and drive the future of sustainable waterpower development.
This year’s conference will feature a dynamic lineup of keynote speakers, panel discussions, and interactive workshops, showcasing the latest innovations and solutions in the water sector. Discover how we’re shaping the future of water and be part of this milestone celebration that promises to inspire and empower.
Be part of our journey as we continue to drive positive change and shape the future of waterpower for generations to come.
We regret to inform you that hotel rooms at the White Oaks Conference Resort are now fully booked.
We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and kindly ask that you arrange accommodations at a nearby hotel. Below are a few options located just minutes from the conference venue:
Hilton Garden Inn Niagara-on-the-Lake
500 York Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
Approximately 1.4 km from White Oaks Resort
Staybridge Suites Niagara-on-the-Lake
524 York Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
Approximately 1.5 km from White Oaks Resort
Holiday Inn Express Niagara-on-the-Lake
524 York Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
Approximately 1.5 km from White Oaks Resort
We appreciate your understanding and look forward to welcoming you to the conference!
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Adam Chamberlain is a partner in Gowling WLG's Toronto office, and leader of the firm's Climate Change and Environmental Law Group. He is also active in the firm's Indigenous Law and Canada North groups.
Certified as a specialist in both environmental law and Indigenous legal issues (corporate and commercial) by the Law Society of Ontario, Adam has a broad practice with work related to these areas at its heart.
Issues that he addresses regularly include: climate change, GHG and other emissions regulation and transactions, impact assessment, defense of environmental prosecutions, corporate commercial and other relationships involving Indigenous owned and operated entities, natural resource regulation and related business relationships, as well as litigation related to and arising from aspects of his practice.
Adam's work is geographically diverse, and he is an active member of the bar in all three of Canada's territories, in addition to his home province of Ontario. Sectors in which he has project and other experience include: waste management, energy (renewable generation, distribution and transmission), mining, infrastructure development, water and wastewater, contaminated land management, as well as municipal infrastructure.
Adam's practice has long been centered on matters now described as "ESG" (environmental, social and governance). He has advised corporate officers and directors on such matters for more than 25 years. Adam has a unique blend of experience and a pragmatic approach to relationship building and problem solving that equips him well to provide strategic legal advice and to assist a wide variety of different clients that include Indigenous organizations (Inuit, Métis, and First Nations), governments, agencies of government, and private companies of various sorts in several sectors.
Adam is non-Indigenous, but has lifelong relationships and experience with Indigenous Canadians. He considers himself an ally of his Indigenous friends, colleagues, clients, and business acquaintances.
Albert Mikhail is P. Eng with 43 years of Experience in the Hydroelectric Turbine Performance, like turbine performance testing (over 600 Performance Tests), Turbine Condition Assessments, Supervise and witnessed Performance tests, Prepare Operating Performance Tables, Participated in the Canadian/USA water Sharing Agreement of 2000.
Andre has 25 years of experience at OPG in various roles including Water Resources Engineering (Hydraulics/Hydrology/Dam Safety), Operations, and Project Management. Andre has worked on a large variety of projects from replacement of plant system components to reconstruction of significant structures such as the SAB1 Tailrace Deck and new hydroelectric stations construction. Andre was on the project team that built new hydroelectric stations on the Lower Mattagami River.
Andre was OPG’s Project Leader/Manager for the SAB1 Tailrace Deck Replacement Project.
Ben is an experienced Project Manager at Rankin Construction with 14 years of expertise in the construction industry. He has managed numerous projects here in Niagara, working with municipalities on water and wastewater, as well as the ICI and heavy civil sectors. Ben holds a C.E.T certification and is a graduate of Niagara College. Over the last 5 years Ben has managed the OPG construction portfolio (on behalf of Rankin) as part of their ongoing Vendor of Record Contract.
Ben was Rankin’s Project Manager for the SAB1 Tailrace Deck Replacement Project.
Bruno has over 35 years of international and domestic experience relating to hydroelectric projects. He has extensive experience and thorough knowledge related to the design, construction, maintenance, operation, and emergency procedures of hydroelectric projects, including leading project teams, and coordinating multidisciplinary activities. Bruno was on several field resident engineering assignments in Colombia, Laos, Kenya, the Philippines, and North America. Bruno worked for Sogreah/Artelia in Grenoble, France for ten years before moving to Vancouver, Canada and have been working for Klohn Crippen Berger ever since.
Caleb is an Environmental Technologist in excess of 17 years experience specializing in Aquatic and Terrestrial assessments, monitoring, permitting, rehabilitation, compensation and closure. Caleb has extensive experience in the documentation of the natural environment and construction monitoring pertaining to Mining, Rail, Road, Hydro-Electric, Solar, Wind and Nuclear projects.
He is a proven project manager with multiple clients and projects managed concurrently with supervision of a diverse project team ranging from a few individuals to projects requiring multiple task teams comprising varying skill sets required to assist clients through the phases of pre-feasibility, design /permitting, construction and closure.
Chris has over 20 years of experience in project planning and execution, which includes a wealth of environmental experience through his work in both Nuclear and Renewable Generation. Most notably, Chris's work experience spans a number of projects including supporting the Little Long/Smoky Falls Dam Safety Projects, the Darlington New Nuclear Project and Darlington Refurbishment Environmental Assessments, as well as leading the creation of "Big Island" fish habitat bank at the Bay of Quinte.
Colin has dedicated his entire career to the energy sector. As a Professional Engineer with an MBA and over twenty-five years’ experience, Colin has extensive knowledge of the electricity industry. He has demonstrated capability in all areas of the business and has achieved success in resolving executive-level strategic and tactical issues.
Currently, Colin is the President and CEO of the Association of Power Producers of Ontario (APPrO). APPrO represents generators operating in the province of Ontario, and a variety of organizations and individuals concerned with generation. APPrO members include developers, suppliers and consultants to power enterprises, both public and private, with an emphasis on implementing reliable, affordable and sustainable energy systems in Ontario and around the world.
Previously, Colin was the President of the Association of Major Power Consumers in Ontario (AMPCO). AMPCO is a not-for-profit consumer interest advocacy organization with members representing Ontario's major industries.
Colin has previously worked as a power plant engineer at a large generating company, a design engineer at a power generation sector OEM, a management consultant at a major consulting firm and a regulatory professional within the energy sector.
Dan is a fisheries specialist with over 20 years of experience in environmental approvals, monitoring and regulatory policy in Canada. For the past 14 years he has supported both the operations and redevelopment of OPG’s hydroelectric fleet throughout the province. He is an active contributor to legislative policy review both provincially and federally and has appeared numerous times as a subject matter expert before federal parliamentary committees and senate committees on the Fisheries Act.
Mr. Giesbrecht is a mechanical engineer at KGS Group. He has over 15 years’ experience in providing mechanical design for gates, hoists, balance of plant, and turbine systems for hydro-electric and industrial projects. Experience includes installation/commissioning of turbine/generator/gate systems, overhauls, dam safety reviews, and turbine performance testing.
Darryl has over 10 years of experience as a civil engineer with ELLIS Engineering Inc. He specializes in bridge and culvert rehabilitation and replacement design, structural analysis, and 3D modelling. Darryl has completed numerous recent municipal bridge and culvert rehabilitations and replacements as a design engineer and site inspector. He has extensive experience in applying the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) Ontario Structure Inspection Manual (OSIM) to inspection projects, and the Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code (CHBDC) to design projects.
Darryl was ELLIS Engineering Inc.'s project engineer for the SAB1 Tailrace Deck Replacement Project.
An influential leader and strategic advisor in the energy and construction industry whose diverse experience building strong relationships with senior leaders in government, utilities, First Nations, and partner corporations drives ambitious power projects forward. Proven, trusted and reliable, able to help define and articulate project requirements among all stakeholders, articulate strategy and foresee challenges. Create innovative project solutions that address timing, scheduling, safety, quality, environmental, heritage, Indigenous engagement and opportunity, scope, and execution risks and opportunities.
Knowledgeable industry expert and engaged mentor who leverages people’s unique talents, developing highly motivated teams, and fostering an environment of continuous improvement and project excellence.
Previously Vice President of PowerTel Utilities Contractors Limited, a leading high voltage contractor in Canada. Retired from PowerTel in 2020. Currently working as an 'Opportunity Maker' doing business development and relationship building. Assisting organizations In the Energy and Construction sectors with strategy, planning, and risk review. Previously co-owner and executive of PowerTel from 1988 -2014, involved in all aspects of business operations and management with focused responsibilities on risk management.
Previously owner and Vice President of PowerTraxx, manufacturer of specialized off road tracked vehicles from 2004 to 2014 involved in many aspects of the business including risk management. An industry leader involved in many boards including IHSA, MOL, MTCU, and Cambrian College. OACETT Member since 1986 and CET. Completed the U of T Rotmans School of Management Directors Education Program In 2019 and completed the requirements to receive the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) Directors designation (ICD.D).
Co-owner in creating Cobalt Power Company Inc. in developing Hydroelectric Generation (1987 to 1996).
Involved In developing trades training programs for Powerline Technician and 'Make Ready' Training for First Nations at Cambrian College with industry and IHSA. Premier's Award Nominee November 2024.
Involved in the pursuit of major infrastructure development in the northern regions of Canada to remote communities and locations. Continued involvement in the high voltage power sector in project development in Canada and US.
Erik has worked as an aquatic biologist for Kleinschmidt Associates since 2023 and has nine years of hydropower-specific experience specializing in aquatic ecology and fisheries studies. Erik attended Carleton University where he carried out his master’s research assessing fish entrainment and mortality at Wasdell Falls on the Severn River in Ontario. After completed his MSc in Biology (fish ecology) he worked various projects for both provincial and federal agencies before entering the world of consulting. Erik has authored several scientific papers on fish interactions with hydropower in Ontario and has been a co-author on multiple others. Recently, he has completed his term serving as president of the American Fisheries Society’s Ontario Chapter and continues to serve on the executive committee. As an avid outdoorsman outside of work, Erik is deeply invested in the future of aquatic and terrestrial resources in Ontario
Eugene has 23 years of experience specializing in the design, additions, improvements, and replacement of heavy electrical equipment at power generation facilities. He has also designed and commissioned instrumentation and control systems for equipment including exciters, governors, synchronous condensers, and switchgear. Eugene continues to be engaged in the upgrade works at various dam and powerhouse facilities throughout Canada, the United States, and Australia.
George Christidis is the interim President and CEO of Canadian Nuclear Association and most recently held the role of Vice President of Government Relations and International Affairs. He is also Director of Federal Affairs for Ontario Power Generation.
George has extensive experience in designing and implementing advocacy strategies and initiatives that have supported the Canadian nuclear industry in Canada and abroad. With over 20 years of experience working with federal, provincial, municipal, and international government stakeholders, Mr.Christidis' experience includes diverse public and private sector involvement, providing strategic advice and recommendations to senior government and corporate decision-makers. He has previously held key positions within the Canadian government that include policy advisor and former chief of staff for key ministers in the Canadian government.
Greg is the founder and President of Innovative Research Group Inc. (INNOVATIVE), a national public opinion research and consultation firm with offices in Toronto and Vancouver.
As a former Principal Secretary to a Premier, Greg has built a career at the intersection of public opinion, communications and public policy.
Much of Greg’s current work has focused on social licence. On issues ranging from toll roads to higher electricity rates to pipelines and transmission lines, INNOVATIVE has delivered strategic and communications research as well as running research-based public consultations.
Greg’s polls have been highlighted in media across the country. In the last election, his research was featured in the Globe and Mail and the Hill Times and was covered widely by such outlets as the Guardian and the Wall Street Journal. In 2016, Greg received the Public Affairs Association of Canada Award of Distinction. He also holds the Certified Analytics and Insights Profession (CAIP) designation.
Mr. Carter has more than 18 years of experience in the independent power industry and has focused primarily on the development, permitting, construction, and operations of hydroelectric generating facilities. Since 2002 he has developed, permitted, and is now responsible for operating 51 MW of generating capacity for Regional Power. He has also permitted a 25 MW development-stage project, and two projects (19 MW total) which are under construction and will be complete in early 2016.
James also manages Capstone Infrastructure’s portfolio of operating hydro sites totaling 36 MW and is actively pursuing new business development opportunities in the international renewable energy space for partnership, development, or investment by Regional Power, or investment by Regional Power.
OPG Liaison / Acting Employment & Training
Taykwa Tagamou Nation
Jennifer grew up spending much time with her family on their traditional lands, fishing, hunting, trapping and nurturing her relationship with her home, the land, aski. She has over 20 years working on land based policy development, environmental assessments and stewardship planning with First Nations as well as with federal and provincial governments. After completing an undergraduate degree in Biology (B.Sc) from Wilfrid Laurier University, she continued on to achieve a Master’s of Science degree in Ecology from the University of Guelph. Although her academic education provided excellent tools for her work today, her cultural teachings on the land continues to be foundational in making sense of most things! Jennifer belongs to the Moose Cree First Nation and is currently employed by her First Nation working as the lead on an reconciliation based partnership with a provincial corporation (Ontario Power Generation).
Jon is the Director of Business Development and Regional Manager (Ontario) for Hydropower and Dams at Hatch. He provides leadership for both projects and business development activities and has over 20 years of experience in consulting in the management and design of hydropower projects, and in leading engineering teams. This includes projects ranging from concept to commissioning, as well as due diligence and independent engineering assessments.
Julianna is a senior GIS Analyst with over 9 years of experience with extensive education in statistical and spatial analysis and biological sciences. She has an Honour’s bachelor's degree in mathematics and biology and through additional education obtained a Post Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information (GIS) Systems and completed a Civil Engineering Technician diploma. She has experience working with rail, transportation, and hydropower projects that involve updating and maintenance of geospatial information, spatial analysis, 3D modelling, raster analysis and geoprocessing.
Justin is a lawyer with more than a decade of experience in Canada’s energy sector, specializing in policy and government relations. Since becoming Executive Director in 2019, Justin has facilitated significant growth within Energy Storage Canada’s membership, staff and conference offerings to match the accelerated growth of the storage sector, succeeding in establishing ESC as the voice of energy storage in Canada. Justin holds an Honours BA in Economics & Political Science from the University of Toronto, as well as a Law Degree from the University of Western. He currently sits on the board of the York Children’s Aid Society.
Karen is a structural engineer with over 30 years’ experience in the waterpower sector. She founded MKE in 2006, was the first female recipient of the OWA’s R.R. Dodokin Award, and elected to serve two terms on OWA Board of Directors. Karen’s waterpower experience ranges from feasibility studies, permitting, design, independent engineering, construction management, structural inspections, and dam safety documentation.
Kathleen is the Global Director of Operations for the Environment & Sustainability Practice at Hatch. She is an Environmental and Social Impact Specialist with nearly 20 years of experience in environmental assessment, permit and approval acquisition, regulatory compliance, environmental and social due diligence, regulatory and stakeholder consultation as well as Indigenous engagement for energy developments, including hydroelectric projects.
Leonard Kula is the VP-Policy for Eastern Canada at the Canadian Renewable Energy Association – Canada’s national voice for wind generation, solar generation and energy storage.
He joined CanREA mid-2023, after retiring from a lengthy career at Ontario Hydro/Independent Electricity System Operator.
At Ontario Hydro, Leonard worked on the design and operation of nuclear and coal-fired generating stations.
With the dissolution of Ontario Hydro in 1999, Leonard began working at the Independent Electricity System Operator. Leonard worked in about 10 different roles over 23 years. His final role at the IESO was Chief Operating Officer where he was responsible for real-time operation of the Ontario electricity system and wholesale electricity markets, long-term planning of generation resources and transmission, resource procurement, power system engineering and wholesale market design. Leonard was also an active participant in continent-wide forums for reliability and market design.
Lorena holds an MBA from the University of Texas in Austin and a Bachelor’s Degree in International Development from Dalhousie University. Lorena moved to Ottawa in 2018 as Director of Public Affairs for TC Energy, after heading Corporate Affairs and Stakeholder Relations for the firm for nearly 15 years in Mexico City. She was President of the Mexican Natural Gas Association from 2016 to 2018, a Board Member of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Mexico, and represented the Mexican Natural Gas Industry during CUSMA negotiations and in bilateral conversations between Mexico and the United States on the US – Mexico
Energy Business Council. A native Albertan, Lorena was the first representative of the Alberta Government to be posted at the Embassy of Canada in Mexico City, in 2002. Most recently, Lorena was the Senior Vice President, Public Affairs and Policy for the Association of Canadian Distillers (Spirits Canada).
In 2008, Michaelle Jean awarded Lorena with the Governor General’s Award for her work in strengthening the bilateral relationship between Canada and Mexico. She is a founding member of Voz Experta, an organization that works to increase the visibility of women in the Mexican energy sector, is a proud member of the Ottawa chapter of the International Women’s Forum. Lorena speaks English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
Margaret Kenequanash has been CEO of Wataynikaneyap Power since August 2017: an Indigenous-led, licensed transmission entity bringing grid connection to remote First Nations in northern Ontario previously powered by diesel generators.
• Wataynikaneyap Power is 51% owned equally by 24 First Nations, in partnership with Fortis Inc. and other private investors
• Construction is 100% complete and currently 14 First Nations are grid connected
• It will ultimately connect 17 remote First Nations to the provincial power grid via 1,800 km of transmission lines and 22 substations.
• This project was mandated by Chiefs and is an unprecedented example of First Nations controlling development in the Homelands.
Margaret has a vast wealth of knowledge gleaned from over 30 years in various high-level positions, including being on the Sioux Lookout Municipal Council from 1990-1994 and Executive Director of the Shibogama First Nations Council from 2005-2017. Margaret carries the distinction of being the first female Chief in her community at North Caribou Lake First Nation when she was elected in 1996. She is well known and respected throughout First Nation communities and government for her work in promoting opportunities and better quality of life for First Nation Peoples.
Michelle Lavictoire is an Associate Partner and Senior Biologist at CIMA+ with over 27 years of experience in environmental management, permitting, and regulatory compliance for infrastructure and hydroelectric projects. She has extensive expertise in environmental impact assessments, permitting processes, indigenous and public consultations, species at risk evaluations, and fisheries habitat protection. Michelle has successfully led environmental permitting efforts for projects requiring compliance with the Fisheries Act, the Endangered Species Act, and provincial and federal environmental regulations.
Mike Hreben has 35 years of hydropower-specific experience. He specializes in fisheries and water quality concerns related to hydroelectric facilities including, fish entrainment, turbine mortality, fish passage and protection, research on American Eel and Lake Sturgeon, fisheries abundance and diversity, habitat enhancement, instream flow, and water quality monitoring and enhancement. He manages FERC relicensing efforts involving multiple studies directed at various environmental, engineering, and socio-economic issues. Mike has conducted studies in Ontario for more than 20 years with an emphasis on American Eel and Lake Sturgeon. Mike designs and uses specialized collection systems or monitoring systems fish populations and collect specimens for analysis. He has conducted numerous empirical and desktop entrainment and entrainment mortality studies associated with both migratory and resident fish species. Mike served as Kleinschmidt’s Corporate Secretary for seven years and as Chairman of the Board for an additional five years.
Nick leads a 1,300-person, multi-disciplinary team that manages operations, public and dam safety, asset reliability and a large capital investment program. Nick’s oversight spans RG's fleet, which includes one solar facility, two thermal stations, and 66 hydroelectric stations with 239 dams across 24 river systems, collectively generating 35 TWh of power from 10,000 MW of capacity. Prior to this role, Nick had accountability for power-generating facilities as the Vice President (VP) of Niagara Operations, including the flagship Sir Adam Beck Complex in Niagara, and hydro facilities in the St. Catharines, Gravenhurst and Campbellford regions. In previous roles at OPG, Nick was the VP of Energy Markets and had responsibility for the strategy and performance of all energy market activities in Ontario, the 24/7 power control centre for the fleet and trading activities in the US Northeast. Nick has broad strategic, energy market, contract and operations experience with leading UK, European and Canadian generators. Nick currently chairs the Board of Ontario Water Association, is on the board for several First Nation Partnership generating assets and supports his local community through a not-for-profit board with Skate Oakville.
Founded Worthington Products more than 25 years ago and has been an active member in multiple organizations advocating for dam safety and, in particular, public safety around dams. Has worked on complex debris, safety, and ice boom projects in 65 countries including large projects in Brazil (Jirau Hydro), Laos (Xayaburi Hydro, Hulu Terrengannuu), Malawi (Kamuzu Barrage), as well as significant projects within the USA and Canada. Worthington continues to advise and develop barrier safety technologies for numerous international working groups, helping foster enhanced generation capabilities and supporting dam safety.
Paul Norris is the President of the OWA. Under Paul’s leadership the OWA has grown to include over one hundred and fifty (150) members with a shared commitment to the advancement of environmentally sustainable economic development and resource management. Paul has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Toronto and is a graduate of Ryerson’s Public Administration Program. He holds an MBA from Queen’s University and the Certified Association Executive designation.
Rich has worked for Fisheries and Oceans Canada in the Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program since 2001. He is currently the Team Lead for the Hydro and Flows unit reviewing hydro-electric projects for impacts to fish and fish habitat across Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario. Rich is currently working with the hydro industry across the Ontario and Prairie Region and the national DFO hydro team to explore opportunities for bringing existing facilities and operators into compliance with the federal Fisheries Act.
Robyn has more than 20 years of experience working in public affairs and policy-making, with more than a decade of that time specializing in environmental and climate change policy. As Vice President of Clean Infrastructure, Robyn works with clients undertaking decarbonization projects that will contribute to the low-carbon economy. Using her extensive experience in energy and carbon policy, sustainability, and responsible green infrastructure project development, Robyn guides clients through the complex policy, political, and regulatory arenas on all levels of government to ensure successful project execution.
Rocky is the Founder & CEO of the NoW of Work - a business transformation firm whose primary focus is helping leaders build future-proofed, resilient teams that are anchored on cultures of innovation and agility. He couples a decade of senior leadership roles in large organizations, with 10-years in start-up tech to form what he believes is the culture and operational DNA for all modern companies. Previously, Rocky held the role of Vice-President and Head of Corporate Innovation for the BC Tech Association and is a 3-time tech startup Founder.
Rocky has long been preaching that the Future of Work was going to arrive faster than most people and companies believed. Technology, the connected generation, and the sharing economy were once thought to be the key drives, but in fact, COVID-19 has proven to be the single greatest force to change the way we work and live. Now more than ever, he is sharing his deep passion for inspiring executives, and then helping them transform their business into resilient organizations that will remain relevant over the long-term. Rocky is a highly sought after speaker who brings a unique perspective with real-life applications.
Ron Monk is past Chair of the Board and Principal of Kerr Wood Leidal Associates Ltd. Ron is an expert water resources and energy specialist. He initiated and then led KWL’s Energy Sector for over fifteen years. Ron has over thirty-five years of experience in the water resources and energy industries and held senior roles in both consulting engineering and with BC Hydro. Ron’s roles at BC Hydro included Manager of Energy Planning, Manager of Rates and Metering Strategy, Temporary Manager of Distribution Operations (fill in for leave), Manager of Sustainability (including climate change strategy), Manager of Research and Development, and Strategic Planning Manager. As Strategic Planning Manager, Ron played a key role in developing and implementing the strategy that transformed BC Hydro’s focus to energy efficiency and clean power.
Ron has worked on energy projects ranging in size from 80 kW to 3,000 MW. Ron has significant experience with design and construction of energy (hydro and other renewables, power lines, natural gas, and liquified natural gas) and water resources projects. Ron co-invented KWL’s Rapid Hydro Assessment Model (RHAM) and Rapid Electrification Model (REM). Ron led the evaluation of hydro potential for Canada, Mexico, and Brunei. Ron works with First Nations, commercial, industrial, and mining companies to provide power supply evaluations to help clients select the best power option. Ron assists load and generation clients with connections to power utilities. Ron has significant experience with flood mitigation and remediation work including assessing the cost to improve over 100 orphan dikes in BC and providing technical review, senior construction inspection, and cost estimating for numerous river restoration projects required after the November 2021 atmospheric river event that breached the dikes of the Sumas River and caused extensive damage to other rivers and infrastructure in BC.
Sean Tutak is Haudenosaunee and a proud member of Tyendinaga First Nation. Sean joined the Hydro One team in January of 2023 as the Senior Manager of Indigenous Relations, Partnerships and Business Development.
In his role, Sean is responsible for negotiating and implementing Hydro One’s First Nation 50-50 Equity Partnership model and has been instrumental in working with Hydro One’s First Nation partners to advance a portfolio of large-scale transmission projects across Ontario. Sean and his team are currently working with over 40 First Nations partners across the province on ten massive transmission projects.
Prior to joining Hydro One, Sean spent 15 years in Indigenous Relations as a leader within the Ontario and Federal Public services. During his tenure, Sean led and was involved in the development of wide array of policy and legislation, the advancement of land claims and overseeing numerous engagement and consultation processes. Over this period, Sean led roughly $4 billion in negotiated settlements, claims and new programs.
Sophie is the Ontario Regional Manager for Hydropower and Dams at Hatch. She is a structural engineer and a project manager and has over 12 years of consulting and utility experience in both nuclear and hydropower. Sophie is focused on advancing knowledge and collaboration in the Hydropower industry utilizing multi-criteria decision analysis, data analytics, and systems thinking. She is pursuing her master’s degree in civil engineering with a focus on data analytics at McMaster University . |
Stefan Kohnen is a Principal and Regional Manager for the Toronto office of KGS Group, a consulting engineering firm with a broad range of services to the waterpower industry in Canada and the US. He is a dedicated believer in the value of small hydro within the waterpower world and has written articles and spoken widely in Canada and the US on approaches and case studies in the development of small hydro.
He has recently been focused on the redevelopment needs of the large number of heritage sites that are now passing their centenary throughout North America. He has held leadership roles in the development and redevelopment of eight small hydro generating stations in the last 10 years and has many lessons learned to share.
Stephen is an energy industry executive with over twenty-five years in the development, management, operation, acquisition and financing of environmental infrastructure, clean energy and renewable power generation, across Canada, the United States and in Europe. Stephen is responsible for re-contracting of existing hydro facilities generation and expansions and upgrades at FirstLight. Stephen is also responsible for Indigenous affairs associated with its existing facilities. Stephen in the past led multi-disciplinary teams in the successful acquisition of sixteen U.S. hydro facilities representing almost 1,400 MW of nameplate capacity. Previously, Stephen was a Vice President with Competitive Power Ventures (“CPV”), Inc. where he was responsible for the development of all CPV’s natural gas-fired power generation development projects (and associated natural gas pipeline and transmission lines) and large-scale wind projects, across Canada. Prior to joining CPV, Stephen was a member of the Probyn & Company and Clean Power Income Fund team responsible for business development and acquisitions. Stephen has experience working with the IESO, the Ministry of Energy, and various First Nations Groups across Canada and is a member of the Board of both the Association of Power Producers of Ontario (“APPrO”) and former Chair of the Board of the Ontario WaterPower Association (OWA). Stephen has also been the APPrO Annual Conference Chair from 2005 through 2025. Stephen holds an MBA from the University of Toronto and an Honours B.A. degree in Economics from the University of Waterloo.
Sue has worked in the power generation industry for over 20 years. She is currently using her project management skills, engineering background and environmental experience to support several large hydroelectric refurbishment projects. She most recently supported the Little Long Dam Safety Project, where OPG added additional spill capacity to an existing sluiceway structure.
Surendra is a Hydrotechnical (Civil) Engineer with more than 20 years of experience in Hydraulics and Hydrology related to water resources projects. Working on projects from different countries he has completed hydraulic and hydrologic studies and designs, and provided construction supervision, quality control and contract administration. His project work has included dam break modeling, inundation mapping, reference hydrology derivation and analysis including the Probable Maximum Flood (PMF) study, hydraulic conveyance design, drainage design, scaled physical modeling, numerical hydraulic model studies, etc.
Surendra was Hatch’s Project Engineer/ Project Manager for the SAB1 Tailrace Deck Replacement Project.
Tony retired from Ontario Power Generation in 2024, where he was Director of Dam and Public Safety. Tony leads CDA’s Public Safety Working Group and is Chair of ICOLD’s Committee on Public Safety and Emergency Management (ICOLD = International Commission On Large Dams).
Yannick Labonté is a Business Development Director at Groupe Carbonneau, specializing in hydroelectric and heavy mechanical projects. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and has led multiple small and medium hydro projects across Canada and the United States as a W2W and heavy hydromechanical equipment supplier. With a strong background in manufacturing and engineering, he works closely with clients to develop tailored solutions that optimize quality and cost efficiency. Passionate about innovation and collaboration, Yannick is dedicated to strengthening industry partnerships and driving technical excellence in small and medium hydro new and redevelopment projects.
Award Nominations Now Closed
Thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination. We appreciate your participation and look forward to seeing you at the Power of Water Canada Technical Conference and Tradeshow, taking place from May 7th to May 9th!
The Ontario Waterpower Association's annual Recognition Awards Ceremony, held during the Power of Water Canada Conference, is an opportunity to honor outstanding contributions to the waterpower industry. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the awards, which will be presented on Thursday, May 8th, 2025.
Nominations are now open for three prestigious awards:
Submitting a nomination allows you to celebrate individuals and organizations that have demonstrated excellence in leadership, innovation, and sustainable practices within the waterpower sector.
Don't miss the chance to recognize those shaping the future of waterpower in Ontario!
Have your nomination submitted no later then Monday March 31st, 2025!
