MP James Cumming

The speaker will first discuss the challenges Canada is facing:

• OECD (June 2020) reports Canada as having the highest unemployment in G7 (13%)
• Second highest spending in G7 (13.8% of GDP) after Germany (unemployment rate 4%)
• Canada fell out of top 10 rank of world’s most competitive economies (13^th)
• Canada ranks 17th among 20 countries in Global Innovation Index

He will then outline his vision on balanced approach for oil and gas sector and environmental protection, as well as role of technology in economic development.

Biography:

The former President & CEO of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, the largest urban chamber in Canada, James is an active leader in Edmonton’s business and non-profit volunteer communities.

A life-long successful entrepreneur, James understands the focus and drive needed to build something from scratch. Whether it is starting out as an independent business owner many years ago to becoming the President of the Chamber of Commerce, or starting as a student in NAIT’s Construction Engineering Technology and becoming the Chair of NAIT’s Board of Governors, James knows that it is hard work and determination that leads to success.

James also knows that with entrepreneurship comes an inherent responsibility to give back to your community. This is why he actively supports non-profit organizations such as Junior Achievement, Northlands Park, Edmonton Construction Association, Alberta Art Stabilization Fund, Norlien Foundation, Alberta Opportunity Corporation, and the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Canada, to name a few. A recipient of NAIT’s Alumni Award of Distinction and Top 50 Alumni, James is a current member of the World Presidents’ Organization and the Harvard University Alumni OPM 27.

A life-long Edmontonian born and raised in Edmonton Centre, James and his wife Debbie have been married for 35 years and are the proud parents of three beautiful children and one grandchild.

Address:Edmonton, Alberta, Canada