Schedule

Welcoming remarks from Chamber of Mines President Kenny Ruptash, Premier Simpson and YKDFN Chief Bestina. (invited)

Chair: Talha Qadri (GNWT-NTGS) & Jonathan Rocheleau (GNWT-NTGS) This year’s Energy Geoscience Session will feature energy resource topics that will range from petroleum geoscientific studies in the Mackenzie Valley and Mackenzie Delta regions, to geoscience-related alternative energy resources such as geothermal energy and natural gas. Speakers from government, academia, and industry will highlight current research pertaining to resource exploration and energy-related issues.

Chair: Mike Palmer (Aurora Research Institute) Lakes are an essential resource supporting cultural, subsistence, and recreational activities for communities in the Northwest Territories. Lakes are also under increased and cumulative pressures from climate change and municipal and industrial activities. This session will showcase research across a diverse spectrum of disciplines that address emerging and persistent threats to lakes in the Northwest Territories.

Chairs: Julie Ward (GNWT-ITI) & Jen Potten (MVLWB) This session will feature talks on the regulatory operating environment in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut including recent changes in legislation, policies and guidelines, both to the territorial and federal regimes. This session will also focus on some important aspects of land use planning and the linkages with northern regulatory boards.

Register HERE The keynote speaker will be the Honourable Lucy Kuptana, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women. (Must be registered for the Geoscience Forum to attend,) Lunch will be provided by Women in Mining and Energy, Northwest Territories.

Buffets will be set up to accommodate our 600 delegates! Delegates are encouraged to eat and then browse the trade show to make space for everyone to sit down and eat.

The WME Panel Presentation will provide an opportunity to explore current and future prospects within the Northwest Territories’ energy sector. The discussion will highlight how emerging initiatives are opening new technical and leadership pathways for women. The panel will also address how coordinated actions and forward-thinking policy can help build a more inclusive future for the NWT energy sector. Moderator Gaeleen MacPherson, President, NWT Women in Mining and Energy Panelists Belinda Whitford, Chief Operating Officer, NTPC With over 20 years in utility finance, Belinda has served as NTPC’s controller and Chief Financial Officer before stepping into the Chief Operating Officer position in October 2020. She is responsible for Hydro Operations, Thermal Operations, and Transmission and Distribution at NTPC. Dione McGuinness A senior engagement strategist with more than two decades of experience in energy, mining, infrastructure, and community development projects throughout Western and Northern Canada, Dione is as co-founder of IndigenUs Consulting. She leads planning and engagement processes that prioritize respect, clarity, and cultural understanding, working with Indigenous Nations, local governments, and industry stakeholders. Lenora McLeod, Acting Manager, Oil and Gas Rights, GNWT-ITI Lenora has over a decade of experience working with governments, organizations, and communities across Canada's North. Recognized for her expertise in land administration, Indigenous governance, and community development. She holds credentials in Petroleum Land Administration, Business Administration - Accounting, Project Management and Indigenous Community Development and Governance. Her career path has included a consistent focus on collaboration, accountability, and supporting long-term community well-being.

Chair: Talha Qadri (GNWT-NTGS) & Jonathan Rocheleau (GNWT-NTGS) This year’s Energy Geoscience Session will feature energy resource topics that will range from petroleum geoscientific studies in the Mackenzie Valley and Mackenzie Delta regions, to geoscience-related alternative energy resources such as geothermal energy and natural gas. Speakers from government, academia, and industry will highlight current research pertaining to resource exploration and energy-related issues.

Chair: Mike Palmer (Aurora Research Institute) Lakes are an essential resource supporting cultural, subsistence, and recreational activities for communities in the Northwest Territories. Lakes are also under increased and cumulative pressures from climate change and municipal and industrial activities. This session will showcase research across a diverse spectrum of disciplines that address emerging and persistent threats to lakes in the Northwest Territories.

Chairs: Julie Ward (GNWT-ITI) & Jen Potten (MVLWB) This session will feature talks on the regulatory operating environment in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut including recent changes in legislation, policies and guidelines, both to the territorial and federal regimes. This session will also focus on some important aspects of land use planning and the linkages with northern regulatory boards.

Moderator: Sima Sahar Zerehi, CEO, Arctic Opportunities Group Panellist: · Minister Caroline Wawzonek · Brendan Bell, Chief Executive Officer, West Kitikmeot Resources Corporation · Tłı̨chǫ Grand Chief Jackson Lafferty, Tłı̨chǫ Government

Join the GNWT for some coffee and refreshments.

Hosted by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and Facilitated by Bryan N. Detchou, Senior Director, Natural Resources, Environment & Sustainability, Canadian Chamber of Commerce

Chair: Talha Qadri (GNWT-NTGS) & Jonathan Rocheleau (GNWT-NTGS) This year’s Energy Geoscience Session will feature energy resource topics that will range from petroleum geoscientific studies in the Mackenzie Valley and Mackenzie Delta regions, to geoscience-related alternative energy resources such as geothermal energy and natural gas. Speakers from government, academia, and industry will highlight current research pertaining to resource exploration and energy-related issues.

Chairs: Julie Ward (GNWT-ITI) & Jen Potten (MVLWB) This session will feature talks on the regulatory operating environment in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut including recent changes in legislation, policies and guidelines, both to the territorial and federal regimes. This session will also focus on some important aspects of land use planning and the linkages with northern regulatory boards.

After a day of presentations, join us for networking at the Trade Show reception for a chance to connect with industry professionals, potential clients, and peers in the geoscience and mining sectors. Building relationships at these receptions can lead to new partnerships, collaborations, and business opportunities. The receptions often gather experts and influencers, providing an informal setting to gain insights into market trends, technological advancements, and industry challenges. The Yellowknife Geoscience Forum is deeply connected to the local community. Participating in these receptions shows support for the local economy and helps build stronger ties within the region, which can be beneficial for future business endeavors, especially in areas like the North where community relationships are crucial. Delegates can enjoy refreshments, cash bar also available.