Board Members

President

BRIAN GRANT

CEO,
Grande Prairie Airport

Brian has been working with airports for over 37 years with the majority of his career here at the Grande Prairie Regional Airport. He has been actively involved in regional and national regulatory affairs since the transfer of the Grande Prairie Airport to local control in 1997 and has been CEO of the Grande Prairie Airport Commission since its inception in 1998. He was also the founding Chair of the Regional Community Airports Canada, a national organization representing regional and small airports from across Canada in regulatory and viability affairs in Ottawa and currently sits as vice-chair.

Outside of his aviation career Brian and his family are active volunteers in community and regional events including work with the Rio Grande Sports Association and Mountview Curling Club in his home communities of Rio Grande and Elmworth for over 40 years.
Brian has also owned and operated businesses in agriculture, trucking, and highway charter bus services.

As a lifelong resident of the Beaverlodge area Brian and wife Lori live on their family farm near Rio Grande. Their children, Morgan and Jayme and their families, also reside in the local area.

Vice President

PAULETTE BUTLER

GENERAL MANAGER,
SANDMAN HOTEL

From the Grande Prairie Region, and having lived here most of her life.

She is a hospitality professional of over 40 years. Currently the General Manager of the Sandman Hotel and has been with them for over 17 years. She was also the recent Chair of the DMF (Destination Marketing Fund) Committee for the past 2 years.

Having grown up in the tourism industry she has a true understanding of how it effects our communities and the importance of its impact in our Region.

She has raised her family here in the region and through that has been involved in many sport associations over the years. Having travelled to many places, and is proud to say that Grande Prairie and Region has a lot to offer its visitors here with sports tourism, outdoor enthusiasts, festival attendees, etc.

She is honored to be on the board and looks forward to helping the GPRTA grow with the many opportunities we have in the Region and to help promote tourism.

SECRETARY - TREASURER

Kate Potter

mayor, town of sexsmith

Kate Potter was excited to join the GPRTA board. She has been the Mayor of the Town of Sexsmith since December of 2018 and loves serving in Municipal Government.

As a member of Council, Kate has served on the Economic Development Advisory Committee, South Peace Professional Attraction & Retention Committee (SPPARC), Sustainability Committee and Corporate Services Committee, among others. She is passionate about seeing our region move forward and work together in new ways, particularly around tourism and celebrating each other’s successes. Kate regularly promotes other communities in the region and what they have to offer, knowing that rising tides lift all boats. Her desire in serving on Council, boards, and committees is to help ignite the spark of innovation and make sure everyone’s strengths are being used in the best capacity.

Kate’s professional experience ranges from finance to small business owner to emergency services to advanced education and everything in between. She loves good governance, giving back to the community, strong & healthy organizations, and is always open to trying something new. Personally, Kate’s also a dedicated volunteer, mom to two munchkins, and wife to Luke. She loves new socks, great food experiences, and exploring (particularly in Alberta, where we have so much to offer).

Past President

SANDI NEVILLE

GENERAL MANAGER DELTA HOTEL & GRAND INN

Sandi is originally from Sydney, Nova Scotia and moved to Grande Prairie in January 1995.
As the General Manager and a history in the hospitality industry, Sandi understands the importance of tourism and its impact on the regional economy.

“Having travelled our region for so long with work and children’s sports, I have seen all the beauty it has to offer and all the hidden gems,” she says. “Now, I am able to share my knowledge of the area with our out-of-town guests who are travelling here for work or leisure and can encourage them to take in all Grande Prairie has to offer.”

Over the years, colleagues have been known to use Sandi as their Google and phone book, knowing they can rely on her knowledge of how to find just about anything in the area.

Sandi was previously Sales Manager at The Stanford Inn. She worked in the energy industry for 16 years before transitioning to the hospitality.

Sandi has two boys who have played sports in Grande Prairie for several years with the GP Composite High volleyball and football teams. She’s a board member for the Grande Prairie Football Association, Grande Prairie Pride Society and also a director on the board of The Northern Anarchy Ladies Football Team. She’s an avid traveler and relishes visiting Okanagan wineries. Sandi continues to be a tour guide on her vacation.
“I have reached over 135 spots now and love to bring friends with us and show them around,” she says. “Some of my friends said I should start a Kelowna winery blog since I also have so many photos of my visits.”
Another enjoyment is golf. “I love all the small little golf courses around the Peace Region.”

BOARD MEMBER

GRANT BERG

COUNCILLOR,
CITY OF GRANDE PRAIRIE

Grant Berg is the owner of Grant Berg Gallery, an art gallery representing over 55 artists featuring over 50% Peace Country artists.  Grant is also a Metis artist/sculptor juried into the Alberta Society of Artists and has 5 public sculptures in the city.  Grant is a past member of the Premier’s Council on Culture, former Chair of the Art Gallery of Grande Prairie and previous board member of Sexsmith Museum Society and Grande Prairie Stompede among others. The gallery is also a member of Indigenous Tourism Alberta and Indigenous Tourism Canada. Grant has been in the Peace Country since 1988.  Grant also brings a marketing background having a 29 year career in broadcasting prior to opening up his art gallery in May 2016.

BOARD MEMBER

WENDY BOSCH

Executive Director,
Grande Prairie DownTown Association

Wendy Bosch was delighted to join the Grande Prairie Regional Tourism Board to add her background and perspectives to this important organization.

As Executive Director of the DownTown Association, Wendy works hard to promote the City Centre, the community and area, as a whole.

Wendy moved to the City in September 2018 to become part of a community she had come to love visiting regularly over the last 20 years. She appreciates the vibrant life, attractions and events within the city while relishing the breathtaking local scenery and quiet places to unwind.

Wendy brings a diverse experience to the GPRTA Board. Prior to relocating from the Edmonton area, she operated successful small businesses and worked within the school system while raising her three children.

Her business background includes public relations, business management, marketing and sales/service experience. Wendy’s post-secondary education credentials are from the University of Calgary.

She looks forward to helping the GPRTA maximize opportunities to share the good news stories of the region and promote the many gems visitors will find in our area.

BOARD MEMBER

Renee Charbonneau

Executive Director,
Canadian Motorcycle Tourism Association

Throughout my diverse and dynamic career, I’ve been deeply immersed in various roles, reflecting my passion for motorcycling, community engagement, and small business advocacy. Since 2010, I’ve proudly served as the Executive Director of the Canadian Motorcycle Tourism Association, where I spearhead initiatives to promote rubber tire tourism and foster rider-friendly communities.

Before this, from 2003 to 2020, I charted my entrepreneurial journey with Belt Drive Betty Media, showcasing my self-driven spirit. My journey includes experiences ranging from being a Tower Operator at Hanson Ford to providing palliative care to my father.

I’ve navigated the realms of retail at Home Depot, managed floral endeavors at Flowers by Renee, and led promotions at Kingsway Inns International. Notably, my time as the Propulsion Enterprises Promotions Manager in California, where I also served as the Jet Car Crew Chief, added an exciting dimension to my career.

My educational journey has been marked by a commitment to continuous learning, including courses in event management, Adobe Photoshop, and small business training. As a lifelong learner, I’ve attended various seminars, workshops, and training courses to enhance both my personal interests and professional development.

I’ve also contributed to the community through volunteer work, from aiding during the Fort McMurray Wildfires to my ongoing involvement with Veterans Memorial Gardens. My multifaceted career is complemented by publications, including my book “Quebec for the English Speaking Rider,” and memberships in organizations like the Canadian Army Veteran’s Motorcycle Units. Passionate about motorcycling, cooking, and volunteering, I continue to weave my unique narrative in the fabric of Canadian Motorcycle Tourism and beyond.

BOARD MEMBER

Cyndi Corbett

Councillor,
TOWN OF BEAVERLODGE

Cyndi has served on Beaverlodge Town Council for two years and works on several committees.

In addition to being on the Grande Prairie Regional Tourism Association Board where she chairs the Marketing Committee, Cyndi is on the Community Enhancement and Economic Development committees as well as the Subdivision Development Appeal Board.

Cyndi is also treasurer of WASP, the Wapiti Area Synergy Partnership, which brings together area landowners, energy sector companies and local municipalities to collaborate on issues.

Away from municipal work, Cyndi and her husband, Brad, have three children. She is also the President of the Beaverlodge and Area Minor Soccer Association.

Being a tourism champion is a favourite part of being a Council member, GPRTA Board Member, and community builder.

“I love meeting people and learning about their experiences,” says Cyndi.

“If we advocate and promote our region and all the great things we have to offer together, more people will come to visit,” she says. “Tourism is such an untapped resource and in our area, we have so many hidden gems. So, come out and visit us. We will be glad to see you.”

Board Member

Linden Roberts

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR,
PHILIP J. CURRIE DINOSAUR MUSEUM

Linden Roberts joined the Board in mid-2019 after becoming new Executive Director of the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum.

She brings with her global background from venues including the Ontario Science Centre, the Royal Alberta Museum, Body Worlds, Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Chicago Museum of Science and Industry and, most recently, from We The Curious in Bristol, England.

As Executive Director at the museum, Linden is excited by the opportunity to bring greater recognition to the world-class, award-winning facility and to the region itself.

“We are working to expand our horizons and improve the visitor experience as an attraction. As a region, it’s important to have collaboration among all partners and stakeholders so that everyone benefits. I’m excited about working with the Board and Administration of GPRTA to promote this wonderful area.”

Linden started her career as an interactive exhibit designer and has specialized in managing leading edge or unusual exhibit projects. She attained a Bachelor of Industrial Design at Carleton University and studied engineering at the University of Toronto.

Linden’s family tolerates her globe-trotting career by joining her when they can. Her daughter is a technology geek in Toronto. She and her husband enjoy getting out with their dogs and shuffling old British sports cars around the garage.

Board Member

Bill Smith

DEPUTY REEVE, WARD 8
MD of Greenview

Deputy Reeve Bill Smith, currently in his third term as Councillor for Grovedale, Ward 8, and his fourth term as Deputy Reeve, brings a wealth of experience to his position. Bill’s roots run deep in the community as part of a multi-generational ranching family. Prior to entering public office in 2013 with Greenview, he enjoyed a successful career as a self-employed tradesman, catering to the region while also juggling responsibilities for the family ranch. Bill is well-acquainted with hard work, adeptly balancing his duties as a Councillor with a steadfast commitment to managing the family’s ranching operations.

Board Member

Kristen Smith

DEPUTY REEVE, WARD 3
SADDLE HILLS COUNTY

Kristen was raised in Fourth Creek on her parents’ cattle and grain operation. Kristen and her husband built their own farmstead in Silver Valley, where they are raising their four children. Kristen worked as an assessor for the County for seven years. Currently, she works with her husband on their family farm on top of her work as a Councillor and mother.

With her long history of volunteer service, Kristen has always enjoyed being active in her community. She is proud to use her experience and knowledge of municipal government to serve her ward and the County as a whole.

Board Member

LENORE TOCHOR

Owner/Partner,
Open Road Adventures

I am new to the tourism industry, and with my business partner, Leona Small, we began a journey into this industry as of April 2022 with a mobile glamping company called Open Road Adventures Inc.  I completed a business degree from University of Calgary in 1997 in Tourism and Hospitality Management, and have applied the business skills in the financial sector for 21 years before leaving the financial industry.  I am looking forward to being in the tourism industry as travel has been a lifelong passion for me.

I have extensive business experience but was missing a hands on experience.  I hope to contribute years of financial experience with a personal passion for travel, adventure and tourism to the Grande Prairie region.

Board Member

Ken Wittig

COUNCILLOR,
TOWN OF VALLEYVIEW

Hello, my name is Ken Wittig. For the past 25 years, I have been working with Northstar Hydrovac, where I have honed my skills and gained extensive experience in the industry. At Northstar Hydrovac, I have had the opportunity to work on various projects and contribute to the growth and success of the company.

In addition to my professional career, I am also a dedicated member of the Valleyview Town Council and serving on many boards. Serving on the council for the past two years has allowed me to actively participate in decision-making processes that shape our community. I’m passionate about making positive changes and working towards the betterment of the town.

Outside of work and my council responsibilities, I have a deep love for the outdoors. You can often find me camping, enjoying a round of golf, or exploring trails on my quad. Nature rejuvenates me and provides a much-needed balance in my life.

One of my greatest joys is spending quality time with my son. We have created countless memories together, whether it’s engaging in outdoor activities or simply sharing meaningful conversations. Being a father has taught me valuable life lessons and has enriched my perspective.

Overall, my career, involvement in local government, love for the outdoors, and dedication to my family play integral roles in shaping my identity. I strive to continue growing both professionally and personally while making a positive impact on those around me.

Board Member

Steve Zimmerman

Councillor, Division 4
County of Grande Prairie

I was raised in the Grande Prairie area. My family history dates back six generations to the original homesteaders in Goodfare and Beaverlodge. My wife, Gina, and I have been married for more than 31 years and enjoy camping and traveling around the county golfing.

I am a Petroleum Technologist and have worked in the oilfield for 35 years, mainly in the area of business development. During my time with Alberta Government Telephones, I served as a Journeyman Telecommunication Electrician. I am a former member of the Grande Prairie Petroleum Association and served on the board for 25 years, raising money for numerous children’s charities.