Board Members

President

SANDI NEVILLE

GENERAL MANAGER sTANFORD INN & SUITES

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 Four Points By Sheraton. She worked in the energy industry for 16 years before transitioning to the hospitality sector
Sandi has teenaged 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

Dave Anderson

President BuckWild

Dave Anderson’s fascination with the entertainment industry stretches back to his youth in Grande Prairie. That fascination, beginning in 1990, segued into several roles on the Stompede board – including that of president. During his time with Stompede, among other things, he was instrumental in the development of the Stompede Campground at Evergreen Park – now known as McGovern’s RV & Marine Campground.
Dave was elected to the Grande Prairie & District Agricultural Society (Evergreen Park) volunteer board and wore several hats with that non-profit organization including being president. Dave, the President of BuckWild, is working hard to add two more different annual entertainment events to GP. He is looking forward to continuing his role with the Grande Prairie Regional Tourism Association as a board member in a community he grew up in, loves and wants to continue to be a part of in a productive way.

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 2 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

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

Sheila Gilmour

MAYOR,
TOWN OF FOX CREEK

I was born and raised in southern and central Alberta, in 2007 I moved to Fox Creek to be closer to my sister so our kids could grow up together in a small town. After moving I met my husband and raised our 3 kids in a wonderful outdoor community. I own my own hair salon and a small sign printing business with my husband. While our children were in school, I was very involved in their activities and volunteered on the boards. I am the president of the Northland Sno-Goers Snowmobile Club and sit on the board for The Golden Triangle Concerta. Fox Creek has so much to offer as a tourism destination it was a perfect fit to join the GPRTA and I look forward to working with the group. I was first elected to council in 2017 as a councillor and then in 2021 I became mayor. As mayor I sit on many boards for the Town of Fox Creek including ICF,SDAB,BSN, Heart River Housing and RhPAP.

Board Member

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.

Board Member

REBECCA KETCHUM

COUNCILLOR,
TOWN OF WEMBLEY

I am excited to be a part of GPRTA. Traveling and exploring has always been a passion of mine. My family and I have taken many trips around our region as well as many other regions and love to adventure into some of the untouched beauty it has to offer.
I moved to the Peace Country in 2003 from Kitwanga B.C. My family came here for work, like many others have. This area has provided us with many opportunities and experiences.

I graduated highschool in Grande Prairie and later attended GPRC and moved on to work in our area. My background includes coaching, management, retail, banking, customer service, administration, distribution, and marketing and Sales.

In 2021 I was elected as a councillor in the Town of Wembley. I am a proud member of many committees and have also been on the board for Beaverlodge Victim Services for many years.

Myself and my husband have two kids, a small business and a dog. We live in Wembley along with our parents and some of our siblings. Our family spends most of their free time camping, hiking, fishing and exploring.

I am excited to help showcase all the events, views, activities and talents our areas have to offer.

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

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.