1.902.893.0140
1.902.893.0140
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CoRDA offers settlement assistance to newcomers
We are a group of volunteers who are working to ensure...
Flora has worked with Sunlife Financial as a Financial Advisor for the past 17 years.
She arrived in Canada more than 20 years ago, and lived in four Canadian provinces, until a job opportunity brought her family to Truro. Flora says the Colchester community made her feel at home.
"When I look back at my life, I feel that I am a very lucky person because I have the privilege of living in one of the best countries in the world, and in a community in which I feel that I am first a member and second an immigrant,"
"I am convinced that the policies of organizations such as CoRDA have been very effective in creating such an environment. I think creation of sustainable economic growth not only requires business development, but it requires community development as well,"
"Helping new immigrants, youth attraction, retention of educated people and employment programs are all components of sound economic growth. During the past 15 years, I have seen tremendous social changes in Truro, and have seen first-hand CoRDA's commitment to building a healthy community."
Laurie spent some time away from the Colchester Region (in the big cities) but soon realized that Colchester was too good to miss out on, so he returned after university and some travel time overseas.
He and his wife Lisa have three young and active boys, and a lovely home that is only 2 minutes away from Masstown Market Ltd, where Laurie, as co-owner, and vice president spends most of his days.
Chairman, and corporate director for Atlantic Provinces Chamber of Commerce (APCC). Vice chair of Colchester Regional Development Agency. Board member of Canadian Chamber of Commerce, and Nova Scotia Exhibition Commission. Committee member of Ministers Advisory committee for select Nova Scotia.
Past president of: Colchester Credit Union, and Truro and District Chamber of Commerce, and Nova Scotia Chamber of Commerce.
"I think the Colchester region has tremendous potential and the political will to be very successful."
"The efforts of CoRDA to bring our economic development efforts under one organization are really paying off. I am excited to be part of the effort and excited to live in such a great region."
Laurie is Director of AgriTECH Park, NSAC's university research park. The Park's focus is to assist in the growth and development of innovative bio-economy products, services and technologies. CoRDA has identified this sector as an exciting area for growth in the region.
Living on a small family farm with her husband, Michael, and four boys, Laurie recognizes the urgent need for the agricultural industry to diversify and add value to its primary products.
The agri-food industry needs to aggressively pursue novel and under-exploited bioresource opportunities in agri-health, agri-energy and agri-bioproducts.
Laurie's vision for Colchester:
" To be a vibrant, diverse and progressive community where citizens have opportunities for meaningful work and have a quality of life second to none."
Mark grew up and studied in Fredericton, New Brunswick. After a decade living and traveling in Europe, the Far East and USA, he and his wife, Desiree, decided to make Great Village home. They have 3 children: Nicolas, Maria & Byron.
Mark is an electrical engineer who works with sensors. He started out in the field of medical electronics, but switched to marine technology because it's simply more fun. .
Since starting his engineering company, Instrument Concepts Inc, his main interest has been in the offshore energy industry. Sensors developed by his company are used in nearly every ocean in the world, for surveying, energy production and safety.
He realizes that the world's energy industry is beginning to see huge changes, and hopes to see Nova Scotia industry play a big part in shaping the future of offshore energy.
"I would like to help promote a balanced range of industries in this region. To see more knowledge-based and technology companies succeed here. I see CoRDA as a vital conduit for growing Colchester County into a great place to live."
Mark's vision for Colchester:
" A prosperous, well-educated community with a broad balance of resource, manufacturing, tourism and knowledge-based industry. A place where the quality of life competes easily with any community or city in Canada, and where young people can choose to live here and have satisfying work lives."
Congratulations Mark on your honoured achievement of "Exporter of the Year" with Instrument Concepts of Great Village, NS
Bio coming at a later date … Stay tuned
Peter is the President of Kerr Controls Limited, a Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration distribution company currently with operations throughout Atlantic Canada and a new state of the art distribution center in Truro.
Peter is a professional engineer, receiving his education at Dalhousie University and is also a proud graduate of the NSCC.
Since starting his engineering company, Instrument Concepts Inc, his main interest has been in the offshore energy industry. Sensors developed by his company are used in nearly every ocean in the world, for surveying, energy production and safety.
Peter believes that this region offers a unique combination of loyal, high quality workforce and a lifestyle second to none. CoRDA has the mandate and opportunity to market this region to the world and is very proud to be a member of the board to not only help direct this effort, but to put it into practice.
With two daughters in new schools, a major hospital under construction, a civic center on the radar, a bio-tech park beginning to blossom and consistent new business openings are just a few of the examples of the commitment made to this region by various levels of public and private investment and indicator of the potential for significant growth going forward.
Duane is Former President of the Truro and District Chamber of Commerce, 2nd Vice President Nova Scotia Auto Dealers Association and President of Blaikies Dodge-Chrysler in Truro. He has volunteered for many community causes, including the Canada Games Bid Committee and many other events and fundraisers. Duane is also a trustee for the CADA 360 National Group Insurance Program and, as you can see, is an active member of CoRDA's Board of Directors. In his down time, Duane enjoys running and cycling.
Ann Marie has lived in Salmon River for over 18 years. She has 3 daughters at various stages of their education and life – one in middle school, one in high school and one in university.
Over the years Ann Marie has had many careers. She has been a banker, an entrepreneur and now an educator at a local elementary school..
She thoroughly enjoys the interaction with the children, our next leaders. Because of her own family and the students that she sees each day, she has made a firm commitment to try to ensure that our future generations are able to enjoy the quality of life from which we now benefit.
Ann Marie states:
"Economic development, with sustainability, community diversity and green initiatives, is needed to ensure a stable and consitent quality of life for all residents of Colchester County. CoRDA, with its myriad of sustainable and forward-thinking plans and projects, is an excellent example of how to consider all aspects in the building and maintaining of a prosperous and equitable community, and I am proud to be a member of this auspicious Board."
As a lifelong resident of Truro, Danny Joseph was first elected to Truro Town Council in 2012. But his interest in his hometown's public affairs started much earlier. Danny had served on the town's Parks and Recreation Committee a decade earlier, and says he has " a love affair with the Truro area." While leading a busy life as a father and grandfather, and now a CoRDA Board member, Danny has also been volunteering as chairman of the Truro Sport Heritage Society
Lloyd Johnson is the longest serving councillor for the Millbrook First Nation. Lloyd resides in Millbrook and is the father of three children, A graduate of St. Mary's University with a Bachelor of Commerce.
Lloyd took an instrumental role in the development of the Millbrook Housing Authority and continues to participate on that body, and on CoRDA's board of directors
Lloyd was instrumental in the establishment of Treaty Gas Enterprises. which led to the development of the Truro Power Centre along highway 102. As Chairman of the Glooscap Heritage Society, Lloyd assumed a leadership role in planning the construction of a forty-foot statue of Glooscap, the ancient Mi'kmaq hero and the creation of the accompanying Interpretive Center.
The Interpretive Center took the collaboration of all levels of Government, the Band Council and the community. A member of the Economic Development Committee since 1977, Lloyd has been active in the development of many of the initiatives that Millbrook has undertaken. He joined the CoRDA board in 2007.
Ron Meech has become a respected business leader in Truro. Having both gone to high school here, Ron and his wife Janet know the Truro-Colchester area well.
Through their company, Meech Holdings, they have worked together to develop key residential properties in the area. Their latest ventures have them turning former education properties into well-designed apartments and business locations.
Through their company, Meech Holdings, they have worked together to develop key residential properties in the area. Their latest ventures have them turning former education properties into well-designed apartments and business locations.
Ron is a member of the Truro Industrial Park Society and also sits on the board at CoRDA.
Doug MacInnes is an active community member and represents the County of Colchester on the CoRDA Board of Directors. He has been a long-time senior manager with Wilson Fuels in Truro and is known for doing his homework before attending CoRDA's board meetings and Colchester County Council meetings. Doug and his wife Wanda live in the Onslow area of Colchester County and are known for their positive energy when it comes to business and community development.
John K. received his undergraduate degree from Mount Allison University, and his law degree from Dalhousie University. Prior to his retirement, John K was the Regional Director, Trust Services for BMO Harris Private Banking; practiced law with a mid-sized firm in Halifax, and had a career in the RCAF /CAF. He is a member of The Nova Scotia Barristers Society; is Past President of the Halifax Estate Planning Council and Past Chairman of the Trust & Estates section of the Canadian Bar Society (Nova Scotia Branch).
Since his retirement he has become involved in his community and has served as the Board President of the North Shore Recreation Centre; Chairman of Volunteers for the Canada Games Hub Bid and Board member of the North Colchester River Restoration Association. He has also served as the Vice-President of Volunteer and Special Events for the Canadian Curling Olympic Trials in Halifax.
He currently serves as the Board Chairman of the Colchester East Hants Health Authority, Past President of the North Shore Recreation Centre and Chairman of The Tatamagouche Annual Curling Bonspiel.He is married, lives in Brule with his wife Toni and they have one son.
As a former banker in the private sector, followed up by a respected career with Nova Scotia Business Inc, David has years of experience with economic development across Central and Northern Nova Scotia. He now represents Nova Scotia's Department of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism on the CoRDA Board of Directors. We look forward to productive discussions involving David that will continue to produce the best results for new jobs and growth in the Truro-Colchester Region.
Ron started with CoRDA in September 2005. He is a graduate of St. Francis Xavier University. He has 20 years' experience in the financial sector. Although Truro has been home since 1981, Ron has also lived and worked in the South Shore and the Annapolis Valley.
In May of 2010, Ron replaced Jo Ann Fewer in the leadership role of Executive Director at CoRDA and looks forward to leading the team to continued success.
Ron takes the time to listen to you, and is interested in what you have to say. With his wonderful sense of humour he has a strong ability to bring people together.
Ron is the proud father of three beautiful girls, and enjoys camping with his lovely wife during his spare time.
Margot Bégin-Gillis joined CoRDA in March 2003 as the Youth Employment and Retention Project Coordinator. Her role has expanded to include the development of a number of other 'people development' initiatives related to the attraction and retention of newcomers to the region.
She is also involved in Workforce Development initiatives that seek to meet the needs of our growing business community while ensuring that all citizens of Colchester have the necessary skills and opportunities to connect with meaningful employment.
Margot has a background in Economics from Acadia University, a Certificate in Arts Management from Seneca College and since beginning with CoRDA, has attained a Certificate in Economic Development from the University of Waterloo and looks forward to further study and professional development in this field.
Margot is a community builder, hosting a reception for newcomers to the community feels as though she were attending a family potluck. With years of experience working closely with many of the newcomers helping them connect with community resources in Colchester County, she treats each one like a friend and not just clients.
From the moment she joined CoRDA in 2003, she began what has become an ongoing dialogue with Colchester employers to better understand the skill-sets they need now and in the future. Armed with that crucial labour force information, Margot then acts as a type of match-maker, recruiting workers, launching training programs, and building skills in the existing workforce. One of the most rewarding aspects of her job, is her work in supporting immigrants as they settle in their new community.
In her spare time she enjoys organizing and participating in theatre productions, dance instruction, and supporting community endeavours. She is also married, and a proud mother of two handsome young men.
Creston Rudolph is Director of Destination Colchester. In his role, Creston is responsible for working with our municipalities and local community groups in attracting major events to the Colchester Region. In addition, he works with existing community groups in providing support to events and projects that already exist.
Creston brings a great deal of passion and experience in event management to this new position. After graduating from Brock University in St. Catherines Ontario in 2002 with a degree in Sport Management, he went on to coordinate Sioux Lookout Ontario's Blueberry Festival in 2003. This 10-day festival boasted a lineup of over 100 events and featured a headlining act of Tom Cochrane and Red Rider. In 2004, he moved to Truro to be closer to his family and soon after he accepted a position with CoRDA as its "Welcoming Community Program Coordinator".
During his first stint with us, he learned a great deal about the importance of community economic development and played key roles in the implementation of the organization's "Come Home to Colchester" campaign and its Immigration strategy. In addition, he was CoRDA's representative on the Hub Central Nova Canada Winter Games bid committee. Creston is very familiar with CoRDA's initiatives of promoting economic development in the Colchester Region and forecasts a bright future in its ability to attract major national and international events.
"The Colchester Region's central location will be a key factor in attracting major events to the area. The region has many centerpieces which make it an attractive location for any organization looking for a venue to hold an event," says Creston. "The exciting possibility of a new Civic Centre in the region will only serve to increase the possibility of future events."
Mike brings over 20 years or experience to CoRDA in the form of technical and advising our new business and clients on their technical needs. Already known to a lot of business's and people around Truro and the Colchester region for his honesty in making sure you get what you need to do your day to day operations.
If you need help in deciding what you need to run your business properly in the 21st century or just a second opinion before you by please give him a call and he will be glad to answer any and all questions related to computers, phones, point of sale, etc.
As a Business Counselor, Terry has helped hundreds of individuals realize their dream of owning a business. A dedicated coach and guide, she supports aspiring entrepreneurs as they develop realistic business plans, launch their business ideas, and work through the everyday challenges and opportunities of operating a company. Her thought and consideration towards others makes her a strong team player and creates a positive work environment.
Working closely with referrals from CareerWorksNova in Truro and Open Doors in Tatamagouche, Terry delivers Employment Nova Scotia's Self-Employment Benefit Program, for Colchester County. Additionally she actively promotes the Province’s Workplace Education Program - workplace education that helps businesses learn skills to innovate and compete.
In 2009, Terry won the “Nova Scotia Workplace Education Ambassador" award. The award recognizes champions of workplace education and learning in the workplace. Since 2007, Terry has built an impressive track record including the successful delivery of over 40 workplace education programs ranging from Essential Marketing & Communications Skills and Basic Computer Skills to Customer Service and Human Resource Management. As a result, more than 400 individuals have new skills essential to today’s workforce.
Tony joined the CoRDA team in May 2005. He has been engaged in property development since 1991, developing his own subdivision (which is still ongoing).
He graduated in 1981 from the Cobequid Education Center, and in 1983 from the Colchester Regional Vocational School with Motor Vehicle Repair achievement award.
Tony has been responsible for many major developments in Debert, and the implementation of successful projects. CoRDA is in good hands with Tony.In his spare time Tony enjoys keeping healthy and fit. Tony has a passion to make things happen.
Charles Brennan was born and raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Toronto, Ontario. During his school days he was active in many school sporting activities which later carried over to his young adult days.
He moved to Colchester County with his wife and son in 1992, where he took up residence in Economy, Nova Scotia. While residing in Economy, he worked for the Central Nova Tourist Association which earned him a Super Host Award.
In the summer of 1997 he became employed with the Colchester Park Development Society as the Lead Hand. At the end of the summer he moved into the former Camp Debert and took up residence in one of the vacant houses with his family.
He is still employed at Colchester Park and has very much enjoyed seeing and participating in the day to day operation of running the park. Always eager to help, Charlie has also enjoyed taking part in the transitional period of rental properties to property owners, both as an employee of CoRDA and as a new home owner himself.
When driving through Debert, the improvements of the grounds are due to Charlie and Colin's hard work. Thanks Charlie and Colin!
Kim Frizzell came to Colchester Regional Development Agency in mid September 2004.
She brings with her training in Office Information Technology and the Human Services and over ten years experience in the voluntary, not-for-profit sector.
Kim is the backbone of the CoRDA team, and is always willing to help and provide direction. Her extensive knowledge is a great asset to the organization.
Susan obtained the position of Finance Administrator in April 2006 when the transfer went through between CPDS (Colchester Park Development Society) and CoRDA (Colchester Regional Development Agency). She brings with her 12 years experience in accounting along with administrative duties.
Susan received her Accounting Diploma through Success Business College and has also taken the Economic Developers Association of Canada course offered through the University of Waterloo. As a life long resident of Upper Stewiacke, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
Susan thrives on helping her colleagues and is always willing to lend a helping hand. She also facilitates contact between Debert and our main office.
Darlene has been with ACOA for the past 7 years. In the fall of 2005 she accepted an assignment as the Area Account Manager for Colchester and Cumberland Counties and is looking forward to developing a close working relationship with the community. Darlene brings over 17 years of experience in the public sector working in a variety of fields.
Darlene's vision for the Colchester Region: "To be a vibrant and welcoming region, one where ideas for growth and prosperity are encouraged, supported and celebrated."
Darlene is very good at what she does, and works hard to achieve success. She is very inclusive with everyone, kind and considerate, and always maintains a positive outlook.
Neil Pardy has been with NOBL since January of 2005, and has worked in Community Business Development Corporations since 2001. He is married with one son and lives in Truro.
Neil has a genuine passion and consideration for his clients, as well as for his coworkers. He has a great sense of humour that encompasses everything he does. Neil is a pleasure to work with.
