Mark Plamondon is Executive Director of Alberta’s Industrial Heartland Association. Mark has over 22 years of experience in management, operations, business development, and financial analysis of mineral and refining operations. He has extensive international experience and works to enhance Heartland’s brand across the globe with investors, governments, and stakeholders. Prior to taking on the role as Executive Director, Mark was Senior Vice President with Sherritt International Corporation, responsible for Sherritt’s nickel mining, processing, and refining operations in Madagascar. His education includes a Master of Business Administration from the University of Alberta and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Engineering from the University of British Columbia. Alberta’s Industrial Heartland Association Industrial development in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland is guided by an association of five municipal partners. Alberta’s Industrial Heartland Association (AIHA) was created in 1998 by the City of Fort Saskatchewan, Lamont County, Strathcona County, and Sturgeon County. In 2010, the City of Edmonton became the fifth municipal partner. All five municipalities have heavy-industrial-zoned land within the boundaries. The five-member Association is dedicated to coordinating, advocating, and promoting the long-term sustainable development of Alberta’s Industrial Heartland. This reflects the interests of the community, industry, as well as the environment. As a not-for-profit association, AIHA is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of the senior elected official from each municipal partner. The Board provides overall vision and strategic priorities for the organization. Ensuring responsible, productive, and environmentally sound development, the Board and AIHA staff work closely with numerous stakeholders including government, private industry, and local communities.