News Release
For Immediate Release
July 31, 2015 Ottawa, ON Polar Knowledge Canada
The Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, today announced the appointments of the Chair and President of Polar Knowledge Canada on July 28, 2015.
Mr. Richard Boudreault is appointed Chair of the Board, for a five year term on a part-time basis. The Chair of Polar Knowedge Canada is accountable for setting the agenda and ensuring strategic leadership and decision-making of Polar Knowledge Canada in accordance with the Canadian High Arctic Research Station Act.
Dr. David J. Scott is appointed President of Polar Knowledge Canada for a five-year term. As Deputy Head and Chief Executive Officer the President is accountable for the day-to-day management and direction of the organization.
Mr. Richard Boudreault is an entrepreneur and executive with professional board director/chairman governance experience and a 35 year track record of achievements in leadership roles. A Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineers, of the International Academy of Astronautics, and of the World Academy of Arts & Sciences, he has authored 13 awarded patents,with 65 others pending, and has published more than 50 learned papers and book chapters. He is Executive Chairman of Sigma Energy Storage.
Dr. Scott joined the former Canadian Polar Commission as Executive Director in March 2012, and co-led the recent merger of the Canadian Polar Commission with the Canadian High Arctic Research Station initiative. Dr. Scott had a long career with the Geological Survey of Canada (GSC), culminating as Director, Northern Canada Division. Prior to that, he was acting Director General, Planning and Operations Branch, and led the GSC's Gas Hydrates and Northern Resources Development programs.
Quick Facts
- Polar Knowledge Canada, established as a new federal agency on June 1 2015, is responsible for advancing Canada’s knowledge of the Arctic and strengthening Canadian leadership in polar science and technology. As a key component of Canada’s Northern Strategy, it comprises a pan-northern science and technology program, the Canadian High Arctic Research Station in Cambridge Bay, Nunavut, which will be operational in 2017, and a knowledge management and mobilization function.
- Polar Knowledge Canada (POLAR) is on the cutting edge of Arctic issues and strengthens Canada's position internationally as a leader in polar science and technology. POLAR also promotes the development and distribution of knowledge of other circumpolar regions, including Antarctica. It will provide a world-class hub for science and technology research in Cambridge Bay, Nunavut called the Canadian High Arctic Research Station. As part of Canada's Northern Strategy, POLAR improves economic opportunities, environmental stewardship and quality of life for Northerners and other Canadians.
Quotes
“Mr Boudreault and Dr. Scott bring a wealth of experience to Polar Knowledge Canada, and their leadership will help set the new organization on the path to success as it carries out its mandate to strengthen Canada’s leadership in polar science and technology and Arctic stewardship.”
Bernard Valcourt,
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development
“I am profoundly honoured to join Polar Knowledge Canada as the Chair of the Board of Directors. The Canadian High Arctic Research Station being built in Cambridge Bay, Nunavut, will be a high value asset for Canadians. Polar Knowledge Canada’s science and technology program will enable a better understanding of the polar environment and resources, enhance Canada's leadership in the Arctic, and improve quality of life through Arctic science.”
Richard Boudreault
Chair of the Board, Polar Knowledge Canada
"I am honoured to accept the responsibility of leading Polar Knowledge Canada as its founding President, and am committed to ensuring that the organization will successfully deliver on its mandate to create the knowledge needed by Northerners and all Canadians."
David J. Scott,
President, Polar Knowledge Canada
Related Products
Harper Government Introduces Legislation to Strengthen Canada's Arctic Research Potential
Statement by Minister Valcourt Welcoming Royal Assent of the Canadian High Arctic Research Station (CHARS) Act
PM Launches Construction of the new Canadian High Arctic Research Station
Associated Links
Polar Knowledge Canada
Canadian High Arctic Research Station Act
Canada’s Northern Strategy
Contacts
Emily Hillstrom
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development
819-997-0002
Polar Knowledge Canada
813-998-8147
