Employee spotlight - Vanessa Cheeseman
Meet Vanessa Cheeseman, Senior Business Officer at PrairiesCan
As a Senior Business Officer working out of PrairiesCan’s Fort McMurray service location, Vanessa Cheeseman is helping connect northern Alberta communities to federal resources. “As a service location employee, I represent PrairiesCan at multiple tables and connect people in my community with PrairiesCan and other parts of the federal government,” she explains. Vanessa’s role is vital in ensuring local community members have access to federal programs and resources, allowing them to leverage economic opportunities and address challenges more effectively.
A memorable project: supporting a local First Nation
One of Vanessa’s most meaningful projects involved helping the Fort McMurray 468 First Nation community create a shared community space with funding through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund. “I was asked by the Nation to join the opening ceremonies and celebration,” Vanessa recalls. “I now drive by that park on a regular basis and know I had a small part in making that happen for the community.” The initiative provided a vital gathering space and exemplified the tangible impact of her work.
Advocating for Fort McMurray
Vanessa’s passion for her city and its surrounding region runs deep. “I moved to the area with a two-year plan and fell in love with Fort McMurray,” she shares. Her love for the community and her desire to advocate for it inspired her to join PrairiesCan. “My role as a federal employee in a regional office allows me to bring a different perspective to programs and continue to advocate for my community,” she says.
Sustainability in Fort McMurray
Vanessa is excited about the innovations in sustainable practices she’s witnessing in Fort McMurray. “Right now, I am seeing lots of work being done around sustainable oil sands production,” she says. “Hydrogen capture facilities can reduce carbon emissions and ensure that future oil can be mined and moved with lower impact to the environment.” These advancements reflect the region’s efforts to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.
Vanessa’s advice for aspiring professionals
For those looking to pursue a career in the Government of Canada or the economic development space, Vanessa’s advice is clear: “Be willing to try new things and learn new roles. Each job will give you skills needed for the next.” Her own career journey highlights the importance of adaptability and seizing opportunities to grow.
What Vanessa loves about PrairiesCan
Reflecting about why she enjoys working at PrairiesCan, two main reasons come to mind for Vanessa: “The people of PrairiesCan are amazing,” she says, “and I'm grateful for the opportunity to represent PrairiesCan in my community.”
Vanessa, beyond work
Outside of work, Vanessa enjoys the natural beauty of Fort McMurray. “I love running on the beautiful trails that we have in Fort McMurray,” she shares. She also has a passion for travel, spending time with her family, and exploring new places.
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