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EDA Board of Directors

As a non-profit, EDA is governed by a volunteer board of directors. As a  governance board, it's basic responsibilities include:

  • setting policy
  • supporting the CEO
  • guiding long-range planning and development
  • raising money and monitoring finance
  • working cooperatively with other board members
  • acting as an Ambassador for the organization

The EDA Board of Directors adheres to a Code of Ethics and Conflict of Interest Policy, essential for ensuring its operational integrity. Each Board Member is required to annually endorse these policies. 


Code of Ethics and Conflict of Interest Policies


2024-25 EDA Board of Directors

  • Amanda Mercer - President (Sylvan Lake)
  • Shane Olson - Past President (Lacombe County)
  • Ben Young - Vice President (Lethbridge)
  • Hetti Huls - Secretary Treasurer (Grande Prairie) 
  • Kate Koplovich - Director (Calgary)
  • Tom Mansfield- Director (Edmonton)
  • Amy Oshanyk - Director (Sturgeon County) 
  • Lorie Watson - Director (Okotoks)
  • Lisa Sweet - Director (Fort McMurray)
  • Chad Sheldon- Director (Airdrie)
  • Rhonda Woods- Director (Whitecourt)

The Association's affairs are overseen by a Board of Directors consisting of 11 members. Seven Directors are elected by the Association's members, while two are automatically appointed (President and Immediate Past President). Additionally, two Directors are appointed, each representing the economic development agencies of Calgary and Edmonton, respectively.

The Nominating Committee may appoint non-voting representatives from provincial or federal government bodies, or other organizations, at its discretion. The Immediate Past President holds a voting position on the Board. Annual elections for new board members occur at the Spring AGM.



Our Honorary Patron


The role of Honorary Patron is filled by the Minister responsible for economic development. The portfolio of Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade is most aligned with the mandate of our organization. The Honorary Patron  highlights the importance of economic development, and the significant role economic developers play in our communities. 

Our Honorary Patron is  Hon. Matt Jones,  Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade.

Message from the President

Amanda Mercer, Sylvan Lake

As I step into the role of President of Economic Developers Alberta, I am looking forward to the opportunity to lead during this significant milestone: EDA's 50th anniversary.

I am grateful for the vision and leadership that have shaped EDA into an effective and respected organization at provincial, national, and international levels.

Our success is a testament to the dedication of our staff, as well as the special contributions of each board member throughout the years. 

EDA is a member driven organization and at its heart are the community connectors and champions, dedicated to cultivating the prosperity of their cities and towns. EDA's mission is clear: to empower these individuals to make our province the best place to live, work, and play by providing cutting-edge programs, facilitating best practice sharing, and offering unique networking opportunities. 

My commitment to you is to honour EDA's 50 year legacy of elevating economic development as a profession by advancing our ongoing work to equip all practitioners in their critical roles to create sustainable, long-term growth that benefits all Albertans.

- Amanda Mercer, Economic Development Officer - Sylvan Lake


Economic Developers Alberta

Suite 127
#406, 917-85 Street SW 
Calgary, AB, Canada T3H 5Z9 

Contact Us

Toll Free Phone: 1-866-671-8182

Email: admin@edaalberta.ca

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