Program & Schedule
Join us for an engaging lineup of events designed to ignite ideas, inspire discussions, and foster innovation. Our program includes thought-provoking keynotes, in-depth panels, and collaborative seminars led by leading experts in the nuclear industry. You will explore emerging trends, gain practical insights, and have opportunities to build meaningful connections through our networking events.
Whether you are here to learn, share, or grow, this agenda serves as your gateway to a transformative experience. Stay tuned for detailed event descriptions and announcements about our speakers!
Registration for the conference is officially open!
Please ensure you complete your registration at the registration desk and collect your badge to enjoy full access to sessions, networking events, and all conference activities.
Please note: Access to the Trade Show and the Plenary Room, both on the 2nd floor, will not be open to participants until 16:00.
We encourage all conference attendees to visit the exhibitor booths and discover the numerous nuclear energy companies and organizations across Canada. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the innovations, services, and partnerships that are driving the industry forward.
We invite you to join us for the CNA West Welcome Reception, which marks the official kickoff of the Canadian Nuclear Association’s inaugural conference in Western Canada. This event offers an excellent opportunity to connect with industry leaders, colleagues, and newcomers, setting the stage for meaningful discussions and collaboration in the days to come.
Thank you to our Welcome Reception sponsors: Cameco and Westinghouse
Haven’t checked in yet?
Don’t forget to register on the first floor of TCU Place when you arrive! It only takes a minute, and it ensures you receive your name badge, conference materials, and access to all sessions and events.
We look forward to welcoming you!
Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast! We invite all conference attendees to enjoy a hot breakfast buffet, perfect for fueling up before a full day of sessions and networking. Whether you’re in the mood for a hot cup of coffee, eggs, fresh pastries, or a healthy option, we have something for everyone.
The opening prayer and prayer song will be led by Elder and Council Member of Thunderchild First Nation, Walter Jimmy and Mark Longjohn of Sturgeon Lake First Nation.
George Christidis, President and CEO of the Canadian Nuclear Association, will deliver the introductory remarks at CNA West. His opening address will set the stage for an exciting series of panel discussions focused on how nuclear energy is promoting economic growth, encouraging regional innovation, and facilitating industrial transformation throughout Western Canada and beyond.
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We are honoured to have Tim Gitzel, CEO of Cameco, which is headquartered in Saskatoon, deliver welcome remarks at CNA West. As a long-standing leader of Canada’s nuclear and uranium mining industry, Tim will open the conference by emphasizing the increasing importance of Saskatchewan and Western Canada in shaping the future of clean and reliable nuclear energy, both domestically and globally.
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Scott Moe was first elected to the Saskatchewan legislature in the 2011 provincial election in the constituency of Rosthern Shellbrook. He was re-elected in 2016. He was elected Leader of the Saskatchewan Party on January 27, 2018, and sworn in as Premier of Saskatchewan on February 2, 2018.
Premier Moe’s priorities include a focus on increasing Saskatchewan’s exports to create opportunities for people and further grow Saskatchewan’s economy. To this end, he established the Ministry of Trade and Export Development, with a mandate to sustain and develop relationships with Saskatchewan’s existing export customers and place an increased emphasis on diversifying the province’s markets worldwide.
Premier Moe is also committed to advancing the economic interests of Saskatchewan by strengthening the province’s high-quality agricultural, mining, manufacturing, and energy industries, which meet the needs of growing global markets with world-leading efficiency and sustainability.
Thank you to our breakfast sponsor: SaskPower
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In an era of regional economic uncertainty, nuclear energy stands out as a strategic opportunity to strengthen Canada’s economy, energy security, and industrial competitiveness. This high-level discussion will explore how conventional and next-generation nuclear technologies can serve as true nation-building projects, aligning provincial strengths with national priorities.
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The BWRX-300 under construction in Ontario is set to be the first SMR built in the G7, and jurisdictions around the world are watching this project closely as a blueprint for commercial SMR deployment. Join Rupen Pandya, President & CEO of SaskPower and Jason Cooper, CEO of SMR and Advanced Nuclear at GE-Vernova for a candid conversation about this exciting, proven technology and what it can mean for Saskatchewan’s sustainable energy future.
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Take a break and reconnect during our morning session, where refreshments will be available. Enjoy fresh coffee, tea, and light snacks as you relax and network with fellow attendees.
Thank you to our networking break sponsor: Orano
Indigenous partnerships are critical to the successful development of nuclear power in Western Canada, ensuring that projects align with Indigenous rights, values, and economic priorities. This panel will explore how collaboration between industry, government, and Indigenous Nations and communities can foster sustainable nuclear development and address local demand for clean energy through the advancement of economic reconciliation.
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Join us for lunch with your fellow conference attendees!
Don’t miss this opportunity to network, recharge, and get ready for the exciting sessions ahead. See you there!
As Western Canada explores nuclear energy, efficient regulatory processes will be key to timely project deployment. This panel will examine how emerging nuclear jurisdictions can leverage established federal frameworks, lessons from experienced provinces and international examples, and innovative approaches and processes. The conversation will balance the need for predictability and timeliness with the unique considerations of first-time nuclear jurisdictions and Indigenous communities.
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Western Canada is set to leverage its robust industrial base to develop the foundations of a homegrown nuclear supply chain. This panel will map out high-value opportunities for local businesses, from component fabrication and construction to fuel services and advanced reactor deployment. Panelists will highlight the diversity of opportunities available, from promising international markets to the supply of parts and services that do not require nuclear certification.
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Take a well-deserved break from the conference and recharge with a selection of beverages and light snacks. It’s the perfect chance to relax, refuel, and connect with fellow attendees in a casual setting.
Thank you to our networking break sponsor: University of Saskatchewan
As Western Canada advances its nuclear energy ambitions, building a skilled, diverse, and sustainable workforce will be critical to success. This panel will explore strategies to develop talent across the nuclear value chain and leverage existing transferable capabilities in industrial sectors, highlighting opportunities from civil works construction and trades to nuclear engineering and operations. Leaders from industry, academia, training institutions, and Indigenous communities will discuss how to align education programs with emerging nuclear needs, attract and retain talent in a competitive labour market.
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After a long day attending many insightful and inspiring conference panels, take some time to relax and unwind before the evening reception. The reception will be held at the Remai Modern, which is just a 4-minute drive or a 14-minute walk from the TCU Place.
Join us for an exclusive reception that brings together professionals across the nuclear energy industry. This event is perfect for connecting with fellow experts, innovators, and leaders at the Remai Modern. Enjoy an evening filled with great company and delicious food, all while surrounded by a world-class art collection, striking architecture, and unique spaces—ideal for sparking conversations and creating lasting connections.
Thank you to our Western Reception sponsors: Des Nedhe Group, Kitsaki Management Limited Partnership, Athabasca Basin Development, and Pinehouse Business North
If you haven’t already done so, please visit the first floor of TCU Place to register and collect your badge, program, and welcome materials. This is your access to all sessions, networking events, and conference goodies.
Join us for fresh coffee and breakfast sandwiches to start your day. It’s a perfect way to fuel up before diving into another round of insightful sessions and exciting networking opportunities.
Thank you to our breakfast sponsor: Bruce Power
We are excited to announce that Julianne den Decker, Senior Vice President of Operations at Candu Energy Inc., an AtkinsRéalis company, and Chair, Board of Directors at the Canadian Nuclear Association, will deliver the opening remarks on Day 2 of CNA West! Her insights will energize the start of the day as we continue our important discussions about the future of nuclear power in Western Canada. Be sure to join us for this inspiring beginning to the second day!
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Let’s kick off the second day of the CNA West Conference with a keynote address from Patrick Dalzell, Vice-President of Corporate Affairs and Market Development at Bruce Power, as well as the Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors for the Canadian Nuclear Association.
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The mining and nuclear industries are exploring a new era of collaboration, where uranium producers become energy partners, and critical mineral operations leverage nuclear power to decarbonize. This panel will explore the emerging synergies between mining and nuclear power including the potential of small modular reactors to provide emission free, reliable power for remote mines.
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Take a moment to refresh and refuel during our morning break, featuring a selection of coffee, tea, and light refreshments. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax, network, and prepare for the next sessions ahead.
Thank you to our networking break sponsor: MLT Aikins
Western Canada has long been a global leader in uranium production, but what if the region could capture more value across the entire nuclear fuel cycle? This panel will explore the opportunity to develop a full-lifecycle nuclear industry, from responsible uranium mining and fuel fabrication to new nuclear deployment and innovative waste management solutions.
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Join us for lunch and enjoy a chance to recharge, connect with fellow attendees, and continue the conversations sparked throughout the conference.
Long before small modular reactors entered the energy conversation, Western Canada has been host to pioneering nuclear innovations with global impacts, including life-saving medical isotopes, fusion research, and artificial intelligence. Learn more about the exciting nuclear innovations taking place today across the West, and how they are paving the way for Canada’s nuclear power future.
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Microreactors offer a transformative opportunity to deliver clean, reliable energy to remote and Indigenous communities across Western Canada, many of which currently rely on expensive and polluting diesel generators. This panel will explore the technical, economic, and social considerations of deploying microreactors in off-grid and northern regions, with a focus on community-led partnerships, energy sovereignty, and sustainable development.
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Before we head into the final session, join us for one last break with drinks and snacks. It’s the perfect opportunity to refresh, connect with colleagues, and prepare for the closing discussions of the conference.
Thank you to our networking break sponsor: Saskatchewan Polytechnic
Trade barriers, geopolitics, and a renewed push for energy security in Canada and around the world are all shaping the outlook for nuclear power. This panel will discuss how the competitive and strategic advantages in Canada’s nuclear sector can support Canada and allied countries on shared priorities for the future of nuclear power and set the stage for wider multilateral collaboration.
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Let’s conclude the conference with a keynote address by Grant Isaac, President and Chief Operating Officer at Cameco Corporation.
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