Dr. Ken Coates is one of Canada’s foremost analysts of the challenges and opportunities facing the country.  Raised in Whitehorse, Yukon, his northern informed views of Canada bring original and creative insights into contemporary realities.  He works extensively on the impact of science and technology on society, particularly related to the world of work.  He has deep insights into the issues facing rural and small towns in Canada and, conversely, the rise of the economically dominant city states in the country.  Ken has also written extensively on Indigenous rights and economic development and has worked with Indigenous groups across Canada and internationally. He is a leading commentator on Arctic affairs and northern development.  Author of many books and articles, Ken contributes extensively to debates on television, radio, newspaper and social media.  

Ken is the President of Coates Holroyd Consulting, a research firm working primarily on Indigenous and rural development, Indigenous history and Indigenous rights.  Ken is currently a Distinguished Professor Emeritus at the Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy, University of Saskatchewan and was the Director of the Indigenous Program at the Macdonald Laurier Institute.

Notable Publication:  Swimming Against the Tide: The Case for Salmon Farming in British Columbia – By Dr. Ken Coates

As the Director of Canada’s $74 million NRC Ocean Program Marie‑Chantal Ross is a national leader in ocean innovation and a passionate advocate for the Blue Economy. Her leadership shaped the Blue Economy Assessment Framework for Atlantic Canada; a foundation for aligning research in aquaculture and beyond.

She will highlight how NRC Ocean Program projects can support innovation in aquaculture, from technology development to sustainable bio‑asset utilization, and explore opportunities for NRC to collaborate meaningfully with industry, communities, and policymakers to advance a thriving, equitable Blue Economy.