Staff Photos & Profiles

Wendy - Executive Director

An energetic and innovative leader focused on creating a progressive work environment, Wendy Blackwell brings 15 years of senior management to her role as Executive Director. Wendy also has  over 25 years global experience in the private and public sectors, specifically in areas such as: labour attraction and retention; research and analysis; as well as savvy in contract negotiations and business development. She has had a distinguished career with both the Government of Alberta as well as the Government of Australia and has completed business development assignments in Asia, Australia, Europe, the United States of America, United Kingdom, as well as South and Central America. Wendy describers her focus to be in leading a comprehensive economic development program that helps identify opportunities, retain and expand current businesses and attract investment into the region to ensure that southeast Alberta is seen as the #1 place to live, work and do business. Fully devoted to a work/life balance Wendy loves travelling on her motorcycle, reading historical novels and spending time with her two dogs, a Newfoundland and St. Bernard.

Tracy - Associate Director, B. Comm.

With her finger on the pulse of the organization, Tracy Heebner provides coaching and mentorship to the EDA team to ensure that the daily operations coincide with the strategic direction. She is primarily focused on Business Retention & Expansion (BR&E), Investment Attraction (IA) as well as supporting the sector committees. Heebner explained that her favorite part of the job is being able to help businesses grow, which has in return provided her a strong appreciation for their importance to the community and a healthy economy. Regarded as the information hub, Tracy posses a natural ability to lead and is continuously on the forefront of programs and funding opportunities available to companies in southeast Alberta. Outside of the EDA, Tracy is a crossfit and snowboarding enthusiast and also volunteers on the South East Alberta Watershed Alliance (SEAWA) Board as well as the Women in Business (WIB) Committee.

Jonathan- Economic Development Officer, BA, M.I.P.P.

Joining the EDA team with complementary skills in economic policy development and business advocacy, Jonathan Seib, Economic Development Officer is responsible for Investment and Attraction (IA) as well as Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E). His detailed and logical perspective, as well as interest in socioeconomics, will be beneficial in the overall success of the organization. “I enjoy researching and developing solutions to problems that directly impact the livelihood of individuals in my own community.” Seib brings a Bachelors Degree in Political Science, as well as Economics, with a Masters in International Public Policy. His diverse interests include reading philosophy and comic books; listening to everything from classical rock to folk music; and participating in sports like basketball and football. Jonathan’s goal is to eventually peruse a career in international economic development in Africa.

Kendra - Marketing and Communications Specialist

Offering a creative spark to a dynamic team, Kendra Borgen, Marketing and Communications Specialist takes an integrated marketing communications approach to her work with the EDA, using award winning techniques to promote the region and services of the team. “I’ve been fortunate to work in various parts of the industry; I did co-op advertising for a broadcast company, freelanced in print and helped brand a technology group- among other things- and because of this experience I can take a strategic approach and analyze our communications from various directions, and for different mediums, to ensure we’re successful.”  Kendra has education in advertising and public relations as well as in project management, which ensures that she is able to promote the key sectors, innovative businesses and EDA in the most organized and effective way. An avid traveler, Kendra always seeks ways to intertwine life with all that’s creative- music, art, photography and writing.  

Natasha - Executive Assistant, BSc (Hons).

A calming personality in a fast-paced environment, Natasha Ruskowski uses her analytical skills to ensure that the organization operates effectively by creating a seamless environment for the Executive and business team. Ruskowski describes her role with the EDA as a tremendous opportunity to increase my knowledge base, and learn about Medicine Hat’s prosperous economic activities. Responsible for the financial, office and event management; as well as dedicated to finding innovative ways to increase her own as well as team productivity, Natasha is a crucial component in the EDA’s overall success. A classical pianist, her love for traveling, cooking and learning foreign languages reflect her cultured and professional demeanour. Natasha is also a member of the Palliser Triangle Health Advisory Council (P-THAC) and Ducks Unlimited Canada

Alison- Research Coordinator, BMgt.

Collecting raw data for use in policy development, community improvement and overall economic activities, Alison Pfeifer, Research Assistant gathers and analysis information for various EDA projects-specifically in the agriculture sector. “I really enjoy this position, because after growing up in rural Alberta, it’s great to have an opportunity to be part of an organization that is working to improve conditions in the industry.” Her inquisitive mind is complementary to the team dynamic and enables work to be done effectively and on tight deadlines. Alison is contracted by the EDA while she finishes her Bachelors in General Management, with a minor in Social Responsibility, from the University of Lethbridge.  A seasoned 4-H member, Pfeifer enjoys the western way of life as well as watching and actively participating in athletics, which includes cheering on the Medicine Hat Tigers.