airdrielife is proud of its long-standing relationship with the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce. We have the same goal, after all, which is to support and promote Airdrie businesses.
With the Chamber’s 50th anniversary coinciding with airdrielife’s 20th year of publishing, it was a no-brainer that the two organizations collaborate on a series of articles highlighting some of the Chamber’s contributions to the local business community over the years.
In this, the first of three articles planned for each of the three remaining 2023 issues of airdrielife, we recognize some past Chamber board members and ask them what some of their biggest challenges and favourite experiences were.
Reg Hihn, President, 1981
What was the biggest challenge facing the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce during your time as part of the board/staff?
“To get member participation. The initial establishment of the Chamber in 1973 had created a lot of excitement and a lot of businesses signed up. By 1981 that initial energy had disappeared, and we were down to a small group of active participants. It’s important to try to engage as many members and potential members as possible. You need active, participating members not just a business on the roster sheet. In 1981, Towerlane Mall was under construction so there was major change in the retail environment.”
What were some of your highlights/best memories with the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce?
“I was involved in the committee that established the initial ambulance/paramedic service during this period.”
Tim Bolton, President, 2006-08
Why do you think it’s important for businesses to belong to their local Chamber of Commerce?
“Chamber membership gives individual businesses an opportunity to influence policy change at all levels of government to enhance the business environment. Policy makers are more likely to listen to collective voice of 100s of businesses versus the pleas of individual business owners. Locally, a Chamber membership provides businesses an opportunity to form alliances and collaborate with other businesses to grow and brainstorm challenges.”
What was the biggest challenge facing the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce during your time as part of the board/staff?
“Airdrie was going through incredible population growth along with many new small businesses and big box stores. Crossiron Mills was opening soon and was seen by some as a threat to small business in Airdrie. Growing the Chamber membership and providing support to our membership during this time of growth and uncertainty was very challenging. My 20+ years of Banking experience at the time focused in Small Business banking helped me understand challenges facing small business during different business cycles.”
What were some of your highlights/best memories with the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce?
“Our Business After Hour events and Home and Lifestyle Shows were always fun events to be part of and provided great memories for me. Being part of the Airdrie Chamber also resulted in my opportunity to get involved with the Alberta Chamber and Canadian Chamber Boards.”
Linda Bruce, President, 2016-18
What was the biggest challenge facing the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce during your time as part of the board/staff?
“One of the biggest challenges faced by the Board during my tenure was the retirement of Lorna Hunt as the Executive Director from the Chamber. Lorna was quite involved with the Alberta Chamber of Commerce and was the face and name of the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce. When she left there was a big hole to fill in terms of knowledge and connections. It also presented the Board with an opportunity for change and renewal. Marie Lauer stepped in as the Interim ED which gave the Board an opportunity to look to the future. The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce was fortunate to hire Marilyne Aalhus as the ED to move the Chamber forward.”
Why do you think it’s important for businesses to belong to their local Chamber of Commerce?
Strength in numbers! In today’s business environment, local businesses are facing many challenges. At the end of each business day, it can be difficult to find the strength to advocate for business. Having a group of dedicated peers stand together makes it easier to affect change.
What were some of your highlights/best memories with the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce?
Lorna might be unhappy with me for sharing this. We were in Edmonton for an Alberta Chambers business event. When the event had concluded and were heading back to the car we got turned around and could not locate the parkade where we parked. We had security guards helping us. Who knew there were so many parkades? After about an hour we located the car and laughed about that on the late evening drive back to Airdrie.
Nikki Nordick, President, 2020-22
What was the biggest challenge facing the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce during your time as part of the board/staff?
“The biggest challenge facing the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce during my tenure on the board was COVID-19. We had to quickly adapt and pivot to navigate the uncertainties posed by the pandemic. As a non-profit organization, we explored different ways to continue supporting our members during these challenging times. Although it was tough, we remained resilient and resourceful. The terms “adapt” and “pivot” were frequently used to describe our efforts to overcome this challenge, which helped us emerge stronger than ever before.”
What were some of your highlights/best memories with the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce?
“Some of my fondest memories with the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce include moderating political forums and witnessing the passion and ideas brought forth by individuals in our community. I also cherished the business awards, where I saw the resilience of our community come together to support local businesses. Lastly, the golf tournament was always a highlight, with its fun and friendly atmosphere. These experiences reminded me of the importance of community and the power of working together towards a common goal.”
If you could give any advice to the person/people in your role today, what would it be?
“As someone who has been in your shoes, I encourage you to find your own leadership style and work closely with your Board of Directors. Remember, teamwork makes the dream work, and each of us brings unique strengths to the table. By listening to the needs of our members and leading with your heart, you can create a stronger and more vibrant local business community. Don’t forget that you don’t have to do it alone, so don’t hesitate to lean on your team and draw upon their expertise and perspectives to achieve success.”
