The Fort McMurray First Nation Group of Companies (FMFNGOC), wholly owned by Fort McMurray 468 First Nation (FM468FN), has been a catalyst for economic growth and stability in the region. Established in 1985, the company has expanded its service offerings over the years, providing construction, custodial services, a Petro-Canada service station, and transportation services. FM468FN, together with its affiliated entities – Economic Development, Industry and Government Relations, Shared Services, Public Works and Housing, and Health and Wellness – have played a crucial role in creating meaningful job opportunities and enhancing the prosperity and well-being of the FM468FN community. Through these efforts, FM468FN and its organizations have contributed to the development of a thriving, sustainable economy that benefits the entire community.

Safety and Corporate Responsibility: The Foundation of Success

For Berdina Hagerman-Brown and her team, safety is not just a priority, but a fundamental imperative that underpins the company’s continued success. Recognizing the critical role that safety plays in maintaining a productive and healthy work environment, Berdina has been a driving force behind the comprehensive overhaul of policies, safety manuals, and systems within Fort McMurray 468 First Nation (FM468FN). This strategic initiative has ensured that the organization adheres to the industry’s best practices, minimizing risks and safeguarding the well-being of employees and stakeholders.

Berdina’s leadership philosophy emphasizes the importance of teamwork and collaboration in achieving success. “Without teamwork and support from all levels of the business, an organization cannot thrive,” says Berdina, highlighting the need for a unified effort in driving growth and progress. By fostering a culture of open communication, mutual respect, and trust, Berdina encourages her team to work together seamlessly, leveraging their collective expertise to overcome challenges and capitalize on opportunities.

Integrity is another cornerstone of Berdina’s leadership philosophy. By holding herself and her team to the highest standards of honesty and transparency, she creates an environment of trust and respect that permeates every aspect of the organization. “It’s important to be open and truthful about the organization and ourselves,” she adds, underscoring the importance of accountability and transparency in leadership. By living these values, Berdina inspires her team to do the same, promoting a culture of ethics and responsibility that benefits both the organization and the community it serves.

Leadership and Mentorship: Empowering the Next Generation

With over 35 years of experience in the Oil & Gas industry, Berdina Hagerman-Brown is deeply passionate about mentoring the next generation of leaders. She firmly believes that leadership extends beyond merely guiding teams – it’s about cultivating future success and empowering others to achieve their full potential. “It’s an opportunity for us as leaders to mentor and help the next generation succeed,” she says, emphasizing the importance of paying it forward and investing in the growth of others.

Berdina draws from her extensive experience working with exceptional leaders throughout her career, incorporating the best business practices and leadership qualities into Fort McMurray 468 First Nation’s (FM468FN) company culture. Her leadership style is characterized by a strong emphasis on continuous learning and growth, fostering an environment where employees are encouraged to explore new ideas, develop new skills, and push beyond their comfort zones. “We learn something new every day by meeting people and understanding different values,” she reflects. “I encourage everyone to never stop learning and sharing, as it’s the key to personal and professional growth.”

Under Berdina’s guidance, FM468FN has reached new heights, with innovative programs, processes, and systems paving the way for continued success. Her leadership has not only enhanced the organization but also provided the foundation for a sustainable and prosperous future for the FM468FN Community. By empowering the next generation of leaders and instilling a culture of continuous learning and growth, Berdina is ensuring that FM468FN remains a vibrant and resilient organization, well-equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Building a Culture of Innovation and Growth

One of the most significant advancements within Fort McMurray 468 First Nation (FM468FN) is its remarkable transformation in IT and operational programs. Recognizing the importance of staying ahead of the curve, the organization has invested heavily in updating its systems and implementing cutting-edge technologies. This strategic initiative has been crucial in driving growth, ensuring that FM468FN remains competitive, efficient, and well-positioned for long-term success.

Berdina Hagerman-Brown highlights two major achievements that have been instrumental in FM468FN’s transformation. Firstly, the organization has successfully achieved safety standards that are in line with industry expectations, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to the well-being of its employees, stakeholders, and the community. Secondly, FM468FN has provided its leaders with the necessary tools and resources to excel in their roles. “Supporting your leaders and management staff in their success is essential,” she explains. “Giving people the right resources and support they need to perform their work is crucial for an organization’s overall success.”

FM468FN remains deeply committed to its goal of creating a vibrant, resilient, and self-sufficient community. With an unwavering focus on safety, quality work, and innovation, the group is not only enhancing its services but also actively contributing to the community’s growth and prosperity. The organization’s success would not have been possible without the unwavering support of Chief Neil Cheecham, Councilor Chris Beausoleil, Councilor Samantha Whalen, industry and business partners. As FM468FN looks to the future, its vision for 2025 is focused on strengthening the Nation through strategic investments and community-driven initiatives that drive growth, opportunity, and long-term sustainability.

A Year of Opportunity: 2024 Successes and Looking Ahead to 2025

The year 2024 marked a significant milestone for Fort McMurray 468 First Nation (FM468FN), with the organization securing two major long-term equity ownerships with Astisy (Suncor) and Aii (Enbridge). These strategic investments have generated substantial returns, with over $3 million flowing back into the FM468FN community. Moreover, these ventures hold tremendous potential for future growth, promising to yield even greater financial rewards for generations to come.

The benefits of these investments extend far beyond financial gains, offering meaningful, long-term advantages that will have a lasting impact on the Indigenous communities involved. For FM468FN, these investments have paved the way for exciting new developments, including the funding and completion of a state-of-the-art Community Centre, slated for completion in May 2025. This project represents a significant milestone in the community’s growth and development, providing a vibrant hub for social, cultural, and recreational activities.

Guided by the five pillars of Partnership—Community Investment, Employment, Equity, Education and Training, and Engagement—FM468FN’s partners have made substantial contributions to the community, totaling over $17 million in 2024 alone. These investments have supported a wide range of initiatives, including programs, services, and infrastructure development. Notably, $270,000 has been dedicated to continuing education and training programs for FM468FN members, empowering them with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.

In another exciting development, FM468FN celebrated the successful launch of the first-ever community-owned A&W restaurant on First Nation land in 2024. This innovative venture represents a major milestone in the community’s economic development, providing a unique opportunity for entrepreneurship, job creation, and cultural exchange. As FM468FN looks to the future, it is clear that the organization is poised for continued growth, innovation, and success.

Berdina Hagerman-Brown’s Visionary Leadership For A Thriving Community

Berdina Hagerman-Brown’s leadership and her expertise in Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE) and Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) ensures that the team’s operations are not only economically viable but also prioritize the well-being of its members and the community. By fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and transparency, Berdina’s leadership helps build trust and credibility with stakeholders, including community members, local businesses, and government agencies. This trust is essential for driving economic growth, attracting investments, and creating opportunities for the community.

Furthermore, FM468FN’s leadership team contributes to the long-term success and sustainability of the community by promoting a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, building strategic partnerships and collaborations, and supporting the development of local youth to become the leaders of tomorrow.

As Berdina herself notes, “The path ahead is filled with promise,” and with their strong leadership, the Fort McMurray 468 First Nation is poised for continued success in 2025 and beyond, driven by a focus on innovation and commitment to community.

Company Name: The Fort McMurray First Nation Group of Companies
Executive Director of Shared Services: Berdina Hagerman-Brown
Website: www.fmfngroup.com
Email: info@fmfngroup.com