CONNECT. SHARE. LEARN. LEAD.
The Canadian Heavy Oil Association (CHOA) is a member-focused, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to advancing the future of heavy oil through connecting people, ideas, and energy.
Founded in 1986, CHOA strengthens the energy sector and catalyzes the careers of its members through a wide range of technical, educational, and networking resources, content, and events. As a non-profit association, CHOA has expanded the knowledge, relationships, and influence of its members and sponsors within the heavy oil and oil sands community – and beyond.
While promoting meaningful information exchange with the public, CHOA does not engage in lobbying.
We are passionate about helping you advance your career and your business.
The CHOA Community includes producers, oil field service providers, professional & financial consultants, technology innovators, regulatory bodies, Indigenous businesses, education and research institutions.
CHOA is the essential hub for industry professionals to exchange ideas, lead innovation, and transform challenges into opportunities. We are stronger together.
CHOA focuses on unlocking the full potential of all opportunities in the heavy oil industry through sharing impactful knowledge, spearheading operational excellence, and bringing together industry leaders.
Committees and Governance
CHOA is led by a volunteer Board of Directors, with day‑to‑day activities carried out by member committees, volunteers, and CHOA’s virtual administrative and operational team. The Board functions primarily in a governance role, while the reporting committees manage most operational activities. Learn more about CHOA’s Governance & Policy here.
Board Members
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Valerie Stewart
President
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Justine Strawbridge
VP Operations
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Jennifer Turner
VP Communications
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Gordon Holden
Treasurer
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Sherif Abdelrahman
Director
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Dean Anderson
Director
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Dale Hansen
Director
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Jimmy Jiang
Director
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Steve McCaffrey
Director
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Paul Morris
Director
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Charlotte Plombin
Director
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Bryan Stock
Director
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Caralyn Bennett
Past President
Operational Committees
Executive Committee – advises the main Board on strategic matters and ensures that the association’s goals are met
Operations and Finance Committee – responsible for day-to-day operations, finance, and risk management
Revenue Committee – drives membership and sponsorship relationships and revenues
Content and Event Committees
Editorial Committee - curates content for the Journal
Event committees - organize events, select topics & speakers
CHOA Leads Committee
CHOA CONNECTS Committee
Slugging It Out Committee
Become a member of the CHOA Community. Get involved. Make it work for you.
Sponsor
Lead innovation & shape industry’s future
Keep informed
Subscribe to the CHOA Newsletter
Volunteer
Enhance your professional skills
Join CHOA
Advance your career & expand your network