CONNECT. SHARE. LEARN. LEAD.
The Canadian Heavy Oil Association (CHOA) is a member‑driven, volunteer‑powered organization advancing the future of heavy oil by connecting people, ideas, and energy. Since 1986, CHOA has strengthened the energy sector and supported member careers through technical content, education, and networking. As a non‑profit, it expands knowledge, relationships, and influence across the heavy oil and oil sands community while maintaining a non‑lobbying stance.
We are passionate about helping you advance your career and your business.
The CHOA network includes producers, service companies, consultants, innovators, regulators, Indigenous businesses, and academic and research institutions. CHOA is the industry’s hub for exchanging ideas, driving innovation, and turning challenges into opportunities. It focuses on unlocking the full potential of heavy oil through shared expertise, operational excellence, and industry collaboration.
Photo by Cenovus Energy
Join CHOA to…
CONNECT
with the full range of technical and commercial players at all levels across our industry – and beyond
SHARE
your knowledge, energy, and good times with others who care about the same things you do
LEARN
about the latest technologies, project and commercial insights, and other sectors that intersect with ours.
LEAD
people, projects, and your own career, using the knowledge and networks you build through CHOA
Testimonials
YIMING JI, Oil Sand Alliance
JEN TURNER, Equitable Origin
JARED WYNVEEN, McDaniel and Associates
GITANE DESILVA, GDStrategic
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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Steve McCaffrey
Director
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Caralyn Bennett
Past President
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Sherif Abdelrahman
Director
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Dale Hansen
Director
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Chad Lemke
Director
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Paul Morris
Director
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Charlotte Plombin
Director
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Bryan Stock
Director
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
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