Celebrating Our Indigenous Workforce at Arctic Gateway Group
As Canada marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, Arctic Gateway Group (AGG) honours the strength, contributions, and vision of our Indigenous employees and ownership partners.
“AGG is proud to be a majority Indigenous-owned” said Chris Avery, President and CEO, Arctic Gateway Group. “Our workforce reflects this ownership, with Indigenous employees in leadership and frontline roles across the Hudson Bay Railway and the Port of Churchill. Together, we are driving economic growth and reconciliation through jobs, training and direct benefits for northern communities.”
In recognition of this day, we are highlighting a few of the many Indigenous team members who make AGG strong.
Suzanne Bracegirdle – Human Resources Manager, Arctic Gateway Group
Suzanne Bracegirdle, a member of Mosakahiken Cree Nation, serves as Human Resources Manager for Arctic Gateway Group. She believes in lifelong learning and the power of education to strengthen people and communities.
Suzanne is confident in AGG’s future growth and its role in creating opportunities through the Port of Churchill. She sees education as a cornerstone for economic development, cultural celebration, and well-being in northern Manitoba.
“Working with AGG means being part of something bigger, it’s about creating opportunities, supporting education, and helping northern communities grow stronger for the future.”
Jason Lord – Mechanical Supervisor, Hudson Bay Railway
Jason Lord, from Pinaymootang First Nation, is the Mechanical Supervisor for the Hudson Bay Railway, overseeing locomotive and car maintenance. He’s been with the railway since 2014, moving up from locomotive electrician to lead hand and now supervisor.
“I love working on the railway, it’s challenging, fast-paced, and keeps you on your toes. Every day is about keeping the wheels moving and making sure trains run without delays. With AGG’s vision for the future, there are more opportunities than ever, and I’m proud to be part of that growth.”
Valdine Richard – Executive Assistant to the CEO, Arctic Gateway Group
Valdine Richard, a member of Misipawistik Cree Nation, has over 30 years of experience in executive support and administration. Much of her career has been dedicated to Indigenous nonprofits, advancing healing, education, and wraparound services.
In 2025, she began a new chapter with Arctic Gateway Group as Executive Assistant to the CEO. For Valdine, the role is another way to help communities thrive, by strengthening infrastructure, opening opportunities, and contributing to the long-term growth of Indigenous communities across Manitoba.
“We have so much to offer - not just to our communities, but to Canada’s economy as a whole. When we invest in Indigenous talent and leadership, everyone benefits.”
Moving Forward Together
These dedicated individuals represent only a fraction of the Indigenous talent at Arctic Gateway Group. Every day, AGG’s employees demonstrate leadership, resilience, and pride in building a stronger future for northern Manitoba and for Canada.
On National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we pause to reflect on the legacy of residential schools and honour Survivors, their families, and their communities. At AGG, we also celebrate the powerful role of Indigenous-led ownership and Indigenous employees in shaping our shared future, through reconciliation in action, economic opportunity, and nation-building infrastructure.
About Arctic Gateway Group: The Arctic Gateway Group is a proudly Indigenous and community owned Manitoba company that owns and operates the Port of Churchill, Canada’s only Arctic seaport serviced by rail, as well as the Hudson Bay Railway, operating from The Pas to Churchill. Together this northern infrastructure forms the nexus of Canada’s Arctic Trade Corridor, providing a reliable and efficient route for Canadian resources to access world markets.