Governance

Chair

A respected entrepreneur, Alan Spacek was the former Mayor of Kapuskasing from 2006-2018 and President of the Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) for eight years. His life’s work has centered on the northern economy – helping businesses improve, pursuing economic development opportunities and a strong devotion to social services through his mentorship within the education, justice and health sectors. A life-long northerner, Alan understands the unique challenges of northern Ontario and the vast opportunities that exist for the region.

Robert J. (“RJ”) Falconi, B.Sc., JD, ICD.D - Vice Chair

RJ, born and raised in North Bay, is currently a resident of Bradford, and is the Managing Director of RayleeValleyGroup that provides legal, public policy, rail transportation safety, government relations, and corporate governance advice. A Commissioner on the ONTC since January 2020, he is Chair of the TSSA Board, member of Tarion Warranty Corporation’s Board, and CME’s Ontario Advisory Board. RJ was formerly EVP, Chief Legal & Government Affairs Officer, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary at Canadian Standards Association. Previously a VP, General Counsel & Assistant Corporate Secretary for Parsons Corporation, a transportation engineering firm, and Legal Counsel at Citibank Canada. He is noted for organizing the first ever rail safety Congressional education forum on Capitol Hill in Washington DC and leading a Rail Safety Task Force of experts to develop rail safety solutions arising from the Lac-Mégantic crude oil tank car train tragedy. RJ has a B.Sc. from the University of Toronto, an LL.B. (J.D.) from Osgoode Hall, is certified as an Institute‐Certified Director (ICD.D) and is a member of the Law Society of Ontario.

Randy Nickle, a resident of Kenora, has a strong business background as an A&W Franchise owner for more than 38 years. In addition he and his wife Lori jointly operated a motor coach agency in Dryden and Kenora making him very familiar with the transportation industry needs of northwestern Ontario. He has spent decades committed to tourism in the northwest, most notably chairing the Committee of Harbourfest, one of northwest Ontario’s largest Music and Family festivals. Randy has participated in various board and committees, ranging from economic development and tourism, to Copperfin credit union board member and many years in minor sports.

As a Certified Hotel Administrator Roberta Sawchyn has worked in the hospitality industry for over 25 years. For the past 19 years she has held the position of General Manager for the Best Western Plus Nor'Wester Hotel & Convention Centre. She is Chair of the Thunder Bay Hotel Association, Board Director of the Thunder Bay CEDC, past board director of the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce and has volunteered for many local organizations such as the United Way and Easter Seals. Roberta is a lifelong resident of Thunder Bay and she works passionately in bringing her visions and experience of excellence to the community and surrounding areas. Having a strong and healthy community for her family to live and grow in is paramount.

As the former President of Northern College, Fred Gibbons has spent more than 25 years working in the community college education system. In 2021 he received the lifetime achievement award for his contributions to education from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. Serving on numerous local boards and committees, including past president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce, Director on the Timmins & District Hospital Board, and Chair of the Timmins Economic Development Corporation, Fred has an acute knowledge of Northern Ontario. Known for his work in establishing lasting partnerships that benefit northern communities, Fred has chaired numerous provincial and national organizations such as Colleges Ontario and the Committee of Presidents.

William Ferguson is VP of Creative and Partner at TWG Communications. With over 26 years of industry experience, William’s insight, knowledge, and expertise have been the driving force behind TWG’s diverse creative portfolio. As one of the agency’s founders, he has built a reputation for scouting the best design talent and directing strategic branding and innovative campaigns for a myriad of regional, national, and international clients. William’s community involvement is extensive and includes his current role as Vice President of the Canadore College Foundation, and previous roles including past Chair of the Board of Governors of Canadore College, past Chair of the North Bay Police Services Board, past Chair of Heritage North Bay, and a variety of community initiatives. William has been credited with many award-winning creative projects, has received awards for his sound and proven leadership and business acumen, and is a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.