Alberta Chambers of Commerce Priorities Set

at ACC's 88th AGM & Policy Plenary

Whitecourt, AB — Delegates from local chambers across Alberta adopted 28 policy resolutions to advocate with the provincial and federal governments during the Alberta Chambers of Commerce (ACC) 88th Annual General Meeting and Policy Plenary in Whitecourt on May 28, 2026.

The Whitecourt & District Chamber of Commerce welcomed chamber leaders, business advocates, and partners from across the province for ACC’s annual gathering focused on strengthening Alberta’s business environment, advancing policy priorities, and fostering collaboration across the chamber network.

“Hosting ACC’s AGM in Whitecourt was an incredible opportunity to showcase our community, industries, and the strength of regional collaboration,” said Terriann Masse, President of the Whitecourt & District Chamber of Commerce. “We were proud to welcome chamber leaders from across Alberta and highlight the innovation, resilience, and opportunities that exist in our region.”

The annual Policy Plenary session remains a cornerstone of the AGM, bringing together chamber delegates from across the province to debate and adopt policy recommendations that reflect the priorities of Alberta businesses. This year’s discussions focused on workforce development, economic competitiveness, market access, regulatory efficiency, rural economic sustainability, and innovation.

The AGM also welcomed Candace Laing, President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, who spoke to delegates about the importance of a strong and unified business voice in shaping Canada’s economic future.

ACC President and CEO Shauna Feth said the priorities advanced by community chambers reflect the opportunities and challenges Alberta businesses are navigating across the province.

“The chamber network plays an important role in bringing forward practical, consensus-driven solutions that support businesses across Alberta,” said Feth. “With 31 chambers participating in this year’s Policy Plenary, the recommendations adopted demonstrate the collective strength of Alberta’s business community and a shared commitment to supporting long-term economic growth, investment, and competitiveness.”

Robin Bobocel, who was sworn in as ACC Chair for 2026-2027, emphasized the need for practical, solutions-focused advocacy on behalf of Alberta businesses.

“The policies adopted at this AGM reflect real challenges that Alberta businesses are navigating today — and they point to something larger,” said Bobocel. “Uncertainty has become one of the most significant economic forces affecting this province right now. It functions like a tax: slowing investment, complicating hiring decisions, and eroding the confidence that drives growth. Alberta cannot afford that tax.”

Robin Bobocel signs the Oath of Office for his position as ACC Chair 2026-2027 with Notary, Carman McNary.

“Over the next year, I am committed to ensuring ACC is the most credible and consistent voice for economic stability, competitiveness, and the long-term prosperity this province is capable of delivering.”

ACC Executive Committee for 2026-2027

Photo (left to right): Mike Szyszka, Robin Bobocel, Cindy Park, Shane Groarke, Shauna Feth, Kristi Hines, Layne Gardner

ACC Executive Committee for 2026-2027

Robin Bobocel, Edmonton — Chair

Cindy Park, Grande Prairie — Chair-Elect

Layne Gardner, Peace River — Vice-Chair

Mike Szyszka, Red Deer — Treasurer

Shane Groarke, Airdrie — Secretary

Kristi Hines, Fort McMurray — Past Chair

Shane Groarke, Founding Partner and Lawyer at GP Law in Airdrie, was welcomed as Secretary to the ACC Executive Committee for 2026-2027. Jodie McFadzen concluded her term and was thanked for her dedication and leadership while serving on the ACC Executive Committee over the past eight years.

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Robin_Bobocel_Biography

For comment, please contact: 

Dana Severson

Manager, Advocacy and Research

Alberta Chambers of Commerce

(P) 780-425-4180 Ext.4

dseverson@abchamber.ca

The Alberta Chambers of Commerce is a federation of 106 community-based chambers of commerce representing more than 22,000 job creators.

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