Executive Leadership Team
Drew Pearson
CEO
Drew Joined First Nations Capital & Infrastructure Agency in October 2021 as Vice President of Legal, Governance and Stakeholder Relations. Drew was moved into the CEO Role in April of 2022.
Drew is a member of Little Pine First Nation and was raised in various communities across Saskatchewan.
Drew is a lawyer with a strong corporate commercial background in construction and land development. Drew has negotiated with all levels of government. Drew teamed up with others and built a new law firm that serviced the Yukon. Since moving back to Saskatoon in 2014, Drew has been in service of solely First Nation Clients and has been involved with developing lands for reserve creation, in addition to reserve lands, land codes, election acts, on-reserve construction projects, financings and partnership creations.
Drew has a Degree in Political Studies and further graduated from the College of Law at the University of Saskatchewan.
Trent Larson
Vice-President of Operations and Professional Services
p: 306-500-7981
Trent joined First Nations Capital and Infrastructure Agency in August 2022 as VP of Operations and Professional Services. He was born and raised in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan.
Trent has spent numerous years working on major projects in Western Canada in forestry, oil and gas, hydro, and mining. Prior to joining FNCIAS, he has worked in a variety of roles leading regulatory approvals, construction management, project management, facilities maintenance, capital planning, and site services.
Having worked for the for private and public companies in the natural resources Trent has developed an appreciation of the social, economic, and environmental impacts of major projects on the First Nation in Western Canada and their traditional lands. Entering the last half of his career Trent has brought his skill and experience to First Nations Capital and Infrastructure to support First Nations to close the housing and infrastructure gap and overcome funding and technical challenges on reserves.
Trent holds has a Bachelors of Science Degree in Forestry and is a Registered Professional Forester. With over 20 years of experience in the natural resources sector team Trent has worked on a variety of integrated teams and is an effective listener and a respected leader who focuses on building strong relationships with those he works with and Right Holders and is known for building effective close-knit teams and is an innovator.
Ken Okanee
Vice President of Corporate Services & Business Development
p: 639-637-5024
c: 306-981-3963
Ken Okanee joined FNCIAS in August 2023 as the Vice President of Corporate Services and Business Development. He is a proud member of Thunderchild First Nation. He brings a wealth of experience from his role as CEO of Thunderchild Developments, where he spearheaded initiatives to advance community and economic development within First Nations communities.
With over a decade of leadership experience in both Provincial and First Nations educational systems, Ken has held senior positions such as principal, superintendent, and director of education. His career is distinguished by his commitment to student growth, academic excellence, and the development of innovative strategies to improve educational outcomes. Ken has played a pivotal role in provincial and federal education initiatives and has a proven record of delivering effective curriculum and leadership across grades 1 to 12.
Ken holds a Master of Education degree, a Bachelor of Education degree, and a Bachelor of Arts degree. He is celebrated for his exceptional communication and leadership skills, his expertise in budget management, policy development, and regulatory compliance. He is known for his ability to forge strong collaborative relationships with community stakeholders and his dedication to transparency and accountability. Ken’s extensive experience and unwavering dedication to both education and community development make him a valuable asset to FNCIAS, where he is committed to advancing First Nations’ interests and driving business development initiatives.
Juliano Tupone
Vice President of Finance
Juliano joined First Nations Capital and Infrastructure Agency in July 2024 as the Vice President of Finance. He is a proud member of the Sweetgrass First Nation in Saskatchewan. Juliano brings a unique blend of Cree and Italian heritage to his work, fostering deep connections with the communities he serves.
Juliano has over ten years of experience in Indigenous public service and has held numerous CEO, CFO, and senior administrator positions throughout his twenty-year career. His work with various First Nations governments, organizations, businesses, entrepreneurs, and non-profits demonstrates his dedication to increasing First Nations economic participation and empowerment.
Juliano holds a Bachelor of Commerce, a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, and a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Saskatchewan. As a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), he has vast experience and expertise in reporting, financial management, accounting, entrepreneurship, business planning, analysis, and economic development.
Passionate about empowering First Nations people and communities, Juliano’s financial acumen and strategic guidance have been instrumental in helping countless organizations achieve their objectives. He is a dedicated father to five children, inspiring the next generation with his commitment to service and cultural pride.
Staff
Heidi Abramyk, CM, CMP
Marketing and Communications Manager
p: 639-398-6636
Heidi joined the First Nations Capital and Infrastructure Agency of Saskatchewan in May 2023 as Marketing and Communications Manager. She is a citizen of the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan and was born and raised in Prince Albert.
Heidi has over 13 years of experience in marketing, communications, public relations, and engagement that span several industries in the public and private sectors. Prior to joining the First Nations Capital and Infrastructure Agency of Saskatchewan, she spent the last five years working for a provincial agency focused on building quality improvement capacity in health and health care in Saskatchewan.
Heidi holds a Master of Arts in Professional Communications from Royal Roads University, a bachelor of Design from Kwantlen Polytechnic University, bachelor of Commerce with a major in Marketing from Thompson Rivers University, and a diploma in Public Relations from the University of Victoria. She has a Chartered Marketer (CM) designation from the Canadian Marketing Association and a Communications Management Professional (CMP) certification from the Global Communication Certification Council.
Rhonda H. Bear, BISW, MISW
Community Engagement Manager
On leave - Please contact Warren Isbister-Bear
Rhonda is a Plains Cree woman from the Thunderchild First Nation in the Treaty Six Territory. Rhonda is a mental health therapist with over 10 years of experience serving the community by providing wellness support and guidance for those in need. She joined First Nations Capital & Infrastructure of Saskatchewan (FNCIAS) as a Community Engagement Specialist in August 2023. Prior to coming to FNCIAS, Rhonda worked at the Saskatchewan Health Quality Council where she was the Indigenous Engagement Lead. During her time there, she helped shape and lead the organization’s work in supporting First Nations communities in advancing First Nations-led health promotion initiatives. Rhonda served as the Interim Director of Youth Empowerment program at the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations. During her time there, she developed the waniskahk.ca website that provided First Nations people with resources for mental health and life promotion resources.
In previous roles, Rhonda worked with the SHA First Nations Métis Health Services as a Health Educator, a hub representative in Saskatoon, as well as a Child Protection Worker- Investigator for Ministry of Social Services child and family programs.
Rhonda completed a business applications diploma in 2004 from CDI Business College, a certificate and bachelor’s degree in Indigenous Social work in 2013 and a Masters of Indigenous Social work degree in 2019 from the First Nations University of Canada. In 2023, Rhonda won a YWCA Women of Distinction award in the Health & Athletics category for her contributions in the community in supporting First Nations mental health and life promotion.
Herman Bugler, CPHR
Senior Manager, Human Resources
p: 639-299-6347
First and foremost, Herman Bugler is a family man. Originally from the Red Pheasant Cree Nation, he now resides in Warman, SK with his wife and children and enjoys rooting for his children in all their activities.
Professionally, Herman has been in the Human Resources field since 2006. His experience includes roles as Director of Organizational Development and Talent Management with Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority, Human Resources Manager with Living Sky School Division and Human Resources Assistant with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Social Services.
Herman is a Chartered Professional in Human Resources of Saskatchewan, a designation that he has held since 2015. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a Human Resources Management major from the Edwards School of Business at the University of Saskatchewan and a Certificate in Indigenous Business Administration from First Nations University of Canada.
Herman prides himself on holding his values and ethics at the heart of everything that he does and works to be a positive role model for his family and his community.
Jerry Christiansen
Procurement Coordinator
p: 306-500-7991
c: 306-850-8528
Jerry joined First Nations Capital and Infrastructure Agency in July 2022 as a Community Engagement Specialist.
He is a member of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band and grew up in his home community before pursuing his professional golfing career. Jerry also played NCAA Division I golf for the University of British Columbia before finishing his Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Saskatchewan.
Jerry worked for his Nation for three years as the finance officer and post-secondary co-ordinator before joining First Nations Capital and Infrastructure. He has been instrumental in the signing of several nations, including his home nation, the Lac La Ronge Indian Band.
Andy Gehl
Manager of Community Planning
p: 306-222-8850
Andy joined FNCIAS in 2024 as the Manager of Community Planning. Based in Saskatoon, Andy is a Registered Professional Planner with a degree in Regional and Urban Planning from the University of Saskatchewan. He brings two decades of experience working with municipalities, developers, and First Nations communities.
Andy’s expertise spans neighbourhood layout design, subdivision design, policy applications, land development, and engagement. Andy’s extensive experience and commitment to community development, combined with his strong focus on First Nation on-reserve development plans, makes him an invaluable resource for our member Nations. He provides ongoing planning support and expert community development assistance, working closely with our internal infrastructure, housing, and engagement teams.
Externally, Andy serves as a liaison between Member Nations, FNCIAS, government staff, and consultants to facilitate community development and future growth. He also coordinates the creation and implementation of First Nation Development Plans, contributing to on-reserve growth and capital planning.
Dana Greyeyes
Housing Assessment Specialist
p: 306-500-7997
Bio coming soon.
Marcella Greyeyes
Executive Assistant
p: 639-637-5071
Bio coming soon.
Gary Guild
Controller and Accountant
p: 306-500-7994
Gary joined First Nations Capital and Infrastructure in May 2022. He is a member of Bigstone Cree Nation and was born and raised in Wabasca, Alberta.
Growing up in a First Nation community, he experienced firsthand the struggles many First Nation communities are dealing with today. He realized that to drive meaningful change, we needed to take part in and eventually control the decision-making and implementation of the services that directly impact our lives. Through hard work and dedication, he completed his university education and took the first step toward achieving this goal.
He graduated from Grant MacEwan University, where he attained his Diploma in Accounting and Strategic Measurement, holds a Bachelor of Commerce Degree majoring in accounting and is currently in the process of attaining his Certified Professional Accountant (CPA) designation.
He completed his articling with a large public practice accounting firm out of Edmonton, where he focused primarily on auditing engagements for First Nations and Métis Settlements across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia. He later accepted a Financial Controller position with a Saskatchewan First Nation, where he quickly moved up to Chief Financial Officer.
Gary’s combined education and experience in auditing and working directly with First Nations allows him to implement the proper controls, budgeting, financial reporting policies and procedures to help the organization achieve its goals while ensuring accountability and financial transparency to its members.
Warren Isbister-Bear
Community Engagement Specialist
p: 639-637-5015
Warren Isbister-Bear is from Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation and has been living and working in Saskatoon for the past 20 years. Warren moved to Saskatoon from his First Nations community of Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation to pursue his educational background. His career started with his passion for sport, culture and recreation and he found himself completing his Recreation and Tourism Management diploma from the Saskatchewan Polytechnic. He went on to obtain a Bachelor of Arts degree in Aboriginal Public Administration from the University of Saskatchewan and is currently completing his MBA specializing in Community Economic Development through Cape Breton University.
Warren’s work experience has largely been shaped by the Cree concept and philosophy of “wahkotowin”, meaning “kinship” that community and family are at the center of our work and ensuring that no one gets left behind. This traditional teaching has helped Warren be proactive in working in collaboration between First Nations, non-profit, and municipal, regional, provincial, and federal governments.
Warren has always been engaged in community events that help build opportunities for Indigenous people and communities. In his career he has been involved in both social and community development initiatives in order to create inroads for improved quality of life or “miyo-pimatisiwin” for Indigenous people. Moving forward Warren wants to continue being a voice at strategic partnership tables and initiatives that help build links to education, employment, and economic development for Indigenous people.
Steven Jim
Executive Leadership Team Advisor
p: 639-299-6349
c: 306-841-7812
Steven has been a part of First Nations Capital and Infrastructure Agency of Saskatchewan since its inception in 2020. Prior to coming on, he served as the Director of Housing at the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations. His current role is Executive Leadership Team Advisor.
Steven is a Cree First Nation member from the Witchekan Lake First Nation. Following in his dad’s footsteps, he ran and was elected councilman in his community of Witchekan Lake First Nation in 2004. In 2006, he was elected one of the youngest Chiefs in Canada, a position he held for eight years. Steven is a Residential School Survivor; he holds a Master’s in Business Administration and Indigenous Business Leadership degrees from Simon Fraser University.
Keli Just, P.Eng.
Senior Manager of Engineering
p: 306-500-7999
Keli joined First Nations Capital and Infrastructure Agency in August 2022 as Senior Manager of Engineering.
Keli has experience working with and assisting First Nation and Indigenous communities across western Canada to enhance quality of life on reserve land. These efforts included effectively planning for community and land development, creating sound environmental practices, and building capacity for community wellness and economic development. Prior to joining First Nations Capital and Infrastructure, he spent fourteen years working as a geo-environmental consultant. During this time, Keli focused on community infrastructure development, environmental management and protection as well as strategic planning for First Nation communities and Indigenous owned business.
Keli has a Bachelor of Civil Engineering from USask and is a registered Professional Engineer. With over 18 years of combined education and professional experience, Keli is an integral part of the First Nations Capital and Infrastructure Agency of Saskatchewan team and its mandate.
Catherine Laliberte
Finance Coordinator
p: 639-299-6348
Catherine joined First Nations Capital and Infrastructure Agency in January 2023 as Finance Coordinator. While raising three children, Catherine went back to school where she went on to earn a Certificate in Indigenous Business Administration from the First Nations University of Canada and a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in accounting, from the University of Saskatchewan. In October 2013, she received the Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager designation through the Aboriginal Financial Officers Association of Canada. In December 2019, Catherine completed pre-requisites courses through the Canadian Payroll Association to obtain her certification as a Payroll Compliance Practitioner. For over 30 years, Catherine has gained extensive experience working with Saskatchewan First Nations organizations in the areas of Finance, Economic Development and Administration.
Originally from Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan, Catherine currently lives in Saskatoon and is a member of the Poundmaker Cree Nation. She is the first of her family to earn a college degree and credits her father for his strength, wisdom and encouragement when striving to reach her goals and continues to be a role model to her children and family.
Catherine believes in supporting First Nations in effective financial management and in First Nations self-sufficiency. Catherine will continue to respect cultural values, protocols and ways of business as well as continue working and assisting her people.
Brooke Laliberte-Pewapisconias
Community Engagement Specialist
p: 639-637-5331
Brooke Laliberte-Pewapisconias is a proud Nehiyaw Iskwew from Canoe Lake Cree Nation in Treaty 10 Territory with family connections to Little Pine and Poundmaker First Nation in Treaty 6 Territory. She has a Business Administration Diploma from Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Commerce with a major in Management from Edwards School of Business. She is a Certified Indigenous Human Resources Professional with the Aboriginal Financial Officers Association of Canada.
Before joining FNCIAS, Brooke worked at Nutrien as a Human Resources Coordinator and Senior Advisor in Indigenous Relations. She has also worked with the City of Saskatoon and Dakota Dunes Community Development Corporation in various engagement and community capacities. In her spare time she is a pow-wow dancer, hockey player, and slow pitch player. In 2022, she was part of the FSIN women’s hockey champions. Brooke takes pride in volunteering for her community as she was the first Alumni Advisor for the Indigenous Business Student Society of Edwards School of Business at the University of Saskatchewan.
Brooke enjoys working with nations leaders and community stakeholders to develop culturally responsive housing initiatives and infrastructure projects that empower our people and honor traditions to build resilient communities that thrive for generations to come. With her deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges facing Indigenous peoples, Brooke works diligently to foster relationships and implement innovative solutions that prioritize community well-being and environmental stewardship.
Misty Ledoux
Human Resources Specialist
p: 306-912-5751
Misty Ledoux is a Cree woman from the Witchekan Lake First Nation. She joined First Nations Capital and Infrastructure Agency of Saskatchewan in July 2024 as Human Resources Specialist. With a career spanning several key roles, including Employee Relations Consultant with Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority, Human Resource Manager at Saskatoon Open Door Society, and Representative Workforce Consultant at Saskatchewan Polytechnic and Saskatchewan Health Authority, Misty brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in all areas of Human Resources.
Her expertise encompasses recruitment, retention, strategy development, policy development, coaching, facilitation, community engagement, relationship building, and embracing diversity. Misty understands the challenges and obstacles that First Nations people face and is passionate about empowering people to achieve success.
Misty holds a Business Administration Diploma and a Leadership for Managers Certificate from Queens University. She is currently working on her Bachelor of Arts (Indigenous Studies) Degree through First Nations University of Canada. She believes that education is key to moving forward to a successful future for all. Misty is married, a mother of six children, and kokum to three beautiful babies. She enjoys playing ball, working out, beading, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Tim Vogel
Asset Management Engineer
p: 639-637-0771
Tim joined FNCIAS as an Asset Management Engineer in January 2024. He spent his early years in Southwest Saskatchewan but has called Saskatoon home for many years.
Tim has a Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Saskatchewan and is currently completing his Ph.D. in the same field. Throughout that experience, Tim has been involved in asset condition assessments and has had the opportunity to engage with First Nations on the intersection of infrastructure and community connections. His focus has been on how social benefits and community values can be included in technical frameworks of lifecycle costing and decision making, particularly in the context of broader and more flexible funding allocation.
Randolph (Randy) Whitcome
Senior Manager of Procurement
p: 639-637-5335
Randy joined First Nations Capital and Infrastructure Agency of Saskatchewan in May 2024 as Senior Procurement Manager. He is an internationally certified Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP) with extensive Anti-corruption Compliance and Supply Chain Management experience supporting global operations and major capital projects from conception to closure within mining, oil & gas, manufacturing, and industrial construction industries, along with experience working in municipal government.
With more than 25 years of experience, Randy is passionate about leading meaningful change for First Nation communities and being a role model for other organizations to learn from. He leads the development of the Procurement team, policies, procedures, tools, and systems to deliver best-practice Procurement services for our members, while ensuring procurement activities are ethical, efficient, and effective.
Randy is a member of the Red Pheasant Cree Nation, has a fantastic family (awesome wife, two great children, plus a dog and cat) and enjoys vintage vehicles, golf, and motorcycling.
Natasha Whitefish
Office Coordinator
p: 306-500-7987
Natasha joined First Nations Capital and Infrastructure Association of Saskatchewan in February 2024 as Office Coordinator. She hails from the vibrant community of Big River First Nation, where she embodies the values of resilience, community, and continuous growth. With a passion for fostering positive change, and a comprehensive background in administration and project coordination, she brings a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to her role at FNCIAS.
Before stepping into her current role, Natasha dedicated eight years to the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT), where she honed her skills across various administrative capacities. Her tenure at SIIT provided her with invaluable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities within Indigenous education and community development.
Natasha’s educational journey reflects her commitment to personal and professional advancement. Armed with a foundation in Business, she is currently pursuing a degree in Commerce, majoring in Management at the University of Saskatchewan. She is also a certified fitness professional, specializing in strength and conditioning coaching, personal training, group instruction, indoor cycling, and sports nutrition. She is deeply passionate about promoting physical health and well-being, leveraging her expertise to empower individuals to achieve their wellness goals.
Natasha’s strategic mindset, attention to detail, and passion for supporting Indigenous initiatives make her an invaluable asset to the FNCIAS team.
Ian Worme
Community Engagement Specialist
p: 639-647-5317
Tansi, Ian Worme is a band member with Kawacatoose First Nation, Treaty 4. He is a proud family man and lives in Whitecap Dakota First Nation, where his wife is from. He values the importance of miyo-wicehtowin (having good relationships) in his work and the key role that plays in fostering a sense of community, engagement and the establishment of partnerships.
In 2010 Ian received a Bachelor of Education through the Indian Teacher Education Program and in 2021 received a Master of Public Administration through Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy. In his experience Ian has worked as a teacher in elementary school, high school and as an instructor in Edwards School of Business. Furthermore, he has been an educational and partnership consultant, community liaison, program coordinator and program manager. His experience spans across multiple settings, that includes working on and off reserve, at both catholic and public school boards, First Nation organizations, at the provincial government level in the Ministry of Education, and at the University of Saskatchewan.
Ian is happy to have made a shift in his career from education to helping build capacity within infrastructure and housing for First Nations with FNCIAS.