Mitch Mercredi 2023 Distinguished Alum

At the 42^nd Annual Keyano College Gala on November 04, Mr. Mitch Mercredi was named Keyano’s 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. This award is given annually to alums who have garnered recognition for their remarkable achievements, and these individuals are celebrated for their leadership and industry knowledge that exemplifies their devotion to the college and the greater community.

Originally from Fort Chipewyan, Mercredi discovered his second home in Fort McMurray, where he has spent most of his life and career passionately advocating for preserving the richness of Indigenous culture. As a proud Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation member, Mercredi has emerged as a true leader dedicated to championing Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the country. His efforts reflect a commitment to promoting and revitalizing Indigenous cultural heritage and traditions. He lives by the philosophy: “We rise by lifting others,” reflected in his daily interactions, particularly in his quest to enhance partnerships with Indigenous businesses and creators in Wood Buffalo.

Mercredi has maintained a profound connection to Keyano College since completing the College Preparation and Industrial Instrumentation Technology programs from 2000 to 2002. He has advocated for education and self-development, expanding his post-secondary journey and earning a degree in Civil Engineering from NAIT and an Executive MBA in Indigenous Business and Leadership from Simon Fraser University.

He has also volunteered with the Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Business Association for over a decade and was a past President of the NAABA board. Through this and other ventures, he has worked tirelessly to advocate for reconciliation by empowering local Indigenous businesses and unlocking new opportunities for First Nations, Metis, and Inuit individuals and communities throughout the region.  He has also contributed his athletic skills to the Men’s Volleyball Team during his formative years at Keyano College.

Beyond his professional endeavours, Mercredi has extensively supported athletics and has given his time as the President of the Wood Buffalo Native Youth Hockey Club and as a coach in the Fort McMurray Minor Hockey Association. His mentorship extends to Indigenous youth in the Aboriginal Entrepreneur Program at Father Patrick Mercredi High School and the Composite High School. He has always worked to guide our local youth, giving them the courage to present their ideas without fear and the courage to take on the world. Consistently an inspiration through mentorship, he ensures youth express their opinions without fear and instills the confidence to overcome hardships and challenges.  

Recently, Mercredi assumed the role of Land Use, Economic Development, and Natural Resources Lead with Deloitte’s Nations Building Advisory practice. In this capacity, he remains committed to providing solutions that empower First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities. He focuses on enhancing Indigenous entrepreneurship and small business development to ensure economic prosperity so that Indigenous Peoples can build their business capabilities.

We take great pride in recognizing Mercredi as our Distinguished Alumni this year, commending his outstanding leadership and engagement in local community organizations and initiatives. His dedication to mentorship and the advancement of Indigenous companies positions him as an exceptional changemaker, and we look forward to the progress he will continue to make within the community in the years to come.