A third-generation Albertan and a proud community member for 22 years, Brad Friesen understands the challenges and opportunities faced by people in Fort McMurray-Wood Buffalo because he’s lived those challenges and opportunities.

Currently employed in the oil sands, Brad is a former small business owner, a dedicated community volunteer and comes from a long line of farmers and family members committed to sustainability, serving others and building community.

Brad’s mother was a nurse, and he also counts doctors, paramedics and health care service providers among his relatives, giving him an understanding of the current issues faced in our health care system – by people and by health care workers.

Educated at what is now Olds College of Agriculture and Technology, Brad was also working towards a degree in education before being called back to help out on the family farm.

While that led Brad back to his roots, it was also the beginning of a journey that guided him to the community through the eventual operations of Dunvegan Gardens in Draper. Brad’s experience leading Dunvegan Gardens furthered his resolve as a strong advocate for small and local business and in standing up for common sense ideas.

Brad has supported or served with many community organizations in his over two decades here, including the Wood Buffalo Food Bank, Girls Inc., Kids Forever, Family Crisis Centre, Fort McMurray Tourism, and several minor sports teams, school groups and Scouts Canada.