Northwest Ontario’s Emergency Management Conference - Thunder Bay, ON

An emergency beacon light with trees and water behind it.

Save the Date!

The next Northwest Response Forum will be held April 6-7, 2027, in Thunder Bay, Ontario

Venue: Italian Cultural Centre

#ReadyTogether

Meet some of our 2025 speakers…

Alec Simpson

As Senior Emergency Planner for Transport Canada, he was responsible for overseeing the national airport emergency planning program. These included the development of plans and procedures for responses to air crashes, terrorism, and other emergencies affecting the safe operations at airports, working with local mutual aid resources.  

Dr. Patricia Martel

Dr. Patricia Martel has over 18 years experience as a practitioner in emergency management. Her career has included work with provincial, regional, and municipal governments, Indigenous communities, NGOs, and the private sector. Patricia completed a PhD focused on operational emergency planning for vulnerable populations to learn how to better transform theory and practice into effective solutions.

Jeff Donaldson

A veteran, author, and professor specializing in preparedness communications, readiness analytics and community resilience.

As the Principal Researcher at Preparedness Labs Incorporated, he provides education on adopting a prepared life for individuals, families and communities through books, online courses and 1-1 mentorship.

The Dryden Regional Training & Cultural Centre entrance photo

The Venue

The Dryden Regional Training & Cultural Centre

The Centre, as it is locally known, features a beautiful lobby and auditorium. When you arrive, you’ll visit the Registration Desk in the lobby in order to receive your registration package and conference badge. We ask that delegates and speakers wear their badge for access to all conference functions. 

Free and ample parking is available at The Centre (100 Casimir Avenue, Dryden, ON)

A complimentary courtesy taxi will be available for transportation to and from the conference venue during scheduled times at the start and end of each day.  Please see the Registration Desk to arrange the shuttle. The Registration Desk will be staffed throughout the conference to assist delegates and speakers as required.

Book your hotel

Hotel blocks for Thunder Bay coming soon! Thank you to the Best Western and Holiday Inn in Dryden for their many years of support!

349 Government St, Dryden

807-223-3201

Room block cut-off March 5

585 Government St, Dryden

807-223-3000

Call for the room block