John Desjarlais, Nehinaw Métis from Cumberland House, Sk. Has been in the role of executive director of the Indigenous Resource Network (IRN) since March of 2023. Since then he has led the charge in IRNs advocacy campaigns including its opposition to the emissions cap, Indigenous ownership, among others.
John has a significant background in senior business leader positions serving as president of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan (APEGS), CEO of a First Nation economic development company, senior engineering and radiation/safety management in mining and industrial operations, and most recently as General Manager of an industrial contracting and construction company.
John’s educational background involves engineering, a Master of Business Administration, certificates in governance and communication, and is completing a master’s degree in Governance and Entrepreneurship in Northern and Indigenous Areas.
When John isn’t working hard on behalf of IRNs members he will often be out on his motorcycle or spending time with his family.