Our History

A storied history

 

The ACR began in 1936 as the Alberta and Northwest Chamber of Mines. It was developed to regulate labour and supplies in the mines of Canada’s North, to promote resource extraction and to help put Albertans back to work during the Great Depression. By the Second World War the Chamber’s scope expanded to include all of the resources industries and after a series of name changes the Chamber settled on its present moniker in 1977.

Throughout its history the ACR has been committed to improving the competitiveness of the sectors its represents through thoughtful conversation and debate around conditions for future success including Indigenous and community consultation, regulatory reform, evolving ESG expectations, land use planning and supportive policy development to encourage investment. To learn more about our history, please see the resource links below.

ACR Timeline

A History of Alberta Chamber of Resources (1936–2025)

1936
Founded as the Edmonton Chamber of Mines with $1,410 in the bank. Leonard Drummond becomes the first Secretary-Treasurer.
1953
Mike Finland becomes General Manager, ushering in a dynamic era of northern development and aerial surveys.
1977
Name officially changed to Alberta Chamber of Resources to reflect broader resource development.
1995
The National Oil Sands Task Force publishes a pivotal report catalyzing major investment and expansion.
2004
ACR releases the Oil Sands Technology Roadmap predicting 5 million barrels/day by 2030.
2011
Landmark report reveals Alberta’s natural resources could contribute $700 billion to GDP.
2016
ACR celebrates its 80th anniversary.
2020
Supports members through the COVID-19 pandemic with advocacy and virtual engagement.
2023
Launches "Breaking Down the Barriers" initiative and partners with Energy Futures Lab to explore energy workforce transitions.
2024
Releases landform assessment tool to support tailings reclamation and updates Governance Committee protocols.
2025
Celebrates 50 years of its Annual Awards Banquet and sets sights on a bold, inclusive future.