September 12, 2022  by

MEDIA: CBC News Network Weekend Business Panel (September, 2022)

Pleased to join the CBC News Network Weekend Business Panel on what has been a somber news week, alongside Dennis Mitchell and John Northcott.  The passing of Queen Elizabeth on September 8th brought a different tone and perspective to our conversation.  While Canada continues to find its way forward after what has hopefully been the worst of the global pandemic, inflation, rising interest rates, supply chain issues, and a tight labour market are all challenges.  Given the current news cycle, it is a good opportunity to step back and consider how Canada’s economy has evolved during the Queen’s remarkable 70 year reign.  You can watch our segment here.

This period has seen an incredible amount of change, from the post- World War II era to the present day digital society.  Canada has long been known as a resources-based economy, however, one of the major developments that we have seen over the past decades is the movement towards building a vibrant technology sector.  There are numerous aspects, including technology across various industries, such as business, consumer, medical, financial, and scientific applications, encompassing hardware, software, mobile, artificial intelligence, and more.  The impact of e-commerce platforms, for example, has significantly influenced how we live and has set high consumer expectations, requiring most businesses to get onboard or find themselves at a clear disadvantage in the marketplace.

Technologies tend to pass through various stages, from conceptual ideas, research and development, intellectual property, testing, commercialization, and ongoing evolution to keep up with changing times.  These stages require specific types of financial support, including grants, seed capital, venture capital, private equity, and the public markets, among others.  Although we have seen Canada’s technology sector develop, including companies operating on national and global levels, there is still much work to do (and capital to raise) to support this effort.  Regardless, this is an important development that has helped to strengthen the diversity of Canada’s economy and position on the world stage; these accomplishments are integral to ongoing economic growth.

I was fortunate to see the Queen in person once; she was about an arm’s length away.  Growing up, most of the people that I saw in leadership roles were men; but, there was always the Queen.  This represented a powerful role model for girls, a female leader who had a very particular and important job to do, but did it on her own terms.  Although some might not understand the significance, others will recognize the impact and importance of diverse leadership, regardless of how it might have come to pass.  As is the case with any job, it is up to the person in the role to do it well, as getting the position is only the beginning.  Thanks to the Queen for setting this example and for her service.

Thank you for watching our quick segment; it was a privilege to be part of this historic news coverage.

 

Jenifer Bartman
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