The Southwestern Ontario Isotope Coalition is doing its part to build stronger connections with different community organizations by welcoming new members at its inaugural meeting.
The coalition is co-chaired by members from the City of Owen Sound, the Canadian Nuclear Isotope Coalition, and the Nuclear Innovation Institute.
At their meeting this week, they welcomed new members from the municipalities of Brockton, Kincardine, and Saugeen Shores, and the Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health.
Chief Operating Officer of the Nuclear Innovation Institute and SOIC co-chair Jessica Linthorne says the importance of including members from across the region is key to industry development.
“We’re looking forward to enhancing the isotope ecosystem in the region. There’s an opportunity to work collaboratively when we think of research, workforce development, and advocacy efforts together.”
The group’s workshop focused on three key areas critical to the SOIC’s vision: workforce, research, and healthcare. Linthorne says that overall, the experience was a positive one and is a good foundation going forward.
“It’s just such an exciting time in the region to be part of the isotope coalition, so I’m just really proud to be a part of it and to move this forward.”
Attendees engaged in lively discussions, sharing insights, capabilities, and aspirations. The collaborative exchange aimed to forge a comprehensive roadmap of action that the SOIC will undertake in the coming year.
They were also able to welcome the current chair of the Western Ontario Warden’s Caucus, Glen McNeil, who is also the Warden for Huron County.
Linthorne says that having the WOWC involved also helps with different communities.
“In particular, the Western Ontario Warden’s Caucus is a very exciting partnership to join, as this group represents a large part of southwestern Ontario.