Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) held its annual Industry Day at the Chalk River Laboratories campus on September 6, 2024, drawing over 100 nuclear vendors and 14 local suppliers, businesses, and economic development organizations. The event, in partnership with the Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries (OCNI), aimed to foster engagement between CNL’s nuclear partners, local organizations, and Indigenous communities.
This year’s Industry Day featured a tradeshow where vendors and local organizations showcased their products and services, offering a platform to explore partnership opportunities within Canada’s nuclear supply chain. In addition to the tradeshow, CNL organized presentations and discussions highlighting ongoing projects in decommissioning, waste management, science, and the revitalization of the Chalk River campus.
Randy Hendrickson, CNL’s Vice-President of Business Management, emphasized the importance of sourcing local and Indigenous suppliers. “Extending economic opportunities to qualified, local organizations and businesses is vital to these communities. Industry Day helps us find innovative Canadian vendors and expand our network of suppliers,” he said.
Brian Fehrenbach, Interim CEO of OCNI, praised the event’s role in the Canadian nuclear industry. “Industry Day highlights the collaborative spirit within our sector, providing a platform for meaningful connections that drive economic growth and enhance Canadian nuclear technology,” Fehrenbach stated.
Local economic development representatives from MRC Pontiac and Renfrew County also participated, facilitating networking opportunities for local businesses. With a record-setting attendance of over 100 nuclear vendors, the event aimed to spur growth in CNL’s nuclear sector, enhance procurement standards, and foster greater collaboration across the industry.
For more details on doing business with CNL or to register as a potential supplier, visit CNL’s vendor portal at www.cnl.ca/vendors.
(Written by: Emma Butler)