Andre L. Routhier

Born in Québec, raised in Québec and New-Brunswick (where I learned English), where
my parents had a tourism business, so I was immerse in business at a young age.
I Studied in International Relations in Québec & Ottawa. I am a graduate of Laval
University in International Relations in Québec & University of Ottawa in Strategic
Studies with an emphasis on International Trade.
I began my professional life at the Foreign Affairs & International Trade Department
(Global Affairs) in Ottawa, dealing with the implementation of the first Free Trade
Agreement [FTA] and worked on the NAFTA agreement at its early stage.
Then moved back to Québec to start a consulting firm supporting SME in their
international endeavors. Also worked in different positions either as a Consultant in
Public Affairs or as an Economic Development Officer or Executive Director of
organizations in Economic Development & Community Development on the Local,
Regional, and Provincial level in QC & Canada. I Was also involved in the start-up and
management of Industrial Parks and Business Incubators nationally & internationally.
Then I worked in the North as an ED to set-up, create and manage an Economic
Development organization (something like was the EEDC in YEG).. Also gave a course
in Entrepreneurship & Business communications at the local college.
Then move back South (Edmonton) for another start-up initiative (VISTA) with the
Business Link, dealing with Business Incubators. Since then, I do consulting on
Strategic Planning, Economic Development, Export plans and communications on a
part-time basis. I always kept my interest in International Affairs and when the
opportunity presented itself I volunteered and became with JJ and others one of the
founding member of Dufashanye (Help One Another) and looking forward to do some
more volunteering and participate to the evolution and growth of this organization.