MLA Report: Building economic bridges: Why PNWER matters for Cypress-Medicine Hat

By Justin Wright on January 28, 2026.

When constituents see headlines about MLAs traveling to conferences, it’s fair to ask: why? What does this mean for our community? This month, I want to explain an important international partnership that directly benefits southeastern Alberta-the Pacific Northwest Economic Region, known as PNWER.

PNWER is an economic development organization that brings together five U.S. states (Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana) and five Canadian jurisdictions (British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories). Together, this region represents over 20 million people and a combined economy worth trillions of dollars. The mission is simple: strengthen economic ties, reduce trade barriers, and create opportunities for businesses on both sides of the border.

Alberta is a founding member, and our government maintains an active delegation because the results matter. PNWER creates direct connections between our local businesses and decision-makers, investors, and industry leaders across North America.

Let me give you a concrete example from right here in southeastern Alberta. Recently, I met with representatives from regional aerospace companies to invite them to participate on an aerospace, aviation, and defence panel at the 2026 PNWER International Conference in Edmonton this July. These aren’t just local startups – these are companies working on cutting-edge projects with international partners and major defence organizations. They’re involved in advanced unmanned aerial systems, working with both American and Canadian military programs, and attracting investment from global aerospace leaders.

These companies represent the kind of high-tech, high-value jobs our region needs, with projects that could create hundreds of positions. But here’s the key: these opportunities don’t happen in isolation. They happen because we’re building relationships, showcasing Alberta’s capabilities, and connecting our innovators with the people who can help them grow.

That’s exactly what PNWER enables. At these conferences, Alberta MLAs and business leaders meet with governors, state legislators, federal officials, and private sector executives. We discuss everything from regulatory harmonization to infrastructure investment to workforce development. We advocate for facilities like the Foremost UAS Test Range, which is critical infrastructure for our aerospace sector. We ensure that when major companies like Airbus, Lockheed Martin, and Raytheon look at where to invest in Western Canada, they know about Medicine Hat and southeastern Alberta.

Economic development isn’t abstract. It’s about ensuring our kids can build careers here without moving to Calgary or Vancouver. It’s about attracting investment that creates jobs, supports families, and strengthens our tax base. It’s about positioning our region as a leader in emerging industries like unmanned aerial systems, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.

Some might ask: can’t this be done from home? The honest answer is no – not as effectively. Face-to-face relationships matter in business and government. When I sit on a panel with Washington state legislators or meet with Montana economic development officials, I’m representing you and advocating for our region’s interests. When our local aerospace companies present alongside industry leaders from across the Pacific Northwest, they’re building credibility and opening doors that simply don’t exist otherwise.

PNWER participation is a strategic investment. The cost of sending a delegation is minimal compared to the economic returns. A single contract, a new facility, or a major investment can generate millions in economic activity and hundreds of jobs.

I’m proud that Alberta remains committed to this partnership, and I’m especially proud to showcase what Cypress-Medicine Hat brings to the table. Our region has world-class innovation, skilled workers, and companies competing on the global stage. PNWER gives us a platform to tell that story and attract the investment and partnerships that will secure our economic future.

If you have questions about PNWER or want to learn more about how your provincial government is working to attract investment and create opportunities in southeastern Alberta, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my constituency office.

Together, we’re building a stronger, more prosperous region for generations to come.

MLA Justin Wright represents the Cypress-Medicine Hat constituency in the Legislative Assembly of Alberta.