Conclusion: Place Your Bets on Alberta, Folks

This is the eighth and final installment in a series on Justin’s year working in economic development.

If I were a gambling man (which I am), I’d bet on Alberta. That is my primary takeaway from a year at a high level in our provincial business development machine. Alberta truly is one of the safest, most beautiful and prosperous places on earth, blessed with staggering natural resources. There are many ambitious and interesting companies and people who see the possibilities here, and there’s room for everyone.

The past year was the first time I’d ever worked in the public sector in any capacity. While some of the cliches you hear are definitely true, there are a lot of people in government working really hard to try to make a difference for us all, putting in long hours and working on complex subject matter. I was impressed with the calibre and dedication of my colleagues in various departments and agencies, and I’m thankful for the work they continue to do on behalf of us all. There’s a different rhythm and a different set of incentives in the public sector than in business, but it’s not better or worse.

When I initially said I was taking a leave from Berlin to go work for a public agency, a lot of people said “You’re doing what? Why would you do that?” The answer is that it was an interesting and unusual opportunity. A chance to learn new things, meet new people and broaden my horizons. I’m very pleased to be back at Berlin, but I don’t regret having gone on a little adventure.

Now I’m back full time at Berlin, working alongside my partners and colleagues as we provide communications and advocacy consulting services to a wide range of clients. Call me if that might be you.