By: NAIA
During last week’s Newfoundland and Labrador Aquaculture Industry Association (NAIA) Cold Harvest Conference, the Association announced its 2026–2027 Board of Directors, elected at the Annual General Meeting held as part of the conference program.
The Board represents a cross-section of Newfoundland and Labrador’s aquaculture sector, including finfish, shellfish, feed, research, and processing. As part of the AGM, members also confirmed the Association’s Executive Officers for the coming year.
Stephanie Synard McInnis was elected President (Chair) and Ben Normand was elected Vice President. Cathy Follett will continue as Treasurer and Laura Halfyard will continue as Secretary. All other Board members remain in their roles, with Past President Sheldon George continuing as a director.
Stephanie Synard McInnis, President, NAIA: “I’m honored to take on the role of President at such an important time for aquaculture in Newfoundland and Labrador. Our sector continues to grow through responsible, science-based development, and NAIA will remain focused on supporting our members, strengthening public understanding, and advancing opportunities for sustainable expansion.”
Sheldon George, Past President, NAIA: “It has been a privilege to serve as NAIA President. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made, and I look forward to supporting Stephanie and Ben as they lead the association into its next chapter.”
Bradley George, Executive Director, NAIA: “Announcing our new Board during the conference reflects the strong engagement and momentum we saw throughout last week. NAIA’s Directors bring deep experience from across the sector, and their leadership will guide our work on responsible growth, regulatory engagement, and public understanding. I look forward to working closely with Stephanie, Ben, and the full Board in the year ahead.”
2026–2027 NAIA Board of Directors
Executive Officers
President – Stephanie Synard McInnis, Cermaq Canada Vice President – Ben Normand, Skretting Canada
Treasurer – Cathy Follett, AMAR Canada
Secretary – Laura Halfyard, Connaigre Fish Farms Inc.
Past President – Sheldon George, Ocean Trout Canada Director – Aaron Bennett, Mowi Canada East
Director – Terry Mills, Norlantic Processors Inc.
Director – Juan Roberts, Badger Bay Mussel Farms Director – Jennifer Wiper, Cooke Aquaculture
Director – Jonathan Gagne, Enterprise Shippagan Ltd. Director – Danny Boyce, Memorial University (JBARB)
