Session 4

Building Resilient Supply Chains: Strategies for Navigating Disruptions and Global Challenges


In an era of increasing uncertainty, supply chains face unprecedented challenges from disruptions and evolving global trade dynamics. This session delves into the critical elements of disruption resilience, offering insights into how Canadian businesses can strengthen their supply chains to withstand shocks. Explore strategies for developing supply chain resiliency, from risk assessment and mitigation to leveraging technology and fostering adaptability. Additionally, gain a deeper understanding of the impact of international tariffs on Canadian supply chains and exports. Attendees will leave equipped with actionable tools and knowledge to prepare their operations and maintain competitive advantages in a dynamic global landscape.


Speaker Biography

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Claire Mechan, CBCP

Claire is a highly experienced business continuity and emergency management strategist and leader with expertise across various sectors, including education and government. She holds the Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP) designation, a Master of Arts in Disaster and Emergency Management (MADEM) from Royal Roads University (2013), and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology from Vancouver Island University (2006). Claire has been actively involved in emergency management and business continuity since 2012.

Claire is the Owner and Primary Consultant of AILM Resiliency Consulting Agency. She is also the Manager of the Emergency Management and Business Continuity department at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), where she is also the Director of the Emergency Coordination Centre. Claire has led transformative initiatives at NAIT, including steering NAIT’s COVID-19 response and recovery as Director of the Coordinated Response Team. Since 2015, she has also been a dedicated instructor in NAIT’s Disaster and Emergency Management academic program.  

Claire is deeply committed to empowering women in her field, volunteering with the Mentor for Women in Business Continuity Management program through the DRII Foundation. She also serves on the CSA Group technical committee for emergency and continuity management, where she contributed to the development of the CSA Z1600-17 standard. A member of IAEM, DRI Canada, and BCI, Claire continues to advance resilience and leadership in the business continuity and emergency management professions.


Professional Practices Addressed:
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Lessons Learned:

1. Understand disruption resiliency

2. Recognize the impact of international tariffs on SMO’s (small and medium size organizations)

3. Recognize the impact of international tariffs on supply chains