TIMMINS - When Tom Faught Jr. moved back to town, he joined the Timmins Chamber to reconnect with the community.
This week, he was sworn in as the 2024-25 board president. He's ready to hit the ground running to continue the business organization's advocacy work.
Taking on the leadership role wasn't always a goal for the RBC Dominion Securities investment advisor. That path took shape after a lunch with past Chamber president Dan Ayotte.
"I truly didn't have the desire to jump into the role because I'm a man of few words and I don't like public speaking, but I was approached by the executive and they made the business case,” said Faught after receiving the presidential gavel from outgoing president Kraymr Grenke.
Talking to a roomful of Chamber members after being sworn in at the annual general meeting on Wednesday (Sept. 4), Faught outlined his priorities for the coming year.
They're economic development, community engagement and sustainable growth.
Economic development, said Faught, is the lifeblood of the community.
"We will work tirelessly to attract new business, support existing membership, and create a dynamic environment where entrepreneurship can thrive. By fostering partnerships with government, Indigenous partners with educational institutions and other stakeholders, we can ensure that Timmins remains a vibrant hunt for economic activity,” he said.
To build an inclusive and supportive community, he said they'll continue working with organizations, non-profits and members.
"By advocating for initiatives that enhance the quality of life for all we can all make Timmins a better place to live, work and do business,” he said.
The path to a prosperous future is sustainable growth, he said.
"We must be mindful of our environmental impact, properly consult our partners and promote practices that ensure long-term sustainability. By embracing innovation and leveraging technology, we can create a resilient economy that benefits everyone,” he said.
Advocacy is one of the areas that Faught has been active in.
One of the recent wins the Chamber has had is with Air Canada, which is maintaining the summer service levels throughout this winter instead of dropping some flights.
"There are some resolutions that are in the works right now that we should be hearing about in October,” he said.
As he takes over the presidential reins, he wants to stay active in advocating for the area to all levels of government.
“Timmins is going through somewhat of an economic boom versus ... the rest of the country looking more at a slowdown. It's our chance to really shine in front of the governments and get some attraction to this area,” he said.
