Calgary Economic Development presents The State of the Alberta Film and Television Industry panel.

Where does Alberta’s film and television industry stand today, and what will it take to build a stronger future? This panel brings together leaders from across Alberta’s screen sector to explore the opportunities and challenges shaping the industry, including workforce development, talent retention, education partnerships, technology, financing, market access, and public policy.

Panellists will discuss the potential impact of the Online Streaming Act, investment in Canadian content, and Alberta’s unique market realities. The conversation will also include the talent pipeline and how education, training, mentorship, and industry collaboration can create sustainable career pathways for Alberta’s creative workforce. Recent progress, including enhancements to the Film and Television Tax Credit and Alberta Made Production Grant, increased support for Albertan project and script development, and growing film tourism opportunities, will be highlighted alongside challenges in the low- and mid-budget production space.

Panellists will explore the partnerships, investments, and policy solutions needed to build a competitive, resilient, and sustainable screen industry that supports Alberta talent and showcases Alberta stories.

[PANELIST] Taisa Dekker is passionate about the screen-based industries and the promotion of Canadian artists and creators. With decades of experience in multiple production jurisdictions across Canada, Taisa is familiar with the unique needs of performers and producers working on content at various budget levels in film, television, web series, video games, audiobooks, and commercials. Ms. Dekker has held various positions within the Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television & Radio Artists (ACTRA) across the country, from Commercial Business Representative to Director of Outreach & Industry Development. In her current role as Branch Representative at ACTRA Alberta, Taisa advocates for the engagement of union performers in the recorded media sector in Alberta.

[PANELIST] The Executive Director of the Calgary Society of Independent Filmmakers since 2022, Andrew is also a filmmaker and actor. His career encompasses film festival management and programming; five years with the Canadian Film Centre; public art administration; overseeing grant and funding programs; live theatre, comedy, and puppetry. He was once nearly arrested while working as a Charlie Chaplin impersonator, and he refused to say even a word aloud to the police. He is not a big fan of olives.

[PANELIST] With over 30 years of experience Michelle’s production credits cross all formats. As the Head of Business Affairs for Seven24 Films, Michelle is involved with the scripted television projects Heartland (CBC), Anna Pigeon (Bell Media), Family Law (Corus), and Wynonna Earp (CTV/Tubi). Over the years Michelle has served on a number of media arts organizations and boards (AMPIA, Creatives Empowered, Women in View) and created a series of business affairs ‘learn by doing’ webinars for the Canadian Independent Screen Fund. Michelle currently sits on the board of the Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA) as Treasurer.

[PANELIST] Mark Ham serves as Alberta’s Film Commissioner, and leads the province’s efforts to grow Alberta’s film and television sectors by attracting productions, supporting industry development, and promoting Alberta as a premier filming destination. Mark brings over two decades of experience in senior roles across the Government of Alberta, with a focus on economic development and cultural industries.

[PANELIST] Dr. Dawn Johnston is the Vice President Academic at Alberta University of the Arts, and a professor in AUArts' School of Critical and Creative Studies. Prior to joining AUArts in early 2026, she was a professor of communication, media and film studies at University of Calgary.

[MODERATOR] Derek Moser works at the intersection of the creative industries, economic development, and community impact. With experience spanning film, television, performing arts, and cultural organizations, he brings together industry, government, and community to support talent, innovation, and sector growth. Derek currently serves on several industry boards and is known for building partnerships, fostering collaboration, and translating between creative and economic priorities.