INNISFAIL -- Devin Dreeshen is a fifth-generation farmer in Central Alberta with extensive experience locally, nationally and internationally as an agricultural advocate.
Representing the United Conservative Party, he believes he has the necessary leadership skills to be the right MLA choice for the citizens of Innisfail-Sylvan Lake.
"I believe my ability to be a team leader came naturally from my engagement in team sports and volunteerism," said Dreeshen.
He attended Elnora School for the elementary grades and then Innisfail High School. While in Innisfail he was selected athlete of the year three times, and was quarterback and captain of the Cyclones football team.
He went on to study economics at the University of Alberta before working in the Harper government where he spent eight years as a policy adviser to Canada’s agriculture minister.
"Global trade missions gave me a greater understanding of international diplomacy. I believe this was a key factor in being named the United Conservative Party trade critic after last summer’s byelection win in the Innisfail-Sylvan Lake riding," he said.
Dreeshen said he continues to use his experience to "champion" causes for his community, including getting energy and agricultural products to market, attracting investment to bring back jobs to Alberta, and increasing economic activity that will provide crucial services for Albertans.
As a community volunteer he said he understands the issues regarding rural crime, and that solutions are required at all levels of government.
"It’s a matter of political will," he said.
Mostly, however, Dreeshen is looking forward to earning the opportunity to serve the people of Innisfail-Sylvan Lake.
"I think my being from the riding and understanding the issues in the riding, and as well my time in government, gives me the experience to be an effective MLA for the people of Innisfail-Sylvan Lake," said Dreeshen.
