In this episode of the Indigenous Voices in Resource Development Podcast, host John Desjarlais sits down with Roger Lewis, Superintendent of Special Projects with Nch’ḵay̓ Development Corporation and a proud member of the Squamish Nation.
Roger shares his journey in forestry, beginning at just 12 years old and growing into a career that spans more than 25 years. From entry-level work in logging to launching his own company and stepping into Indigenous-led forestry management, Roger reflects on the lessons, challenges, and opportunities that shaped his path.
The conversation explores what good Indigenous participation in resource development really looks like — from recruitment and retention to stewardship, training, and decision-making. Roger speaks candidly about sustainable forestry, wildfire risk, the importance of being hands-on in land management, and why Indigenous communities must have a real voice in how resources are developed on their territories.