Meet our Team
At Advocates for Safer Airports in Canada, our team is united by a shared mission: to improve airport safety and emergency preparedness across the country. Each of us brings unique expertise, experiences, and a deep commitment to creating safer skies for all.
Get to know the passionate individuals driving our efforts forward and working to make meaningful change.
Chris Bussey, Chair
Chris Bussey is an accomplished leader with over three decades of experience in aviation safety, emergency response, and labor relations. As Chair of Advocates for Safer Airports in Canada, Chris leverages his extensive expertise to champion stronger regulatory frameworks and improve airport emergency preparedness nationwide.
Chris previously served as Regional Vice President for the Union of Canadian Transportation Employees, where he oversaw labor relations and safety initiatives across federal government departments and federally regulated employers, including airport authorities. In this role, he facilitated national-level discussions on workplace safety, grievance resolution, and human rights advocacy.
With a distinguished career as Fire Captain and firefighter at St. John’s International Airport Authority, Chris directed aircraft rescue and firefighting operations, trained emergency response teams, and played a pivotal role in developing safety programs. His dedication has been recognized with exemplary service awards from both the Government of Canada and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Chris holds certifications in mediation, fire service leadership, and occupational health and safety. His passion for community engagement extends to volunteer roles, including service with the Torbay Volunteer Fire Department and advocacy for persons with disabilities.
Under Chris's leadership, Advocates for Safer Airports in Canada aims to foster meaningful collaboration and advocate for policies that ensure the safety and security of travelers and airport staff.
George Power, Vice Chair
George J. Power is a passionate advocate for safety and emergency preparedness, serving as Vice Chair and Co-founder of "Advocates for Safer Airports in Canada." With a career spanning over four decades in safety, security, and emergency response, George brings a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to the organization’s mission of improving safety standards across Canadian airports.
George’s career began in aircraft rescue firefighting, where he spent nearly 29 years at St. John’s International Airport. During his tenure, he held key roles, including Acting Captain, leading airport safety operations and responding to critical incidents. His extensive expertise in emergency response is supported by his certifications, including Transport Canada Firefighter Certification and NFPA 1041 Fire Service Instructor Certification.
Beyond his work in airport safety, George is a dedicated safety consultant, instructor, and lifelong volunteer. He has spent the past 25 years as a Safety Consultant and Facilitator with Safety Now NL, where he has helped organizations enhance their safety protocols. George also served as a Safety Instructor at the College of the North Atlantic and has trained numerous individuals in Occupational Health and Safety. He is committed to continuing education and staying current with safety trends and best practices.
In addition to his professional roles, George’s community involvement reflects his commitment to public service. He is an active volunteer with the Terry Fox Foundation and previously the Canadian Red Cross, contributing to disaster response efforts. He also serves as Vice Chair of the Newfoundland & Labrador Irish Connections Board, where he works to strengthen cultural ties between Newfoundland and Ireland.
As Vice Chair of "Advocates for Safer Airports in Canada," George is deeply committed to advancing airport safety by promoting better emergency preparedness, advocating for regulatory changes, and ensuring that Canadian airports provide safe environments for all travelers and workers. His extensive career in safety and emergency response makes him a trusted voice for positive change in the aviation sector.
John Albert, Advocate
John Albert is a seasoned emergency services professional with decades of experience as a firefighter, fire inspector, and deputy fire chief in Labrador City, Newfoundland and Labrador. With a strong background in emergency response, fire safety planning, and public education, John has dedicated his career to protecting lives and enhancing safety protocols.
His expertise spans across emergency management, fire code compliance, hazardous material handling, and lifesaving medical procedures. John’s certifications include NFPA Fire Inspector Level 1, Emergency Site Management, and Fire Leadership, among others. This extensive knowledge is complemented by his mechanical aptitude and a commitment to fostering safer environments.
As an advocate with Advocates for Safer Airports in Canada, John channels his professional experience into promoting stronger regulatory measures for airport emergency preparedness and response. His goal is to ensure that airports across the country adhere to robust safety standards, protecting passengers, staff, and communities.
John’s dedication to safety and his ability to lead under pressure make him a pivotal figure in the movement for safer airports nationwide.
Chad Kemery, Advocate
Chad Kemery is a passionate and highly accomplished Health and Safety professional dedicated to advancing emergency preparedness and safety standards in aviation and beyond. With extensive certifications and expertise across multiple industries, Chad specializes in designing customized safety plans, delivering innovative training programs, and leading initiatives to enhance workplace safety and operational efficiency. As a seasoned Instructor, Auditor, and Subject Matter Expert, Chad has a proven track record of mentoring new professionals and equipping them with the skills to thrive in their fields. His leadership as a former Fire Chief and Director of Emergency Response and Safety laid a strong foundation for his expertise in fire service leadership, program development, and safety strategy implementation. Chad's deep understanding of labor relations, contract negotiations, and conflict resolution has allowed him to build collaborative partnerships and drive meaningful change in the organizations he has served. He remains deeply committed to modernizing the fire service profession and championing the health, safety, and success of professionals dedicated to protecting their communities. As an advocate with Advocates for Safer Airports in Canada, Chad Kemery brings a unique perspective and invaluable experience to the organization's mission of improving airport emergency preparedness and response. His dedication to fostering growth, implementing impactful solutions, and advancing safety aligns perfectly with the group's advocacy for regulatory change to ensure safer airports for all Canadians.