Q&A with Chad Fournier

We are pleased to announce that ATB has joined the board of Digital Alberta! Chad Fournier, Director, Product Design, Experience Design Team will take the Board seat on behalf of the organization and brings valuable insight into transformative digital user experiences. We look forward to working with ATB to advance Digital Alberta’s mission of supporting, inspiring and advancing the interactive digital technology ecosystem.

Digital Alberta Foundational Members are industry leaders and ecosystem builders who believe in the role technology will play in creating shared prosperity.

1. Why did ATB decide to join DA?

ATB partners with innovative organizations that aim to increase the wellbeing of individuals, communities and the province. Our commitment to the greater good of our province is an essential part of who we are. Joining Digital Alberta is a great way for us to participate in, collaborate with, and contribute to, an existing and well known community of digital creators, educators and influencers. In short, we want to connect with a like-minded community that is embracing technology and looking to change the world, from Alberta.

2. How does ATB participate in the Interactive Digital Economy presently?

We are active in a multitude of communities, associations and endeavors across the province. The majority of our digital experiences are designed and developed right here in Alberta—so it’s essential for us to be an active participant in this ever expanding and immensely talented community. It’s a great way for us to help co-elevate the collective. And in doing so it helps us become a better organization, through connection, to new ideas, people and technologies.

3. What is ATB’s aspiration for Alberta’s Interactive Digital Space?

We are a part of this community, this community is a part of us. It’s in our interest to make Albertans and Alberta businesses across all sectors of the economy as competitive as possible and to make Alberta a place known for our openness to innovation; and be a great place to start and grow technology businesses. As such it’s imperative to support, celebrate, inspire and help realize the full potential of all the amazing world-class people and work happening right here in our great Province.

4. What are ATB’s top three priorities in relation to the Interactive Digital space?

We are a purpose-driven organization. I’d say the ultimate goal is to create meaningful, long-term change to uplift the legacies and livelihoods of Albertans. As such, we are working on and contributing to all sorts of great causes, such as ensuring ALL Albertans have access to a reliable broadband internet, and equitable access to essential technology—with the goal of unlocking and powering many possibilities, for education, employment and other aspects of society. There are several different team members across ATB who participate on various other boards, initiatives, at educational institutions; we regularly donate to charities and have many sponsorships designed to benefit our community with lasting social impact.

5. What advice or learnings can ATB share/give around trends in the financial industry?

That is a big question, from my POV the answer involves harnessing the potential of emerging technologies—whether that be machine learning, blockchain, cryptocurrencies or responsible and ethical artificial intelligence; and humanizing it to craft an exceptional experience. At the end of the day, we are humans with real-life challenges, goals and dreams. So whether you’re starting out on your financial journey, an entrepreneur with a great idea, pursuing your big dream or just trying to pay a bill… how might we help make that possible?