Board of Directors
.jpeg)
President
Carmen Choney (She/Her)
With over 25 years in the music industry, Carmen Choney has built a reputation as a trusted force in tour, stage, and artist management. Her career spans some of North America’s most high-profile events, including the 2010 Olympic Winter Games for NBC, and more than two decades managing performances at major festivals such as Big Valley Jamboree and Country Thunder.
​
Currently, Choney co-manages Jess Moskaluke, Savannah Jade and Josh Stumpf. Known for her meticulous execution, steady leadership, and deep industry relationships, she operates at the intersection of logistics, strategy, and artist care.
​
More than a manager, Choney is a strategic operator behind the scenes, aligning touring, branding, and long-term career vision with precision and discretion. Her approach prioritizes both performance excellence and personal well-being, ensuring her clients are supported onstage and off. Her experience and operational discipline have made her a key driver in elevating the MDM Recordings brand and a respected presence across the North American country music landscape.

Vice-President
Dave Orsten (He/Him)
Dave Orsten is an Alberta-based songwriter and freelance guitarist who has performed with artists including Travis Dolter and Tommy Charles. Alongside his work as a musician, he serves as CEO of OEB Breakfast Co., where he leads national growth and oversees brand and marketing strategy.
With a deep passion for the Alberta music community, Dave brings a unique blend of creative perspective and business leadership. He is committed to supporting artists, strengthening industry infrastructure, and helping elevate Alberta country music on a broader stage.

Interim Treasurer
Luanne Carl (She/Her)
A long-time resident of Stettler, Alberta, I've built a fulfilling life here alongside my husband, Russ, raising our two daughters and becoming deeply rooted in the community. Professionally, I'm a dedicated Mortgage Renewal Advisor at ATB Financial, where I guide clients through important financial decisions. My heart, however, resonates with the vibrant sounds of country music. For two decades, I proudly performed with Renegade Station, creating cherished memories and forging lasting connections within the Alberta music scene. My commitment to the genre extends to my long-standing membership with Country Music Alberta since 2011, and I'm thrilled to contribute my experience by serving on the CMAB board. When I'm not immersed in work or music, I find joy in the simple pleasures of life. I love spending quality time camping with family and friends, immersing myself in the beauty of nature, and exploring new horizons through travel. These moments of respite and adventure recharge my spirit and inspire my songwriting."

Secretary
Jess L'Heureux (She/Her)
Jess’ focus has always been the live music industry through work, volunteer opportunities and most frequently - as a patron. As the founder of Campfire Management, her Artist Management clients include Dempsey Bolton, Julia Vos, Robert Adam and Micah Sage. Dempsey Bolton's introspective lyrics layered with punchy beats defines his self-produced indie pop hits, showcased on his latest album, “i’m not sad, u are - Deluxe.” Robert Adam is a queer, non-binary “yall’ternative” CCMA nominated performer who released their debut album in October 2025, followed by a tour in Japan. Julia Vos, a 90’s-inspired country artist, focuses on authentic storytelling through her music performing at festivals such as Country Thunder and the Calgary Stampede. Micah Sage, Alberta’s glitter pop princess, released her third EP “Girlfriend” in November 2026 and is embarking on her first UK Tour in May 2026. Also under her purview is talent buying for the CCMA winning venue, the King Eddy, and providing production management for Folk on the Rocks.
The variety in Jess’ experiences have allowed her to bridge the gap between artist development, event production, and the broader music industry. Previously, she has worked as Entertainment and Production Lead with Stampede Entertainment Incorporated (SEI) overseeing the festival stages at the Calgary Stampede, and as Alberta Music’s Program Manager overseeing professional development and conference showcasing for Alberta artists. She is committed to volunteer work, serving as Vice-President of CMAB for the last two years. Jess’ passion for supporting the growth of the local music scene and giving back to the community continues to shape her work as she dedicates her time to supporting artists who push boundaries and inspire new creative generations.

Director
Jenna Robson (She/Her)
With over 18 years in the music industry, Jenna Robson has been instrumental in shaping numerous artists’ careers during her tenure at 604 Records in British Columbia. Her comprehensive expertise spans daily operations, tour bookings, marketing, artist management and much more. In the past three years, Jenna served on the BC Country Music Association board, where she played a pivotal role in establishing a data-driven eligibility process for award voting. Now based in Calgary, Jenna is eager to bring her knowledge and passion to the CMAB, immersing herself in Alberta’s vibrant music community to support its growth and development.

Director
Emma Harding (She/Her)
Emma Harding is a voice and artist development coach with over 20 years of experience in training beginners to multi-platinum selling artists. Emma has travelled the world to train with internationally recognized voice coaches and shares this knowledge as well as her own unique philosophies and methods with her clients through her company, Rockit Vocal Studios. She has toured as an artist herself and is passionate about helping others develop their skills, so they are empowered to continue creating and sharing their music with confidence.
​
The daughter of an established musician, Emma grew up in a home that was also a recording studio. Her first word was Mic-Mic (Music) and she discovered her passion for the industry on tours, in recording sessions and at rehearsals with her father where she got to learn first hand from legends like Ronnie Dio and Jon Lord, which kick started her musical career and developed a strong understanding of the intricate workings of the industry from a very early age.
​
Her diverse educational background includes graduating from the London Music School, completing the artist management program at CMI, the Music Business course at Berklee and achieving her voice health certification. She is enrolled in the mental health informed practitioner certification, focusing on the affects of the music industry and its practices on artist’s mental wellness.
As well as managing Rockit Vocal Studios for the past 11 years, Emma was selected to bring her musical expertise to the community as the Musical Artist in Residence at the Calgary library, and as the voice coach for CMI’s AE West program. She serves as a coach for TV & production companies including The Jim Henson Company. She also has experience in broadcasting, having worked with Newcap Radio both on air and behind the scenes and at JACK FM as the promotions director.
​

Director
Brooklin Brittain (She/Her)
Brooklin is the afternoon drive host for CFWE, Alberta’s Best Country, and serves as Music Director for CFWE, CJWE, and the Raven Radio Network. Based in St. Albert, Alberta, she brings an authentic voice and deep passion for country music to the airwaves every day. Having grown up on country music, her love for the genre runs deep, shaping both her on-air style and her approach to curating music that resonates with listeners across the province.
%20-1%20(2).jpg)
Director
Codi McIvor (He/Him)
Known for his happy-go-lucky attitude and professionalism, Codi McIvor is a videographer, photographer & content creator based in Edmonton, Alberta. While he has many ongoing projects, one underlying thread ties them all together: Codi McIvor is committed to connecting fans and artists and providing an honest, intimate look at the creative process with high-quality video content.
​
Whether he's filming backstage at a music festival or at one of your events, people instantly feel comfortable when Codi is behind the camera; he has a knack for capturing artists' natural, raw, and sometimes hilarious personalities.
Codi’s dedication to his craft has earned him three Country Music Alberta Awards for Visual Creative of the Year, along with multiple nominations as an official nominee for Video Director of the Year at the Canadian Country Music Awards and Industry Person of the Year at the Country Music Alberta Awards. His work has also received several Video of the Year nominations.
​
Over the years, Codi has produced a wide range of standout projects, collaborating with artists such as Hailey Benedict, Drew Gregory, Iam Tongi (American Idol winner), Johnny Reid, Lindsay Ell, Jade Eagleson, Gord Bamford, Tenille Townes, James Barker Band, Nate Haller, Steven Lee Olsen, Madeline Merlo, Shawn Austin, High Valley, and many more.
Whether he's creating video content for artists that truly represent their brand and values or connecting with music fans who want to get to know their favorite artist better, Codi McIvor is every music-lover's backstage pass.
%20(1).jpg)
Director
Sarah Scott (She/Her)
Sarah Scott is a Country Music Alberta (CMAB) award-winning and nominated Radio Personality and Podcaster (CMAB "Industry Person of the Year," 2021).
Sarah currently, proudly, works for CJWE, Southern Alberta’s Best Country as the Afternoon Drive Home Show Host and Assistant Program Director.
Sarah has worked with Golden West Radio’s, AIR106/The Eagle 100.9FM in Okotoks, AB (2024), with Stingray at New Country 95.9FM in Lloydminster, AB (2021-2024).and for Golden West at 99.7 Sun Country/AM1140 in High River, AB (2008-2011)/(2017-2021). Sarah also volunteered at 90.9FM CJSW at the University of Calgary (2021).
Sarah founded Studio B Podcast (2019-hiatus). Since 2019, each episode features dynamic conversations with musicians, bands, and industry professionals, diving into their personal journeys, advice, inspirations, and future projects. Tune in for candid stories and insights into the unique impact these individuals are making in the music world.
Sarah has been an active community volunteer for the High River Performing Arts Foundation as an MC, Director of Festivals and as a curator for their Summer Series/Bandstand Sundays (2018- ). She has also been a judge and adjudicator for the YYC Music Awards (2022/2024) and The City of Calgary’s Plaza Palooza Busker Competition (2024). Sarah has also sat on the Country Music Alberta (CMAB) Board of Directors ('21-'23).
Sarah participated in Canada's Music Incubator (CMI) Artist Management program ('21) and earned a Bachelor of Communication Studies from University of Calgary ('13) and a Broadcast News Diploma from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) ('11).
Sarah's passion lies in supporting emerging and independent artists. With over 15 years experience in radio, the music industry and in communications and copywriting, she's a wealth of knowledge when it comes to the in's and out's of radio, press kits, interview prep and how to stand out as an artist. Sarah loves to see and help artists grow networks, tighten relationships, and build new ones.

Director
Carla Hackman (She/Her)
Carla Hackman brings more than 25 years of multifaceted experience across the music and film industries. Her career includes a transformative tenure with Sakamoto Agency (2015–February 2023), where she helped elevate the agency’s profile and contributed to a period of remarkable success.
Carla’s achievements include being named CMAB Talent Buyer of the Year in 2019, also celebrating multiple wins with her team for CCMA Agency of the Year in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. Since launching her new chapter with Fame Group Agency (FGA), the agency has also been nominated for CCMA Agency of the Year in each of the past two years.
Her journey in the music industry began in 1998 as an Assistant Producer for the Classic Rock Festival in High River, Alberta. From there, Carla’s curiosity and passion for the arts led her to develop expertise across marketing, artist management, promotions, logistics, and live event booking. She also expanded her production experience in the film and commercial sectors, working as an Assistant Producer.
In 2007, Carla founded Elevation Entertainment, providing artist management/development & agency services while also leading award winning marketing initiatives for a Calgary-based real estate development firm for more than 12 years.
Today, Carla is the founder and president of Fame Group Agency Inc., a company launched in honor of her mother following her passing in 2020. FGA represents Carla’s full-time focus and commitment to supporting and advocating for a new generation of artists while carrying forward her mother’s spirit and legacy.
Carla has long been an active and respected voice within the industry. She has served two terms (6 years) as a board member of the Arts Touring Alliance (ATAA) and as Vice President of the Canadian Country Music Alberta (CMAB) for 6 years at inception . She currently maintains active memberships with ATAA, CAFE, AAAS, FMO, CMAB, OSAC, FMC, Alberta Music, ON Presents, COCA, SPARCS and the CCMA.
Through every stage of her career, Carla has demonstrated a deep commitment to excellence, a passion for the arts, and an unwavering dedication to the artists and industry she proudly serves.

In Loving Memory
Jodi Broadhead
On behalf of the entire Country Music Alberta Board of Directors and membership, we extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Jodi Broadhead.
We were deeply saddened to learn of Jodi’s passing. She made an immediate and lasting impact not only on artists but on the entire country music community. She led every project she undertook with unwavering dedication, tenacity, and grace. We were fortunate to serve alongside her on the Country Music Alberta Board of Directors, where she brought her energy, insight, and love of music to every conversation. Her enthusiasm for the association was larger than life, and she devoted her light to creating opportunities for both artists and industry.
We are heartbroken that Jodi’s time with us was so brief. Her spirit and dedication will continue to inspire us, and we remain committed to honouring her legacy in everything we do.
Our thoughts and love are with her family: her husband, Murray, and their three beautiful children, Jace, Rhett, and Berlyn, who is a cherished member of the Country Music Alberta family.
Staff
%202_JPG.jpg)
Executive Director
Megan McKay (She/Her)
A life-long music lover, Megan found her groove at OCL Studios, where she works as the Studio Manager. Nestled just outside Calgary, OCL is home to three recording studios, a rehearsal hall, and on-site accommodations, making it one of the premiere recording facilities in Western Canada. The studio has earned multiple CCMA Recording Studio of the Year nominations and has been involved in numerous award-winning projects across a wide range of genres.
​
Megan's passion for the Canadian music industry has shaped much of her journey. In 2017, she took that passion to Toronto to complete the Manager Program at Canada’s Music Incubator, a key stepping stone in her professional development. More recently, in 2023, she was selected for the Women in Music Entrepreneur Accelerator program, further deepening her commitment to supporting artists and creative professionals.
​
In 2020, Megan joined the Board of Directors for Country Music Alberta (formerly the Association of Country Music in Alberta), where she spent four years helping grow and evolve the organization. She was re-elected to the board in 2025. Megan's new role as Interim Operations Manager is an exciting new way to advocate for the province’s vibrant country music scene.
Industry Advisory Council

Advisor
Jackie Rae Greening (she/her)
Jackie Rae has worked in country radio since 1982. She has worked everything from the midnight shift to the morning show at radio station’s all over Alberta. In 1989, Jackie Rae began working at CFCW Radio and that’s where she still is today working as Program Director, Mid-Day Announcer and Manager of Operations for Stingray Radio in Edmonton, Camrose, Wetaskiwin. She has won several awards over her career, including the International Country Broadcast Award from the CMA, an Honourary Doctorate from MacEwan University for her support and promotion of Canadian Country Music artists over four decades, and Country Personality of the Year at the 2024 Canadian Country Music Awards. In 2018, she was inducted into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame (Builder). Jackie Rae is also known for her commitment to community building and volunteering. She has been the Chairperson for many huge local events, including the Ford World Curling Championships and Canadian Country Music Week. Currently JR sits on the Board of the Hec Gervais Scholarship Foundation. She is the Co-Chair of the fundraising initiative for MacEwan University’s Distinguished Visiting Artist in Country Music program. Jackie Rae can also be seen emceeing and participating in numerous charity events throughout the year.
.jpeg)
Advisor
Craig Senyk (he/him)
Craig Senyk is the Board Chair at Mawer Investment Management, which he joined in 1997. For over 25 years, Craig has brought leadership, integrity and a higher standard of excellence to the Canadian investment industry. Craig is a Chartered Financial Analyst and holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree (with Distinction) from the University of Alberta. He has been recognized as one of Calgary’s Top 40 under 40. In 2014, Craig founded Craig Senyk Initiatives with a mission to raise the profile of Canadian country music while generously giving to local charitable organizations. CSI presents country-music events and supports like-minded organizations through promotion and partnership. The annual Jamboree for Charity is its flagship event. Currently, Craig sits on the boards of: Theatre Calgary (2011-present), Arts Commons (2023-present), and Calgary Stampede Foundation (2024-present).
.jpg)
Advisor
Bobby Wills (he/him)
Bobby Wills has a unique ability to capture an audience and entertain the hell out of them. Writing from the heart and playing like it’s the most fun he’s ever had, Wills can bring down the house with a heartfelt ballad as easily as an uptempo barn burner. Wills has an impressive list of accolades under his belt, including being named the 2013 CCMA “Rising Star” Award winner, and consecutive 2013/2014 and 2018 “Male Artist of the Year” nominations. He also received back to back CCMA Award nominations in 2015/2016 for “Songwriter of the Year” and a pair of 2016 nominations for “Single” and “Album of the Year”. In 2017, Wills was crowned the “Male Artist of the Year” and “Fans Choice” award winner at the Alberta Country Music Association Awards. Committed to helping others wherever possible, Wills performed during the 2014 Golden Globe Awards weekend in Los Angeles as part of the Oh Canada Cocktail Party to benefit the Friends of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. He also donated all proceeds for two years from worldwide iTunes downloads of his hit single “Show Some Respect”; with 50% donated to the Canadian Museum of Human Rights and 50% donated to the Shoah Foundation. In 2021, he launched his own label, Willing Records, with a brand new single called “Pretty Good Tonight” under the Universal Music Canada umbrella. Willing Records' mission is to shape a brighter future for music by nurturing talent and fostering equitable growth, and currently features The Prairie States and Tony Stephens on their roster.

Advisor
Chris Melnychuk (he/him)
Chris Melnychuk, Principal of SILVERPLOW, brings a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted passion for creating impactful events. Before establishing SILVERPLOW, Chris honed his skills with the renowned Big Valley Jamboree, gaining invaluable insights into the intricacies of large-scale event management and quality show production. This background, combined with his entrepreneurial spirit, now drives SILVERPLOW's commitment to delivering exceptional and memorable experiences for its clients. Chris is currently the executive producer of the Heartstrings & Honky Tonks Tour and acts as the production manager for Trixstar Productions national Great Outdoors Comedy Festival and has been a past board member of Country Music Alberta.
