British Columbia’s economy runs on natural resources, yet the public often lacks accurate information about their full impact to communities across the province.
Richard Prokopanko, chair of Resource Works and a veteran of the industry, is on a mission to set the record straight.
The Backbone of B.C.’s Economy
Few industries shape British Columbia’s prosperity as deeply as natural resources. The sector contributes $31.6 billion in GDP—an unparalleled economic driver. “Nothing else comes close,” says Prokopanko, who has spent more than 30 years in the field.
Beyond GDP, natural resources play a vital role in government finances and job creation. A key 2024 study by Philip Cross, former chief economic analyst for Statistics Canada, found that the sector accounts for 5.8 percent of jobs in B.C.—a substantial share that underpins many other industries.
“Natural resources—whether forestry, mining, agriculture, or oil and gas—were the foundation of B.C.,” Prokopanko explains. “That’s always been the case, and I believe it always will be.”
While other sectors such as technology, film, and tourism are vital, he emphasizes that they are often interconnected with natural resources. “A lot of them rely on the resource sector, and yet the sector for economic benefit itself remains head and shoulders above all others.”
Bridging the Information Gap
Despite its significance, Prokopanko has seen firsthand how misinformation distorts public perception. “There’s a real lack of accurate and timely information about resources,” he says. “That’s what led me to Resource Works.”
Founded to provide timely, factual, and balanced information on resource development, Resource Works has become a crucial bridge between industry, policymakers, and the public.
“When Resource Works launched, I saw an opportunity,” Prokopanko recalls. “The goal was clear: to communicate the importance of natural resources in a way that is accessible, engaging, and fact-based.”
Since its inception, Resource Works has evolved beyond a content hub. It now hosts forums, panel discussions, and events that bring together diverse viewpoints. “We don’t just communicate information—we create opportunities for real conversations,” he says. “It’s about having a safe space to discuss ideas, even when people don’t always agree.”
Urban-Rural Disconnect: A Growing Challenge
One of the biggest challenges facing the sector is the growing disconnect between urban and rural communities. Many British Columbians benefit from natural resources but don’t fully recognize their role in the economy and for the stability of their community.
“I’ve lived in Smithers, I’ve lived in Vanderhoof,” says Prokopanko. “Even in resource towns, people don’t always see the bigger picture. You could have a piece of logging equipment next door and not fully understand how much it contributes to the community.”
For urban residents, the connection is even more distant. “What happens in Prince George, Nanaimo or Golden impacts Vancouver,” he explains. “The coffee shops, the grocery stores, the legal firms, the government offices—all of them are tied to the success of the natural resource sector.”
Indigenous Partnerships and the Future of Resource Development
A critical shift in the sector is the increasing role of Indigenous partnerships. Prokopanko points to the Indigenous Partnerships Success Showcase, an event championed by Resource Works, as a leading example of this transformation.
“It started as a small gathering where people talked about the lack of Indigenous involvement in resource development,” he says. “Now, the conversation has evolved—discussions focus on successful partnerships, funding opportunities, and real progress.”
The main-stage event is planning a return for 2026, and smaller events continue, ensuring that the momentum around Indigenous engagement in resource development continue to grow and prosper.
Canada’s Global Trade Position: The Next Frontier
Looking ahead, Prokopanko sees an urgent need to communicate Canada’s natural resource strengths to a global audience, particularly in the face of trade and tariff challenges with the United States.
“We need to broaden the conversation,” he says. “Western and Eastern Canada both play pivotal roles, and we must ensure the world understands the value of our resource sector.”
With organizations like Resource Works leading the way, there’s a growing opportunity to educate, engage, and influence discussions on resource development—both at home and abroad.
“As global trade evolves, ensuring Canadians understand the full impact of our natural resources is more critical than ever,” Prokopanko concludes. “The more we communicate that message, the stronger our economy will be.”
And, to close, a tip of the hat to Richard Prokopanko from Resource Works CEO Stewart Muir: “As chair, Richard has been a valued supporter of Resource Works, contributing his industry insight and commitment to constructive dialogue on resource development.
“His perspective has added to our efforts to engage the public and policymakers in informed discussions, showing leadership for resource communities all across Canada.”