COMMUNITY-DRIVEN RESEARCH SINCE 2010 Learn more at firelight.ca Firelight is an Indigenous-owned consultancy providing research and technical support to Indigenous Nations and organizations across Turtle Island. We provide information for community leaders, knowledge holders, Elders, and experts to assist with critically important issues and realize community-identified needs and objectives. Yellow-headed blackbird in Treaty 6 Territory on the traditional territory of the nêhiyaw, Anishinaabe/Saulteaux, Dene, Nakota Isga, Nakota Sioux, and Niitsitapi. Air manages flight operations and network planning, Snowbird teams handle ramp services, ground handling and frontline operational support. In short, when the plane lands, Snowbird is there. This integrated structure is essential in northern Saskatchewan, where aviation is critical infrastructure and communities depend on safe, reliable service. In her role as Assistant GM, Du- fresne now supports bases in La Ronge, Prince Albert, Buffalo Narrows, Stony Rapids, Fond du Lac and Wollaston Lake. No two days are the same; weather delays, equipment issues and staffing chal- lenges are part of the job. She has even stepped in as Acting General Manager when needed. Through it all, her focus remains steady: supporting her teams and keep- ing communities connected. For Dufresne, “leadership in aviation is about showing up consistently, for your teams, your partners and the communities you serve.” Her connection to the North runs deep. A member of the Little Red River Cree Nation Alberta, Dufresne was born in Edmonton, but her mother grew up in Camsell Portage and Uranium City. Dufresne’s sum- mers were spent visiting family in La Ronge before the family moved north for good. Today, she has lived in La Ronge for 25 years. One of the most meaningful mo- ments of her career so far was travelling to Camsell Portage last year. “The emotions I felt just being there, standing on the beach where my mom once played, were over- whelming,” said Dufresne. She also noted that meeting relatives she had never known was emotional and grounding. It reminded her why her work matters. “I want to continue learning how I, and our company, can contribute to better opportunities for our north- ern bases,” she said. She takes pride LEADING FROM THE GROUND UP in fully staffing the Wollaston and Fond du Lac bases with local com- munity members. Creating local employment and welcoming north- ern residents into aviation careers is important to her. “Giving northern residents the opportunity to work with us and bring their knowledge to the company is something I will always welcome with open arms. I want to create an environment where everybody feels supported,” she said. Dufresne describes herself as eager to continue growing in her role and ready for more responsibility. She does not believe she has reached the top of her career ladder at Snowbird or in the aviation indus- try. Her leadership style is rooted in integrity, honesty and transpar- ency. Dufresne said, “Maintaining the respect of our employees and ensuring they feel comfortable coming to me with anything they need is important to me. I hope people see me as I intend to be: as a determined leader who sets clear expectations, addresses issues and is fair with people. I strive to model integrity, honesty and transparency, not just with our staff but also with all community members.” Outside of work, Dufresne is a wife and mother. In 2023, she and her husband, Tristan, a Twin Otter cap- tain with Rise Air, welcomed their first child, Lincoln. She loves raising her son in the North, by the lake in the summer and on a snowmobile in the winter. For Dufresne, leadership is simple: show up, listen and support your people. In a region where aviation is more than transportation – it is a connection, an opportunity and a lifeline – she is proud to play her part. Issue 1 – Summer 2026 21
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