Wade Brunham, MSc, RPBio, is a Registered Professional Biologist and governance advisor with more than 20 years of experience in land use planning, environmental management, emergency response, and natural resource development. His work integrates scientific rigour, collaborative leadership, and a strong commitment to community stewardship.

Wade currently serves as Chair of the Electoral Area B Advisory Planning and Heritage Commission for the Regional District of Central Kootenay, where he provides leadership on land use planning, heritage conservation, and community advisory matters. In this role, he works closely with elected officials, professional staff, and residents to support balanced, place-based decision-making aligned with local values and long-term sustainability. He has also held governance and operational leadership roles with community and volunteer organizations, including Smithers Minor Hockey, the Bulkley Valley Research Centre, and Creston Valley Search and Rescue, developing strong expertise in governance, logistics, volunteer management, and operational readiness.

Professionally, Wade is a Partner with Environmental Resources Management (ERM), a global environmental and sustainability consulting firm. He has led multidisciplinary teams on complex projects involving environmental assessment, regulatory strategy, natural resource development, and sustainability initiatives. He also serves on the Tahltan ERM Board, providing governance oversight and strategic guidance in support of effective partnerships and responsible resource development.
Wade has extensive experience working collaboratively with Indigenous communities, government agencies, and industry partners. He has negotiated business and engagement arrangements with Indigenous Nations, including the Tahltan Nation and Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it, supporting respectful relationships, regulatory certainty, and mutually beneficial outcomes.

His academic background includes a Master of Science from Simon Fraser University, a Bachelor of Science from Royal Roads University, and a Technical Diploma in Planning from Selkirk College. He has also completed extensive field safety and emergency management training, including Wilderness First Aid, Avalanche Skills Training Level 1 (AST 1), ICS 100, and the Justice Institute of British Columbia’s Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) program. This integrated foundation supports his work across professional consulting, governance, and volunteer emergency response.