October Volunteer Spotlight – Catherine Huff

For the past several years, Catherine Huff has served as Chair of CEGA’s Technical Division in Structural Geology, where she organizes engaging technical speakers and moderates the division’s presentations. Over the years, she has also contributed to CEGA in a variety of volunteer roles, including serving on the SIFT Committee, participating in the Graduate Thesis Awards and Regional Graduate Scholarship selection committee, and volunteering as a visiting lecturer. Through her leadership and dedication, Catherine has helped create valuable learning, networking, and mentorship opportunities for CEGA members. We’re grateful for the time and enthusiasm she brings to the association and are pleased to highlight her volunteer journey.

1. Q: What inspired you to first get involved with CEGA?
   “Volunteering with CEGA provided a way for me to reintegrate into the Canadian market after international opportunities and an expatriate assignment in Southeast Asia took me out of the country for an extended period. It was a great way to reconnect with the industry and build professional relationships.”
2. Q: What does being a CEGA member mean to you, both professionally and personally?
   A: “Careers in natural resources can be a wild ride, and CEGA has provided continuity and connection throughout my career. Geopolitics, the industry, and companies are forever changing, and CEGA has offered consistency and a network of great people with shared interests and goals. I’m especially grateful for the opportunity to build relationships with my peers and for the friendships I’ve made along the way.”
3. Q: In what ways has CEGA supported or influenced your professional growth?
   A: “CEGA has expanded my professional horizons by introducing me to topics I hadn’t previously considered. I especially enjoy the lunchtime technical division talks and Core Conference. Serving on the CEGA Thesis Awards Committee has also been an excellent way to find out what’s fresh in university research projects. Networking and attending CEGA events keep me engaged, current, and connected within the industry.”
4. Q: What is one fun fact about you that others might not know?
   A: “My curiosity for geology was sparked while I was working on an archaeological dig. Interest in stratigraphic principles led to me taking some classes in geology and opened a whole new world for me!”

September Volunteer Spotlight – Jennifer Unterschutz

Jennifer Unterschutz has been a dedicated member of CEGA’s volunteer community, contributing her technical expertise and a strong commitment to supporting students and early career geoscientists. A recognized technical leader at Imperial Oil, she remains closely connected to the broader geoscience community while actively giving back through CEGA’s initiatives.

Now serving in her third year on the Graduate Thesis Awards Committee, Jennifer plays an important role in evaluating and recognizing outstanding student research, helping to highlight excellence across the next generation of geoscientists. Prior to this, she dedicated five years to the Outreach Committee, where she helped create meaningful opportunities for students to engage with the industry and build early professional connections.

This month, we’re proud to spotlight Jennifer and her continued contributions to CEGA.

1. Q: What inspired you to first get involved with CEGA?
   A: “After finishing university, I was looking for a meaningful way to give back to the community that had supported me early in my career. As a student, I benefited from CEGA (CSPG) conferences and events. These events were where I first saw the breadth of geoscience careers and began building a professional network. Those experiences made the industry feel welcoming and full of possibility. Joining the Outreach Committee felt like a natural way to keep that momentum going and help create similar opportunities for the next generation of geoscientists.”
2. Q: What does being a CEGA member mean to you, both professionally and personally?
   A: “Being a CEGA member helps me stay connected to the geoscience community (my people). Through CEGA events and committees, I’ve built lasting professional relationships and genuine friendships. Being involved energizes me and reminds me why I chose geoscience: curiosity, collaboration, and a passion for the history of our planet.?
3. Q: In what ways has CEGA supported or influenced your professional growth?
   A: “CEGA has been a constant source of learning throughout my career. Every event offers new insights, not just into geology, but into the broader industry, business realities, and career development. Those experiences have helped me grow into a more well-rounded professional and to better understand my role within the broader geoscience and energy community.”
4. Q: What is one fun fact about you that others might not know?
   A: “I started playing ice hockey when our university geology department decided to form a women’s intramural team. None of us had much experience, but we had an incredible time stepping outside our comfort zones and trying something new together. While we didn’t win any trophies, the friendships lasted, and many of us went on to form a team in Calgary that’s been playing together for over 20 years!”

August Volunteer Spotlight – Reigh MacPherson

1. Q: What inspired you to first get involved with CEGA?
   A: “I came to CEGA by way of a common occurrence in our industry, a friendly takeover. I had been a decades-long member of the Canadian Well Logging Society (CWLS), volunteering in numerous capacities over the years, including holding the positions of VP and president in the late 90s. As our membership dwindled following the 2015 downturn, it was decided that the best course of action was to become a technical division within CEGA.”
2. Q: What does being a CEGA member mean to you, both professionally and personally?
   A: “CEGA membership provides a wealth of opportunities for keeping up to date with current industry trends in geoscience. I very much enjoy the technical luncheons and have recently taken in more of the division talks, which are great value. Events, such as Core Conference and the recent Reservoir Symposium, are examples where professional development and social engagement go hand-in-hand. The purely social and sporting events are a great way to catch up with friends and present/former colleagues.”
3. Q: In what ways has CEGA supported or influenced your professional growth?
   A: “On a professional level, as a senior consultant, CEGA membership has been invaluable. Attending events and volunteering as CWLS technical chair and on the Technical Luncheon Committee has enabled me to meet and get to know a wide variety of folks in the industry.”
4. Q: What is one fun fact about you that others might not know?
   A: “I’ve played the bagpipes with the Calgary Police Service Pipe Band for over 15 years. It’s been a long-standing commitment that’s taken me to a wide range of community events, ceremonies, and performances across Calgary and beyond.”

Thank you, Reigh, for your ongoing dedication to CEGA and the impact you continue to make across our technical programs and community.

July Volunteer Spotlight – Nash Hayward

1. Q: What inspired you to get involved with CEGA?
   A: I first joined as a student member during my undergraduate studies at the University of Calgary to connect with the energy geoscience industry. I was interested in volunteering opportunities that allowed me to attend technical events and other social gatherings. Through CEGA, I was able to expand my professional network, gain exposure to industry topics, and connect with geoscientists across different career stages and disciplines.
2. Q: What does being a CEGA member mean to you, both professionally and personally?
   A: Being a member means being part of a community that values technical excellence while also fostering camaraderie among like-minded professionals. Professionally, it represents a commitment to continuous learning and engagement with the geoscience community. Personally, it’s a group of people who share common interests, enjoy connecting outside of work, and make the industry feel more welcoming. Through CEGA, I have been able to keep in touch with previous coworkers whom I now call close friends.
3. Q: In what ways has CEGA supported or influenced your professional growth?
   A: CEGA played an important role in supporting me during a career transition when I was laid off. Through my membership, I continued attending technical talks and industry events, helping me stay current on topics relevant and adjacent to my experience. CEGA kept me connected to my professional network during a challenging period, reinforcing the value of community. Volunteering has been one of the more rewarding experiences of my career, from working with exhibitors and sponsors at GeoConvention, to supporting SIFT, and being a co-chair of the CEGA golf tournament. Contributing to memorable experiences for members of this community never gets old.
4. Q: What is one fun fact about you that others might not know?
   A: My wife and I went on a one-week campervan road trip through the Mighty 5 National Parks in Utah last year, and it was amazing!

Thank you, Nash, for your continued dedication and leadership within CEGA. We’re grateful for the energy and commitment you bring to the community.

June Volunteer Spotlight – Darren Hinks

Darren’s journey with CEGA began when he reached out to the road race committee to help organize a memorial fun run in honor of a colleague. Inspired by the support he received, he joined the team and has been volunteering ever since.

In his professional role as Senior Geophysicist at Athabasca Oil Corporation, Darren stays actively engaged in the industry while dedicating his time to volunteer initiatives that strengthen the geoscience community.

Today, Darren serves as co-chair of Sweat the Subsurface, the annual road race held in collaboration with CEGA, CSEG and CALEP. He has been an outstanding leader, securing record sponsorship, mentoring fellow volunteers, and developing a mission statement centered on creating a safe, fun, and inclusive event that brings people together.

This month, we’re proud to spotlight Darren Hinks and his ongoing commitment to the community.

1. Q: Darren, what inspired you to first get involved with CEGA?
   A: “My volunteer path started when I reached out to the road race committee for help organizing a memorial fun run to raise money for cancer research in honor of a colleague we had recently lost. The committee stepped in without hesitation. After that experience, I was invited to join the road race team, and I’ve been volunteering ever since.”
2. Q: What has being part of this community meant to you?
   A: “That first experience opened my eyes to something important: if you want to make a difference, you have to step forward. Through my involvement with CEGA, I’ve seen firsthand how a strong, volunteer-driven community can create meaningful opportunities for connection and impact. Since then, I’ve expanded my involvement through the CSEG, serving on the Scholarship Committee, participating in Mentorship, contributing to GeoConvention, and helping with the CSEG/CHOA Symposium. Each role has been a chance to give back, learn, and connect.”
3. Q: How has CEGA and the broader community supported your growth?
   A: “The technical exposure through conventions and events has been valuable, but the real impact has come from the people. Volunteering has connected me with an incredible network of colleagues, mentors, and friends who have shaped my professional path and enriched my personal life.”
4. Q: What is one fun fact about you?
   A: “I help lead an informal running group called the Bow Tie Run Club, where we combine fitness community and the occasional geology or geophysics run pun.  The club started with geophysicists, but has welcomed geologists, engineers or anyone foolish enough to want to run up a hill and downstairs by the Calgary Curling Club.  It’s a strange mix, but somehow it works and has been a club for 8 years now.”

Thank you, Darren, for your continued leadership of Sweat the Subsurface and your dedication to CEGA. Your contributions play an important role in fostering connection and community across our industry.

May Volunteer Spotlight – Scott Norlin

Since 2016, Scott has been a cornerstone of CEGA’s volunteer community, consistently stepping up wherever leadership and dedication are needed most. In his professional role as Senior Research Manager at Wood Mackenzie, he remains actively engaged in the broader energy industry while dedicating significant time to CEGA’s initiatives.

From serving as Chair of SIFT to continuing as a committed committee member, Scott plays a pivotal role in delivering one of CEGA’s most impactful student programs, leading the exploration game and four-day field trip that leave a lasting impression on participants.

Beyond SIFT, Scott has also served as CEGA’s Finance Director, and chaired the Young Professionals Committee, contributing across the organization with enthusiasm and commitment.

This month, we’re proud to spotlight Scott Norlin and learn more about what keeps him engaged year after year.

1. Q: Scott, what inspired you to first get involved with CEGA?
   A: “My involvement with CEGA really began as a participant at SIFT in 2016. After attending, I was keen to get involved and volunteer and I haven’t looked back, with expanded roles across the Young Professionals group, SIFT itself as both a co-Chair and volunteer and more recently as a member of the Board. Through my time in these positions, it is clear that the geoscience community is special and the generosity and genuine desire to share experiences across generations is what motivates me.”
2. Q: What does being a CEGA member mean to you, professionally and personally?
   A: “CEGA is somewhere that has allowed me to develop skills and friendships that I cherish. At the same time, I have been able to help to showcase the importance of the community to students across Canada through volunteering with some amazing people.”
3. Q: How has CEGA influenced your professional growth?
   A: “CEGA has helped me build a strong network of passionate individuals and provides access to some of the best educational opportunities available to geoscientists in Canada.”
4. Q: Fun fact about you?
   A: “I spent a chunk of time in the Naval Reserve and my hidden talent from that time is Morse Code. Not exactly practical these days, but it comes in handy in an escape room every once in a while.”

Thank you, Scott, for your continued leadership and commitment to CEGA. We’re grateful for everything you bring to the community.

Volunteers are the greatest and most invaluable asset of our association. Their dedication, expertise, and passion for geoscience fuel our mission and drive our organization forward.

If you have a passion for geoscience, volunteering with CEGA allows you to be part of a community of like-minded individuals who share your interests. It’s an opportunity to contribute your expertise and knowledge to support the geoscience community and its advancements.

One of the most significant perks of volunteering with CEGA is the networking opportunities it offers. Through active involvement, you have the chance to make connections that can prove invaluable for your professional development. 

Ultimately, as a CEGA volunteer, you have the opportunity to leave a positive impact on the trajectory of our association. Please note that CEGA prioritizes making volunteer opportunities available to active members. Make sure your membership is up to date today!

If you are interested in joining our volunteer database to be notified of volunteer opportunities, please complete our Interested Volunteer form below.

The Volunteer Management Committee can recommend volunteers for vacant positions in your committee.  If your committee is interested in these recommendations, please enter your request by clicking the link below.