The Empire Club of Canada
Hybrid
Wednesday, April 8, 2026
Canada is at a pivotal moment—one that will define its energy future, economic security, and prosperity for generations. As electricity demand accelerates and global competition intensifies, Ontario must build an energy system that is strong, resilient, and independent. With its largescale nuclear generation, world leading medical isotope production, and thousands of skilled workers, Bruce Power and Ontario’s nuclear sector stand at the centre of this opportunity.
On April 8th, The Empire Club of Canada is proud to welcome Eric Chassard, President and CEO of Bruce Power, for a timely and forward-looking address entitled Canadian at Our Core: Advancing Nuclear Innovation For Canada’s Bright Energy Future —on the future of Ontario’s energy system and Canada’s role as a clean energy leader.
Eric will outline how the steps being taken today—from life extension and refurbishment to planning for future nuclear capacity—are laying the foundations for a bright energy future Ontarians can count on. Grounded in a “Canadian at our core” philosophy, he will speak to how the province can leverage its tools, talent, and innovation to become a clean energy superpower, powering industries, supporting families, and strengthening the economy.
Eric Chassard is President and CEO of Bruce Power. Eric previously served as the company’s Executive Vice-President of Projects and Engineering, where he successfully led the on-time and on-budget delivery of Bruce Power’s Life-Extension Program, which included delivering the first of six unit refurbishments ahead of schedule and under budget in 2023.
Eric has an extensive background in the nuclear industry and has held a series of senior executive positions both in nuclear operations and overseeing multibillion-dollar project portfolios. Prior to joining Bruce Power, Eric was CEO of Menter Newydd, a joint venture between Hitachi, Bechtel and JGC responsible for the construction of the Wylfa nuclear power plants. He also held increasingly senior positions within the AREVA Group, most recently serving as Senior Executive Vice-President of AREVA covering worldwide engineering, supply chain and project activities.
Eric has a degree in Engineering specializing in Nuclear Engineering, holds a post-graduate diploma in Nuclear Reactor Physics and an Executive MBA from Harvard Business School. In 2018, he was awarded the French National Order of Merit for his leadership contributions to AREVA. Eric proudly became a Canadian citizen in 2023.
Laryssa Waler, Founder & CEO of Henley Strategies, brings nearly two decades of leadership in strategic communications, public affairs, and media relations.
Known for her tailored, results-driven approach, Laryssa designs bespoke strategies for every client — recognizing the unique goals and challenges of each organization and individual she supports.
Laryssa has held senior roles at the highest levels of government, including serving as Executive Director of Communications to Ontario Premier Doug Ford. In the private sector, she has advised a wide range of clients — from Fortune 500 companies and high-growth startups to non-profits and advocacy organizations — helping them shape public narratives, engage policymakers, and build lasting influence.
She is a frequent political commentator on Canadian TV and radio, where she offers insight into current affairs, public policy, and campaign strategy.
In 2022, Laryssa led media operations for the Canadian, Indigenous, and international press during the historic visit of Pope Francis to Canada, coordinating coverage for more than 800 accredited journalists and serving as a spokesperson on matters related to Indigenous reconciliation.
A committed advocate for Ukraine, Laryssa continues to lend her voice and expertise to support the international response to Russia’s war of aggression.
She holds a degree from the University of Toronto and a graduate certificate in Public Relations from Humber College. Laryssa is fluent in English, Ukrainian, and French.
