MLA: Hon. Steve Thomson - Kelowna-Mission - Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations

Father, we thank You for Minister Hon. Steve Thomson and his commitment to our great province.  We ask that You would bless him as he works for the betterment of all the people in British Columbia.  Our prayer is that You would give him great wisdom as he leads us in stewardship of our land and its resources. Bless his family as they make the sacrifices that come with having a husband, father and grandfather in such a leadership position. Amen.

Steve Thomson is currently the Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations. He previously served as Minister of Natural Resource Operations, Minister of Energy, Minister of Agriculture of Lands, and was elected to represent the riding of Kelowna-Mission on May 12, 2009.

Born and raised in Kelowna, Steve comes from a pioneer family who continues to operate the original family farm established in 1896.

Steve is the former executive director of the BC Agriculture Council and has developed his career and experience working on behalf of British Columbia farmers and ranchers.  He has served as General Manager of the BC Fruit Growers Association and the BC Milk Producers Association.

He has been selected for many leadership roles and advisory positions dedicated to the continuous improvement of our province. Steve brings to his role of MLA for Kelowna Mission extensive leadership expertise, experience in economic development and a clear understanding of how to get things done in government. He has served the community and province as president of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce and chair of the BC Chamber of Commerce and has represented those organizations and others on provincial government task forces focused on red tape reduction and small business development.  He has also served as a director of the Kelowna Museum, the Okanagan Innovation Fund and the BC BioEnergy Network.

He has a great love of sports and had a long career in rugby including the opportunity to play for the Canadian National Rugby Team. Current interests include golf, gardening and being an ardent rugby fan.

Steve is a husband, father and grandfather.  He is married to Brenda and has three children and five grandchildren.