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

Father, we give You thanks for MLA: Hon. Steve Thomson, Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations. We pray that You will give him supernatural wisdom and vision as he oversees the many natural resources that You have given us in this wonderful province.  We thank You that You have appointed him to fulfill Your purposes for this time and season. May he know that You, Lord, guide and direct his every step and that You walk with him. May he and his family enjoy a Happy and Joyous Christmas and a prosperous New Year. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen

Steve Thomson is the Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations.

He previously served as Minister of Natural Resource Operations, Minister of Energy, and Minister of Agriculture and Lands.

Born and raised in Kelowna, Steve comes from a pioneer family who continues to operate the original family farm established in 1896. He was elected to represent the riding of Kelowna-Mission on May 12, 2009.

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 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.