Aamjiwmaang economic leader retires

An Aamjiwnaang man whose leadership helped make the Chippewa Industrial Park a thriving success has retired after a 34-year career.

An Aamjiwnaang man whose leadership helped make the Chippewa Industrial Park a thriving success has retired after a 34-year career.

Tom Maness began as the First Nation’s economic development officer and eventually became development co-ordinator and general manager of the Chippewa Industrial Developments Limited.

The industrial park has generated jobs and revenue for the band while inspiring other aboriginal entrepreneurs.

“His successes have moved Aamjiwnaang closer to a vision he helped create, to be a healthy, prosperous community striving towards self-sufficiency,” said Chief Chris Plain.

In retirement, Maness said he intends to visit his favourite fishing spot and seek out new ones with his grandchildren and family.