Lounge Discussions

Delegate Interactive Discussions

SEUS-CP 2026 Business Forum

Lounge Discussions · Program

These interactive discussions convene business leaders and trade professionals from across the SEUS-CP Conference for a facilitated exchange of ideas to strengthen bilateral collaboration and competitiveness. Each 40-minute session centers on a strategic theme critical to the evolving trade and investment landscape across three sectors: Life Sciences, Mobility, and Advanced Energy.

Monday, June 22, 2026

01
Advanced Energy

From Grid to Growth — Fueling Secure Energy Systems Across the U.S. and Canada

10:20 – 11:00 am  ·  Hyatt Regency Ballroom

Moderator

Cristina ParedesExecutive Director, SC NEXUS for Advanced Resilient Energy

Panelists

Pierre-Francois AllaireVP, Sales and Marketing — Opal-RT

Dr. Johny GreenLaboratory Director — Savannah River National Laboratory

Heather Shirley SmithVP Regulatory Affairs and Policy, SC — Duke Energy

Jeff DuncanFounding Partner, Covenant Government Affairs

Joe KlechaChief Nuclear Officer, The Nuclear Company

02
Mobility

The Next 20 Years of Mobility: Electric, Autonomous, and Seamlessly Connected

11:10 – 11:50 am  ·  Hyatt Regency Ballroom

Moderator

Amy TinsleyVP of Manufacturing Councils, SC Manufacturers & Commerce

Panelists

Joe OylerSenior Manager, State Advocacy & Global Engagement — The Boeing Company

Gaurang KalsariaFuture Vehicle, Product, Technology & Consumer Offer — Volvo Car USA

Chet ShawSenior Vice President, Integrated Delivery — Metrolinx

Fred WielandChief Research Scientist — Mosaic ATM

03
Life Sciences

Life Sciences — Fueling Regional Growth

3:00 – 3:45 pm  ·  Hyatt Regency Ballroom

Moderator

Julie KunkleDirector of Global Business, SC Department of Commerce

Panelists

Dr. Steven SkinnerPresident & CEO — Greenwood Genetic Center

Krista BezansonVP Business Development & Strategy — Life Sciences Nova Scotia

Brandon RockwellCEO — PAI Pharma

Dr. John C. HigginbothamVice Chancellor of Research & Economic Development — University of Mississippi