Canadian forest sector research organization FPInnovations has appointed Laurence R. Fortin as its new Leader of Strategic Partnerships for Quebec, strengthening its expertise in government relations and industry collaboration.

Fortin brings nearly 15 years of experience in politics and public affairs to the role, including several positions within government and experience serving as a chief of staff.

Her appointment adds public policy and government process expertise to an organization focused on research, technology development and improving the competitiveness of Canada’s forest sector.

Nearly 15 Years of Government and Public Affairs Experience

Fortin studied political science and public relations before developing a career spanning government, politics and public affairs.

Her understanding of government processes is expected to support FPInnovations as it develops partnerships involving industry, government and other stakeholders across Quebec’s forestry sector.

Strategic collaboration is particularly relevant to forest-sector innovation, where bringing new technologies from research into commercial use can involve manufacturers, forest companies, governments and research organizations.

Supporting Canada’s Forest Products Industry

FPInnovations is a private, not-for-profit research and development organization serving Canada’s forestry sector.

Its work covers areas ranging from forest operations and wood products to pulp, paper, bioproducts and emerging technologies designed to improve the industry’s competitiveness and environmental performance.

The organization operates R&D laboratories in Montreal and Quebec City, giving it an established research presence within Quebec’s forest products industry.

Fortin’s new role will focus on strategic partnerships in the province, where forestry, pulp and paper manufacturing and wood products remain important parts of the industrial economy.

Connecting Research with Industry Collaboration

For Canada’s forest products sector, partnerships between research organizations, manufacturers and public institutions can play an important role in developing and commercializing new technologies.

FPInnovations’ research activities support companies seeking improvements in manufacturing efficiency, fibre utilization and the development of new forest-based products.

With Fortin leading strategic partnerships in Quebec, her background in public affairs and government processes adds experience that can support these collaborative efforts as the organization continues working with stakeholders across the province.

The appointment comes as Canada’s forestry industry continues to pursue new technologies and higher-value uses for wood fibre, reinforcing the role of research partnerships in maintaining the sector’s long-term competitiveness.

Last Updated on 11/08/2026 by Jota Machinery