Chris and Corinna Pirie

Chris and Corinna Pirie have built their lives in Fort McMurray, dedicating their professional talents and passion for community service to making it a better place to live. Their journey is a testament to their commitment to the region, as they blend their individual strengths into a powerful partnership that supports Fort McMurray’s future.

Together, they are recognized in Your McMurray Magazine’s Top 50 Under 50 edition as a true “Power Duo,” embodying the spirit of service, resilience, and community advocacy.

For Chris Pirie, Fort McMurray is more than just a place to call home; it’s where he has found a sense of purpose and community. As the Service Manager for United Rentals, he has been able to build a rewarding career that aligns with his dedication to giving back. Originally from Pembroke, Ontario, Chris made the move to Fort McMurray when his wife, Corinna, completed her studies at Laurentian University. Her enthusiasm for the region was contagious, encouraging Chris to dive into community life.

Chris holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Sports Administration and an MBA from Laurentian University. Though he initially envisioned a career in sports, his passion for sports and community involvement found new expression through his volunteer work. In 2016, Chris joined the Regional Recreation Corporation (RRC) Board and became its chair in 2023, working tirelessly to expand recreational opportunities for residents. His role on the Waypoints board as treasurer also allows him to support essential services for individuals and families in need.

“The most rewarding part of my career is working for a company that supports my volunteering efforts and gives back through various charitable initiatives,” Chris shares. This balance between professional fulfillment and community impact has been a defining feature of his time in Fort McMurray. Chris sees his volunteer work as a way to contribute to a thriving community, providing families and children with opportunities for healthy, active lifestyles.

As a father, Chris’s family is central to his life and motivations. “I wouldn’t be able to give the time I do without Corinna’s support,” he emphasizes. Their partnership allows him to manage his professional responsibilities while engaging deeply in community service. Chris hopes to continue making a positive impact as he transitions into new roles in family life, from “toddler dad” to “activity parent.”

One of Chris’s dreams is to see the Toronto Maple Leafs win the Stanley Cup—an ambition that speaks to his enduring love for sports and the spirit of community camaraderie. But he also has a clear-eyed view of the challenges facing Fort McMurray. “After a few tough years in terms of employment and population size, we need to start moving people back into the region,” he asserts. He believes that creating job opportunities is key to revitalizing the area, improving the quality of life for all residents.

Chris remains committed to fostering community ties that encourage others to give back. “By continuing to give my time to causes I believe in, such as the RRC and Waypoints, I hope to contribute to making the region an even better place to be,” he explains. His work is about more than individual contributions—it’s about nurturing a culture of collective effort toward a brighter future for Fort McMurray.

Corinna Pirie’s journey in Fort McMurray began in 1998 when her family moved to the region, and it has been home ever since. With a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science from Laurentian University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Manitoba, Corinna has built a career in law that focuses on helping people through difficult times. “Lawyers are uniquely situated to help people through some of the worst times of their lives,” she notes, emphasizing the deeply personal impact of her work.

Her commitment to Fort McMurray extends far beyond the courtroom. Volunteering has been a part of Corinna’s life from a young age, starting with events like the Arctic Winter Games and the Centre of Hope during her high school years. A turning point came in 2017 when she pledged to complete 100 hours of volunteer work as part of a time-raiser event. “100 hours is a lot on top of a 50+ hour work week, but I did it, and have a beautiful piece of photography as a reward,” she recalls. This experience reinforced her dedication to community service.

Since then, Corinna has taken on leadership roles within several local organizations. From 2017 to 2019, she served on the Board of Directors for the Wood Buffalo Canadian Mental Health Association, concluding her term as Vice-Chair. Her role on the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo Library Board, where she now serves as Chair, has been particularly meaningful, allowing her to advocate for literacy and community programs that support families. “Having a child has changed how I use the Library services and has positively impacted how I can contribute to the organization as Chair of the Board,” she says.

As a mother to a three-year-old son, Corinna’s focus has shifted even more toward creating a supportive environment for families in Fort McMurray. She and Chris share a vision of a community that offers opportunities for growth, health, and connection. “Chris is my rock in so many ways,” she says, highlighting the mutual support that enables them both to pursue their community commitments.

Mental health is a particularly pressing concern for Corinna, who believes in a proactive approach to care. “We see doctors, optometrists, and dentists regularly to maintain our physical health, but we do not access mental health support until we are in a crisis, if at all,” she explains. Corinna aims to change this narrative in Fort McMurray, advocating for accessible mental health services and working to reduce the stigma around seeking help.

Corinna is always looking for ways she can contribute to the community. Balancing a demanding career with raising a young child limits her time, but her commitment to enhancing the quality of life for Fort McMurray residents remains steadfast. “My role is behind the scenes, supporting community organizations and services that make Fort McMurray a better place to live,” she notes. An avid reader, Corinna encourages others to take advantage of the library’s resources, adding with a smile, “I’ve saved thousands of dollars thanks to my free library card!”

Together, Chris and Corinna Pirie exemplify the impact of dedicated community leadership. Their shared values and mutual support have allowed them to make a difference both in their professional lives and through extensive volunteer work. Whether it’s Chris’s focus on sports and recreation or Corinna’s advocacy for mental health and literacy, the Piries are united in their goal of fostering a welcoming, vibrant Fort McMurray.

The challenges facing the region are significant, but Chris and Corinna see opportunities for growth and revitalization. By addressing issues such as employment, recreational infrastructure, and access to mental health services, they are working to ensure that Fort McMurray continues to be a place where individuals and families can thrive. Their story is one of resilience, hope, and a deep love for the community they call home.

As Fort McMurray looks toward the future, it’s leaders like Chris and Corinna Pirie who will help shape its path. Their commitment to service, combined with their drive to make a difference, ensures that they will remain key contributors to the region’s ongoing success. Through their efforts, they inspire others to get involved, proving that a dedicated team can truly make a lasting impact.

Subscribe now so you don’t miss out on all the latest news, stories and fun in YMM!