Morgan Rankin

Morgan Rankin is Fort McMurray through and through—proudly born and raised in the community she’s deeply committed to nurturing. After moving to Edmonton in 2004 for studies at NAIT, where she earned a diploma in Personal Fitness Training, Morgan returned home in 2009.

She’s been here ever since, cherishing the sense of community, the beautiful surroundings of the Boreal Forest, and the opportunity to raise her four children close to her extended family. “Having my entire family living locally means I’m incredibly supported,” she shares, emphasizing the close-knit ties that shape her life.

Morgan’s career has been varied and community-focused. From running a mobile personal training business to teaching trauma-informed yoga, she’s dedicated her work to helping others. Her role as a Tournaments & Events Specialist with the RRC allowed her to contribute to events like The Festival of Trees and Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta Women of Inspiration—experiences that made a lasting impact on her. Additionally, she’s the proud author of a children’s book, a project she considers one of her most cherished achievements alongside her role as a mother.

Now spending time at home with her kids, Morgan remains active in the community through volunteer work. She has supported her children’s activities by serving on the board of her daughter’s cheerleading booster club and fundraising for her son’s trampoline and tumbling team. In her role as Community Relations Coordinator at her husband’s business, First Line Plumbing & HVAC, Morgan manages charitable donations, helping support local causes that make a difference in Fort McMurray.

Morgan’s passion for her hometown shines through in everything she does. “I want people to recognize Fort McMurray as a great place to raise a family,” she says. While the city is often seen as an “oil sands town” or remembered for the 2016 wildfire, Morgan is dedicated to showing others the vibrant, family-friendly community she knows so well. She envisions Fort McMurray becoming a destination for families, not just a stopover. To make this vision a reality, Morgan believes in promoting the city’s strengths, engaging residents in outreach efforts, and fostering a sense of pride among community members.

Looking ahead, Morgan’s goals reflect both her personal and professional values. As a mother, she’s committed to being present for her children and raising them to be kind, compassionate individuals. Professionally, she’s exploring meaningful new opportunities, with an eye toward writing another children’s book. Balancing these aspects of her life is a priority, as she strives to remain involved in community efforts while creating a loving environment at home.

The resilience and spirit of Fort McMurray’s community after the 2016 wildfire were pivotal for Morgan. “Seeing everyone come together for a greater cause was life-changing,” she recalls. It reinforced her belief in the power of community and the importance of staying engaged. “As a mom, I want my kids to be proud of where they come from and to be involved in their hometown. Community engagement fosters that pride.”

Morgan’s contributions reflect a deep commitment to Fort McMurray’s growth and future. Whether through volunteering, supporting local initiatives, or simply sharing her love for her hometown, she embodies the spirit of someone who believes in the power of connection. “I’m incredibly honoured to be named among the Top 50 Under 50,” she says, adding, “It’s easy to overlook the role of moms and the challenges they face, but being recognized reminds me of the positive impact we can all have. I’m excited to keep giving back and helping our community flourish.”

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