​Executive Team

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Megan Trad

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Megan Trad is an accomplished operations director with nearly a decade of experience across public, charter, and private school systems. Since 2017 she has served in a diverse operational and administrative roles, building a reputation for excellence in day to day school operations, facility management and policy implementation. Megan specializes in creating efficient scalable systems that support both academic success and organizational stability. She has led large scale projects from inception to execution and played a key role in translating senior leadership vision into actionable strategies. With a strong foundation in policy, governance and cross - functional leadership, Megan is driven by a deep commitment to educational equity, operational integrity and strategic growth.

 

At The Forge Academy, Megan envisions a transformative learning community where every student is empowered to become the absolute best version of themselves-intellectually, emotionally and ethically. She is committed to supporting resilient, purpose-driven individuals who provide educational excellence not just as a means of success, but a reflection of their highest potential. Megan believes that The Forge Academy will prepare students to lead lives of meaning, impact and integrity into an ever-changing world.

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Claire Butler

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Claire Butler is a dynamic arts educator, entrepreneur, and community advocate with a deep passion for fostering creativity and cultivating young talent. With a strong foundation in music education, Claire has inspired and mentored countless students, guiding them in developing not only their musical abilities but also critical thinking, discipline, and teamwork. Running a successful music studio and music camp business for young children, Claire combines entrepreneurial acumen with a deep understanding of the arts, creating innovative programs that bridge education and real-world application. 

 A tireless advocate for the role of the arts in education and personal growth, Claire continues to inspire students, teachers, and community members alike through their vision and commitment to making the arts a transformative part of everyday life.

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​At Forge Academy, I wish to build and cultivate community connections that bring opportunities, experience, inspiration and imagination to the students' learning. I believe that together we are stronger. 

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Jim Docherty

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Jim is an award-winning scientist and visionary leader, bringing a rare blend of scientific expertise, industry insight and educational leadership to the forefront of 21st century learning. With over three decades of experience in pharmaceutical R&D; educational leadership and education policy, Jim has led innovation in scientific, technical and cross-disciplinary collaboration. 

Beyond industry, Jim has served as a national executive member of trade unions, championing access to training and industry-academic partnerships. Jim's advocacy extended to high-level advisory roles where Jim advised governments in Europe and North America, providing strategic guidance on vocational education and skills policy. 

Now Jim is channeling his experience into education transformation, sitting on our board to help us craft an application to found a public Charter School in Alberta that is designed to equip students with insights, skills and knowledge they need to excel in high-growth careers. Jim's mission is to bridge the gap between academic achievement and workforce readiness, creating opportunities for our students that are as rigorous as they are relevant. 

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