2026 WORKSHOP Leaders

Dr. Heather Cowie

Dr. Heather Cowie is an entrepreneur, optometrist, and purpose-driven leader based in Alberta. She is the owner of Airdrie Family Eye Doctors, a multi-doctor optometry practice known for its strong culture, clinical excellence, and commitment to innovation in areas such as myopia management, vision therapy, and dry eye care.

Beyond growing a thriving healthcare business, Heather has built giving back into the foundation of her leadership. She has a Master's degree in Public Health from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and completed her Doctor of Optometry at the University of Waterloo.  She founded a charity in Guatemala focused on expanding access to eye care and supporting educational development in underserved communities. Through this work, she has seen firsthand how purpose fuels growth — not only financially, but culturally and personally.

Tiffany Daw

Your Strategic Partner in Entrepreneurship For over 20 years, I have worked at the intersection of banking, lending, and wealth management. I know firsthand that for Alberta’s entrepreneurs, a business isn’t just an asset—it’s your life’s work. As a Senior Financial Advisor with ATB Wealth, I specialize in helping you translate your hard-earned business success into a lasting personal legacy.

A Comprehensive Approach to Your Wealth As a Qualified Associate Financial Planner (QAFP™), I move far beyond simple investment advice. I see my role as both a teacher and a listener. My goal is to help you navigate the unique complexities of your financial life—from managing cash flow and scaling your business to planning for that dream retirement in Costa Rica or a seamless business succession. I work to create customized plans that we break down together into actionable, manageable steps.

Why Work With Me? My commitment to a "client-first" experience was shaped early in my career as a Cultural Representative at Disneyworld. That experience taught me that the best partnerships are built on truly being heard. I don’t just manage portfolios; I build the strategies that give you the freedom to focus on what you do best: growing your empire. I’m proud to be part of the ATB Wealth team, where I can collaborate with a network of experts to ensure every aspect of your financial world is taken care of.

Fun Fact: Did you know that according to some studies, individuals who work with a financial advisor can end up with up to 3.9 times more wealth over a 15-year period compared to those who go it alone? That isn’t just luck; it’s what we call the "Advisor Alpha"—the measurable value of behavioral coaching and strategic, long-term planning.

Sherri Wright-Schwietz

Sherri has been a powerhouse in the wealth industry since 2005, but don’t let the "Senior Vice President" title fool you—she’s more interested in authentic connection than corner offices. Known for her intuitive touch and knack for turning tough situations into wins, Sherri’s secret weapon is her genuine love for people. After decades of chasing the traditional definition of success, she’s recently traded in the "superwoman" cape for a focus on health, family, and her two beloved dogs. She’s a kick-ass mom, a devoted partner, and a firm believer that your value is worth more than your productivity. 

Julie Crawford

Julie Crawford is the Founder and Executive Connector of High Road Leaders, with over 30 years of experience in leadership development, business growth, and community building. As a certified Executive Program Leader with Maxwell Leadership, she specializes in equipping leaders with practical tools that create clarity, confidence, and connection. Julie is passionate about helping individuals and teams strengthen communication, build meaningful relationships, and lead with emotional intelligence. She hosts high-impact leadership events, workshops, and master classes designed to inspire growth and real-world change. Known for her warm, engaging style, Julie empowers leaders to rise, connect, and create lasting impact.

Shona Welsh

Shona Welsh used to be a corporate change agent – but she’s okay now. After 25 years of navigating leadership roles where she was often the only woman, she decided to take her ‘show on the road’ in the form of her own training and consulting business, Speak Easy. For the past 10 years, she’s helped thousands of business leaders and owners around the world speak and communicate in compelling and persuasive ways.

An award-winning speaker herself, Shona has written 12 books and earned numerous degrees and certifications. She splits her time between Canada and the Middle East where she runs a major speaking competition, coaches women professionals in advocating for themselves, and is a speech writer for numerous CEOs. At home in Calgary, she trains and coaches leaders and employees in effective speaking and compelling communications.

Shona has 5 children, 4 grandchildren, 1 husband who does all the cooking, and 1 very naughty dog. She cannot be trusted alone in the house with chocolate.