Ruby Littlechild

About

A proud member of Treaty 6 and descending from the Plains Cree, Ruby Littlechild embodies a legacy of strength, wisdom, and spiritual connection. Her heritage and lineage traces back to Wandering Spirit, a revered spiritual warrior and Big Bear who was signatory to Treaty No. 6, agreed upon in 1876 in Alberta and Saskatchewan.


Ruby's leadership is characterized by her commitment to forging mutually successful relationships between Indigenous communities and industry. Her approach emphasizes inclusive and innovative collaboration, authentic stakeholder engagement, and a profound understanding of historical and cultural awareness. These principles guide her successful efforts in Indigenous Community Building and Economic Development.


Born as Plains Cree from Maskwacis, Alberta, Ruby's upbringing was a blend of urban life in Edmonton and the rich cultural environment of her First Nation's community. Her strong belief in Plains Cree traditional ceremony and her connection to her roots have shaped her worldview and career.


A life-long learner, Ruby holds a Bachelors of Arts, a Masters of Education Degree with a completed thesis on Violence against Indigenous Women, she advocates for the empowerment of Indigenous Women, also completed a Masters of Business Administration Degree with a focus on Community Economic Development and her Institute of Corporate Director’s ~ ICD.D designation and she is currently working on her Masters of Arts Degree in Human Rights from the University of London in England.


In 2025, Ruby received the 2025 Indigenous Women In Leadership Award from the Canadian Council of Indigenous Business and a King Charles III Coronation Medal for her work in the Engineering and Infrastructure industry.


Her extensive experience includes working with First Nation's Tribal governments, the Government of Alberta, the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta, NorQuest College, and her current role as the National Director of Indigenous Relations for AtkinsRealis, a global engineering firm.


Ruby's service extends to numerous government and national boards, reflecting her dedication to community and social development. Examples of current and past affiliations include the CANDO National Indigenous Economic Development Board, Alberta Child and Family Services Board, Alberta Historical Resources Foundation, Neyaskweyahk Group of Companies Inc. and the renowned and leading edge Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation.


At the heart of Ruby's work is a passion for promoting healing, higher education, First Nations awareness, inclusion, and equality within Canada's infrastructure industry and economy. She is a tireless advocate for Indigenous inclusion across all sectors, recognizing that shifts in social consciousness and ethical practice are vital to sustainable socio-economic development in First Nation's communities.


Ruby's unique blend of grassroots experience, academic achievement, and professional leadership makes her an invaluable asset to any project. Her insights and advocacy are not only a testament to her personal journey but a beacon for those striving to create a more inclusive and compassionate society.