Mary A. Tidlund

Mary A. Tidlund, is a Canadian businesswoman and philanthropist. She was the first Black female CEO in the energy industry. In 1989, Ms. Tidlund co-founded Williston Wildcatters Oil Corp., a pioneering junior oil and gas exploration company based in Arcola, Saskatchewan. The company quickly became one of the first in Canada to utilize horizontal drilling. Within five years, Wildcatters transitioned from a private entity to a publicly traded company on the Toronto Stock Exchange, reaching a peak valuation of $35 million. Unfortunately, financial challenges led to bankruptcy.

Undeterred, Ms. Tidlund diversified her business interests in Williston Wildcatters Oil Corporation, establishing drilling and trucking companies, a clothing store, an art gallery, a restaurant, and a saloon. However, a downturn in the oil industry prompted her to shift focus.

In 1998, Ms. Tidlund founded The Mary A. Tidlund Charitable Foundation, marking the beginning of her philanthropic journey. The foundation has supported over 90 programs in Canada and overseas, with a focus on medical, dental, and educational initiatives.

Ms. Tidlund serves on the boards of O'Brien Institute for Public Health since 2021, Grace Institute since 2019, CompX International, Inc. since May 2014, and Valhi, Inc. since March 17, 2016. 

Honored for her accomplishments, Ms. Tidlund was awarded the Order of Canada by the Governor General of Canada in June 2023, alongside accolades such as the Black Achievement Award for Humanitarianism, the In Award, and the Woman of Vision Award presented by Global TV.

Outside her professional and philanthropic commitments, Ms. Tidlund finds joy in outdoor pursuits like skiing, hiking, and birding in the Canadian Rockies. Her adventurous spirit extends to discovering the finest bakeries and restaurants in Calgary, Canmore, and beyond. 

Ms. Tidlund holds a BSc in Geography from the University of Calgary.

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