Leadership transition marks the beginning of a new strategic chapter focused on strengthening Yukon’s digital technology industry

WHITEHORSE, YUKON — September 17, 2026 — Tech Yukon’s Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Bethany Ryan as Executive Director, effective September 8, 2026. Ryan succeeds Ziad Sahid, who has moved on after nine years of dedicated leadership.

The Board was unanimous in selecting Ryan. Her deep familiarity with Yukon’s technology ecosystem, track record of turning strategy into results, and direct contributions to Tech Yukon’s recently released 2026–2029 Strategic Plan position her well to guide the organization through its next phase.

“Bethany understands both the opportunities facing Yukon’s digital technology sector and what Tech Yukon must do to serve it effectively,” said Inga Petri, President of Tech Yukon’s Board of Directors. “She combines strategic thinking with a strong ability to move from ideas to implementation. The Board is confident that she is the right leader to strengthen Tech Yukon as the industry association, champion and trusted voice for Yukon’s digital technology sector.”

Ryan moves into the Executive Director position after serving on Tech Yukon’s Board of Directors and helping develop the organization’s new strategic direction. Her familiarity with the organization, its members and partners will support continuity while bringing renewed focus to implementation.

“I am honoured to take on this role at an important point in Tech Yukon’s evolution,” said Ryan. “Yukon’s digital technology industry is both an important economic sector and an enabling force across the wider territorial economy. I look forward to listening to our members and partners, strengthening connections, and shaping practical programs and services that respond to industry and community needs. Tech Yukon has an important role not only in supporting the businesses that develop and deliver technology, but also in exploring practical ways to advance technology education and adoption across Yukon.”

A new strategic direction

Tech Yukon’s 2026–2029 Strategic Plan re-centres the organization as the industry association and ecosystem connector for Yukon’s digital technology sector. Its vision is a visible, credible and growing industry that strengthens the territory’s economy, infrastructure, business capacity and quality of life.

The plan establishes five priorities:

• Gather industry intelligence and provide advocacy;

• Design programs and services for members and the wider technology sector; 

• Strengthen communications and Tech Yukon’s public presence;

• Strengthen governance and organizational capacity; and

• Secure sustainable core and project funding.

Ryan’s first priorities include engaging members and partners to identify core industry priorities, beginning development of an annual Yukon Digital Technology Industry Outlook, and updating Tech Yukon’s programs and services. This work will explore how focused programming can create value for members and the wider industry while supporting technology education, adoption and practical use among Yukon businesses, organizations and communities.

“Bethany helped shape this plan and understands the discipline it will take to implement it,” said Inga Petri. “Her appointment gives Tech Yukon both continuity and forward momentum as we sharpen our role and demonstrate clear value to members and the wider digital technology ecosystem.”

Recognizing nine years of leadership

The Board also extends its sincere thanks to outgoing Executive Director Ziad Sahid for his significant contributions to Tech Yukon and Yukon’s technology community.

Since joining Tech Yukon in 2017, Sahid has been a tireless advocate for the territory’s technology sector. Under his leadership, Tech Yukon expanded its programs, strengthened relationships with governments and funders, created opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneurs, and helped build a more connected and visible technology community.

Sahid brought commitment, persistence and a deep belief in the potential of Yukon’s technology businesses to his work. His contributions helped establish Tech Yukon as an important source of advocacy, information, connection and industry support across the territory.

“On behalf of the Board, our members and the wider community, we thank Ziad for everything he has contributed over the past nine years,” said Inga Petri. “His consistent and skilled leadership created a strong foundation for Tech Yukon’s next chapter. We wish him well and are excited to see what he does next.”

About Tech Yukon

Tech Yukon is the industry association, champion and trusted voice for Yukon’s digital technology sector. It represents, connects, informs and advocates for Yukon-based businesses and organizations that develop, deliver, apply, secure, integrate, commercialize or support digital technologies. Tech Yukon also delivers focused programs, industry information and networking opportunities that strengthen member value and contribute to a more visible, credible and resilient digital technology ecosystem in Yukon.

To learn more, visit techyukon.ca.

Media contact

Bethany Ryan
Executive Director
Tech Yukon
[email protected]