What happens to local governance when a dominant industry actor becomes the primary driver of talent attraction and economic development in a rural region?

PhD research by Natasha D’Souza from the University of Guelph examines exactly this question through the lens of Bruce County, Ontario, a community transitioning from an agricultural economy to a specialised nuclear energy hub. The research explores how Bruce Power’s influence shapes not only employment and skills development but the broader governance dynamics of the region. This is a timely contribution to discussions about rural economic diversification, governance accountability and place-based development.

A plain language summary is available through the Connecting the Dots initiative.