A couple weeks ago, YCR wrapped up its annual case competition. This year’s theme was expediting pipeline approvals, which couldn’t be more timely considering Enbridge’s recent statement regarding the regulatory and permitting issues surrounding pipelines. Getting projects approved and built is a Canada-wide challenge right now.
Summer students from Calgary-based energy companies submitted pitches in teams ranging from 1 person to 7. In total, 17 teams were submitted. Experts from the Explorers and Producers Association of Canada (EPAC) judged the submissions and greenlit 8 teams to the final presentation round, which was hosted at the Calgary Petroleum Club on June 24, 2025.
More than 100 students and energy executives came out to watch and judge the pitches. We heard from both students and executives about how innovative and well-executed each of the pitches was.
The winning teams, “Streamline with Serena” ($2000 student vote winner) and “Sandbox Approval Pipeline Strategy” ($4000 executive vote winner), both presented unique policy proposals focussed on reducing red tape, upholding Indigenous consultation responsibilities, and attracting investors to Canadian projects.
Pipeline approvals – and approvals for major projects across all sectors – have been top of mind for government, industry, and the Canadian public for a while now. Due to recent geopolitical changes (cough cough… tariffs), the issue is more important now than ever.
Canada is facing a turning point in its history as far as its economy is concerned. Government leaders (both provincial and federal) have been racing to pass legislation and approve projects across the country.
Getting pipeline projects approved is a priority for the oil and gas sector and has been for the last number of years. In particular, building more pipelines to the west coast from reserves in Alberta and northwestern BC is key to unlocking Canada’s resource potential in international markets.
Cancelled projects (like the Northern Gateway pipeline) have historically faced significant challenges. Roadblocks like the oil tanker moratorium, Bill C-69 (the Impact Assessment Act), and provincial regulatory issues have long prevented projects from proceeding and stifled capital investment. Breaking down these barriers is key to a prosperous future for Canadians.
The students pitching innovative ideas for streamlining pipeline approvals may not be the same folks that are making decisions in Edmonton or Ottawa (not yet, at least). That said, YCR’s mission is to amplify young Canadians’ voices to government, industry, and the public.
Our message – a shared message with the dozens of students that presented pitches this year and thousands across the country – is that the world needs Canadian oil and gas, and that Canada needs to build pipelines, powerlines, ports, railways, and roads to secure a prosperous future for all.
YCR’s case competition has unfortunately concluded for 2025… but it’s not too late to get involved with other YCR events and initiatives!
Follow the links on the YCR website (or click here) to sign up for our newsletter and stay involved with YCR events in Calgary and on university campuses across the country during the school year. We’re always looking for eager, motivated young Canadians to meet and welcome into the YCR community.
And don’t worry, the case competition will be back and better than ever next summer – we promise.
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