PEI Business Leaders to be Inducted into Hall of Fame: Stewart, Hambly & Irving

Three prominent figures in Prince Edward Island’s business community will be inducted into the Junior Achievement P.E.I. Business Hall of Fame on May 21, the organization announced Friday. Harvey Stewart, Kathy Hambly, and Robert K. Irving will be recognized for their contributions to the Island’s economy and community development.

Harvey Stewart, a founder of both H.F. Stewart and Sons and Trout River Industries, has significantly impacted P.E.I.’s manufacturing and construction sectors. Trout River Industries exports live bottom trailers to markets across North America, as well as to Mexico, Australia, and the Middle East, demonstrating the potential for rural Island businesses to achieve international reach. Beyond his business ventures, Stewart has dedicated over 40 years to public service as the fire chief for the West Point Fire Department.

Kathy Hambly’s career has been defined by her advocacy for entrepreneurship and her leadership within the Island’s business community. She founded and operated Katherine’s Ltd., a retail clothing business, and previously served as the executive director of the Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce. Currently, Hambly is the vice-chair of the board of directors of the Charlottetown Airport Authority. She has also held positions as chair of the human resources and corporate governance committee of Maritime Electric Company Ltd., and on the board of governors at the University of Prince Edward Island.

Robert K. Irving, president of Cavendish Farms, will also be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Cavendish Farms operates four frozen potato processing plants across North America, two of which are located in Prince Edward Island. Irving is recognized for his commitment to community betterment, particularly through his support of youth education and literacy initiatives. He previously co-chaired a capital campaign for Holland College and has also been recognized by the New Brunswick Business Hall of Fame and inducted into the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame.

Junior Achievement P.E.I. Stated that the induction ceremony aims to celebrate outstanding business leaders and inspire Island students to pursue entrepreneurial endeavors. The organization’s news release emphasized the importance of recognizing those who have left a lasting mark on P.E.I.’s business landscape.