Valerie Rustad nominated for national entrepreneur award
By Joan Janzen
Valerie Rustad has been nominated for the RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards.
She and her husband, Grant, have operated Mid Plains Diesel for the past 35 years, expanding services over the years.
“I was shocked and surprised,” Valerie said.
Her husband Grant said he was also caught off guard by the news.
“I was very impressed and quite proud,” he said.
Valerie Rustad has been nominated for the RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards. She and her husband, Grant, have operated Mid Plains Diesel for the past 35 years. PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN
The awards program recognizes Canada’s most accomplished and impactful women entrepreneurs and non-profit leaders, whose businesses and organizations contribute meaningfully to the local, national and global economy. Valerie Rustad certainly fits that description.
She was equally surprised to discover the news had been posted on Facebook.
“I had my night of fame after it was posted on Facebook, and we went out to steak night later that evening and everyone knew about it,” she said with a chuckle.
The program received nominations from across the country, spotlighting women entrepreneurs whose work is shaping industries and driving measurable economic impact. Nominated by peers, colleagues and communities, these leaders have demonstrated exceptional business achievement while strengthening Canada’s triple bottom line. This year, the program continues its legacy of recognizing women entrepreneurs whose leadership delivers results, both commercially and socially.
The RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards are a national business awards program recognizing the country’s leading women entrepreneurs. The awards are an initiative of Women of Influence, a global organization dedicated to advancing women.
Congratulations, Valerie. This is a well-deserved honour, but not a surprise to your staff, customers and friends. Everyone is proud of you.
Valerie is now looking ahead to the 2026 Awards Gala, which will take place Friday, Nov. 13, at the Ritz-Carlton in Toronto.