As an Advisor for AGI, Bernie Elkins focuses on integrating Indigenous perspectives with Western science to tackle complex issues for communities. Bernie has a diverse background in Indigenous governance, environmental assessment, and health administration, is committed to human capital and sustainable development, and created Aboriginal rights including land title to the Supreme Court of Canada. Starting as an Instructor and Wildfire Crew Leader for Wilderness Fire and Management Inc. and the Ministry of Forests, Bernie certified the original 20-person Indigenous wildfire crews and managed land use conflicts as a Liaison for a decade.

Transitioning to Treaty Negotiator roles for the Cariboo Tribal Council and T’exelc, Bernie facilitated negotiations with elected Chiefs and Councils, analyzing complex land claim settlements to advocate for Indigenous rights. He also led the Tsilhqot’in National Government as Chair/Vice Board of Directors, overseeing legal consultations and retainers, federal environmental assessment, and strategic recruitment of consultants.

As Director of the First Nation Health Council, Bernie co-founded a provincial Aboriginal Health Authority, managing substantial budgets and enhancing health funding and policies collaboratively. For eight years, Bernie served as Tsilhqot’in Chief of ?Esdilagh, leading groundbreaking initiatives including on-reserve land designation and Canada's first Indigenous-led environmental impact study of an operating mine. Later, as Stewardship Director for the Nuxalk Nation under the Coastal First Nations, Bernie strengthened Indigenous fisheries jurisdiction, advanced carbon accreditation, implemented Coastal Guardian Watchmen initiatives, and bridged elected and hereditary leadership.