Assistant Deputy Minister

Prairies Economic Development Canada, Alberta Region

Michele Evans provides leadership to PrairiesCan, the federal government’s regional economic development agency in Alberta. Michele has been a public servant for nearly 20 years, holding senior leadership positions with the

Government of Alberta in sectors like immigration, workforce, tourism, economic development and health.

Before entering public service, Michele worked in the private sector in the pharmaceutical industry.

Michele holds a Masters of Health Science from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from the University of Saskatchewan.

Callie Lissinna co-founded Wyvern, the first company to sell hyperspectral imagery from space. She graduated from the Y Combinator startup accelerator with her co-founders in 2022 and from Creative Destruction Lab (Toronto, space stream) in 2019. She has held various roles in business operations, leadership, engineering, and sales, and has helped the company raise over $24MM in funding to date. Previously she managed the AlbertaSat student satellite program at the University of Alberta. This included leading in-orbit operations of Ex-Alta 1—the first satellite ever made in Alberta—for the last 12 of its 18 months in orbit. Callie holds a BSc. Mechanical Engineering with a mathematics minor from the University of Alberta. In the evenings she teaches dance classes to kids and teens.  

Lieutenant-Colonel Riel Erickson is Canada’s fifth female fighter pilot and a senior officer in the Royal Canadian Air Force. She holds a degree in Chemical and Materials Engineering from the Royal Military College of Canada and earned Top Gun honours during fighter training. Her career includes CF-18 operations, multinational exercises, pilot instruction, and command of 2 Canadian Forces Flying Training School. She currently serves as Liaison Officer to Global Affairs Canada, advancing the Women, Peace and Security agenda and supporting international initiatives that strengthen diversity, leadership, and operational effectiveness in defence.

Dr. Meghan Donohoe is rethinking leadership for a world that has outgrown traditional playbooks. She is the co-founder of Pebble and a leadership practitioner and researcher with nearly two decades of experience across industries. With a PhD in Industrial-Organizational Psychology focused on leader stress and well-being, she helps leaders perform, support teams, and navigate complexity simultaneously. Meghan partners with organizations in transition to challenge outdated norms and build sustainable practices. She brings a practical lens to competing demands, strengthening shared leadership and fostering healthier, more intentional ways of working for future generations.

Justin Wright serves as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Cypress-Medicine Hat in Alberta.
With over 20 years of experience in entrepreneurship, business management, and public service, he has established himself as a multifaceted leader.
As the founder of Fryer Tuck's Food Truck Inc., Wright successfully scaled the business to eight locations in just 18 months. After his election as MLA for Cypress Medicine Hat in spring of 2023 he handed the running to his business partners. He was recently appointed Parliamentary Secretary of Rural Health-South, Chief Caucus Whip and also serves as the Alberta Government Military Liaison. Wright is actively involved in his constituency, supporting healthcare funding, education, and flood/drought protection projects, and has demonstrated a strong commitment to community mentorship through board service and coaching youth hockey.

Michele Evans is Assistant Deputy Minister for Prairies Economic Development Canada in Alberta, where she leads regional economic growth initiatives and federal investment strategies. With nearly 20 years in public service, she has held senior roles across the Government of Alberta in immigration, workforce development, tourism, and health. Michele brings a strong understanding of cross-sector collaboration and economic policy. Prior to her public service career, she worked in the pharmaceutical industry. She holds a Master of Health Science from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy

Félix Meunier is Director General of Civil Aviation at Transport Canada, a role he assumed in 2022. He leads the national civil aviation program, overseeing policy, regulation, and standards governing all aspects of Canada’s aviation system, including aircraft certification, licensing, operations, and infrastructure. Since joining Transport Canada in 2006, Félix has held senior roles across strategic, innovation, and international air policy, and led the RPAS Taskforce. He holds degrees in aeronautical engineering, public administration, and economics from McGill University, ENAP, and the Université de Strasbourg, and a diploma from France’s École nationale d’administration.

Alberta AAD Chair | Air Traffic Controller | Director, Writer, Producer, Only Up | Founder, Elevate Aviation

With 26 years as an air traffic controller, Kendra founded Elevate Aviation, creating national programs that empower women and underrepresented groups, and produced Only Up, a documentary sharing resilience and hope. As Chair of the Alberta AAD she champions investment, collaboration, and workforce development across the sector. Recognized nationally and internationally with awards including the King Charles III Coronation Medal and the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, she leads with a commitment to building opportunity for the next generation.

Malcolm Bruce is the former Chief Executive Officer of Edmonton Global, During his tenure, Malcolm worked to strengthen the Edmonton Metropolitan Region’s global competitiveness by attracting investment, championing regional collaboration, and bringing together the collective strengths of 14 municipal partners. He recently retired from this role after guiding the organization through its foundational years and establishing a long-term growth vision. A proud Canadian and deeply committed to the future of Alberta, he consistently works toward what will strengthen communities, advance economic resilience, and position the region, and the country, for long-term prosperity.

President and Chief Executive Officer, Edmonton Airports

Myron’s 30 years of experience working in the private and public sectors in North and South America, Asia, and Europe help him to see and implement new and effective approaches to airport developments and operations. 

In Myron’s 17 years at Edmonton Airports, he has driven the development of YEG's Airport City Sustainability Campus - an ecosystem of companies driving innovation in e-commerce, cargo/logistics, advanced manufacturing, and pharma. His vision and tenacity have attracted over $1.2B USD of private investment to YEG. Myron’s mission is to recast the roles that airports play, evolving beyond utilities into economic engines for cities, regions and countries. 

Prior to YEG, Myron built a career focusing on how to drive economic potential of private and government-owned assets to maximize returns for countries by driving national investment and commercial plans. 

Myron is an active Director on governing boards across a range of sectors including real estate, healthcare, private industry, and philanthropy.

Lieutenant-Colonel Tristan McKee was born in Whitby, Ontario, and graduated from the Royal Military College of Canada in Kingston in 2003 with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering (Software). He completed the Canadian Forces pilot training program, flying the Slingsby Firefly, CT-156 Harvard II, and CT-155 Hawk. He earned his pilot wings in 2004.

In 2005, he was posted to Cold Lake, Alberta, where he completed Fighter Lead-in Training at 419 Squadron and subsequently the CF-18 Operational Training Unit at 410 Squadron. Upon graduating from the Fighter Pilot Course, he was posted to 425 Squadron in Bagotville, Quebec, where he served for three years and achieved Section Lead qualification.

In 2010, LCol McKee returned to 419 Squadron in Cold Lake as an Instructor Pilot on the CT-155 Hawk for the Fighter Lead-in Training program, earning an A Category Canadian Forces instructional rating. In 2013, he was posted to 410 Squadron as an Instructor Pilot on the CF-18 Hornet at the Operational Training Unit.

Promoted to Major in 2014, he joined 409 Squadron as Training Officer. In 2015, he was posted to 401 Squadron as part of the initial cadre establishing the newly formed unit, serving as Operations Officer for two years.

In 2017, LCol McKee was posted to NORAD Headquarters in Colorado Springs as an Aerospace Defense Planner, contributing to NORAD’s CONPLAN 3310-21 for the air defense of North America. In 2021, he joined the Commander’s Action Group, working directly for General VanHerck, Commander of NORAD and USNORTHCOM, as a strategic engagement lead.

After completing the Joint Command and Staff Program (Course 49) in Toronto in 2023, he earned a Master of Defence Studies degree and returned to Cold Lake as Commanding Officer of 4 Operational Support Squadron. He has since assumed his current role as Commanding Officer of 401 Squadron.

LCol McKee deployed twice to Operation IMPACT in Iraq, in 2014 and 2015. During his first rotation, he served as Fighter Detachment Flight Safety Officer, and during his second, as Fighter Detachment Operations Officer. He accumulated over 200 combat flight hours over Iraq and Syria.

Luc Sabourin is Vice President, Canadian Operations and General Manager at Arcfield Canada, where he leads strategic growth and business development. A former Royal Canadian Air Force officer, he served as Commanding Officer of 1 Air Maintenance Squadron in Cold Lake and later as Director of Maintenance at 1 Canadian Air Division in Winnipeg, overseeing aircraft maintenance operations. After concluding his military career as Commander of the Canadian Armed Forces Recruiting Group, he joined Top Aces in 2020, followed by L3Harris MAS in 2023, supporting CF-18 operations across Canada. He holds a Mechanical Engineering degree from the Royal Military College of Canada and a Master’s in Aerospace Vehicle Design from Cranfield University.

Philippe leads government and defence engagements at De Havilland Canada, advancing specialized aircraft solutions such as the Twin Otter Guardian and special mission Dash 8s, while exploring future defence production opportunities. With 30 years in the Canadian aerospace industry, he brings deep expertise in turboprop aircraft, supporting both commercial and defence programs. He has held senior roles at De Havilland Canada, including Vice President of Sales and Marketing and Asset Management, and previously served as Vice President of Marketing, Commercial Aircraft at Bombardier. Philippe holds engineering degrees from Queen’s University and the University of Washington.

John Edelman is a former Royal Canadian Air Force aerospace engineer with 32 years of tactical, operational, and strategic experience, including deployment to Afghanistan. He has specialized in unmanned systems since 2008, supporting platforms such as the CU-161 Sperwer and CU-170 Heron. Following his military career, John joined CAE, where he has led international training system programs across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. He currently leads CAE’s partnership with General Atomics on Team SkyGuardian, supporting Canada’s remotely piloted aircraft system competition and advancing next-generation defence capabilities.

Andrew Knack is a three-term Edmonton City Councillor representing the west end in Wards 1 and Nakota Isga. A University of Alberta commerce graduate, he previously managed a retail business and served on local community league boards. First elected in 2013, Andrew is known for his collaborative, community-focused leadership and commitment to public service. He has led key initiatives in public engagement, transportation innovation, and accessibility, and championed projects including the Lewis Farms Recreation Centre and Library. Andrew brings an open, optimistic approach while advocating for practical solutions that support residents and strengthen communities.

Chelsey Quirk is a Métis leader dedicated to advancing Indigenous inclusion, equity, and economic reconciliation across sectors. After beginning her career with the Government of Canada, she joined Edmonton Airports in 2015, where she builds collaborative partnerships that drive regional connectivity and growth. She led the development of the award-winning Indigenous Interpretive and Retail Centre at YEG, highlighting Indigenous culture and business. Chelsey serves on the Boards of Elevate Aviation and Aksis, and was recognized as one of Edify Edmonton’s Top 40 Under 40 for her leadership and impact in creating meaningful, lasting change.

Carmelita Crisp is Senior Manager of Indigenous Partnerships & Engagement at NAIT, where she has spent over 20 years leading community-defined training, applied research, and partnership initiatives with more than 70 Indigenous communities across Western and Northern Canada. Her work focuses on co-developing culturally grounded education and research projects that support workforce development, environmental stewardship, and community capacity building. Carmelita has managed over 365 initiatives across health sciences, trades, environmental monitoring, and housing innovation. She also leads Indigenous engagement for national projects and advances ethical research, Indigenous data sovereignty, and respectful, community-driven collaboration.

Cliffton Cross, Councillor for Frog Lake First Nations, was born, raised, and continues to live in his home community. He holds a wide portfolio including education, youth, energy, finance, housing, and economic development. His work focuses on capacity development, research, financial planning, and integrated, Indigenous-led strategic planning using a two-eyed seeing approach. He has helped establish partnerships with industry, academic institutions, and communities to advance major initiatives, including the LEAP Strategic Master Plan. This work supports large-scale projects in energy, sustainability, food and water sovereignty, and long-term community resilience and economic growth.

With over three decades of cross-sector leadership, Ryan Fox has built an exceptional career spanning aerospace and defence, public transportation, enterprise technology, and natural resources. Beginning in Edmonton in the 1990s, he developed deep expertise in complex, regulated industries before taking on national and international roles across Canada, the U.S., and Europe.

Ryan has led large-scale enterprise transformations, critical infrastructure projects, and operational teams across multiple sectors. Returning to Alberta, he refocused on oil and gas and forestry, bringing a breadth of experience few leaders can match.

A defining pillar of Ryan's career is his commitment to Indigenous economic reconciliation—successfully establishing joint ventures and partnerships across oil and gas, forestry, and defence that create sustainable, long-term opportunity.

Ryan is recognized for bridging industries, leading complex organizations, and delivering both economic and social impact.

Dr. Robert Martinuzzi is a Professor of Fluid Mechanics and Pratt & Whitney Canada Research Fellow, specializing in turbulent and separated flow physics. His research focuses on reduced-order modeling, machine learning for flow control, and advanced experimental techniques including optical velocimetry. His work spans bluff-body aerodynamics, fluid-structure interactions, and transport phenomena. Applied research includes unsteady load prediction, vortex-induced vibrations, high-speed compressor aerodynamics, and erosion in river systems. Dr. Martinuzzi’s contributions support advancements in aerospace performance, structural resilience, and energy systems through innovative modeling and experimental approaches.

Chris Pavle has 32 years of experience in aircraft fleet support engineering, design, and certification. He is a graduate of SAIT’s Aeronautical Engineering Technology program with diplomas in Mechanical Engineering and Advanced Aeronautical Engineering. Ten years was spent supporting DND fleets at Spar/CAE followed by 22 years of engineering and certification at Amtech Aeronautical where he currently holds the position of Vice President, Aeronautical Division. He is a Transport Canada Delegate with delegation in structures, mechanical systems, interiors, and powerplants.

Dennis has 50 years of experience in Aviation, 37 of which were in Transport Canada. In his current role as an Aircraft Certification Consultant, Dennis offers services in aircraft certification education, design approval assistance and aircraft imports. In 2024 and 2025, Dennis coordinated an industry version of the official Transport Canada Aircraft Certification Course. As an active Transport Canada delegate, Dennis supports companies in obtaining STCs and other design approvals, and has assisted in the import of aircraft where foreign design approvals require Transport Canada acceptance. In semi-retirement, his goal is to encourage the development of younger people in the aviation industry.

Jeff Litster is the President and Co-Founder of Fidelity Manufacturing Group headquartered in Calgary Alberta, specializing in unique and complex manufacturing challenges for numerous sectors including automotive, medical and aerospace and defence.  For over 34 years, Jeff has played a very active role within Canada’s manufacturing eco-system and is actively involved with all levels of Government, Academia as well as private business and more recently has shifted his focus more towards business development specifically within the A&D sector.   In 2012 Jeff was recognized in Calgary’s top 40 under 40 and in 2019 as an EY Entrepreneur of the year finalist. 

Dan Juhlin is a leader in Canada’s remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) sector, with over a decade of experience in operations, policy, and training. He has held roles in government and industry, including regulatory leadership at AERIUM Analytics and program development for the Government of Alberta. Dan specializes in RPAS integration, GIS, and remote sensing technologies. He currently chairs national and provincial RPAS committees, contributing to policy development and industry advancement. His work supports safe, effective adoption of drone technologies across multiple sectors.

Chris Lohmann leads innovation and market development for aerospace energy systems and sustainability in Canada for Boeing. His career spans over 20 years across energy, defence, and emerging technologies, including roles with the U.S. Department of Energy and Energi Insurance. Chris has worked on renewable energy, synthetic fuels, and energy infrastructure solutions supporting aviation sustainability. A former U.S. Marine Corps aviation officer, he brings operational and technical expertise to advancing energy transition strategies in aerospace. He holds an MBA from the University of Southern California and a degree from Yale University.

Dr. David Bressler is Vice-President (International, Innovation and Enterprise) at the University of Alberta, where he leads global partnerships, innovation strategy, and technology commercialization. A professor of bioengineering, his research focuses on converting biomass into high-value materials and chemicals through applied industrial processes. His work is supported by partnerships with leading agricultural, chemical, and forestry organizations. Dr. Bressler plays a key role in advancing innovation ecosystems, connecting research with industry applications, and supporting economic development through technology transfer and international collaboration.

Dr. Logan Jones is National Sustainability Officer at Airbus Canada, leading environmental strategy and decarbonization initiatives across the aerospace sector. With over 17 years of experience, his work spans flight operations, fuel efficiency, certification, and ESG strategy. An engineer by training, he holds degrees from the University of Alberta and ISAE-Supaero. Logan also contributes to industry advancement through advisory roles and professional organizations focused on sustainable aviation. His work supports the transition to more efficient, environmentally responsible aerospace systems while balancing regulatory, operational, and technological priorities.

Marie-Pier Berman is Vice President and Chief of Operations at NAV CANADA, where she leads the national delivery of air traffic services. She oversees operational strategy, safety, and performance across flight operations, standards, and aeronautical information management. Beginning her career as an air traffic controller, she has held progressive leadership roles over two decades. Marie-Pier is a strong advocate for mentorship and diversity in aviation and serves on the Elevate Aviation Board. She is also recognized as an ICAO Global Ambassador, supporting international aviation leadership and collaboration.

Manager, Aerospace & Defence Initiatives, Alberta Region
Prairies Economic Development Canada

Elliot has worked in a variety of sectors including tourism, retail sales, social work and even started his own company prior to joining the Government of Canada in 2000. Elliot began his public service career with Service Canada and later Agriculture Canada’s Rural and Co-operatives promoting the federal government’s role in economic development in rural communities across the prairies. He joined Western Economic Diversification(now PrairiesCan) in 2013 and has been supporting defence procurement activities for the department since 2015, now managing the Regional Defence Investment Initiative funding for Alberta.

Elliot loves travelling, riding motorcycles, BBQs, outdoor firepits, hiking and holds a black belt in karate which he teaches on a regular basis.

Tracey Scarlett is an innovation leader and entrepreneur with extensive experience building and scaling technology ventures. She has developed programs and ecosystems that support startup growth, venture financing, and commercialization. Tracey has served on numerous boards focused on innovation, economic development, and entrepreneurship, bringing strong governance and operational expertise. Her work focuses on enabling entrepreneurs to access capital, scale effectively, and navigate complex innovation environments, contributing to the growth of competitive and sustainable business ecosystems.

Dr. Paolo Bomben is the Program Director for Aerospace, Defence & Advanced Materials at Alberta Innovates.
 He leads Alberta Innovates’ Aerospace and Defence programming.  
He also leads the Bitumen Advanced Materials program which seeks to use existing value chains and/or develop new value chains to increase the output of non-combustion products derived from Alberta oil sands bitumen.  He is the program manager for the Carbon Fibre Grand Challenge.  Before joining Alberta Innovates Paolo spent time in sustainability consulting, and in hydrogen technology and solar cell development as a research scientist.  Paolo has an undergraduate degree in Chemistry with a minor in Mathematics from the University of Windsor.  He holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Calgary.   

Brent Jensen is Senior Director of Business Development at Edmonton Global, leading investment attraction across advanced manufacturing, defence, and energy transition sectors. He manages international investment pipelines, supports major projects, and aligns strategy with regional economic priorities. Brent is also a founding member of the Edmonton Region Defence Alliance, helping position the region as a strategic hub for aerospace and defence innovation. He works closely with government and industry partners to attract capital, support market entry, and drive long-term competitiveness.

Thomas Kargacin is Senior Advisor for Manufacturing, Aerospace, and Defence Investment at Invest Alberta, where he supports high-impact investment attraction to the province. Since joining, he has helped secure over $250 million in investment, contributing to job creation and economic growth. Thomas works closely with global investors and industry partners to position Alberta as a leading destination for advanced manufacturing and aerospace development. He is passionate about economic development and building strong partnerships that enhance Alberta’s competitiveness on the global stage.

David Nedohin is Co-Founder of Scope AR and Head of Business Development, bringing over 20 years of experience driving growth and customer engagement. He focuses on aerospace, defence, and government sectors, working with organizations such as Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and Northrop Grumman to implement augmented reality solutions that enhance training, maintenance, and operational performance. David is a recognized thought leader in applied AR technologies. Based in Edmonton, he is also a three-time world curling champion and a recipient of the Canadian Order of Sport.

Ira Laughy is Founder and President of Rapid3D and a 30-year veteran of the 3D technology industry. He co-founded Mecca Media Group in 1995 and has since been a leader in applying 3D scanning, modeling, and metrology technologies across multiple industries. In 2009, he founded Rapid3D to advance high-precision 3D scanning in Canadian manufacturing, inspection, and design. A NAIT Engineering Design and Drafting alumnus, Ira has built Rapid3D into a leading technical resource for metrology-grade scanning solutions across Western Canada.

Max Schramm is President and CEO of Lufthansa Technik Canada, bringing over 15 years of aerospace leadership experience in strategy, operations, and commercial growth within the MRO sector. He has led the development of Lufthansa Technik’s Canadian operations, securing over CAD 243M in investment and building a high-growth organization across multiple locations. Max has held senior roles in sales and component services at Lufthansa Technik AG, driving global commercial strategies. He holds an MBA in International Project Management and a degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, and is fluent in German, English, and French.

Monette Pasher is President of the Canadian Airports Council, representing more than 100 airports across the country. She brings over 20 years of leadership experience in aviation policy, government relations, and strategic planning. Monette works closely with airports, airlines, and government partners to enhance the passenger experience and support national connectivity and economic growth. She played a key leadership role guiding Canada’s airport sector through the pandemic and beyond. Recognized as one of Atlantic Canada’s Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Business, she is also a strong advocate for environmental sustainability.

Myron Keehn is President and CEO of Edmonton International Airport (YEG), bringing over 30 years of global experience across the private and public sectors. During his 17 years at Edmonton Airports, he has led the development of YEG’s Airport City Sustainability Campus, attracting over $1.2B USD in private investment and positioning the airport as a hub for innovation in logistics, manufacturing, and pharma. Previously, he focused on maximizing the economic potential of public and private assets worldwide. He also serves on multiple boards across real estate, healthcare, industry, and philanthropy.

Rob Bachart is a senior real estate professional with over 25 years of leadership experience across commercial development and airport infrastructure. He currently serves with Calgary Airports, following his role as Director of Real Estate and Development at Winnipeg Airports Authority. Rob has led major land use planning and development initiatives, supporting airport growth and long-term strategy. His private sector experience includes delivering large-scale industrial, office, and retail developments. He is actively engaged in community leadership and brings a strong focus on strategic planning, stakeholder collaboration, and sustainable development across the aviation ecosystem.

The Honourable Joseph Schow is Alberta’s Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration and serves as Government House Leader. First elected in 2019, he has held senior cabinet roles including Minister of Tourism and Sport. He brings a strong focus on economic growth, trade, and workforce development. Minister Schow holds a Bachelor of Arts in Russian from Dalhousie University and a master’s degree from George Washington University. He is committed to strengthening Alberta’s economy and supporting opportunities for businesses, workers, and communities across the province.

Dr. Junaid OOsman is the CEO and Co-Founder of Waste Parrot Technologies, a NASA-recognized startup rethinking what it means to build for the future —not just efficiently, but responsibly. His work explores how autonomous recycling, AI vision, robotics, and additive manufacturing can transform waste from a problem into a resource, whether on an industrial site in Alberta or on the surface of the Moon.

Validated through NASA's LunaRecycle Challenge 2025–26 and recognized as a Galactic Local Collaborator by the 2025 NASA International Space Apps Challenge, Dr. Junaid's vision goes beyond automation. He believes the next era of intelligent systems must be purposeful — designed to support people, regenerate environments, and operate where infrastructure doesn't exist. With active partnerships spanning AMII and NVIDIA, and deep expertise in computer vision, real-time analytics, and drone-based emissions monitoring, he sits at the intersection of mission-critical engineering and human-centered innovation. From Edmonton's industrial corridors to deep-space missions, Dr. Junaid is building technology that doesn't just function, it stands for the purpose behind it.

Jeff LaFrenz is the Co-Founder and President of VizworX, a company specializing in advanced decision support, operations, and education software solutions. With over 30 years of experience in technology commercialization, Jeff is a serial entrepreneur, international speaker, and recognized technology leader.
 

He brings a multi-disciplinary, multi-industry perspective, with deep expertise in management, marketing, and technical domains. A dedicated community advocate, Jeff actively volunteers his time as a member of various industry and academic boards and committees.

Julian Mulia is Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer of NanoTess, where he leads innovation at the intersection of chemical engineering and nanomedicine. He has received multiple awards, including recognition as a top startup entrepreneur and Innovator of the Year. His work focuses on developing advanced biomaterials that promote tissue regeneration and translate complex scientific breakthroughs into practical medical solutions. Julian has successfully led multi-million-dollar funding initiatives across government, military, and private sectors, advancing scalable healthcare technologies and bridging the gap between laboratory research and real-world clinical application.

JR Hammond is Founder and Executive Director of the Canadian Advanced Air Mobility (CAAM), Canada’s national industry association dedicated to advancing the AAM ecosystem. Co-founded with the National Research Council of Canada, CAAM works to unify stakeholders across industry, government, and academia to accelerate the adoption of next-generation air mobility solutions. JR is focused on building a coordinated national strategy that supports innovation, regulation, and commercialization of emerging aviation technologies, positioning Canada as a global leader in advanced air mobility.

Bob Bezpalko is Executive Director of Alberta HUB, a regional economic development alliance supporting northeast Alberta. He works closely with municipalities, Indigenous communities, post-secondary institutions, and industry partners to advance investment across sectors including agriculture, energy, manufacturing, aerospace, and UAVs. Bob has extensive experience enabling regional growth through strategic collaboration and project development. His work focuses on strengthening economic resilience, attracting investment, and supporting sustainable development that enhances quality of life and long-term prosperity for communities across the Alberta HUB region.

Katherine Ayre is a municipal and aviation lawyer with over 30 years of industry experience and a pioneer in integrating aviation and municipal law. She is the founder of CAYRES Inc., advising on advanced air mobility, regulatory risk, and community airspace integration. Katherine also serves as Chief of Staff, Legal and Compliance at Great North Airlines. A licensed commercial pilot and glider pilot, she is a recognized expert in aviation governance, drone integration, and emerging airspace systems. She frequently speaks and writes on the future of aviation law and advanced air mobility.

Phil “Royal” Kelly is a former Royal Marines Commando and experienced military aviator who flew the Sea Harrier, Harrier II, and F/A-18. He later served as Head of Carrier Strike and Maritime Aviation, leading the integration of advanced aircraft including the F-35B into service. With a background in aeronautical engineering, Phil has led innovation in autonomous systems and next-generation aviation technologies. His career spans operational flying, strategic leadership, and advanced aircraft development, with a focus on future aviation capabilities and complex defence systems.

Heather Stewart is the CEO of BBE, where she provides executive leadership to a Canadian logistics company specializing in remote, Arctic, and complex supply chain solutions. With deep northern roots, she brings a practical understanding of the operational requirements needed to support regulated and mission-critical supply chains in challenging environments. 

Since joining BBE, Heather has overseen the company’s growth from its foundations in Northern Canada into a nationally integrated logistics provider with international reach. BBE’s services include freight forwarding, Canadian customs brokerage, Arctic and remote logistics, last-mile delivery, product distribution, and global trade support. 

Heather’s leadership emphasizes the integration of technology with people and process to enable reliable, adaptable supply chains. She works closely with multidisciplinary teams to address complex logistics challenges where coordination, compliance, and execution are essential. 

Heather holds an Executive MBA from Queen’s University and serves on the board of Edmonton Global. 

Director of Global Distribution at De Havilland Aircraft of Canada

Syed holds a M.S. degree in Manufacturing Systems Engineering & Management & a B.E. degree in Electronics Engineering.  He currently serves as Director of Global Distribution at De Havilland Aircraft of Canada and remains actively involved with ASCM Western Canada Chapter as a Board Member, Director of Education for the Mentorship Program, and a Recognized Instructor, reflecting his passion for teaching and coaching. He has 18+ years of Supply Chain experience across multiple geographies in South Asia, the Middle East, and North America. He has worked in diverse industries namely Manufacturing, Chemicals, Telecommunication, Courier Operations, E-Commerce, Retail, Oil & Gas, and Aviation. He has worked in multiple fields of Supply Chain Management including Supply & Demand Planning, Forecasting, Inventory Management, Procurement, Warehousing, Logistics & Distribution. 

He started his coaching career by teaching Additional Mathematics for O levels at a Cambridge School and by giving Engineering Management lectures at an Engineering University in Karachi. Later, he also instructed Supply Chain courses at 3 different institutes in Dubai. Apart from having APICS CSCP and CLTD Certifications, he also has certifications in PMP®, ISO 9001:2015, USMCA (The Modernized NAFTA), Lean101, DG Regulations, Waterfall Project Management, Intercultural Competency and Management Fundamentals. He also holds an Engineer in Training designation from Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientist of Alberta.   

Mayor Alanna Hnatiw is the Mayor of Sturgeon County, home to Villeneuve Airport and a growing aviation and aerospace corridor just north of Edmonton. A former small business owner in the energy sector, she has been a strong advocate for leveraging Villeneuve Airport, Alberta’s Industrial Heartland, and emerging hydrogen and advanced manufacturing projects to attract aerospace, defence, and related supply‑chain investment to the region. She currently serves as Vice Chair of Alberta’s Industrial Heartland Association, where she works with municipal and industry partners to advance infrastructure, innovation, and workforce opportunities that support Alberta’s aviation, aerospace, and defence ecosystem.

National Security Council of Ukraine

Co-Founder and CEO of Wyvern, a Canadian satellite company operating a commercial hyperspectral constellation. Under his leadership, Wyvern has moved hyperspectral imaging from research into real-world deployment, delivering material-level Earth intelligence to commercial, environmental, and security customers worldwide. Chris focuses on building capital-efficient space infrastructure and unlocking new applications in agriculture, climate monitoring, and maritime domain awareness.

Callie Lissinna is Co-Founder of Wyvern, a company pioneering hyperspectral imaging from space. She has played a key role in scaling the company, securing over $24 million in funding, and advancing commercial space capabilities. A graduate of Y Combinator and Creative Destruction Lab, Callie brings experience across engineering, operations, and leadership. She previously managed the AlbertaSat program, leading in-orbit operations of Alberta’s first satellite. Callie holds a Mechanical Engineering degree from the University of Alberta and is passionate about innovation, entrepreneurship, and advancing Canada’s role in the global space economy.

Chris Pogue is a senior executive with over 20 years of leadership in defence and space innovation. He most recently served as President and CEO of Thales Canada, where he expanded capabilities across naval, land, and digital systems. Previously, he led defence space initiatives at MDA and held leadership roles with General Dynamics and CAE. A retired Royal Canadian Air Force officer with over 3,500 flight hours, Chris is a strong advocate for building innovation ecosystems and connecting Canadian companies to national defence and space priorities.

Dr. Emma Spanswick is an award-winning space physicist, Associate Professor and Tier II Canada Research Chair at the University of Calgary, where she directs the Space Remote Sensing Lab and co-leads Space and Defence Technologies Alberta. Her research drives the innovation and development of next-generation dual-use sensing capabilities for the Arctic space environment, operating a network of over 120 sensors across northern Canada engaging partners across NASA, ESA, the Canadian Space Agency, and DRDC. The instrumentation, foundational knowledge and inversion methods her program develops serve a dual purpose: advancing space environment characterization while enabling the detection and attribution of natural and man-made threats in the HF domain — contributing to multi-domain awareness and resilience across the Arctic.

Colonel Alfred Maynard is the Deputy Commander, 3rd Canadian Space Division in Ottawa, Canada, and serves as the Canadian Armed Forces Deputy Joint Forces Space Component Commander. His division delivers space warfighting expertise across conflicts, employing advanced capabilities to secure strategic advantage in space. He joined the Air Force in 2004, later transferring to the Space Force in 2020. His career spans global operations, command, and staff roles, including deployment to Qatar supporting major missions abroad, and leadership at Space Delta 13. He lives with his wife and two sons.