Detailed Schedule
May 5th 2025 | 6:00PM - 9:00PM | Networking Night
May 6th 2025 | 8:00AM - 9:00AM | Breakfast
May 6th 2025 | 9:17AM - 9:50AM | Keynote
Host:
Kendra Kincade - Chair, Alberta AAC
Panel:
Al Meinzinger - President, Boeing Canada and Boeing Canada Operations Ltd.
May 6th 2025 9:50AM - 10:00AM | Break
May 6th 2025 |10:05AM-10:50AM
Future of Airports: Innovation & Leadership Perspectives
Explore the dynamic world of airport operations and developments in this engaging session. Get insights into how airports in Alberta and those from outside the province are adapting to new challenges and opportunities. Learn about cutting-edge technologies, infrastructure improvements, and operational strategies that are shaping the future of airport management. Hear from industry leaders about regional innovations and global trends that are enhancing efficiency, passenger experience, and sustainability at airports. Join us to see how diverse approaches are driving progress in the airport sector.
Host:
Doug Francouer - Board Member, Airport Committee Chair, Alberta AAAC
Panel:
Chris Dinsdale - President and CEO, Calgary Airport Authority
Nancy Paish - Chief Executive Officer, Red Deer Regional Airport
William (Bill) Wright - General Counsel, Compliance & Governance Officer, Edmonton Regional Airports Authority
May 6th 2025 |10:50AM-11:10AM | Short Networking Break
May 6th 2025 | 11:15AM-12:00PM
Navigating Complexity in Airline Operations
This session explores the complex reality behind modern airline operations - an industry built on high utilization of extraordinarily complex, expensive, and often unpredictable assets. With razor-thin margins, Canadian carriers face mounting challenges: access to new aircraft and skilled labor, supply chain disruptions, extreme weather, and growing expectations from travelers. Our speaker will unpack what it takes to keep passengers moving safely and reliably at scale, and share insights on how innovation, operational improvements, and workforce engagement can help airlines not only survive but thrive in a demanding environment.
Host:
Michael Stimac - Board Member, Air Operators Committee Chair, Alberta AAAC
Panel:
Gandeephan Ganeshalingam - Senior Vice President Technical Operations, WestJet
May 6th 2025 | 12:00PM - 12:45PM | Lunch
May 6th 2025 | 1:00PM - 1:50PM | Plaza 1
Wings of Opportunity: Uncommon and Exciting Aviation Careers
Explore the fascinating and lesser-known roles in aviation that go beyond traditional piloting and commercial flight. This session highlights unique aviation careers such as water bomber pilots who combat wildfires from the sky and those who operate in remote northern regions, navigating challenging environments and providing crucial services. Hear from industry experts and professionals who specialize in these distinctive roles about their experiences, the skills required, and the impact they make. Discover the diversity of opportunities within aviation and gain insights into these specialized and impactful careers.
Host:
Alanna Hnatiw - Mayor of Sturgeon County
Panel:
Jason Arthur - Vice President, Aviation, STARS
Jason Botting - Airports manager, Falcon Environmental Inc.
May 6th 2025 | 1:00PM - 1:50PM | Plaza 2
Insights from the Transportation Safety Board of Canada: Enhancing Safety and Standards
Join us for an engaging panel session featuring the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) as they share insights into advancing aviation safety through data, investigations, and systemic improvements.
This session will focus on proactive strategies, safety trends, and lessons learned across the industry. Explore how the TSB identifies risks, supports continuous improvement, and contributes to building a stronger safety culture across Canadian aviation.
Whether you're involved in operations, training, or oversight, this is a valuable opportunity to deepen your understanding of the role the TSB plays in shaping safety standards—and how your organization can stay aligned with best practices and evolving expectations.
Host:
Sophia Wells - Secretary, Alberta AAC
Panel:
Jonathan Lee - Regional Manager, Transportation Safety Board (TSB) of Canada
Jeremy Warkentin - Regional Senior Investigator, Transportation Safety Board of Canada
May 6th 2025 | 1:50PM - 2:00PM | Break
May 6th 2025 | 2:00PM - 2:50PM | Plaza 1
Recruitment & Training The Next Generation of Aviation
The Alberta AAC, in partnership with Alberta Aviation Futures Alliance, has paired together to advance aviation career training, combining classroom instruction with industry internships. This program addresses workforce gaps by equipping participants with in-demand skills, fostering career pathways, and strengthening Alberta’s aviation sector through collaboration with industry to meet critical labor market needs. Thiis panel will discuss opportunities to bring new talent into your business.
Host:
Nicole Holinaty - Vice Chair, Alberta AAC
Panel:
Shane Mckay - Regional Manager, Calgary Region , Careers Next Generation
Nova Andrews - Chief Strategy Officer, Elevate Aviation
May 6th 2025 | 2:00PM - 2:50PM | Plaza 2
Driving Innovation: How Manufacturers Can Propel Alberta’s Aviation & Aerospace Industry
Description: Explore how manufacturers are shaping the future of Alberta’s aviation and aerospace sector through cutting-edge innovation, collaboration, and advanced technologies. This session highlights opportunities for growth, industry challenges, and the critical role of manufacturing in driving progress.
Host:
Dr. Chioma Onyedikachi Okoro - Board Member, Manufacturing Committee Chair, Alberta AAAC
Panel:
Jeff Lister - President and Co-Founder, Fidelity Manufacturing Group
Amy Smith - Business Development Manager for Aerospace and Logistics, Calgary Economic Development
Dr. Robert Martinuzzi - Professor of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary
May 6th 2025 | 2:00PM - 2:50PM | Plaza 3
Integrating Indigenous Business Procurement Systems: Navigating Relationships, Nuances, and Opportunities
This session will provide an overview of Indigenous procurement processes and business models, highlighting key definitions, best practices, and common challenges. Participants will gain insights into strategies for capturing critical information that traditional supply chains often miss. The session will introduce practical tools to enhance the effectiveness of Indigenous procurement programs, applicable both locally and across Canada. Emphasizing relationship-building and collaboration, these tools will help strengthen connections with Indigenous businesses while establishing information repositories for use in current and future projects. Additionally, the session will support Indigenous-owned businesses in developing strategies to engage with potential suppliers, accelerating the evaluation process through targeted marketing approaches.
Panel:
Ken Letander - Founder of Strat First Inc.
May 6th 2025 | 2:50PM - 3:10PM | Coffee Break
May 6th 2025 | 3:10PM - 4:00PM | Plaza 1
Advancing Aviation Education: Innovative Facilities and Training Approaches
Discover how cutting-edge education facilities are shaping the future of aviation training in this insightful session. Explore the latest advancements in simulation technology, hands-on training environments, and curriculum development designed to prepare the next generation of aviation professionals. Hear from educators and industry leaders about new strategies for delivering effective, engaging education across all aviation disciplines, from piloting to aircraft maintenance. Learn how these innovations are enhancing skills development and ensuring a high standard of competence in the industry. Join us to see how modern educational facilities are setting the stage for future aviation excellence.
Host:
Elizabeth Evans - Board Member and Director, Alberta AAC
Panel:
Rachelle Bugeaud - Foresight Manager, Calgary Economic Development
Tony White - Business Development Lead F35, CAE
Regan Weeks - Chief Superintendent, Prairie Rose School DIvision
May 6th 2025 | 3:10PM - 4:00PM | Plaza 2
Soaring Together: Uniting Canada's Aviation & Aerospace Sectors for a Thriving Future
Join a dynamic panel of Canada's aviation and aerospace councils as they explore bold strategies to unite and elevate the industry. In this high-energy session, hear firsthand how collaboration across regions, particularly in Alberta, can unlock new opportunities, foster innovation, and propel Canada to the forefront of global aviation and aerospace. Discover what industry leaders are doing to build a more resilient, sustainable, and future-ready sector, and how Alberta’s growing aerospace ecosystem can play a pivotal role in shaping Canada’s aviation future. Get ready for insightful discussions, visionary ideas, and actionable strategies that can take Canada’s aviation and aerospace industry to new
Host:
Richard Gotfried - Senior Advisor, Alberta Council
Panel:
Kendra Kincade - Chair, Alberta AAC
Cathy Press - Chair BC Aviation Council & CEO Chinook Helicopters
Bernard Gervais - Executive Director, Northern Air Transport Association
Marie-Claude - Director of Grown, Aero Montreal
Mike Mueller - President & CEO, Aerospace Industries Association of Canada (AIAC
May 6th 2025 | 3:10PM - 4:00PM | Plaza 3
Securing the Skies: Cybersecurity Challenges and Innovations in Aviation & Defence by StreamScan and Protexxa
Welcome to “Securing the Skies: Cybersecurity Challenges and Innovations in Aviation & Defence.” In this session, our expert panel will explore the evolving cyber threats facing the aviation and defense sectors, the cutting-edge innovations designed to combat them, and how organizations can strengthen their security postures in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
Host:
Kevin Wong - Board Member and Director Governance, Alberta AAC
Panel:
Christopher Augoustis - Lead CMMC Registered Practitioner (RP), StreamScan
Deryck Greer - Chief Information and Security Officer, Protexxa
May 6th 2025 | 4:00PM - 6:00PM | Free Time/B2B
May 6th 2025 | 6:00PM - 11:00PM | Gala Night
Cocktail Hour, Jack and Molly Award, Dinner and Dueling Pianos
May 7th 2025 | 8:00AM - 9:00AM | Breakfast
May 7th 2025 | 9:15AM - 10:00AM | Keynote
Host:
Sophia Wells - Secretary, Alberta AAC
Panel:
Max Schramm - President & CEO, Lufthansa Technik Canada
May 7th 2025 | 9:50AM - 10:10AM | Break
May 7th 2025 | 10:10AM - 11:00AM | Plaza 1
Future of Air Traffic with NAV CANADA
Air traffic control is at the heart of aviation safety and efficiency, but the industry is evolving faster than ever. This session will explore the future of air traffic management, from emerging technologies like AI-assisted decision-making, automation, and digital towers to the integration of drones and advanced air mobility.
Join industry experts as we dive into the innovations shaping the next era of air traffic control, discuss the challenges and opportunities ahead, and highlight the fascinating career paths in this critical field. Whether you’re an aviation professional, a tech enthusiast, or simply curious about the future of our skies, this session will offer valuable insights into one of the most dynamic and high-tech aspects of aviation
Panel:
Scott William - Director Area Control Centre Operations West, NAV CANADA
May 7th 2025 | 10:10AM - 11:00AM | Plaza 2
Regulating by Exemption: Issues Surrounding the Canadian Helicopter Industry
A perspective of the influx of Transport Canada exemptions and legacy exemptions issued and the impacts they have on Canada’s helicopter industry.
Panel:
Trevor Mitchell - President and CEO, Helicopter Association of Canada
May 7th 2025 | 10:10AM - 11:00AM | Plaza 3
People-Centered Best Practices
Aviation and aerospace thrive on precision and expertise, but the driving force behind the industry is people. This panel will explore how people-centered workplaces create stronger teams, improve retention, and drive innovation. Join us for an engaging discussion with industry leaders as they share real-world success stories and practical strategies for fostering a culture where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to excel.
Host:
Nova Andrews - Chief Strategy Officer, Elevate Aviation
Panel:
Emily Reiman – Director, Industry Culture Development, Elevate Aviation
Fadi El Masry – Executive Director, Canadian Aviation Pride
Warren Holt – President, Urban Pilots and Professionals Network
Ilianna Thasitis – Executive Assistant & Mentorship Program Coordinator, Elevate Aviation
May 7th 2025 | 11:00AM - 11:10AM | Break
May 7th 2025 | 11:10AM - 12:00PM | Plaza 1
Navigating Sustainability in Aviation: Fuel, Technology, and Beyond
Explore the future of sustainability in aviation with a focus on key areas including fuel innovation, eco-friendly technologies, and sustainable practices. This session will cover advancements in alternative fuels, energy-efficient aircraft designs, and strategies for reducing carbon footprints. Learn about the latest trends in green aviation technologies and how industry leaders are driving the shift toward a more sustainable future. Join us to understand how these developments are shaping the aviation industry's path to environmental responsibility.
Host:
Connie Van der Byl - AVP Research and Scholarship, Mount Royal University.
Panel:
Geoff Travuette - Executive Director, Canadian Council for Sustainable Aviation Fuels
May 7th 2025 | 11:10AM - 12:00PM | Plaza 2
Elevating Black Voices in Aviation and Aerospace
Join us for an engaging panel that celebrates the contributions of Black professionals in aviation and aerospace. Our diverse group of leaders will share their journeys, highlighting both challenges and triumphs in a field that has long been underrepresented.
This session will explore the importance of mentorship, advocacy, and community support in fostering inclusivity and equity. Attendees will gain valuable insights into initiatives aimed at promoting diversity, along with actionable strategies to uplift the next generation of Black voices.
Be part of this inspiring dialogue that not only honors achievements but also fuels a commitment to a more inclusive future in these dynamic industries.
Host:
Dr. Chioma Onyedikachi Okoro - Board Member and Manufacturing Committee Chair, Alberta AAC
Panel:
Coneil Campbell - Training Captain, Air Liaison
Tonya Yearwood - Senior IT Project Manager, Air Canada
Dr. Chika Onwuekwe, KC, ICD.D - Vice President, Legal, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary Trican Well Service Ltd.
Jane Eruchalu, P.Eng - Executive Vice President, Production & Operations, Mojek Resources Inc.
May 7th 2025 | 11:10AM - 12:00PM | Plaza 3
Advancing Safety and Security in Aviation
Delve into the critical aspects of safety and security in aviation in this comprehensive session. Explore the latest advancements in safety protocols, risk management, and security technologies designed to protect both passengers and aircraft. Learn about innovative strategies for preventing incidents, enhancing threat detection, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Hear from experts on how to navigate emerging challenges and integrate best practices for a safer, more secure aviation environment. Join us to stay at the forefront of safety and security in the skies.
Host:
Brian Andrus - Board Member and Director of Operations, Alberta AAC
Panel:
Shannon Martens - Director of Service Delivery, Prairies Region – Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA)
May 7th 2025 | 12:00PM - 1:00PM | Lunch
May 7th 2025 | 1:00PM - 1:50PM | Plaza 1, 2 & 3
Drones, Counter Drones & Integrated Solutions: The Evolution and Innovation cycle in Defence & Security
Drone warfare is best understood as a call-and-response innovation cycle, with each side responding to the other’s innovation. Whether drone offense or defense dominates will vary based on advancements in technology, adoption of those technologies, as well as supporting doctrine, organizations, training availability, leadership, personnel, and available facilities. The panel will discuss these topics from both sides of the border, touch on international military training and operations, and we will also focus the lense on how the drone industry is responding from Alberta. We will conclude with an engaging Q&A session with the audience.
Host:
Denean Tomlin - Head of VP/ITB (Offsets), SkyAlyne Canada Inc
Panel:
Michael Jackson - Director of Channel Management Fortem Technologies
Spencer Fraiser - Founder & CEO, Landing Zones
Vincent Malley - Vice President Of Business Development UVA Dynamics Inc.
May 7th 2025 | 1:50PM - 2:10PM | Coffee Break
May 7th 2025 | 2:10PM - 3:00PM | Plaza 1, 2 & 3
AI: Humanity’s Greatest Tool or Existential Threat?
As AI becomes more powerful, it promises revolutionary advancements—but also raises urgent ethical and existential concerns. Is it humanity’s ultimate ally or our greatest risk? This session explores the profound implications of artificial intelligence in shaping our future.
Host:
Kendra Kincade - Chair, Alberta AAC
Panel:
Henry Leung - ​Schulich Industry Research Chair and Professor, University of Calgary
Ray Townsend - Head of Strategy and Growth Lockheed Martin
Tony White - Business Development Lead F35, CAE
May 7th 2025 | 3:00PM - 3:30PM | Closing Ceremonies
May 7th 2025 | 3:30PM - 4:00PM | AME Awards
May 7th 2025 | 4:00PM - 5:00PM | B2B/Networking