About

About the Conference

The Best Defence Conference is a leading Canadian defence and security event that offers attendees outstanding opportunities to build strategic partnerships, enhance supply chains, and gain insights into Canadian procurement programs. 

Best Defence offers a range of networking opportunities that connect participating companies with key contractors, Canadian Armed Forces representatives, and procurement specialists in the Canadian defence and security sector.  

The conference features presentations and panel discussions on key industry challenges and opportunities, along with company exhibitions. Averaging around 400 participants from across Canada, many attendees report they gained new business opportunities from participating in the conference. 

The Technology Showcase is a key feature of the conference, highlighting innovative and emerging technologies. In a “five minutes of fame” format, participating companies can promote their technologies from the stage to the audience. 

Best Defence serves as a valuable entry point for international companies looking to enter the Canadian defence and security market. The event’s smaller scale allows these firms to efficiently connect with key influencers and industry decision-makers, facilitating market research and the identification of potential strategic partners. 

For more information, contact:  

Heather Pilot, Founder

+1 519-851-9848    [email protected] 

2024 Attending Companies

About the Founder

Heather Pilot
Pilot Hill Logo

Heather Pilot is President of Pilot Hill Ltd., which annually produces The Best Defence Conference in London, Ontario.  http://bestdefenceconference.com
Heather brings a wealth of experience in business development and stakeholder relations that truly highlights her exceptional leadership abilities. Her impressive journey includes roles such as:

  • Director of Business Development at the London Economic Development Corporation in London, Canada
  • Director for Canada at New York State’s Empire State Development, where she thoughtfully managed trade and investment initiatives for the Toronto and Montreal offices
  • Director at the North Carolina Department of Commerce in Toronto, focusing on Canadian business affairs
  • International Marketing Consultant with the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development and Trade
  • President of the Defence Association of Ontario (formerly the Southern Ontario Defence Association)
  • Business Development Consultant to Western University’s Fraunhofer Project Centre for Composites Research 

In 2018, Esprit de Corps magazine selected her as one of Canada’s Top 20 Women in the Canadian Defence World. She was recognized for her efforts in raising awareness of the strong defence and advanced manufacturing cluster in Southern Ontario. Additionally, she received the London Convention Centre’s Ambassador Award in the same year and serves on McMaster University’s Aerospace and Defence Advisory Committee.
With such a diverse and impactful background, Heather is well-equipped to inspire and drive success in any venture she undertakes.

Advisory Board

Ken McConnell

Position: Manager, Industrial Participation
Company: FedDev Ontario

John Ball

Position: President
Company: Ballvale Strategy Inc.

Peter Studer

Position: Partner
Company: CFN Consultants

Stephanie Batstone

Position: Managing Partner
Company: NyRad

L Col (R) Greg Burton

Heather Pilot (Chairperson)

Position: President
Company: Pilot Hill Ltd.

Heidie Kalmayer

Position: Program Director Company: BlackBerry Ltd.

Jay Hancock – Manager, Strategy and Business Development General Dynamics Land Systems–Canada

Jay Hancock

Position: Manager, Strategy and Business Development
Company: General Dynamics Land Systems–Canada

Richard Missens CEO at PFN Group of Companies

Richard Missens

Position: CEO
Company: PFN Group of Companies

Ted Kirkpatrick

Ted Kirkpatrick

Position: Director, Business Development & Government Relations
Company: Ontario Shipyards

Scroll to Top
Best Defence Conference Logo

Brigadier-General J.D.S. Masson, OMM, MSM, CD

Chief of Staff Army Strategy
Senior Serving Gunner

 

Royal Canadian Artillery

Brigadier-General Stéphane Masson military career began in 1991 when he joined the Canadian Forces as a reservist with the 6e Régiment d’artillerie de Campagne in Quebec City. In 2003, he transitioned to the Regular Force.

Throughout his career, Brigadier-General Masson held various command positions, starting as a Major in 2008 when he took command of Q Battery within the 5e Régiment d’artillerie légère du Canada at CFB Valcartier. In 2012, as a Lieutenant-Colonel, he served as Commandant of the Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery School at CFB Gagetown. Later on, he was assigned to key roles at the Canadian Joint Operation Command Headquarters and as Commander of Canadian Forces Base Kingston. Most recently, he commanded the 5th Canadian Division – the Army’s Mighty Maroon Machine. He assumed the role of Chief of Staff Army Strategy the summer of 2024. Brigadier-General Masson now holds the honour of being the Senior Serving Gunner within the Canadian Army.

Brigadier-General Masson also had operational experience abroad, serving in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Afghanistan, and Egypt, as well as participating in several domestic response operations.

His educational background includes graduation from the Canadian Land Forces Command and Staff College, the Joint Command and Staff Program, and the National Security Program. He holds a Bachelor of Science, a Masters in Defence Studies, and a Master in Public Administration.

Outside of his military duties, Brigadier-General Masson enjoys spending time with his supporting wife and three children. His hobbies include exercise, playing the guitar, reading, and traveling.

La carrière militaire du Brigadier-Général Stéphane Masson a débuté en 1991 lorsqu’il a rejoint les Forces canadiennes en tant que réserviste au 6e Régiment d’artillerie de Campagne à Québec. En 2003, il a fait la transition vers la Force régulière.

Tout au long de sa carrière, le Brigadier-Général Masson a occupé divers postes de commandement, commençant en tant que Major en 2008 lorsqu’il a pris le commandement de la Batterie Q au sein du 5e Régiment d’artillerie légère du Canada à la BFC Valcartier. En 2012, en tant que Lieutenant-Colonel, il a été nommé Commandant de l’École du Régiment royal de l’Artillerie canadienne à la BFC Gagetown. Par la suite, il a été affecté à des postes clés au Quartier général du Commandement des opérations interarmées du Canada et en tant que Commandant de la Base des Forces canadiennes Kingston. Plus récemment, il a commandé la 5e Division canadienne – la « Mighty Maroon Machine » de l’armée. Il a assumé le rôle de chef d’état-major de la stratégie de l’armée à l’été 2024. Le Brigadier-Général Masson détient désormais l’honneur d’être l’Artilleur Principal en Service au sien de l’Armée Canadienne.

Le Brigadier-Général Masson a également acquis une expérience opérationnelle à l’étranger, servant en Bosnie-Herzégovine, en Afghanistan et en Égypte, ainsi que participant à plusieurs opérations de réponse intérieure.

Son parcours éducatif comprend l’obtention du diplôme de l’École de commandement et d’état-major des Forces terrestres canadiennes, du Programme de commandement et d’état-major interarmées, et du Programme de sécurité nationale. Il détient un baccalauréat en sciences, une maîtrise en études de la défense et une maîtrise en administration publique.

En dehors de ses fonctions militaires, le Brigadier-Général Masson apprécie passer du temps avec sa femme soutenante et leurs trois enfants. Ses loisirs incluent l’exercice physique, la guitare, la lecture et les voyages.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
Andrew Service

Andrew Service

Manager, Strategy and Business Development

 

General Dynamics Land Systems–Canada

Andrew Service is the Manager for Strategy and Business Development for General Dynamics Land Systems–Canada responsible for the Canadian market, appointed in May 2023. Mr. Service’s responsibilities in this role include building trusted customer relations, developing a detailed understanding of the Canadian Armed Forces security priorities and defence requirements, and promoting the company’s range of combat-proven technologies, platforms and services. Mr. Service works with GDLS teams (Program, Engineering, Supply Chain, Production and Sustainment) across the organization to inform customer requirements and position GDLS’s products and services for future new business opportunities. Andrew is based in London, Ontario, Canada. Mr. Service brings to this position more than 25 years of experience in the defense industry. Prior to his current role, Andrew was the Project Engineering Manager for GDLS-C’s USMC, US Army Stryker, FMS and International contracts. In this position, he managed the development and test of our most networked, light weight and digitally advanced platform; this platform was selected by the USMC for the ARV program. Andrew was previously the Program Manager for the Canadian LAV UP Program from the Definition phase through to the LORIT extension. Previous to that, Andrew was posted in South Africa and held Engineering and Program Management positions on the MRAP program. Mr. Service has a Bachelor of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of British Columbia and is a Professional Engineer in Ontario, Canada. Mr. Service volunteered as a Member of the Board of Directors for Junior Achievement Canada for 5 years. In summer months, Andrew, his spouse and daughter enjoy boating throughout the Great Lakes.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
Ryan Clarke

Ryan Clarke

Director, Corporate and Commercial Affairs, Government Sector

 

Canadian Nuclear Laboratories

As Director for Corporate and Commercial Affairs, Ryan is responsible for reputational and commercial relationships with various levels of government in addition to leading CNL’s commercial team. CNL provides services across a wide variety of industries including nuclear power producers, health, transportation, advanced reactors, defence, space, clean energy and cyber resiliency.
Prior to joining CNL, Ryan was with one of Canada’s leading public affairs firms representing clients across a wide spectrum of industries and issues including natural resources, aviation, finance, and consumer products amongst others. Ryan also spent several years with an international trade relations firm and served as a special advisor in the offices of Canada’s Minister of International Trade.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
Mike Nelson

Mike Nelson

Founder

 

TACTIQL Inc.

Mike is a CAF veteran, Executive MBA graduate, 2023 Ottawa 40 Under 40 recipient, and entrepreneur. He is also the founder and CEO of TACTIQL Inc. TACTIQL is a bootstrapped, Ontario-based Military Technology start-up founded in 2022. Their small team of CAF veterans and engineers rapidly researched, productized, and commercialized a data assurance software for airborne ISTAR systems, which has now been sold to the Canadian Army. ISED’s ISC-TS, NRC-IRAP, and Invest Ottawa have been key to TACTIQL’s early success. They are now focused on deploying into the Canadian Army’s network infrastructure and building relationships with Primes, System Integrators, and OEMs to access Programs of Record and jointly pursue capital procurements and foreign market opportunities.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
Lou Riccoboni

Lou Riccoboni

Vice President, Business Development & Vice President, Corporate Affairs

 

Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL)
(Als, Partner, Prospectus & Associates )

Lou Riccoboni is a senior executive and energy sector leader at the nexus of business development and government relations. For nearly 30 years, he has led or advised Fortune 500 companies and C-suite executives in various sectors including energy (nuclear, hydrogen and fusion), transportation, financial services, defence, and research and development. He has also advised domestic and foreign governments on energy, trade, and economic security policy.

Lou has held senior business development roles with CH2MHILL/Jacobs, one of the world’s largest US-based firms providing professional services and project delivery for government and private sector clients. Focusing on the Canadian federal government sector, he assisted with procurement captures in defence, and nuclear sectors, including the first ever Government-owned, Contractor-operated (GoCo) management of Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL). For the past nine years, Lou has served on the CNL executive team, first as a secondee from Jacobs, and now as a contractor with Prospectus & Associates.

Leveraging his decades of federal and provincial government experience, both from his service on Parliament Hill, with the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, and at global consulting firm Hill & Knowlton, Lou assisted numerous clients navigate government funding applications, procurements, legislation, and various regulatory processes.

Today, Lou is at the forefront of energy policy, including the development of innovative technologies such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), nuclear fuel, hydrogen research and development, and promoting other innovative technologies that mitigate climate change, while ensuring energy independence, and building a clean economy.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
Chief Peigan

Chief Matthew T. Peigan

Chief

 

Pasqua First Nation #79

Chief Matthew T. Peigan is the youngest of five boys to the Late Ronald W. Peigan and Late Grace L. Peigan. 

Chief Peigan was first elected as Chief for the Pasqua First Nation (PFN) in 1993 at which time, Mr. Peigan was the youngest serving chief in Canada at the age of 26.   Matthew left the office of Chief in 2001 after serving four consecutive terms.  Chief Peigan was again elected in 2011 and is currently serving a fifth consecutive term as Chief of Pasqua.  He was acclaimed in the last four Pasqua elections (2015, 2017, 2019 & 2021) and re-elected in 2023 therefore carries a very strong mandate as leader for the people of Pasqua.

 

Chief Peigan has been very active in engaging with Industry, as well as in the Canada Energy Regulators (CER) regulatory process.  He has taken a position of support on the basis of adequate environmental, air and water protection measures as well as the process industry is developing to address these major issues.  

 

2023, Chief Peigan has been named recipient of the Saskatchewan Jubilee Medal

 

2024, honoured as recipient of King Charles III Coronation Medal.

 

Chief Peigan encourages Industry to given Indigenous Companies the opportunity to provide crucial services within the defense and manufacturing sector.

 

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
Devin Somppi

Devin Somppi

Chief Technology Officer

 

Decisive Group Inc., A Calian Company

Devin Somppi brings a powerful combination of technical depth and strategic leadership to his role as Chief Technology Officer at Decisive Group. His proven track record spans the entire cybersecurity spectrum, from threat intelligence and vulnerability management to incident response and identity access management (IAM). This expertise, coupled with a deep understanding of cybersecurity frameworks and best practices, allows him to craft and implement comprehensive security solutions and strategies.

Beyond technical prowess, Devin is a visionary leader. He excels at translating complex business needs into actionable cybersecurity plans, proactively identifying, and mitigating emerging threats. His grasp of risk management principles translates into long-term roadmaps that ensure Decisive Group and its customers stay ahead of evolving threat actors.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
Philippe Hébert

Philippe Hébert

Director General of R&D Innovation

 

Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC)

Philippe Hébert is the Director General of R&D Innovation for Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC), where he is responsible for leading key innovation initiatives such as the Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) program. His role is to ensure that the Canadian Armed Forces/Department of National Defence have access to the most cutting-edge solutions from Canadian Innovators for their challenges.

From 2015 until 2022, Mr. Hébert was the Director General for Intelligence Policy and Partnerships with the Canadian Forces Intelligence Command where he oversaw and coordinated the development and promulgation of defence intelligence policies, directives and governance frameworks. He was also responsible for the management of defence intelligence partnerships with the Five-Eyes community, NATO, other allied countries, as well as with other federal government departments and agencies.

Mr. Hébert also worked for the Assistant Deputy Minister (Policy), serving as Director of Policy Development from 2007 to 2015. In that role, he led the development of the Canada First Defence Strategy and various policy frameworks on issues such as Arctic security, space and cyber. Before that, Mr. Hébert served in a number of positions at National Defence, including Special Assistant to the Deputy Minister and speechwriter for the Minister of National Defence and the Chief of the Defence Staff.
Mr. Hébert is a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.

 

 

 

 

 

 

FRENCH

Philippe Hébert est le directeur général de l’innovation en R&D pour Recherche et développement pour la défense Canada (RDDC), où il est responsable de diriger des initiatives d’innovation clés telles que le programme Innovation pour la défense, l’excellence et la sécurité (IDEeS). Son rôle est de s’assurer que les Forces armées canadiennes/ministère de la Défense nationale ont accès aux solutions de pointe des innovateurs canadiens pour leurs défis.

De 2015 à 2022, M. Hébert a été directeur général de la politique du renseignement et des partenariats au Commandement du renseignement des Forces canadiennes où il a supervisé et coordonné l’élaboration et la promulgation des politiques, directives et cadres de gouvernance du renseignement de défense. Il était également responsable de la gestion des partenariats de renseignement de défense avec la communauté Five-Eyes, l’OTAN, d’autres pays alliés, ainsi qu’avec d’autres ministères et organismes du gouvernement fédéral.

M. Hébert a également travaillé pour le sous-ministre adjoint (Politiques), occupant le poste de directeur de l’élaboration des politiques de 2007 à 2015. À ce titre, il a dirigé l’élaboration de la Stratégie de défense Le Canada d’abord et de divers cadres stratégiques sur des questions telles que la sécurité dans l’Arctique, espace et cyber. Auparavant, M. Hébert a occupé plusieurs postes à la Défense nationale, dont ceux d’adjoint spécial au sous-ministre et de rédacteur de discours du ministre de la Défense nationale et du chef d’état-major de la Défense.

M. Hébert est récipiendaire de la Médaille du jubilé de diamant de la reine Elizabeth II.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
Daniel Schulten

Daniel Schulten

Global Business Development Director, Space

 

Airbus Defence and Space Canada

Daniel Schulten is the Airbus Global Business Development Director for Space based in Ottawa, ON.

Prior to joining Airbus, Daniel has been responsible for business development of several space programs both at MacDonald Dettwiler and Associates (MDA) in Canada and Space Systems Loral (SSL) in the US.

In 1998, Daniel attended the International Space University Summer Session in Cleveland, Ohio. He has a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering of the University of Twente in the Netherlands.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
John de Boer

John de Boer

Senior Director, Government Affairs and Public Policy

 

BlackBerry Ltd.

John de Boer is currently Senior Director of Government Affairs and Public Policy at BlackBerry Ltd., where he leads BlackBerry’s government relations efforts in Canada.

Prior to joining BlackBerry, John served as a Senior Policy Advisor at the United Nations; as Team Leader on the Afghanistan Task Force at the Canadian International Development Agency; as Program Leader of Governance, Security and Justice at Canada’s International Development Research Centre; and as Principal at the SecDev Group – a digital risk consultancy firm.

John has a Ph.D. in Area Studies from the University of Tokyo. He was a post-doctoral fellow at Stanford University, a visiting lecturer at University of California at Berkeley, and an affiliated expert at Harvard University’s Humanitarian Initiative. John has published three books and hundreds of scholarly articles on issues including urban fragility, international security, organized crime, conflict prevention and cybersecurity. John is a frequent speaker at international events and an advisor to G7 governments, the OECD, the United Nations and the World Bank, among others.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
Doug Wilson Hodge

Doug Wilson-Hodge

Strategy & Business Development Director

 

Strategy & Business Development Director,

Doug Wilson-Hodge was appointed Director for General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada responsible for Strategy and Business Development, in May 2022.

Doug leads an experienced team that focuses on developing new business opportunities for the spectrum of General Dynamics Land Systems products. His team is responsible for strategy, business development, government and community relations, communications, offsets and industrial participation.

 Prior to his most recent assignments, Doug has been in various leadership roles within Business Development and Program Management.

 Doug also served as an officer in the Canadian Armed Forces Primary Reserve, retiring after 14 years. With more than 30 years of experience in the defence industry, Doug has also been recognized for his contributions to General Dynamics Land Systems receiving the GDLS President’s Award multiple times.

Doug holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree (History) from Western University, and a Licentiate (Diploma) in Theology from Huron University College. He received the Canadian Forces Decoration (CD) in 2002, was awarded the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal, and achieved his Project Management Professional (PMP®) designation in 2003 from the Project Management Institute. He has served on a key committee with Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries, and volunteers on the London Health Sciences Foundation board, and as Chair of the Board of Directors St. John Ambulance, Southwestern Ontario Branch.

 
View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
Sean Willy

Sean Willy

President & CEO

 

Des Hedhe Group

Sean Willy was appointed President & Chief Executive Officer of Des Nedhe Group in August 2017. During that time, Sean has taken Des Nedhe to a national stage, growing into new business sectors and reducing their reliance on just the resource sector, while at the same time maintaining high levels of Indigenous employment and managing some tough economic conditions.
Sean is a member of the Deninu Kue First Nation. He brings an understanding of the expectations and needs of Indigenous people. Growing up in a mining household, he experienced life in communities across the Canadian Shield – from the Northwest Territories to Nunavut to Alberta to Saskatchewan.
In his career Sean has developed and implemented some of the most innovative Indigenous Inclusion and CSR strategies for companies such as Rio Tinto and Cameco Corporation. He has always strived to ensure Indigenous peoples are seen as a full partner in long-term relationships. This led to Sean building partnerships in Australia, the United States, and throughout Canada.
Sean is a board member for TELUS Corporation, and the Ronald McDonald House Charities Saskatchewan. He is a past board member of Green First Forest Products, past Co-Chair of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business, a past member of Indigenous Works and recently sat as a member the Canadian government’s Indigenous Innovation Housing Committee and the Indigenous Advisory Committee on Small Module Reactors.
Sean has two children and lives with his wife Melissa in Saskatoon.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo

Colonel Robert Tyler

Director Air Requirements

 

Royal Canadian Air Force

Colonel Robert Tyler joined the Canadian Army Reserve in 1992 as a Gunner with 15th Field Regiment in Vancouver, British Columbia and later commissioned as an Artillery Officer. After graduating from the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Science in Cellular Biology, he transferred to the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) as a Pilot.

After receiving his wings in 2003, Colonel Tyler was selected for helicopter pilot training and posted to 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron (408 THS) in Edmonton, Alberta, flying the CH146 Griffon. During his time at 408 THS, Colonel Tyler completed his first deployment to Afghanistan, as a member of the Tactical Air Control Party in Kandahar.

Colonel Tyler was then posted to Townsville, Australia where he flew the CH-47D Chinook with C Squadron, 5th Aviation Regiment, returning to Kandahar, Afghanistan in 2010 to fly with the Australian Army Chinook Detachment.

Upon his return to Canada in 2012, Colonel Tyler assisted in the stand-up of 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron (450 THS) and the introduction of the CH147F Chinook. Upon promotion to Major in 2013, he took over as the first operational CH147F Flight Commander.

In 2018 Colonel Tyler was promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel while serving with the RCAF Headquarters in Ottawa, Ontario. In 2019 he deployed as the Chief of Staff for Air Task Force-Mali as part of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) and Canada’s Operation PRESENCE-Mali.

In 2020 Colonel Tyler took Command of 450 THS, leading the Squadron through the COVID-19 pandemic while ensuring Chinook support to Canadians during multiple domestic missions in response to the pandemic and other natural disasters.

In 2022, Colonel Tyler completed language training followed by a short posting to Chief Force Development. He was promoted to his current rank in 2024 and is currently Director Air Requirements, within the RCAF Headquarters.

Colonel Tyler is a graduate of the Army Operations Course (2013) and the Joint Command and Staff Program (2017), where he earned a Master’s Degree in Defence Studies from the Royal Military College of Canada. 

Colonel Tyler has two, amazing, teenaged daughters.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo

Rod Stagg, Founder & CEO

Founder & CEO

 

Cougar Technical Services Ltd, and Indigenous Incubator Inc.

Rod Stagg is a proud Metis businessman, tradesperson, father, coach and mentor.

As the founder of Cougar Technical Services, a successful mechanical service company working in Calgary AB and surrounding areas for over 30 years, Mr. Stagg is a dedicated family man and community member. Rod has 2 sons, Jeremy and Joel, who are actively involved in daily operations. Jeremy Stagg is President of Stag Construction Solutions, a General Contracting firm, while Joel Stagg is an experienced Plumber who handles a wide array of Mechanical service requests and assists with estimating jobs.

With the continued success of Cougar Technical Services, Rod began to conceptualize his idea to help Canada’s Indigenous youth over 20 years ago. Through this journey, the idea of the Indigenous Incubator was born.

The Indigenous Incubator Inc. (III) is a newly launched initiative, comprised of 7 different Indigenous Trades Companies:

1. Cougar Technical Services
2. Stag Construction Solutions
3. Wolf HVAC Services
4. Grizzly Electrical Services
5. Mother Earth Energy Services
6. Tomahawk Indigenous Engineering
7. Polar Bear Janitorial

These companies are all focused on providing Mentorship, Education, and Training to Indigenous Peoples. In the past year, Rod has hired 4 Indigenous persons in both the field and the office. These individuals are encouraged to bring their own cultural knowledge and retain their Indigenous values while working for the Incubator. This cultural empowerment and meaningful career opportunities creates “Economic Reconciliation through Employment”.

The Indigenous Incubator focuses on developing Individuals’ skills in a wide array of trades and professional services. Within the 7 different Indigenous companies, Individuals have the option to further their career path in many avenues including: janitorial work (unskilled labour), mechanical work (plumbing, HVAC, electrical, construction), as well as professional services (accounting, dispatch, marketing, engineering). These flexible career pathways give individuals the opportunities they need to further their careers, bolster their annual income, and in turn create generational wealth within Indigenous communities. This furthers the Indigenous Incubator’s commitment towards Reconciliation within Canada.

The Indigenous Incubator group of companies are currently focused on serving Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional (ICI) markets within Calgary and surrounding Alberta areas. However, after proving this concept in these areas, the Incubator will be ready to take on projects and help Indigenous communities across Canada.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
Lieutenant-General Wright

Lieutenant-General M.C. Wright

CMM, MMV, MSM, CD
Commander

 

Canadian Army

Born and raised in Southern Ontario, Lieutenant-General Wright enrolled in the Canadian Armed Forces in 1990 and joined Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry  (PPCLI) in 1994. He has served in all three Canadian Mechanized Brigade Groups and  deployed on operations with all three Regular Force infantry regiments. He spent 11  years with 2 PPCLI in Winnipeg and Shilo, commanding at the platoon, company and  battalion level. He also served three years with the Second Battalion of the Royal 22e  Regiment. He commanded 2 CMBG from 2017-2018. He was Commander CFINTCOM  and Chief of Defence Intelligence from June 2021 to July 2024. On promotion to  Lieutenant-General in July 2024, he was appointed as the Commander of the Canadian Army.  

Operationally he has deployed to Bosnia, Afghanistan, and the Middle East, and served  on domestic operations in support of the 2010 Winter Olympics and the 2011 Manitoba  floods. He was awarded the Medal of Military Valour and the Meritorious Service Medal as a rifle company commander serving with the First Battalion of The Royal Canadian  Regiment Battle Group in Kandahar Province in 2006-07. From May 2020 to May 2021,  he commanded Joint Task Force Impact and Task Force Central, the CAF missions in  the Middle East.  

Lieutenant-General Wright has served in staff positions as the Chief of Staff of  CFINTCOM, J3 of the Canadian Joint Operations Command, Executive Assistant to the  Chief of the Defence Staff, Chief of Staff and G3 of 1 CMBG, as well as positions at the  Canadian Army Headquarters and the Canadian Forces Joint Headquarters.  

Lieutenant-General Wright holds an Honours Degree in History and Political Science  and a Masters of Defence Studies from RMC, is a graduate of the National Security  Programme, and has completed the Joint Force Land Component Commander Course  at the US Army War College. He and his wife Hilary live in Ottawa and their two adult  sons live in Southern Ontario. 

Lieutenant-Général M.C. Wright, Cmm, Mmv, Msm, Cd Commandant De L’armée Canadienne

 

Le lieutenant-général Wright est né et a grandi dans le sud de l’Ontario. Il s’enrôle dans les Forces armées canadiennes en 1990 et se joint au Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) en 1994. Il sert dans les trois groupes-brigades mécanisés du Canada et participe à des opérations au sein des trois régiments d’infanterie de la Force régulière. Il sert 11 ans au sein du 2 PPCLI à Winnipeg et à Shilo, où il assure le commandement au niveau du peloton, de la compagnie et du bataillon. Il sert également trois ans dans le 2e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment. Il commande le 2 GBMC de 2017 à 2018. Il agit à titre de commandant du Commandement du renseignement des Forces canadiennes et de chef du renseignement de la défense de juin 2021 à juillet 2024. Lors de sa promotion au grade de lieutenant-général en juillet 2024, il est nommé commandant de l’Armée canadienne.

Sur le plan opérationnel, il participe à des déploiements en Bosnie, en Afghanistan et au Moyen-Orient, et il participe à des opérations nationales à l’appui des Jeux olympiques d’hiver de 2010 et des inondations de 2011 au Manitoba. Il reçoit la Médaille de vaillance militaire et la Médaille du service méritoire comme commandant de la Compagnie de fusiliers au sein du groupement tactique du 1er Bataillon, The Royal Canadian Regiment, dans la province de Kandahar en 2006-2007. De mai 2020 à mai 2021, il commande la Force opérationnelle interarmées Impact et la Force opérationnelle interarmées (Centre), les missions des FAC dans le Moyen-Orient.

Le lieutenant-général Wright occupe divers postes d’état-major à titre de chef d’état major du Commandement du renseignement des Forces canadiennes, de J3 du Commandement des opérations interarmées du Canada, de chef de cabinet du chef d’état-major de la défense, de chef d’état-major et de G3 du 1 GBMC, ainsi que d’autres postes au Quartier général de l’Armée canadienne et au Quartier général interarmées des Forces canadiennes.

Le lieutenant-général Wright détient un baccalauréat spécialisé en histoire et en science politique et une maîtrise en études de la défense du CMR. Il est diplômé du Programme de sécurité nationale, et il a réussi le cours de commandant de la composante terrestre d’une force interarmées multinationale au Collège de guerre de l’Armée des États-Unis (US Army War College). Sa femme Hilary et lui habitent à Ottawa et leurs deux fils d’âge adulte vivent dans le sud de l’Ontario.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
General Peter Dawe

Major General Peter Dawe

Chief Combat System Integration, Office of the Vice Chief of Defence Staff

 

Department of National Defence

MGen Peter Dawe joined the Canadian Forces in 1990 as an artillery officer. Following a tour to Cyprus as a troop commander, he reclassified to the infantry and joined the Second Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI). MGen Dawe has commanded from platoon to brigade level, to include 3 PPCLI (2009-2011) and 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group (2013-2015).

MGen Dawe’s extra-regimental employment has included tours at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School; the Canadian Special Operations Regiment; Canadian Special Operations Forces Command Headquarters; and on the Strategic Joint Staff as the Director General Operations.

His operational tours include Cyprus, Bosnia, and two tours to Afghanistan. In 2002, he served as the 3 PPCLI Battle-Group Operations Officer for Operation APOLLO in Kandahar, Afghanistan, for which he was awarded the U.S. Bronze Star Medal. From May 2011 to March 2012, he served as the Deputy Commander of Canada’s Contribution to the Training Mission in Afghanistan and was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal. MGen Dawe was appointed Commander of the Order of Military Merit in 2019.

MGen Dawe is a graduate of the National Security Program, the U.S. CAPSTONE Program, and the Coalition Joint Forces Special Operations Component Commander Course. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Military Arts and Science, a Master’s degree in Defence Studies, and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the Royal Military College of Canada. He is also a graduate of the Senior Executives in National and International Security program at Harvard University. MGen Dawe was appointed Deputy Commander Canadian Special Operations Forces Command in September 2016 and assumed command of Canadian Special Operations Forces Command in April 2018. MGen Dawe assumed his current role as Chief of Combat Systems Integration in July 2023.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
Rob Tebb

Rob Tebb

Co-Founder and CEO
 

Xtended

Rob Tebb is a highly skilled machinist and entrepreneur of Métis descent who has made a name for himself in the manufacturing industry. Rob’s career as a machinist spans decades, throughout which he has gained a wealth of experience and knowledge, as well as built a reputation as problem solver and solutions provider. Rob began as an apprentice machinist, eventually working his way up to journeyman, and ultimately becoming General Manager of the machine shop at which he worked for many years. In 2013, Rob and his wife Katherine founded Xtended Hydraulics & Machine, an Indigenous-owned and operated machine shop based out of Emerald Park, Saskatchewan. 

As Co-Founder and CEO of Xtended, Rob brings his extensive experience and expertise in machining to the forefront, helping to build and lead a team of skilled machinists, millwrights, welders, and others that design and manufacture products and offer services for a variety of industries, including the mining, oil and gas, agriculture, and construction industries, just to name a few. Rob instills a focus on providing quality products and solving problems by providing solutions to client problems, rather than band aid fixes.

In addition to his knowledge and skills as a machinist, Rob is also a proud member of the Métis community and is committed to supporting Indigenous businesses and causes. Through Xtended, Rob strives to provide meaningful employment and career opportunities to Indigenous peoples, and actively contributes to the economic growth and development of Indigenous communities and businesses.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
Philip Ducharme

Philip Ducharme

Vice President, Entrepreneurship and Procurement

 

Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business

Philip Ducharme is currently the Vice President of Entrepreneurship & Procurement at the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business. In his role he is responsible for leading Supply Change™, CCAB’s Aboriginal Procurement Strategy and the Tools and Financing for Aboriginal Business (TFAB) program.

In the last 25 years, Philip has held several senior roles with various Indigenous organizations across Canada in a variety of sectors including business, health, education, employment and awards and recognition. Philip currently participates as a member of the Supplier Stakeholder Network, Procurement Assistance Canada – Ontario region as well as being a member of the DIAG Indigenous Procurement Working Group.

Philip graduated from the University of Regina in Business Administration. 

Philip Ducharme is a proud Métis with all eight of his Great-Grandparents attached to Métis Scrip applications and is a member of the Manitoba Métis Federation. 

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
Colonel Anthony MacIntyre

Colonel Anthony (David) MacIntyre

Director Land Requirement

 

Canadian Army

Colonel Anthony MacIntyre joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1994 and was commissioned in Yellowknife, NT as an Armour officer. He was posted to Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) (LdSH(RC)) in 1998 after completing a bachelor’s degree through the Regular Officer Training Program.

Throughout his career, Colonel MacIntyre has held command and staff positions, most notably; he had the privilege to be the Commanding Officer of Canadian Forces Base Shilo (2017-2019), officer commanding a Sabre Squadron (2011-2013) with LdSH(RC) and was G3 Operations for 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group (2014 – 2016).  

Colonel MacIntyre has several operational tours including the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Stabilization Force in Zgon, Bosnia (2000), Joint Task Force Afghanistan in Kandahar (2006 and again in 2008) and a domestic deployment to Operation Podium (Olympic Games) in 2010. 

Colonel MacIntyre’s staff assignments have included tours with The Royal Canadian Armour School (2004), Directorate of Land Requirements (2005-2007, 2016, 2019-2020), and 1 CMBG (2014-2016). He is a graduate of the Land Forces Technical Staff Program and the Advanced Command and Staff Course in Shrivenham, United Kingdom where he received a Master’s Degree in Strategic studies from King’s College London.  In 2020, Col MacIntyre completed the Senior Course at the NATO Defence College in Rome and has completed DP4 through the National Security Program.

Colonel MacIntyre returned to the Canadian Army Headquarters in 2019 as Deputy Director DLR coordination, completed a year in the Canadian Army operations branch and, upon promotion, assumed the role of Director Land Requirements in August 2022.

Colonel MacIntyre is married to Shannon and has two children, Gavin and Meaghan.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
Len Anderson

Len Anderson

 

CEO of a consortium of certified Indigenous technology companies

Len Anderson is the CEO of a consortium of certified Indigenous technology companies operating in the Ottawa business landscape and providing cybersecurity solutions, engineering services, system integration, MRO, and logistics support to telecommunications, defence, and commercial markets.  

A seasoned executive, Anderson’s 30-year career spans the disciplines of telecom operations, production planning, program management, and strategic leadership gained throughout a multifaceted career across a wide spectrum of technology companies culminating with a 10-year career at Nortel prior to founding the cornerstone company within his consortium, Renaissance Network Reinvent.  Acquisitions of TerraNova Solutions Rewired and Dafocom Solutions Inc. both followed thereafter. 

Anderson’s vision extends beyond the immediate success of his companies. He is dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and the responsible management of technological and defence solutions. His work in bridging the gap between past and future technologies underscores a broader goal of creating resilient, efficient systems that serve both current needs and future challenges.  Anderson has demonstrated this through the successful development of cybersecurity and anti-hacking technologies, and high-quality, engineered solutions that ensure the operational readiness and longevity of mission-critical military assets.

Beyond his business achievements, Anderson is recognized for his Indigenous heritage and his efforts to support Indigenous business growth through entrepreneurship. His leadership in companies that prioritize Indigenous roots and partnerships reflects a commitment to fostering economic development and empowerment within these communities.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo

Jason Anthony Dudek, MSc

Chairperson & President

 

Sky Canoe

Jason Dudek is President and co-founder of Sky Canoe Inc., a leading Indigenous-owned drone designer/manufacturer. A successful entrepreneur and impact investor, Jason has brought award-wining businesses from inception to scale. He previously chaired one of Canada’s most respected philanthropic Foundations and holds an MSc from the London School of Economics (UK). Jason believes business is at its best when serving urgent human or environmental needs. He is inspired by Indigenous approaches to reciprocity, community and technology.

 
View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
Captain Drew Graham

Captain(N) Andrew Graham

Director Naval Requirement

 

Royal Canadian Navy

Captain (N) Drew Graham joined the Canadian Armed Forces as an officer in the Cadet Instructors Cadre in May of 1995 at Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps QUINTE in Belleville Ontario.  Upon completing undergraduate studies at the University of Ottawa he transferred to the regular force as a Maritime Surface officer in the Royal Canadian Navy.  He completed his training at the Naval Officer Training Centre in 2002 and joined HMCS TORONTO as a Bridge Watchkeeper.  While serving in TORONTO he deployed to the Persian Gulf as part of Operation Altair.  He trained as a Shipborne Air Control Officer and joined HMCS IROQUOIS in 2005.  While serving in IROQUOIS he deployed to the Mediterranean Sea as part of Operation Active Endeavour with Standing NATO Maritime Group 1.  On leaving IROQUOIS LCdr Graham traveled to the United Kingdom to attend the Ammunition Technical Officer course with the British Army.  He returned to Canada in 2009 and served as the Formation Ammunition Technical Officer in Halifax for 2 years.  He re-joined IROQUOIS as an Operations Room Officer in 2012 and served as Operations Officer, Weapons Officer and finally Combat Officer.  While serving in IROQUOIS he deployed on Operation Caribe as part of the North American war on drugs.  After serving for two years as the Command Ammunition Technical Officer at Naval Headquarters in Ottawa LCdr Graham moved to Toronto to attend the Joint Command and Staff Programme at the Canadian Forces College where he earned a master’s degree in Defence Studies.  He was appointed as the Executive Officer of HMCS REGINA in 2016 and served in REGINA until 2018 when he moved back to Ottawa into the position of Above Water Warfare Requirements Section Head in the Directorate of Naval Requirements.  Cdr Graham assumed Command of HMCS FREDERICTON in July of 2020 and deployed as the Flagship of Standing NATO Maritime Group One in support of Operation Reassurance in 2021.  Promoted to his current rank in 2023, he is currently serving as the Director of Naval Requirements on the Naval Staff.  He lives in Ottawa with his very tolerant and understanding wife Amanda and their two boys Spencer and Braedan.

View the Conference Program
Best Defence Conference Logo
Colonel Paolo Pavese

Colonel Paolo Pavese

Director Force


Canadian Armed Forces

Born in Toronto ON, Colonel (Col) Paolo Pavese, joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1997, graduating from the Royal Military College in 2001. Upon graduation and completion of his infantry training, he was posted to the 1st Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment in Petawawa ON, where he served from 2001 to 2005, as a Platoon Commander, Assistant Adjutant and Battalion Operations Officer, including a deployment to Bosnia-Herzegovina.

In 2005 he completed the Land Forces Technical Staff Program in Kingston ON. This was followed by a posting to the Canadian Forces Land Advanced Warfare Centre (CFLAWC) in Trenton ON within Trials and Evaluations and later as the Standards Officer. His interest in perilous activities and technology quickly led him to Canadian Joint Incident Response Unit (CJIRU) within the Canadian Special Operations Forces Command’s (CANSOFCOM) where he served from 2008 to 2012 as a Troop Leader and Squadron Commander.

From 2013 to 2016 Col Pavese completed staff tours in CANSOFCOM HQ, student time at the Joint Command and Staff Program in Toronto and further staff time within Chief of Programme. Upon promotion to LCol in 2016, he was posted back to CANSOFCOM HQ serving in both Force Development as DSR2 and Operations as the J3.

Col Pavese had the privilege of commanding CJIRU from June 2019 until June of 2021, best job he ever had. Following command, he completed a year of language training once again returning to CANSOFCOM HQ in 2022 within the Commander’s Advisory Group. In 2023, he accepted a voluntary occupational transfer to the newly created Special Operations Forces Officer trade.

Col Pavese was promoted to his current rank in June of 2023 and assumed his current role within CANSOFCOM as the Director Force Development (DFD) where he works to ensure the members of CANSOFCOM have the tools required to conduct and enable operations.

View the Conference Program