Canada’s defence industry is entering a period of unprecedented growth, fueled by major investments that are creating jobs, advancing innovation, and opening doors for businesses of all sizes. Positioned at the crossroads of innovation and opportunity, Alberta stands ready to expand its defence footprint, leveraging its strengths to attract investment, foster cutting-edge technologies, and strengthen its role in Canada’s national security and global defence network.

The Alberta Aviation & Aerospace Council is proud to unveil its new name: the Alberta Aviation, Aerospace & Defence (Alberta AAD). This bold evolution reflects our expanded mandate to champion Alberta’s growing defence sector—uniting industry leaders, fostering innovation, and creating powerful opportunities for collaboration and growth.

The Alberta Aviation & Aerospace Council’s decision to include ‘Defence’ in its name is an important and timely recognition of the sector’s role in Canada’s security, innovation, and economic growth. “This change reflects the reality that aviation, aerospace, and defence are deeply interconnected, and that Alberta has the talent, industry base, and strategic advantages to lead in all three. It also aligns the province with national and NATO priorities, positioning Alberta companies to compete for major defence programs, foster cross-sector collaboration, and deliver the advanced capabilities our allies need.” – Kimberley Van Vliet, Aerospace and Defence Committee Chair, Alberta AAD, Founder & CEO, WāVv / ConvergX®, and Canadian Delegation to the NATO Industrial Advisory Group.

The Alberta Aviation & Aerospace Council has a strong and growing presence in the defence sector, demonstrated by the successful hosting of the 2025 Aerospace & Defence Summit in conjunction with the Alberta Aviation Conference. In spring 2026, the Aerospace & Defence Summit will return, once again bringing together top leaders, innovators, and decision-makers from across the defence industry to ignite new business opportunities and forge strategic partnerships.

By pairing this flagship summit with a series of defence-focused events and information sessions throughout the year, the Council is uniquely positioned to drive meaningful collaboration, accelerate innovation, and strengthen Alberta’s role in the national and global defence arena.

“This change marks a pivotal step in Alberta’s evolution as a global leader in aviation, aerospace, and defence. It reflects our ambition to innovate, collaborate, and compete on the world stage while unlocking new opportunities for our businesses, our workforce, and our province. By uniting these sectors under one banner, we strengthen our ability to attract defence investment, build world-class partnerships, and create lasting economic impact for generations to come” Kendra Kincade, Chair of the Alberta Aviation, Aerospace & Defence, Former Honorary Colonel RCAF, Founder of Elevate Aviation, Air Traffic Controller. The Council looks forward to continuing its work to advance Alberta’s position as a key player in these key industries.