Alberta Aviation, Aerospace & Defence Council (Alberta AAD) Market Research Report

Background

Overview

The Alberta Aviation, Aerospace & Defence Council (Alberta AAD) is a non-profit charitable organization dedicated to supporting and advancing the aviation, aerospace, and defence sectors in Alberta, Canada. Established in 1962, the organization operates almost entirely through volunteer efforts, focusing on fostering industry connections, collaboration, and advocacy. In August 2025, the organization updated its name to Alberta AAD to better reflect the province's expanding role in the defence sector.

Mission and Vision

Alberta AAD's mission is to drive sustainable growth across Alberta's aviation, aerospace, and defence industries by strengthening industry connections through collaboration, education, and open dialogue. The organization envisions a robust and prosperous future for Alberta's aviation, aerospace, and defence ecosystem.

Primary Area of Focus

The council's primary focus includes:

• Industry Collaboration: Bringing together various facets of the industry through committees, cross-sector working groups, networking events, and global initiatives to create meaningful connections and strengthen Alberta's position in the global market.

• Advocacy: Engaging with provincial and federal governments to voice industry challenges, offer solutions, and promote policies that encourage growth, innovation, and investment in Alberta's aviation, aerospace, and defence sectors.

• Education and Training: Providing educational programs, scholarships, and training opportunities to develop a skilled workforce capable of meeting the industry's evolving needs.

Industry Significance

Alberta AAD plays a pivotal role in uniting industry leaders, fostering innovation, and creating opportunities for collaboration and growth within Alberta's aviation, aerospace, and defence sectors. By aligning with national and NATO priorities, the council positions Alberta companies to compete for major defence programs and deliver advanced capabilities to global allies.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Strengthening Industry Connections: Facilitating collaboration among industry stakeholders to enhance Alberta's global competitiveness.

• Advocacy for Growth and Innovation: Engaging with government bodies to promote policies that support sector growth and innovation.

• Workforce Development: Addressing labour shortages by developing training and internship programs to build a skilled workforce.

Specific Areas of Specialization

• Aviation and Aerospace: Promoting advancements in aviation technologies, supporting aerospace manufacturing, and enhancing flight training programs.

• Defence Sector: Expanding Alberta's role in the defence industry by fostering innovation and collaboration to meet national and international security needs.

Key Technologies Utilized

Alberta AAD leverages various technologies to support its initiatives, including:

• Synthetic Flight Training: Utilizing advanced flight simulators to enhance pilot training and flight safety.

• Aerospace Composite Materials: Promoting the use of advanced composite materials to improve aircraft performance and reduce environmental impact.

• Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS): Supporting the development and testing of UAS technologies for various applications.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

• Local and Regional Markets: Enhancing Alberta's aviation and aerospace capabilities to serve local and regional transportation and defence needs.

• National and International Markets: Positioning Alberta as a competitive player in the global aviation, aerospace, and defence industries.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

As a non-profit organization, Alberta AAD's funding primarily comes from:

• Membership Fees: Contributions from member organizations.

• Fundraising Events: Proceeds from events such as casinos and conferences.

• Donations: Support from individuals and organizations.

Recent Funding Initiatives

In November 2024, Alberta AAD received over $186,000 in funding from Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) to develop and deliver the Alberta Aerospace and Defence Conference in 2025 in Calgary and 2026 in Edmonton. This event aims to connect Alberta's small- and medium-sized firms with procurement and investment opportunities from global defence contractors.

Utilization of Capital

The funds are allocated towards organizing and hosting the Alberta Aerospace and Defence Conference, which includes:

• Event Planning and Coordination: Logistics, venue arrangements, and scheduling.

• Marketing and Promotion: Advertising the event to attract participants and exhibitors.

• Program Development: Curating sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

Alberta AAD's initiatives include:

• Alberta Aerospace Fusion Program: A workforce development program aimed at addressing labour shortages in Alberta's aviation sector. Launched in June 2025, this program offers training and internship opportunities to build a skilled workforce.

Stages of Development

• Alberta Aerospace Fusion Program: Currently in the implementation phase, with training and internship programs underway.

Target Conditions

• Labour Shortages: Addressing the critical need for skilled professionals in Alberta's aviation sector.

Anticipated Milestones

• Program Expansion: Scaling the program to include more participants and industry partners.

• Industry Integration: Connecting program graduates with employers in the aviation sector.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Alberta AAD supports the development and implementation of:

• Synthetic Flight Training Devices: Advanced flight simulators for pilot training.

• Aerospace Composite Materials Laboratories: Facilities for researching and developing advanced materials to enhance aircraft performance.

Significant Scientific Methods

• Synthetic Flight Training: Utilizing flight simulators to provide realistic training environments for pilots.

• Composite Materials Research: Conducting studies to develop materials that improve aircraft efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

AI-Driven Capabilities

While specific AI-driven initiatives are not detailed, Alberta AAD's focus on innovation suggests potential integration of AI in areas such as:

• Flight Training Simulations: Enhancing training programs with AI to create adaptive learning environments.

• Defence Sector Applications: Developing AI solutions for defence technologies and operations.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

• Kendra Kincade – Chair

An accomplished Air Traffic Controller with over 25 years in the industry, Kendra is the founder of Elevate Aviation and has been recognized with awards such as the IATA Inspirational Role Model Award and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal.

• Brian Andrus – Operations Director

With over 35 years in education and aviation, Brian has held leadership roles in curriculum development and was involved with the Air Cadets for 21 years.

• Ryan Albizzati – Treasurer/Finance and Investment Committee Chair

President of Executive Flight Centre, Ryan has over 20 years of management experience and has been instrumental in financial operations and strategic growth initiatives.

• Silvia Bianchi – Director

With a global career spanning 25 years, Silvia has led multinational product development teams and holds advanced degrees from Harvard Business School and Northwestern University.

• Kimberly Van Vliet – RPAS, Defence and Security Committee Chair

Founder and CEO of WāVv Business Development, Kimberly has over 14 years of experience in aerospace, defence, and security, focusing on technology integration and industry collaboration.

• Sophia Wells – Board Secretary/Flying Schools Committee Chair

Former Chief Flight Instructor at the Edmonton Flying Club, Sophia now serves as Director of Mentorship and Volunteers with Elevate Aviation, promoting diversity and inclusion in aviation.

• Kevin Wong – Governance Committee Chair

A barrister and solicitor with experience in technology companies, Kevin specializes in SR&ED and R&D Tax Credit claims, providing legal expertise to the council.

• Liz Evans – Education and Labour Force Committee Chair

Provost and Vice-President Academic at Mount Royal University, Elizabeth has a background in retail and consulting, focusing on women's leadership and entrepreneurial growth.

• Mel Cornelus – Community and Stakeholder Relations Committee Chair

Director of Maintenance at Rocky Mountain Aircraft, Mel has over 35 years in aircraft maintenance and operations, bringing extensive industry knowledge to the council.