We are excited to announce that the next Canada Forum will be held during the GoGeomatics Expo in Calgary, from October 28th to 30th. This event will bring together key stakeholders from across Canada’s geospatial sector, including industry leaders, academics, indigenous communities, government representatives, and technologists, to continue vital discussions on advancing geospatial standards, interoperability, and spatial data infrastructure (SDI) in Canada.

Schedule:

1:00 - 1:10 PM
Welcome and Introduction 
● A brief introduction to the Forum's purpose and agenda.

Speaker: Christy Monaco , COO - Open Geospatial Consortium

1:10 - 2:00 PM
Opportunities and Challenges of Integrating Canadian Built Environment and Geospatial Technologies (40 mins)
● Introduction
● Case studies and best practices.
● Potential obstacles and solutions.

Q&A (10 mins)

Moderator:
Paul Churcher, Chief of Site and Infrastructure Data - Department of National Defense

Panelists:

Claudia Cozzitorto, Principal Owner - BIM DnA Group 
Steve Liang, Professor/CTO - University of Calgary/Sensor Up 
Nicolas Arellano Risopatron  Carleton University CIMS Confirmed
Stephen Spry, Innovation 7
Amanda Soutar, Program manager, Real Property Services, Defence Construction Canada.

2:00 -2:50 PM
Fireside Chat: Pathway to Success (vs Aligning Stakeholder Efforts) (50 minutes)
● Future landscape outlook
● How do we push forward in the context of the North American policy environment?
● How should the Canadian community align to grow within this context? 
● Identifying actions.
● Developing a roadmap.
● Commitments from each stakeholder for continued collaboration.

Prashant Shukle, Board Chair - Open Geospatial Consortium
Christy Monaco, COO - Open Geospatial Consortium

2:50 - 3:00 PM
Closing Remarks 
● Recapping the key insights and outcomes/next steps.

Moderator:
Paul Churcher, Chief of Site and Infrastructure Data - Department of National Defense

Why Attend?

The Canada Forum is a unique opportunity to engage with the country's leading experts and decision-makers in geospatial technology and spatial data management. This year, the forum will focus on critical themes such as:

• Advancing Geospatial Standards: Collaborate on setting and implementing standards that will drive innovation and ensure interoperability across sectors.
• Addressing Technological and Environmental Challenges: Explore how geospatial technologies can be leveraged to tackle climate change, natural disasters, and other pressing issues.
• Incorporating Indigenous Perspectives: Learn about the integration of indigenous knowledge and the importance of inclusive geospatial strategies that respect Canada's diverse cultural and geographic landscape.
• Building the Future of SDIs: Discuss the modernization of spatial data infrastructures and the role of partnerships, data governance, and emerging technologies in shaping Canada’s geospatial future.

Who Should Attend?

This forum is essential for professionals across the geospatial community, including:

• Industry Leaders: Discover opportunities for collaboration and innovation in the rapidly evolving geospatial field.
• Academics and Researchers: Engage in discussions that will shape the future of geospatial education and research in Canada.
• Government Representatives: Contribute to the development of national strategies and policies that will support the growth of geospatial technologies.
• Indigenous Communities: Share perspectives and contribute to geospatial strategies that honor and integrate traditional knowledge.
• Technology Innovators: Explore cutting-edge technologies like AI, cloud computing, and digital twins, and their applications in geospatial projects.

By attending the Canada Forum at the GoGeomatics Expo, you will be part of a collective effort to strengthen Canada’s geospatial capabilities and address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. This is your chance to network, collaborate, and influence the future of geospatial technologies in Canada.

Meet the Co-Chairs of the OGC Canada Forum

We are proud to introduce the esteemed co-chairs of the OGC Canada Forum, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, driving innovation and collaboration in Canada's geospatial sector.

Paul Churcher
Chief of Site and Infrastructure Data, Department of National Defense
Connect with Paul on LinkedIn

Ryan Ahola
Environmental Scientist, Natural Resources Canada
With extensive experience in environmental science, Ryan Ahola plays a crucial role at Natural Resources Canada, focusing on advancing geospatial initiatives that support sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn

Bradford Dean
GIS Manager, Mohawk Council of Kahnawake
Bradford Dean leads GIS efforts at the Mohawk Council of Kahnawake, where his work is integral to the community's planning, development, and resource management strategies. His expertise in GIS technology fosters innovative solutions for Indigenous communities.
Connect with Bradford on LinkedIn

Aurelian Constantinescu
Project Manager, R&D Programs and Relations with Higher Education Institutions, CAE Inc.
Aurelian Constantinescu excels in managing research and development programs, fostering partnerships with higher education institutions to advance cutting-edge geospatial technologies. His leadership at CAE Inc. drives the integration of academic research with practical applications.
Connect with Aurelian on LinkedIn

Andy Hoggarth
Vice President Product Strategy and Site Director, Fredericton, Teledyne
At Teledyne, Andy Hoggarth oversees product strategy and operations, leveraging his deep expertise to guide the development of innovative geospatial products and solutions. His strategic vision is vital to Teledyne’s leadership in the industry.
Connect with Andy on LinkedIn