Steve Slusarenko, Executive Chair of the Sumdex initiative, which is working on developing a national building information/geospatial model of underground infrastructure in Canada. This activity modelled on the United Kingdom’s National Underground Registry. The UK government recognized that this approach to “smart” geo-built environments saved billions in costs and accelerated innovation and productivity in Canada. It is also heavily dependent on the development of new and advanced approaches to interoperable data.
Sessions in which Steve Slusarenko participates
Wednesday 14 May, 2025
Spatial data and related technologies have long powered the disciplines of geomatics (and its many names likes geospatial, hydrospatial) and buiilding information management. These disciplines have enabled people to better understand the natural world, the built infrastructure we place upon it, and, increasingly, the relationships between the two. The various goods and services provided by these different "spatial" communities has been global in nature and have provided eco...
Sessions in which Steve Slusarenko attends
Monday 12 May, 2025
This open forum invites all attendees to engage in discussions on Canada’s path toward greater self-reliance in the geospatial sector, particularly in light of emerging trade conflicts, including the recent U.S. tariffs, and evolving global geopolitical shifts. The forum will explore strategies to strengthen Canada’s technological capabilities and reduce reliance on external sources, with a focus on fostering innovation, security, and growth.
Join us for a thought-provoking lunchtime discussion where we explore the evolving landscape of Canada’s geospatial industry while enjoying a delicious meal.The concept of Two Solitudes has long symbolized the cultural and linguistic divide between English and French Canada, but how does this idea still resonate within our geospatial ecosystem to...
Tuesday 13 May, 2025
Mini Continental BreakfastGeoIgnite is delighted to offer a selection of chilled fruit juices, freshly baked croissants, muffins, and breakfast pastries, served with butter and preserves. Guests can also enjoy fruit cocktails and yogurt. Available beverages include coffee, tea, and decaffeinated coffee.
For decades, Canada’s geospatial ecosystem has thrived on deep integration with the U.S., benefiting from shared technology, markets, and collaboration. But today, shifting geopolitical and economic realities—trade conflicts, supply chain vulnerabilities, and data sovereignty concerns—are forcing us to rethink this reliance. The question is no longer whether we should adapt, but how.
Dr. Nadine Alameh, the inaugural Executive Director of the Taylor Geospatial Institute, has been leading an ambitious effort to accelerate geospatial research for tackling today’s biggest challenges—climate, disasters, health, and national security. In this session, she will reflect on what it takes to build a truly impactful geospatial ecosystem, challenge assumptions about the roles of national mapping agencies, academia, and nonprofi...
In 2006, British mathematician Clive Humby declared that data was the new oil. Soon after there was a significant rush around the world to embrace a data revolution to try and improve humanity’s social, economic and environmental well being. Twenty-years later, the hard work of data continues. Like Canadian oil and gas, it is for the most part – a landlocked asset; unable to push us to the next levels of productivity and innovation. This keynote looks at ...
Top technical performers are often promoted into leadership roles, yet many struggle. In AI-driven, data-intensive industries, expertise alone is not enough—leaders must also navigate complexity, inspire teams, and drive execution. Without these skills, organizations face decision paralysis, disengaged teams, and stalled innovation.Senior leaders know that competency is crucial—technical excellence is the foundation of succes...
Enjoy a satisfying lunch inspired by classic Italian flavors. Begin with artisanal garlic focaccia and a classic Caesar salad with creamy dressing, croutons, and bacon bits. A medley of olives and marinated mushrooms adds a savory touch.For the main course, enjoy chicken scallopini glazed with a lemon caper sauce, served alongside potato gnocchi in a tomato and basil sa...
At GeoIgnite 2025, Alexander will explore how Canada's geospatial community is uniquely positioned to lead in developing solutions to environmental challenges in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. Drawing on compelling case studies from around the globe, including successful Dutch-Canadian collaborations, he will demonstrate how geospatial technologies are becoming indispensable tools for environmental monitoring, climate resilience planning, and sustainable...
Keith J. Masback is one of the most respected voices in the field of geospatial intelligence (GEOINT), with over three decades of leadership spanning the U.S. government, military, and private sector. His deep expertise in remote sensing, intelligence, and national security has positioned him at the forefront of how geospatial data is used for strategic decision-making.As the former CEO of the United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF) and a senior leader at the National ...
A seasoned leader in geomatics and Earth Observation with two decades of experience in the federal government, Eric Loubier has vast expertise in developing and implementing national geomatics and Earth observation strategies. In his talk, Eric will explore the integration of AI with Earth observation, and how this powerful combination is transforming Canada’s approach to addressing critical national issues like climate change, natural resource management, urban planning, and disaster response.
GET YOUR TICKETMORE PURCHASING OPTIONSJoin us for an exclusive Networking Party at the Canada Science & Technology Museum as part of the 2025 buildingSMART Canada National...
Wednesday 14 May, 2025
Mini Continental BreakfastGeoIgnite is delighted to offer a selection of chilled fruit juices, freshly baked croissants, muffins, and breakfast pastries, served with butter and preserves. Guests can also enjoy fruit cocktails and yogurt. Available beverages include coffee, tea, and decaffeinated coffee.
As the built asset industry embraces digital transformation, the integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Digital Twin technologies is redefining how we manage the built environment. While BIM facilitates data-rich 3D modeling during design and construction, Digital Twins extend this functionality into operations, enabling real-time insights and lifecycle optimization.Attendees will gain insights into buildingSMART Canada’s initiatives supporting this integration, its ali...
This session unveils the findings of this groundbreaking report, which builds on international research and best practices in digital construction from countries leading in BIM and data standards. Central to the roadmap is the use of OpenBIM principles to ensure compatibility, transparency, and collaboration across diverse systems and stakeholders. The report outlines strategies to enhance data management, improve BIM compatibility, achieve interoperability within Common Data Environments (CD...
The presentation focuses on the challenges of applying ISO 19650 to National Defence and Defence Construction Canada, examining the current status and progress, as well as the obstacles still faced. It highlights the key challenges of becoming a knowledgeable owner while aligning National Defence practices with ISO19650, with support from other stakeholders and partners through research, innovation, and collaboration. The importance of OpenBIM in this context is emphasized, as it plays a crit...
