Lessons Learned: Building A Defence Tech Ecosystem in Canada

​Join us for an exclusive panel discussion exploring the future of defence technology in Canada. This timely conversation will bring together leading voices from the military, industry, and innovation sectors to examine how Canada can learn from global experience, avoid past pitfalls, and design next-generation systems that strengthen sovereign capabilities in a rapidly evolving security landscape.

​Date: Wednesday, October 15, 2025

​Time: 3:30 PM – 7:00 PM (Panel Discussion), followed by a Reception

​Location: Ottawa, ON (exact venue to be shared with confirmed attendees)

​Event Schedule

​3:30 PM – 5:00 PM | Panel Discussion
A forward-looking dialogue on how Canada can shape the next generation of defence innovation.
Distinguished Panelists:

• ​General (Ret’d) Wayne Eyre – Former Chief of the Defence Staff, Canadian Armed Forces

• ​Eliot Pence – Founder, Dominion Dynamics

• ​Zach Shore – Chief Revenue Officer, Hermeus

• ​Francis Conole - CENTCOM Strategy Director, Anduril Industries

​Moderated by:
The Hon. Erin O’Toole – Former Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada

​5:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Reception
A post-panel networking reception offering an opportunity to connect with senior leaders across government, industry, and academia in an informal setting.

​This gathering will provide a rare opportunity to engage directly with leaders shaping Canada’s role in the future of defence technology. A reception will follow the discussion, offering the chance to connect with fellow leaders across government, industry, and academia.

​Due to limited capacity, attendance is by invitation only. Event details, including the exact location, will be shared upon confirmation of participation.