Calgary’s aerospace and defense sector are gaining momentum alongside its dominant oil and gas industry. The city is home to 158 companies in this field, contributing $3.1 billion to the province’s GDP in 2024, as per Calgary Economic Development.
Jeff LaFrenz, president of VizWorX, emphasized the significant but often overlooked defense and aerospace activities happening in Calgary. He highlighted how the energy sector typically overshadows aerospace advancements.
Recently, Boeing, in collaboration with Ottawa and Calgary Economic Development, announced a funding initiative to accelerate the commercialization of Canadian-made defense technologies and support local companies in finding new clients in the industry. This initiative aligns with Boeing’s commitment to invest in Canadian aerospace and defense, as mandated by a contract with Ottawa.
Within the aviation realm, Calgary has seen a flurry of developments. WestJet, headquartered in Calgary, placed its largest-ever aircraft order. Additionally, Lufthansa Technik and Canadian Aviation Electronics (CAE) announced major investments in aircraft maintenance and aviation training facilities in the city. De Havilland Canada is set to establish a new manufacturing facility near Calgary.
Nicole Holinaty, a director at HeavyAero, emphasized the interconnectedness of commercial and defense aerospace sectors. She highlighted the challenge of navigating the complexities of becoming a defense contractor and expressed optimism that the Boeing initiative would facilitate network expansion.
The industry faces a human resources challenge, with an aging engineering workforce. Neil Sweeney, vice-president of De Havilland Canada, stressed the importance of attracting new talent to propel sector growth.
While Calgary may not yet rival Montreal as a major aerospace hub, industry experts believe the city is progressing. However, the sector’s expansion hinges on cultivating a skilled workforce through dedicated post-secondary training programs.
With Ottawa’s increased defense spending and focus on Canadian industrial benefits, there is optimism for sector growth in Calgary and Alberta. LaFrenz emphasized the province’s potential to excel in aerospace and defense if stakeholders unite in their efforts.