Northern
Transportation
Conference 2026
19-20 February 2026
Featured Voices of the North – Potential Speakers
The Northern Transportation Conference brings together leaders shaping the future of Arctic and northern development—from infrastructure builders and Indigenous leadership to national security experts, innovators, and transportation operators. Our invited speakers represent the full ecosystem required to strengthen Canada’s northern sovereignty, supply chains, and economic resilience.
Carlos Castillo
Carlos Castillo is Vice-President, Northern Division at Perimeter Aviation, based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. With nearly 25 years in northern aviation, he leads northern airport operations and advances government and Indigenous relations.
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Carlos previously guided Perimeter’s 200+ staff commercial group through the company’s largest and fastest growth period, helping double the organization in size. Known across northern aviation, Indigenous advocacy and leadership circles as a dependable ally, he is recognized for delivering results through strong partnerships, collaboration, and action.
Dan Kuenstler
Dan Kuenstler is a Partner with Dillon and a professional civil engineer with over 27 years of experience designing and administering contracts for a wide range of transportation and civil infrastructure projects.
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Dan coordinates interdisciplinary teams on assignments ranging from feasibility studies through preliminary and detailed design phases to wide-area infrastructure development. Through his hands-on experience managing some of Canada’s largest remote transportation projects, Dan has gained a solid understanding of how to listen to what affected communities have to share about their aspirations and dreams; develop and implement Indigenous Traditional Knowledge studies; and design transportation solutions and strategies that implement communities’ plans to accomplish their goals.
Ross Prentice
Ross Prentice is a Winnipeg-based transportation and logistics executive with more than 25 years of experience in intermodal freight and supply chain operations.
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He is the CEO of Buoyant Aircraft Systems International (BASI), where he leads the development of cargo airship and advanced ground-handling technologies aimed at improving reliability, safety, and cost efficiency for remote and northern communities. His work spans applied R&D, infrastructure planning, and logistics operations, with a focus on practical, scalable solutions that strengthen resilient transportation networks across Canada.
Daniel Blizzard
Daniel Blizzard is the founder of D. Blizzard Integrated Services Inc. and comes from a multi-generational background in industrial wood products and access solutions. His family’s experience in sawmill design and operations dates back to WWII-era Europe, later expanding into large-scale timber mat and bridge production for military and infrastructure applications in North America.
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With over two decades of experience in the industrial timber supply chain, Daniel has built and operated contract programs supplying more than 700 million board feet of commodity lumber across Canada and the United States. He has led cross-border sourcing and logistics for industrial timber products, including access mats, rig mats, bridges, and engineered solutions supporting large-scale infrastructure, energy, and northern access projects.
Today, Daniel focuses on sustainable access solutions for remote and challenging environments, delivering turnkey access systems used coast-to-coast across Canada and throughout the U.S. His work supports critical transportation, resource development, and northern infrastructure projects, helping organizations safely and efficiently operate in complex terrain.
Dr. Alex Crawford
Dr. Alex Crawford is an assistant professor in the Department of Environment and Geography at the University of Manitoba and a researcher at the Centre for Earth Observation Science.
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He uses a combination of observational and climate modeling techniques to improve our understanding of seasonal sea ice, extreme weather events, and their responses to long-term global warming. Much of his recent work has focused on improving projections of future sea ice conditions in Hudson Bay.
Dr. Andrea Charron
Dr. Andrea Charron is Director of the Centre for Defence and Security Studies and Professor of International Relations at the University of Manitoba.
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She holds a PhD from the Royal Military College of Canada (Department of War Studies). She writes extensively on Arctic security, NATO, NORAD, and Canadian defence policy. She is coauthor of NORAD: In Perpetuity and Beyond (MQUP, 2022), coeditor of The Legacy of 9/11: Views from North America (MQUP, 2023), and has authored several works on sanctions.
Dr. Barry E. Prentice
Dr. Barry E. Prentice is a Professor of Supply Chain Management at the I.H. Asper School of Business, University of Manitoba, and Director of the Transport Institute. His major research and teaching interests include logistics, transportation economics, northern transport, and trade policy.
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Dr. Prentice holds degrees in economics from the University of Western Ontario (1973), the University of Guelph (1979), and the University of Manitoba (1986). National Transportation Week named him Manitoba Transportation Person of the Year in 1999. He was instrumental in founding the Department of Supply Chain Management in 2003, which now offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in this field.
In 2009, Dr. Prentice was made an Honourary Life Member of the Canadian Transportation Research Forum. Since 2015, he has been a Fellow in Transportation at the Northern Policy Institute. He has served on boards and expert committees and is frequently asked to comment on trade and transportation topics.
James Bond
Based in Ottawa, Canada, James Bond is Director of the Icebreaker Centre of Excellence with Chantier Davie Canada Inc. (Davie). Involvement in polar shipping has been a theme throughout his 40+ year career.
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James joined Davie in late 2025 after 15 years at the American Bureau of Shipping. He represented the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) at the IMO on the Polar Code, was a member of the IACS project team that created the Polar Class structural rules, and chaired the IACS Expert Group for the Polar Code.
He is a University of Waterloo graduate, a registered Professional Engineer, and a Fellow of the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers.
Hon. Dr. Lloyd Axworthy
Lloyd Axworthy P.C., C.C., O.M. chairs the Winnipeg Rail Study Group and is a former Minister of Transport. He is past chair of the World Refugee and Migration Council, an international body established to develop solutions to challenges in the global refugee system.
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He serves on the Board of Governors of Humanities and Inclusion and is past Chair of CUSO International. He has also served on the boards of the MacArthur Foundation, Human Rights Watch, and the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD).
From 2004 to 2014, Dr. Axworthy was President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Winnipeg, where he pioneered community learning programs for Indigenous and low-income youth. He served seven years as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba and twenty-one years as an elected member of the Canadian Parliament, holding several Cabinet posts including Minister of Employment and Immigration, Western Diversification, and Minister of Foreign Affairs.
As Minister of Foreign Affairs, he advanced the Human Security agenda, including the Treaty on Anti-Personnel Landmines, the International Criminal Court, the Protocol on Child Soldiers, and the Responsibility to Protect. In 1997, he was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for his work on banning landmines. He received Princeton University’s James Madison Medal for outstanding public service in 2001 and was appointed to the Order of Canada in 2002, becoming a Companion—the highest rank of the Order—in 2016.
Dr. Axworthy holds a BA from the University of Winnipeg and a PhD from Princeton University, and has received sixteen honorary doctorates. He published Navigating a New World in 2004, and his memoir Lloyd Axworthy: My Life in Politics was released in October 2024.
Elder Norman Meade
As the long-serving Elder with the Indigenous Student Centre, Elder Meade has provided steady guidance, cultural grounding, and a warm presence across campuses. His support for the Asper School of Business has been deeply appreciated by faculty, staff, and students alike.
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Elder Meade’s teachings and openings consistently set a meaningful tone rooted in respect, relationships, and the responsibilities we hold within our communities and institutions.
Commander Norm Normand, MBA, PCSC, CD
Cdr. Normand is an active-duty Naval Logistician for the Royal Canadian Navy and has written extensively on the use of airships to connect the northernmost regions of Canada to the rest of the country to support sovereignty, improve living standards, and unlock Canada’s stranded mineral wealth.
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He is currently working with Defence Research and Development Canada to produce an “IDEaS” (Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security) challenge to industry focused on advancing airship-enabled logistics for northern connectivity and sovereignty objectives.
Papa-Masseck Thiam, P.Eng., M.Sc., M.Eng., PMP®
Papa-Masseck Thiam has over 15 years of experience in pavement engineering and transportation geotechnics. He holds a bachelor’s degree and two master’s degrees in civil engineering from Université Laval and Polytechnique Montréal, and currently serves as a Senior Research Engineer and Project Manager in the Transportation and Infrastructure Department at FPInnovations.
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His research focuses on the interaction between heavy vehicle loads, climate, and transportation infrastructure, as well as the impacts of climate change on infrastructure performance. He is a member of the Canadian Taskforce on Vehicle Weights and Dimensions, the Transportation Research Board (TRB), and the Bearing Capacity of Roads, Railways and Airfields (BCRRA).
As a board member of the International Conference on Heavy Vehicles, Heavy Vehicle Transport Technology (HVTT), he has contributed to improving road networks in remote areas across Canada. Papa-Masseck remains actively involved in academia as a lecturer at Université Laval and the Royal Military College of Canada. He holds a Project Management Professional (PMP®) certification from PMI and received the Young Transportation Professional Award from the Transportation Association of Canada (TAC) in 2019.
Todd Burns
Todd Burns is the Founder and CEO of Cypher Environmental Ltd., a Winnipeg-based cleantech company whose sustainable road and dust control solutions are used in over 50 countries worldwide. A visionary entrepreneur and committed ESG advocate, he focuses on delivering environmental, social, and economic impact across transportation, infrastructure, forestry, aviation, and mining sectors.
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Under his leadership, Cypher has become a trusted partner for organizations seeking cost-effective, environmentally responsible solutions for road management and dust mitigation. He personally developed the company’s tagline, “Always do what’s right,” which guides the company’s decisions and culture.
Todd is actively engaged with industry and policy platforms, contributing to initiatives that promote responsible practices, innovation, and sustainable economic growth. He is an active member of the Mining Association of Canada and ReThink Mining, and regularly contributes to key industry platforms including CIM, MSTA Canada, and PDAC.
He has also served in advisory roles for the Government of Canada’s Global Cleantech Advisory Group and the Global Hypergrowth Project selection committee, helping drive growth and sustainable economic development in Canada.
Yousif Jabak
Yousif Jabak is a civil engineer, digital delivery specialist, and entrepreneur based in Montréal. With over a decade of experience in large-scale infrastructure and heavy-civil projects, he has provided consulting support to major players in the energy sector across Canada.
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His expertise spans ISO 19650–aligned information management, 4D BIM, model coordination, and data-driven project controls, enabling teams to make informed decisions throughout the project lifecycle. Alongside his consulting work, Yousif has contributed to initiatives across digital engineering, web design, and industrial access solutions. He is known for a practical, systems-level approach that bridges engineering, data, and execution to improve collaboration and support informed decision-making on complex infrastructure and energy projects.
Renee Greyeyes
Renee Greyeyes is Chief Executive Officer of the Manitoba Prospectors & Developers Association (MPDA). A member of Peguis First Nation in Treaty 1 territory and of Ukrainian heritage, she brings a cross-cultural lens to mineral development and works at the intersection of Indigenous governance and industry strategy within the critical minerals sector.
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Renee previously served as President & CEO of the Indigenous Chamber of Commerce in Manitoba and now leads MPDA at a pivotal moment in the province’s mineral development landscape. She is widely recognized for navigating complex jurisdictional environments and shaping economic development strategies that respect Indigenous governance priorities while strengthening early-stage engagement and long-term project viability.
Her leadership emphasizes mutual accountability and practical pathways toward shared economic benefit. In her lecture, From Consultation to Co-Design: The Next Era of Critical Mineral Development, Renee explores how the sector can move beyond compliance-driven consultation toward structured co-design and early alignment—improving project outcomes, strengthening investor confidence, and creating durable economic opportunity for Indigenous Nations and the broader economy.
Scott Woodward
Scott Woodward currently serves as Commercial Manager at Custom Helicopters Ltd., guiding commercial strategy and client relationships across diverse rotary-wing operations.
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He previously spent more than 10 years with Perimeter Aviation, advancing into senior business development roles where he supported key accounts, revenue growth, and community-focused aviation services across Manitoba and Ontario’s northern regions. Earlier in his career, Scott gained experience with a private charter operator in Toronto, shaping his customer-driven approach to aviation.
Andrew Grant
Andrew Grant is Vice President of Cargo at Calm Air, with 10 years of experience in the aviation industry, including six years working directly in logistics and supply chains in northern Manitoba and Nunavut.
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He holds professional pilot’s licenses in South Africa, Namibia, and Canada, and focuses on improving air cargo operations and transportation into northern and remote communities.
Ryan McEachern
Ryan McEachern is the Managing Director of the Mining Suppliers Trade Association Canada (MSTA CANADA) and is responsible for administration, member services, and government relations for the association. He brings over 30 years of experience across the Canadian and international mining industry.
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His background includes roles with multinational mining companies, investment banking, and global manufacturing and drilling services firms. Mr. McEachern holds an MBA from Wilfrid Laurier University, a Bachelor of Science (Geology) from Lakehead University, and is recognized as a Professional Geologist in Ontario.
Chris Avery
Chris Avery is President & CEO of the Arctic Gateway Group (AGG), an Indigenous- and community-owned organization that owns and operates the Hudson Bay Railway and the Port of Churchill. He brings over 25 years of leadership experience in the transportation industry.
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Since his appointment in July 2024, Chris has championed Churchill and the railway as critical Canadian infrastructure that unlocks new economic opportunities for northern Manitoba and strengthens national supply chains.
As former President & CEO of Canadian North and First Air, Chris led the successful merger and integration of the two airlines. Prior to this, he spent 13 years at WestJet in senior leadership roles and also held management positions with Alaska Airlines and other travel and transportation organizations.
Chris holds a Bachelor of Economics from Western University and an MBA from the John Molson School of Business at Concordia University.
The Honourable Rebecca Chartrand
The Honourable Rebecca Chartrand is Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, and represents the riding of Churchill—Keewatinook Aski. She is an Anishinaabe, Inninew, and Métis leader elected to Parliament in April 2025.
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Appointed to Cabinet in May 2025, she became the first Indigenous woman to hold the Northern and Arctic Affairs portfolio and the first First Nations woman from Manitoba appointed to Cabinet. For 25 years, her career was in education, holding senior leadership roles in K–12 and post-secondary institutions and serving as Vice President of Indspire.
A nationally recognized advocate for Indigenous inclusion and cultural revitalization, she has served on boards including the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba, the Canadian Museum of Nature, and the Indigenous Education Advisory Council. She founded the Manitoba Aboriginal Education Awards and the Council for Indigenous Education in Manitoba (now Full Circle).
Her cultural leadership includes leading the creation of Manitoba’s first Ojibwe bilingual school (2016) and guiding Seven Oaks School Division’s development of the province’s first anti-racism education policy. She is also a musician and playwright; her award-winning album Onjida and her play Those Damn Squaws reflect her commitment to Indigenous storytelling, healing, and truth-telling. She brings deep experience in Indigenous education, community development, and cultural leadership to her role, championing reconciliation, infrastructure investment, and economic opportunity across the North.
Infrastructure & Maritime Development
James Bond – Davies Shipyard
Advancing Canada’s national shipbuilding capacity and Arctic maritime readiness.Chris Avery, CEO, President & CEO, Arctic Gateway Group
Revitalizing critical rail corridors connecting communities and global markets.Carlos Castillo – Perimeter Air
Delivering essential air connectivity across remote and northern regions.TBA – Helicopters
Aerial logistics and rapid response in challenging northern environments.
Security, Sovereignty & Policy
Dr. Andrea Charron – Centre for Defence and Security Studies, University of Manitoba
Arctic security, NORAD modernization, and Canada’s geopolitical role.Norm Normand – Department of National Defence
Northern operations and defence infrastructure requirements.Hon. Dr. Lloyd Axworthy
Former Minister of Foreign Affairs – Arctic diplomacy and global cooperation.Hon. Rebecca Chartrand – Minister of Northern & Arctic Affairs
Federal priorities for northern communities and economic development.
Resources, Environment & Innovation
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Papa-Masseck Thiam, FP Innovations Adapting Road Infrastructure to Northern Climate Change Impacts: Progress, Research Gaps and Future Perspectives
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Todd Burns – Cypher Environmental Inc.
Sustainable road and infrastructure technologies for fragile ecosystems. -
Dr. Alex Crawford – Centre for Earth Observation Science
Climate impacts, permafrost change, and infrastructure resilience. - Dan Kuenstler, Partner, Dillon Consulting Limited
Engineering & Sovereignty in the Ring of Fire
Access, Mobility & Emerging Technologies
Daniel Blizzard – Dan Blizzard Integrated Services Inc.
Ground access solutions and matting systems for remote construction.Ross Prentice – Buoyant Aircraft Systems International
Next-generation cargo airships for Arctic freight mobility.Yousif Jabak –
Digital delivery, BIM, and data-driven infrastructure planning in the North.
What you will get
Our Values
Hear From Leading Experts
Gain direct insights from national leaders in northern infrastructure, Arctic logistics, climate resilience, Indigenous governance, and critical minerals development. Learn what’s coming next — before it hits policy or industry agendas.
Understand Real-World Challenges
Explore the impacts of melting permafrost, unstable ice roads, shifting Arctic shipping routes, and infrastructure vulnerabilities — with practical engineering and policy solutions from those working on the front lines.
Take Part in Strategic Discussions
Join high-level conversations with government officials, industry strategists, researchers, and northern communities. Help shape Canada’s future approach to transportation, trade corridors, and northern sovereignty.
Build Powerful Human Connections
Network with decision-makers, innovators, Indigenous leaders, and experts from across Canada’s North. Create partnerships that drive real transportation, infrastructure, and economic development opportunities.
"Northern transportation isn’t just infrastructure — it’s sovereignty, security, and the backbone of Canada’s next economy."
AGENDA preview below, subject to change. CONFIRMED DATES: FEBRUARY 19-20 2026
Reserve Your Spot Today
Join leaders, innovators, and experts shaping the future of Northern transportation, climate resilience, and Arctic infrastructure.
19-20 February 2026
Where
St John’s College
92 Dysart Road
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, MB R3T 2M5 Canada
When
Thursday & Friday
February 19-20 2026
Sponsored By
