Denis Hains to Chair the Hydrospatial Program at GeoIgnite 2025
Press Release
Ottawa, Canada — November 21, 2024
GoGeomatics Canada is proud to announce that Denis Hains has accepted to Chair the Hydrospatial Program for the 2025 edition of its flagship event, GeoIgnite.
The conference, widely recognized as Canada’s National Geospatial Leadership Conference, will take place from May 12-14, 2025, at the Ottawa Conference and Event Centre, bringing together leading experts, policymakers, and innovators in the geospatial domain.
Hains, a globally recognized leader in the Hydrospatial field, brings decades of experience and passion to this key role including being the former Director General of the Canadian Hydrographic Service. His recent recognition with the prestigious 2024 Sam Masry Award from the Canadian Hydrographic Association highlights his ongoing contributions to advancing hydrography and the hydrospatial sciences. Known as the foremost ‘Hydrospatial Influencer on LinkedIn’, Hains continues to shape the future of ocean mapping, geospatial and hydrospatial technologies, fostering collaboration and innovation.
“The Hydrospatial sector is at a pivotal moment where advances in technology, collaboration, and digital data integration are enabling us to tackle global challenges and create sustainable solutions for our oceans and waterways. As Chair of the Hydrospatial Program at GeoIgnite 2025, I am excited to bring together leaders, practitioners, and innovators to explore these advancements and shape the future of this transformative field,” said Hains.
Distinguished Keynote Speakers
GeoIgnite 2025 has already announced a distinguished lineup of keynote speakers who are driving innovation and impact in the geospatial and hydrospatial sector:
- Manon Larocque: Director General, Canadian Hydrographic Service, will deliver insights on Canada’s leadership in hydrospatial science.
- Keith J. Masback: Global geospatial intelligence leader and former CEO of the USGIF, will talk about shaping the future of GEOINT
- Dr. Nadine Alameh: Executive Director, Taylor Geospatial Institute, will discuss leading innovations in geospatial science
- Alexander Verbeek: Policy Director, The Environment and Development Resource Centre, will address the intersection of climate change and global security.
- Eric Loubier: Director General, Canada Centre for Mapping and Earth Observation, will share perspectives on advancing Canada’s geospatial infrastructure.
- Peter Rabley: CEO, Open Geospatial Consortium, will highlight progress in global geospatial standards.
- Denis Hains: Founder, President and CEO of H2i will share his vision of Hydrospatial challenges and opportunities.
Conference Theme
The 2025 conference will focus on forward-looking themes that reflect the dynamic intersection of technology and geospatial innovation:
- Hydrospatial = Hydrography++: Exploring the next generation of hydrospatial technologies and applications.
- GEOINT: Geomatics for the Public Good: Examining how geospatial intelligence can address societal challenges.
- Building the Future: Highlighting the convergence of BIM, GIS, indoor mapping, and digital twins.
“GeoIgnite is more than a conference; it’s a premier platform for collaboration, innovation, and leadership in the Canadian geospatial sector. With a dynamic lineup of speakers and engaging themes, GeoIgnite 2025 will inspire transformative conversations and drive meaningful change for Canada and the global geospatial community. We’re proud to bring the geospatial industry together to shape the future of this vital field,” said Jonathan Murphy, CEO and Founder, GoGeomatics Canada.
For more information about GeoIgnite 2025, including registration details and program updates, visit GeoIgnite website.
About GeoIgnite
GeoIgnite is Canada’s premier geospatial leadership conference, providing a platform for industry leaders, government representatives, and innovators to collaborate and shape the future of geospatial technologies. For more information, check out our website www. geoignite.ca
About GoGeomatics Canada
GoGeomatics Canada is the nation’s leading hub for the geospatial and geomatics sector, combining a vibrant community, industry-focused media, and professional networking. As the organizer of GeoIgnite and other leading events, GoGeomatics connects professionals, organizations, and innovators to drive the advancement of the geospatial industry in Canada. www.gogeomatics.ca
