Explore the Power of Earth Observation at GeoIgnite 2025: Key Sessions and Keynotes

GeoIgnite 2025, Canada’s premier geospatial conference, is packed with insightful sessions that focus on Earth Observation (EO) and how it’s shaping the future of industries like climate resilience, urban planning, and disaster management. The event, taking place May 12-14, 2025, at the Ottawa Conference and Event Centre, will bring together experts and leaders to explore the cutting-edge technology that’s driving sustainability and economic progress.

Here’s a glimpse of some of the impactful EO-focused sessions that will be featured:

How Space Can Help Canada in an Uncertain World

May 14, 9:00 AM
By Brian Gallant, CEO, Space Canada

In a world where geopolitical shifts are creating new challenges, Canada must leverage its space capabilities to stay ahead. Brian Gallant’s keynote will explore how the country can navigate the complexities of the emerging global space economy and how space can help solve geopolitical and national challenges, positioning Canada for success in this rapidly evolving sector.

From Satellites to Small Island Developing States: Harnessing the Power of Earth Observations for Societal Good

May 14, 9:30 AM
By Dr. Nikelene Mclean, Associate, Reseau Consulting

In this session, Dr. Nikelene Mclean will discuss how Earth Observations can help Small Island Developing States (SIDS) address climate change impacts, such as sea level rise and coastal hazards. Using EO, these nations can make informed decisions to protect their ecosystems and communities from the threats posed by environmental degradation.

Satellite Earth Observation for Mapping and Assessing Terrestrial Water Dynamics

May 14, 10:00 AM
By Shusen Wang, Senior Research Scientist, Natural Resources Canada

Shusen Wang will present innovations in water research, showcasing how satellite Earth observations are used to track surface water mapping, water volume changes, groundwater recharge, and extreme weather events such as droughts and floods. These insights are essential for managing water resources in Canada’s ever-changing climate.

PANEL: Unlocking the Power of EO and AI through Collaboration and Partnerships

May 14, 11:15 AM
Moderator: Keith J. Masback, Principal Consultant, Plum Run LLC
Panelists: Nadine Alameh, Executive Director Taylor Geospatial Institute; Kevin Jones, Vice President, Catalyst; Nicholas Kellett, Founder & CEO Deploy Software Solutions

This panel will discuss the transformative role of Earth Observations (EO) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in tackling global challenges. Panelists will explore the potential for collaboration and partnerships to unlock the full capabilities of EO and AI, from enhancing economic intelligence to addressing climate change impacts and global trade dynamics.

Navigating the Future: Generative AI for Enhanced Geospatial Data Quality on AWS

May 14, 12:15 PM
By Phil Cooper, Global Geospatial Lead, Amazon Web Services

Phil Cooper will discuss how AWS is leveraging generative AI to improve geospatial data quality, enabling more accurate, repeatable, and impactful global data models. This session will explore the convergence of AI and EO data to drive innovation in industries ranging from urban planning to disaster response.

How Aerial Thermal Infrared Mapping Can Improve Monitoring the Health of Vertical Support Heat Pipes Along the Trans Alaska Pipeline System

May 14, 2:00 PM
By Mousa Diabat, Technical Domain Expert, NV5 Geospatial and Benjamin Krause, Flight Acquisition Manager, NV5

This presentation will delve into innovative thermal infrared technology and image recognition techniques used to monitor the vertical support heat pipes along the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System. The talk will showcase how this method significantly improves efficiency in monitoring critical infrastructure, especially in challenging permafrost regions.

Unlocking Sustainability: AI-Ready Earth Observation Data & Foundation Models

May 14, 2:30 PM
By Chris Rampersad, Vice President, EarthDaily

Chris Rampersad will introduce the concept of foundation models in Earth Observation (EO) and how they’re transforming sustainability efforts across sectors. By using AI-ready EO datasets, this session will focus on creating scalable, efficient solutions for agriculture, climate resilience, and biodiversity monitoring.

Open Building Population Layer for Canada: A Game-Changer in High-Resolution Population Data

May 14, 3:00 PM
By Maxim Fortin, Geospatial Expert

Maxim Fortin will present the innovative Open Building Population Layer for Canada, a tool that offers granular population estimates at the building level. This session will demonstrate how the tool is revolutionizing urban planning, disaster management, and environmental assessments across the country.

These sessions represent the forefront of Earth Observation technology and its application to solving global challenges. GeoIgnite 2025 offers a unique opportunity to gain insights from industry leaders, collaborate with experts, and explore the future of EO and AI technologies.

Don’t miss out! Get your tickets today.

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