GeoIgnite 2025 Keynotes: Shaping Canada’s Geospatial Future

GeoIgnite 2025 is fast approaching and it’s shaping up to be an essential event for those in the Canadian geospatial industry. This year’s keynotes will feature a series of high-level discussions that dive deep into the most pressing challenges and opportunities in geospatial technology, from Canada’s digital sovereignty to climate change and AI advancements. Industry leaders and experts will share their insights on how Canada can adapt, innovate, and lead in the global geospatial ecosystem.

The premier conference, known as Canada’s National Geospatial Leadership Conference, is taking place from May 12-14, 2025, at the Ottawa Conference and Event Centre.

If you haven’t registered yet, be sure to secure your tickets for GeoIgnite 2025 here.

Get ready for valuable insights, actionable strategies, and expert perspectives as we explore the future of Canada’s geospatial landscape at GeoIgnite 2025. Here’s a look at the keynote sessions you wouldn’t want to miss!

Beyond Borders: Charting Canada’s Geospatial Future in a Shifting World

May 13, 8:20 AM
By Jonathan Murphy, Founder and CEO, GoGeomatics Canada

Canada’s geospatial sector has long thrived through integration with the U.S., but shifting geopolitical realities, including trade conflicts and data sovereignty concerns, now force a re-evaluation of this reliance. Jonathan Murphy will explore Canada’s geospatial legacy, its potential to forge new global partnerships, expand into emerging markets, and drive homegrown innovation.

Towards a More Efficient, More Impactful Geospatial Ecosystem

May 13, 9:00 AM
By Dr. Nadine Alameh, Executive Director, Taylor Geospatial Institute

Nadine will reflect on building a more impactful geospatial ecosystem, challenging assumptions about the roles of national mapping agencies and nonprofits. She will explore why the geospatial sector continues to face barriers and share why applying AI in geospatial technology is more complex than most realize, highlighting both challenges and opportunities.

CHS: Dynamic Products and Services in a Digital World

May 13, 9:30 AM
By Manon Larocque, Director General, Hydrographer General of Canada, Canadian Hydrographic Service

Canada’s vast coastline requires dynamic hydrography to support maritime safety and shipping. Manon Larocque will provide an overview of the work underway at the Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS) as it embraces emerging technologies for e-navigation, autonomous shipping, and digital hydrography. This session will highlight the future of hydrographic services in Canada.

Canadian Data at the Crossroads: The Need for ‘Other Pipelines’

May 13, 10:45
By Prashant Shukle, Member of the Board of Directors, buildingSMART Canada, and Board Chair, OGC

Prashant Shukle will dive into how Canada is at a data and technology crossroads, stressing the importance of geospatial data. This keynote will explore how Canada needs to invest in data infrastructure to compete globally and enhance its productivity and innovation in the data economy.

Will AI Eat Geospatial? Challenges and Opportunities for the Industry

May 13, 11:15 AM
By Peter Rabley, CEO, Open Geospatial Consortium

Peter Rabley will explore how AI, cloud computing, and data sovereignty concerns are reshaping the geospatial industry. The keynote will address how countries can ensure their data remains accessible, secure, and impactful, while also emphasizing the critical need for standardized frameworks and effective data-sharing protocols to foster global collaboration and drive innovation across industries.

The Leadership Gap: Why Technical Mastery Alone Won’t Sustain Your Organization’s Future

May 13, 11:45 AM
By Gregory Burt, Strategic Advisor in Leadership and Organizational Strategy, and Alain Gauthier, Leadership Coach and Strategic Advisor

Gregory Burt and Alain Gauthier will discuss how technical experts often struggle when promoted into leadership roles. This session will explore how technical mastery alone isn’t enough, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence, strategic vision, and leadership presence to drive organizational success.

The Intersection of Climate Change, Security, and Global Policy

May 13, 12:15 PM
By Alexander Verbeek, Policy Director, The Environment and Development Resource Centre

Alexander Verbeek will explore how Canada’s geospatial community is uniquely positioned to lead in developing solutions to environmental challenges in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. Drawing on compelling case studies from around the globe, including successful Dutch-Canadian collaborations, he will demonstrate how geospatial technologies are becoming indispensable tools for environmental monitoring, climate resilience planning, and sustainable resource management.

The Future of GEOINT

May 13, 2:00 PM
By Keith J. Masback, Principal Consultant, Plum Run LLC

Keith J. Masback will discuss the expanding role of geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) beyond national security, highlighting its applications in urban planning, climate resilience, disaster response, and resource management, and how it’s driving innovation in addressing global challenges.

Exploring the Potential of AI and Earth Observation to Tackle Critical National Challenges

May 13, 3:00 PM
By Éric Loubier, Director General, Canada Centre for Mapping and Earth Observation

Éric Loubier will explore how AI integration with Earth observation is transforming Canada’s approach to national issues such as climate change, resource management, and disaster response. He will highlight the potential of these technologies in shaping Canada’s future resilience.

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.

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with thought leaders and gain actionable insights that will shape the future of geospatial intelligence, Earth observation, and beyond. Be sure to attend and be part of the conversation on how we can navigate the complexities of our changing world with cutting-edge geospatial solutions.

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