LCol Jeff “Face” Coleman joined the CAF as a Primary Reserve Infantry NCM in 1999 as part of a high school Co-Op program in Hamilton, Ontario. After transferring from the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada to the Lorne Scots (Peel, Dufferin and Halton) Regiment and completing high school, he deployed to the Former Yugoslavia with 3 RCR in 2001. Upon completion of Op PALADIUM Roto 8, he component transferred to the Regular Force in order to attend ROTP RMC.

Graduating from RMC in 2006 with a degree in Physics and Space Science, LCol Coleman then completed Aerospace Control and NORAD readiness training as a Weapons Director. In 2007, he was posted to 42 Radar Sqn at 4 Wing Cold Lake as a Tactical Fighter Controller. LCol Coleman deployed to Op ATHENA (Task Force Kandahar) as a member of the Tactical Air Control Party in 2010. In 2011, he completed the Army Operations Course (AOC), and then was posted to 2 CMBG HQ in Petawawa as the Bde TACP and G3 Air.

In 2013, LCol Coleman qualified and certified as a Joint Terminal Attack Controller and worked both project management and training development within the TACP community along with his primary Brigade responsibilities. In 2016, he was posted to 1 Cdn Air Div HQ as a Senior Operations Duty Officer, and in 2017 became the Deputy Chief of Combat Operations. In 2019, he deployed to Kuwait as the DComd Air Task Force Op IMPACT, then returned to the CAOC as Division Training Chief and CAOC Modernization Officer.

In 2020, LCol Coleman completed a Masters in Aeronautical Science from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University with a specialization in Space Operations and Unmanned Systems. In 2021, he was posted to the Royal Military College and in 2022 he was promoted to his current rank, assumed the role of Deputy Director of Cadets and transferred into the Air Operations Officer trade. He is currently working towards a PhD in Physics and is a graduate supervisor of RMC’s upcoming Audimus Satellite launch.

Wendell C. Wiebe has been the Chief Executive Officer of Manitoba Aerospace Inc. since April 2016, following the Manitoba Aerospace Human Resources Council (MAHRC) merging with Manitoba Aerospace Association (MAA). Previous to the merger, Mr. Wiebe was the Executive Director of MAHRC, a position he had held since 2009.

Prior to joining MAHRC, Mr. Wiebe was employed by Magellan Aerospace, Winnipeg, for 17 years. His initial position was as the Manager of Staff Development where he was instrumental in creating an employee training and development system. On a number of occasions, his department was recognized for its innovative programs and collaborative approach. After 10 years of being responsible for the Training function, Mr. Wiebe was promoted to Director of Human Resources. Mr. Wiebe was Magellan Aerospace’s representative on the MAHRC Executive for 17 years and served as the Chair from 1999-2004.

He has been involved in adult education for over 30 years and holds a Masters of Education from the University of Manitoba. A highlight of his career was being asked to contribute to a book about adult literacy. The focus of his chapter was outlining the business case for the establishment of a workplace literacy program. The book, titled Adult Literacy Now, was published in 2000.

Master Warrant Officer Spencer Cass was born in Summerside, Prince Edward Island. In 2003, he completed and received his high school diploma prior to attending and graduating from St. Lawrence College, Kingston in 2005 with a Law and Security Administration diploma. He joined the Canadian Forces as a direct entry Airborne Electronic Sensor Operator (AES Op) on April 4, 2009. After completing BMQ he attended his Basic AES Op Qualification Course (BAQC) at 1 Canadian Forces Flying Training School (402 Squadron today), and in 2010 he was posted to 407 Sqn at 19 Wing Comox.

Pte Cass completed his Maritime Operation Aircrew Training (MOAT) course, in Greenwood Nova Scotia, qualifying as a sensor operator on the CP-140 Aurora in March 2011. Over the next 5 years at 407 Sqn, he enjoyed deploying all over the world conducting anti-submarine warfare, overland operations, drug interdiction operations, search and rescue missions, multi-national operations, and training exercises.

Promoted to Master Corporal in 2015, he was posted to 19 Wing Operational Support Squadron. In 2016, MCpl Cass deployed to Kuwait for six months as Sensor Support Lead, for OP IMPACT, earning him the General Service Medal.

In 2017, promoted to the rank of Sergeant, he was posted to 402 Sqn Winnipeg, as an instructor on the BAQC. During his time at 402 Sqn, he conducted the roles of Sensors Section Commander, and both AES Op Training Management Officer and Standards Officer. Notably, Sgt Cass deployed in 2019 on OP DISTINCTION to France as the Vigil Commander for the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of D-Day.

Upon completion of his tour at 402 Sqn in 2022, WO Cass was posted OUTCAN to a NATO affiliated unit, serving at Multi-National Division North-East in Elbląg Poland. Serving as a planner and staff assistant in the G5 Plans section, he was promoted to his current rank of Master Warrant Officer in December of 2023, and received his Special Service Medal – NATO.

I was born in Chile and came to Canada as a child. Since then, I’ve lived in Laval and Montreal. Most of my education was in French. I attended UQAM and graduated in 2016 with a bachelor’s degree in economics. Before that, I earned a certificate in Mechanical Drawing. After finishing my degree, I worked in finance on the operations side and in banking on the IT side.

During the COVID pandemic, I started a master’s in business Intelligence, which I completed with a thesis focused on machine learning and data science. At work, I’m an Excel nerd and passionate about anything that can be automated.

I have two brothers, one sister, and one half-sister. My only “child” is a cat, who now lives with my sister. I enjoy movies, reading, drawing, documentaries, and podcasts. As for sports, I love running, which I do as often as possible, going to the gym, and boxing—though it’s been a while. Recently, I started playing squash and (re)started rowing.

I joined the CAF in September 2024. After BMOQ, I was posted to Trenton. My OJE experience was first at the CMCC unit (at the beacon’s registry), I then moved to squadron 437.

I joined the Canadian Armed Forces as a CIC officer in 2022 and transferred to the Regular Force as an AOO in 2024.

I have a younger brother, and parents who are living in Canada; parents are living in Ontario, and my brother is living in British Columbia. My grandparents are living in South Korea.

My hobbies are listening to music and watching movies/shows. I also enjoy practicing Muay Thai and Taekwondo.

I joined the Canadian Armed Forces in October 2012 as a semi-skilled Aircraft Maintenance Technician, following the completion of my technical maintenance training in Montreal and prior experience in civilian aviation.

My military career began with the 425 Tactical Fighter Squadron, later transitioning to 433 Tactical Fighter Squadron upon its reactivation. During this period, I developed extensive technical expertise and participated in numerous multinational exercises in the United States, as well as operational deployments, including Operation REASSURANCE in 2017.

In pursuit of professional growth, I undertook a Voluntary Occupational Transfer (VOT) to become a Flight Engineer. In March 2019, I was posted to 430 Tactical Helicopter Squadron in Quebec City, where I continued to enhance my technical and operational competencies.

Later, in July 2024, I completed a second VOT to the Air Operations Officer (AOO) trade. Since then, I have been employed at the Operations Center, where I perform a wide range of tasks supporting mission planning, coordination, and execution.

Since September 2025, I have been attending the Air Operations Officer (AOO) course at Barker College to further develop my operational and leadership expertise.

Beyond my professional duties, I maintain a strong passion for aviation and actively volunteer at airshows whenever possible. I am married and the parent of two young adults, aged 16 and 18, both serving in the Naval Reserve.

Upon completion of my current course, I will be posted to Bagotville.

I grew up in the small town of Mississauga Ontario where I finished high school and continued my post secondary education in Medical University of Lublin, Poland. Currently my very nuclear family resides in Fort McMurray.

I joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 2019 and completed BMQ early 2020. I completed my QL3 Med Tech training in 2022 after the long COVID pause. After training I was posted to 31 CF H Svcs clinic and have been in Borden for my entire 5 years in the CAF. While at Borden, I was able to Deploy to Op Unifier 2023 Roto 15/16, where I got the opportunity to teach Ukrainians basic TCCC and first aid. I was also able to represent CFB Borden in the men’s volleyball base team. Once my offer came, I was given the opportunity to do OJE in 400 THS and then 408 THS as a duty officer before coming on course.

After course I will be posted to CFB Winnipeg – CAOC.

Lt Blanchette joined in 2019 as part of the ROTP program and she graduated from RMC with a degree in Military and Strategic Studies and a minor in Psychology. She after got posted to Cold Lake in 2023 as the WASF Deputy Coordinator and RTF instructor with 4OSS, and then joined 410Sqn in last April, she is hoping to go back to Cold Lake.

My sister and parents are living in Quebec, as the rest of my mother’s side of the family. On my father’s side, I have family in Quebec, Ontario, Alberta and BC.

My hobbies during winter are small craft such as crocheting and painting, I also like playing cozy games. In the summer I like going to the beach and gardening. Lt Blanchette also adopted a little kitty, Arizona, last year and hoping to get her a sister next week.

I grew up on a farm in Guelph, Ontario along with my family, comprised of my parents, my younger brother, my dog and I. The farm is an orchard, we grow apples, pears, apricots and cherries. During university, before joining the CAF I worked in construction, specifically pouring concrete for elevator shafts in high-rise residential buildings. Throughout high school and some of university I wrestled, competing at provincial, national and international levels.

Lieutenant Brar enrolled in the Canadian Armed Forces in 2024 as a Direct Entry Officer after graduating from York University in 2023. Lt Brar completed Basic Military Officer Qualification in November 2024 and proceeded to OJT Training at the Canadian Mission Control Centre (CMCC). In January 2025, Lt Brar deployed to Canadian Forces Station Alert, supporting northern operations before returning to CMCC to continue OJT. Lt Brar remained with the unit until commencing formal career course training in September 2025. Lt Brar is now headed to 4 Wing Cold Lake, Alberta, for his first posting.

I joined the CAF as AEC through ROTP in 2017.

In 2021 I was posted to 4 Wing. I worked with ATC for a couple months then I worked at WCompt for a few years.

I changed trades to AOO last summer and then moved to 409 TFS in October.

My work experience includes some finance experience and scheduling the fighters with 409.

I’m looking forward to working with everyone in this course and seeing what perspectives everyone brings.

Lt Eberhardt (pronounced: ebber-heart) joined the CAF in 2009 as a Naval Communicator, and completed training in Esquimalt, BC. Upon posting to CFB Halifax, He sailed on HMCS Montreal, Iroquois, and Athabaskan, deploying on the Athabaskan in 2011, and the Iroquois in 2012. In 2013, he completed Naval Boarding Party training and took part in vessel boardings during Operation Caribbe.

In 2015, after a shore posting with the Queen’s Harbour Master, he conducted an occupation transfer to AVN technician.

In 2016, he was posted to the Helicopter Operational Test and Evaluation Facility— later redesignated as 12 AMS—at 12 Wing Shearwater, where he worked on the CH-148 Cyclone.

In 2018, he deployed as part of Task Force Latvia Headquarters staff, working at the Latvian Army Headquarters in Riga.

In 2019, he was posted to 400 Tactical Helicopter Squadron at 16 Wing Borden, where he worked on the CH-146 Griffon as an A level technician.

In 2022, he was posted to 14 Wing Greenwood and subsequently accepted his offer into UTPNCM. He has been employed at 413 Squadron since January 2025.

He has a service spouse, Tanya, who is the Operations & Training Officer for 26 & 27 CF Health Services Centres.

I grew up Southern Ontario. I joined the Reserve Infantry in 2012, at 4 RCR, went I was in High School. Upon graduating, I was selected to attend RMC as an Armoured Officer. I regrettably left RMC in December 2014, and became an AVS Tech. I completed my technical training in Borden and Kingston, and was posted to 400 Sqn.

I deployed to Mali in 2018-19. I applied and was selected to join 427 SOAS, after my deployment. I have been posted to the Unit ever since. I completed my university degree from RMC in 2021. I then deployed to Iraq in 2021-22. I became a Substantive MCpl before I received my Commission in July 2024, through the Special Commissioning Program. Since July 2024, I have been a Flight Duty Officer for the Unit. I wish to stay in CANSOFCOM and/or Petawawa for the rest of my career. I would be willing to work in Edmonton, if required.

I am an outdoorsman and I enjoy camping, fishing, hunting, rock climbing, and ATVing.

Upon completing University in 2011, I applied to the military. I joined as an AVN Tech and was enrolled in January of 2012. After basic and my 3’s training in Borden, I was posted to 429 Sqn in Trenton. There I worked on the C17 for 11 years. Throughout the years, I was able to travel all over the world as a TCM on the C17. When I heard of this new trade (AOO) it immediately peaked my interest. I applied and was accepted. Now I am working at 8OSS in dispatch gaining valuable experience before my AOO course.

Away from work, I have a wife and 2 kids (boys aged 10 and 14). My off time is fully booked between the hockey rink and baseball fields.

Second Lieutenant Grottoli enrolled in the Canadian Armed Forces on June 29th, 2020, through the Regular Officer Training Plan and attended the Royal Military College of Canada. Midway through his education, he transferred to the Air Operations Officer trade and graduated from RMC in 2024 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. While awaiting his AOO course, he served at the Canadian Mission Control Centre in Trenton, where he developed a strong affinity for search and rescue operations. During this time, he managed emergency beacons and supported 424 Squadron during exercises, gaining experience with the CH-146 Griffon and CC-130J Hercules.

A defining moment in his journey occurred during his time at RMC, when he sustained serious injuries in a rock-climbing accident, breaking both heels and suffering a compression fracture in his back. Through determination and resilience, he recovered fully and continues to maintain exceptional physical fitness.

I am Tara Lee, an internationally trained Canadian lawyer practicing in Ontario and BC with over ten years of experience specializing in corporate and business law. Originally from Uzbekistan, I immigrated to Canada and developed a strong commitment to helping fellow immigrants.

I hold a Global Professional Master of Laws (GPLLM) from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Law from Omsk State University in Russia.

AirOps is especially interesting to me because it offers a dynamic and fast-paced environment where I can apply my passion for aviation while working with cutting-edge technology. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute directly to mission success through air operations support, sharpening both my technical skills and teamwork. What truly motivates me is being part of a diverse team where I can make a meaningful impact on operational readiness and safety, all while continuously learning and growing.

Outside of work, I’m a devoted family member, an avid reader, an art enthusiast, and a passionate supporter of museums.

I grew up west of Edmonton, Alberta. I grew up with two younger brothers and split time between my divorced parents, half the time with my mom and stepdad, the other half living with my dad. I have had several different dogs and cats growing up, as I grew up on an acreage and had the room. Before joining the CAF, I worked at Sportchek, then joined right after turning 18 and graduating high school, and went to RMC. I graduated in 2024 with a degree in economics and was immediately accepted into PG on Schol and completed a master’s in economics at the university of Alberta in July 2025. I played baseball, volleyball, badminton, pretty much any sport I could find time to play, I played in the OUA for volleyball during my undergrad and currently play men’s league baseball. Some of my hobbies include disc golf, magic the gathering, video games, and sports of all kinds. I am also an avid Montreal Canadiens fan, so expect to see me watching the games more often than not. I’m super excited to be on this course and continue my military career. I’m really looking forward to the opportunity.

I live in Saguenay with my wife and our children. As a military couple, we love working at 2 Wing. We have three young children: Rose Tremblay, who is five years old; Emma Tremblay, who is three years old; and Paul, who was born last month.

I enlisted in the reserve in 2005 at HMCS Champlain as a cook. During my studies, I had the opportunity to travel and work in several kitchens. In 2015, I joined the regular force as a weather technician, which allowed me to participate in several missions in the Arctic and at Alert. Last year, I commissioned to explore new opportunities and sought a career with more deployments and challenges.

I have been practicing powerlifting for over ten years and have competed at both provincial and national levels. Nowadays, I train more for well-being and enjoyment. My favorite hobbies revolve around my children, and I love engaging in activities with them, both outdoors and indoors.

I joined the military in 2013 as an Avionics technician. After Basic I went to Borden and Kingston to complete my POET & QL3 training. On completion of training I was posted to CFB Shearwater where I worked on the CH-148 Cyclone, starting at HOTEF/12 AMS in 2017.

In 2018 I completed a domestic deployment to CFS Alert as General Duties for 6 months.

In 2020 I became a Level A technician on the CH-148 and was posted to 423 Sqn in July. I was part of the team in Shearwater supporting the Ship Helicopter Operating Limits for HMCS Harry DeWolfe.

I carried out various training sails starting in 2021 first with HMCS Toronto and then with HMCS Fredericton, eventually deploying in 2023 for Op REASSURANCE on the Fredericton.

In Sept 2023 I was posted to 406 (M) OTS as a QL5 AVS instructor and submitted my application for the Special Commission Plan to AOO, at 406 I taught the CH-148 AVS type course and worked on the TP amendments for the course. After commissioning I started working at 406 Ops as a scheduler before changing positions to 12 AMS where I have worked since as their Air Ops officer.

In my free time I like to cook or bake and I have started a vegetable garden at home. I enjoy playing strategy games on the computer and board games.

In 2019 – 2024, I attended RMC in Kingston, ON, where I worked towards completing an undergrad in Business Administration. While attending RMC, I enjoyed playing on the Men’s Varsity Rugby Team, hanging out with friends, and learning a second language.

After graduating, I have been doing an OJE at 400 THS in Borden, ON. While on the OJE, I have learned some of the basic skills required to work in an ops center. More recently, I got the opportunity to go on the ATAC exercise in CFB Cold Lake. This was a 1-month exercise that demanded high working hours and expanded greatly on the basic skills I learned at 400 THS. I have 3 younger sisters, good parents, and a bunch of family living in Winnipeg.

Major Robert Gaudrault enrolled in the CAF in 2001 as an Aerospace Control Operator and was posted to 22 Wg North Bay as a Tracking Tech and later as an Interface Control Tech.

In 2005, Maj Gaudrault was posted to 8 Wg Trenton as a Precision Approach Radar (PAR) Controller in OJT training. Following formal training at the Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Control Operations (CFSACO), Maj Gaudrault returned to 8 Wg Trenton, qualifying as a PAR controller shortly after. In 2007, he was posted to 19 Wg Comox for a short one year posting as a PAR Controller and was appointed to the rank of MCpl in early summer 2008.

Maj Gaudrault was posted to the CFSACO in Cornwall in 2008 as a QL3 and QL5 PAR instructor. In 2011, He married his wife Amanda and in 2012 they had their oldest daughter, Mackenzie. In the fall of 2012, Maj Gaudrault was deployed on OP CALUMET in Egypt.

During APS 2012, Maj Gaudrault was posted to 12 Wg Shearwater as a Senior Radar Controller and was promoted to the rank of Sgt. In 2013, he became an instructor with the Wg Readiness Training Flight (RTF) and in 2014, appointed as the RTF Standards. That year, his youngest daughter was born in Halifax.

In 2018, Maj Gaudrault was promoted to the rank of WO and posted to 22 Wg North Bay as a Mission Crew Commander Technician and Deputy Flight Chief. In 2019, he transitioned to 22 Wg OSS Standards as the Canadian Air Defense Sector (CADS) Standards WO.

In 2021, Maj Gaudrault accepted his Commission through the ‘Commissioning From the Ranks Plan’ and joined the AOO trade. In turn, he was appointed as the Training and Exercise (TREX) Assistant O and then TREX O with 22 Wg OSS. In 2022, he was assigned as Officer Commanding Readiness Training Flight; and was the 22 Wg D/Domestic Ops O, D/Force Protection (FP) O, and led the 22 Wg FP and Security Working Group.

In the summer of 2023, Maj Gaudrault was accelerated promoted to the rank of Capt and posted to Barker College to be an AOO Instructor and appointed to Deputy Chair in Jan 2024. In July 2025, Maj Gaudrault was promoted to Major Acting While So Employed, and appointed as the Department of Air Operations Officer Chair.

Born in Nelson, B.C., Capt William (Will) Kerby moved to Montréal and joined the Black Watch pipes and drums and subsequently the Army Reserves as a Weapon Technician (Land) in 1997. He knew some French from high school, but the language spoken in Montreal was nothing like what he had learned. To immerse himself, he enrolled in CÉGEP – in French. His perseverance led to acceptance into the Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) program at l’École Nationale d’Aérotechnique.

This opened new opportunities traveling to different parts of the Canadian North, including working with the North Warning System in Cambridge Bay, NU, with Canadian Helicopters. He also served as a reservist at 438 Sqn in St-Hubert, QC. In 2007, he took on the challenge of becoming a Flight Engineer. After 13 years in the reserves, he was called to the regular force to do Search and Rescue (SAR) in Comox.

As an integral part of the SAR crews, he carried out various missions on the West Coast from 2010-2013 and the East Coast in Gander, NL, from 2013-2016. He was then asked to teach at the Operational Training Unit at 442 Sqn where he helped redesign the course to include a virtual reality hoist simulator, travelled to the UK and made significant contributions to the Cormorant Mid-Life Upgrade project.

In 2021, he was posted to the Hercules at 435 Sqn. After completing OTU training in Trenton, he was accepted to commission into the Air Operations Officer trade and returned to Comox. Working with 19 Wing Operational Support Sqn (OSS) Plans, he reached OFP in Apr 2022. He was then re-assigned to 442 Sqn as the Duty Operations Officer, collaborating with 442, 418, 435, and 434 Sqns, during OP SALUS for the integration of the CC295 Kingfisher into the SAR program.

In February 2024, he was asked to teach the Air Operations Officer (AOO) course at Barker College. His wife Anna and daughter Alexandra recently moved to Winnipeg to be with him this summer. He looks forward to the challenges ahead and hopes to work internationally to learn how others lead and carry out operations, with an interest in digitization and a passion for making things better. All his postings to Comox in the last 14 years have also nourished a love of year-round golf and the ocean.

Captain Hrynuik has been a member of the Canadian Armed Forces since joining in 2013 at the age of 30 as an Avionics Technician. He completed his trade training in 2015 and was subsequently posted to CFB Trenton, where he worked on the CC130J Hercules aircraft at 436 (T) Squadron. During his tenure, he became a fully qualified technician and deployed to OP PRESENCE in Senegal for six months in 2018 and was promoted to the rank of Master Corporal in 2021.

In 2021, Capt Hrynuik transitioned to 426 Transport Training Squadron, where he imparted his expertise by teaching the J-model AVS 5s course. He applied for and accepted the position of Air Operations Officer in 2022. Following his “promotion” to Officer Cadet, he completed Basic Military Officer Qualification (BMOQ) in the fall and was subsequently employed by the RCAF Air Warfare Centre, contributing to the Air Warfare Education and Concept Development and Experimentation sections.

Capt Hrynuik asked to teach again after finishing the AOO course in 2023, and currently serves as the Course Director for the AOO 2501 course. He looks forward to continuing his work at Barker College, helping to instruct on future serials.

Currently residing in Winnipeg, MB, Capt Hrynuik enjoys spending quality time with his wife, Yvonne, and their two dogs, Bella and Ru. Together, they enjoy a good board game, good conversation with friends, and good food.

Captain Andrew Harton’s military journey, commencing in October 2006, reads like a saga peppered with humor and a touch of naval irony. Enrolling as a Marine Technician – Reservist at HMCS d’Iberville in Rimouski, Quebec, they soon found themselves attached to HMCS Edmonton. Here, amidst the waves of the west coast, they earned their Certificate A and began standing watch as an Engineering Roundsman, cruising from San Francisco to Juneau, Alaska.

In 2010, Capt Harton, opting to trade sea legs for wings, ventured into the RCAF. After conquering trades training in Winnipeg, fate played its hand in what can only be dubbed as “Navy humor,” they found themselves back working for the navy, posted to 443 Maritime Helicopter Squadron in Victoria BC. It seems the Navy couldn’t quite bid farewell. Swiftly completing Operational Training on the legendary CH124 Sea King, they once again found themselves on a boat, HMCS Regina, deployed to OP ARTEMIS in the Arabian Sea, making port visits in Asia and the Middle East that could spark envy in any travel blogger.

Amidst this whirlwind, Capt Harton had an epiphany: those folks up front flying the aircraft weren’t as brilliant as they thought. This realization led to a request to become a pilot, taking them to Kamloops BC, where three days of jeans-clad school and four days of skiing per week kept stress levels at bay.

With a BBA in Accounting, Capt Harton spent five years navigating the pilot training system. However, fate had alternative plans. Undeterred, in 2022, they switched gears to become an Air Operations Officer, landing a posting at RCAF Barker College. In their current role, Capt Harton orchestrates training activities with a keen eye for detail, a knack for paperwork juggling, and the patience of a saint—because ensuring everyone follows the rules is akin to herding cats with a rulebook.

Throughout their 19-year military journey, Capt Harton has earned the General Campaign Star – South-West Asia, the Canadian Decoration, and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal – Saskatchewan. And just to prove that their military endeavors aren’t just impressive to their mom, there’s also a Command Commendation from Commander Canadian Joint Operations Command.

Capt Dave Weichel joined the CAF in 1988 under the Subsidized University Entry Plan (SUEP). After graduation in 1990 Capt Weichel went to Portage la Prairie to attend Air Weapons Selection School where he successfully passed selection to AWC after pilot was no longer an option. Capt Weichel attended Air Weapons Control and Counter School in 1992 and after successful completion was posted to Canada West Sector aka 51 Sqn. While working in North Bay Captain Weichel qualified in four positions Controller, Air Surveillance, Senior Director and Mission Control Commander. With nothing left to achieve in North Bay, Capt Weichel was posted to 42 Radar in Cold Lake in 1999. Falling in love with Cool Pool Capt Weichel spent five years at 42 Radar then another four years working at Readiness Training where he instructed CBRN and assisted in all aspects of training for the 4 Wing NATO Evaluation, which was successful after over 15 years of not participating in the NATO evaluation process. While in Cold Lake Capt Weichel also ran a restaurant and a sports card hobby store. In 2008 Capt Weichel then moved to the USA to work for Space Command as a Mission Commander at Cavalier Air Station North Dakota. Seeing the future in Space Capt Weichel returned to Canada in 2010 to teach the Space Application and Space Operations at Barker College. While at Barker College he met his wife Shara who is a local Manitoba girl. Deciding to make Winnipeg home, Capt Weichel took a Duty Watch position at 1 CAD Air Operations Centre (CAOC). After 10 years of working at the CAOC which included time as Senior Ops Duty Officer Capt Weichel released from the CAF to return to the CAOC as reservist. Two more years passed and Capt Weichel decided it was time to find a day job. So he applied for a reserve job teaching AOO. He plans on doing this till someone kicks him out. Capt Weichel has 3 grown adult kids living at home because they can't afford to move out. He also has 5 cats and a dog. Not really, they belong to the family not me. I don't like pets.

Capt Marina Hannappel began her career with the Canadian Armed Forces in 2017 as an Aerospace Control Officer. After completing her trade training in 2018 to become a VFR (Tower) controller, she was posted to 4 Wing Cold Lake, Alberta. There, she served in multiple roles including Ground Controller, Instructor, Flight Advisory, and Tower Controller, quickly establishing herself as a trusted member of the Air Traffic Control team.

In 2021, Capt Hannappel deployed domestically as a liaison officer for an Air Task Force during Operation LENTUS, supporting air evacuations of Northern Ontario communities impacted by wildfires. Later that year, she created the Daily Ops position at 4 Wing Ops HQ, leveraging her ATC expertise to improve coordination across wing units. Her efforts focused on optimizing snow clearing operations, managing visiting aircraft, and strengthening the overall air operations picture at Cold Lake.

In May 2022, she deployed to Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar in support of Operations IMPACT and FOUNDATION. As a liaison officer, she ensured Canadian air assets had the critical information needed to operate safely in the Middle Eastern Air Theatre. During this deployment, she also trained as a Duty Watch Officer with the U.S. Joint Personnel Recovery Section at the Combined Air Operations Center, monitoring and coordinating Combat Search and Rescue efforts for coalition forces. Her performance and work ethic earned her the Air and Space Achievement Medal from the United States Air Force.

Returning to Canada, Capt Hannappel resumed her role as Daily Ops Officer and officially transitioned from Aerospace Control Officer to Air Operations Officer before moving to the 4 Wing NORAD Operations Cell as Combat Operations Centre Officer. Leading a team of 13, she ensured the teams readiness for rapid deployment to Canada’s Forward Operating Bases in support of NORAD missions. The team played a critical role in passing real-time information between Canadian NORAD Region, Canadian Air Defence Sector, and 1 Canadian Air Division to fighter jets tasked with intercepting potential air threats. In 2025, her team was recognized as 4 Wing Team of the Quarter for their work preparing for and during Operation CADENCE, Canada’s domestic air policing mission during the G7 Summit in Banff, Alberta.

Capt Hannappel made sure to take advantage of the unique opportunities in Cold Lake like rides in Helicopters (One let her shoot the gun from the side) and Fighter Jets (That they would not let her shoot from) to keeping track of 97 Italians and their 13 Aircraft during the 2024 Cold Lake Air Show.

Today, while serving as an instructor at Barker College, Capt Hannappel also works with the Fighter Capabilities Office, helping prepare Canada for next-generation fighter jets and ISR platforms. She is currently working on developing a new NCM trade to complement Air Operation Officers, ensuring the RCAF remains ready for the future. Her passion for instruction and operational excellence continues to shape the next generation of Air Force professionals.

When she is not working, Capt Hannappel can be found rummaging through Antique stores for treasures, spoiling her Dalmatian (Gus), or planning her next outfit from her expansive wardrobe choices.

Capt Robert Horvat grew up in a quaint small town in the Niagara Region in southern Ontario. He graduated from Georgian College in 2013, with a degree in policing. In 2015, he joined the Canadian Armed Forces as a pilot through the Direct Entry Officer program. However, life had other plans, and he changed trades to Air Combat Systems Officer (ACSO). On his OJT, he was posted to 424 Search and Rescue Squadron in Trenton, ON, and it was here that he developed a desire to join the Search and Rescue (SAR) community.

Capt Horvat then spent 14 months in Winnipeg at 402 Squadron, learning all there was to know about being an ACSO. He graduated in 2018 and was posted back to 424 Squadron in Trenton, ON to fly on the CC130H Hercules as a Search and Rescue Navigator. He spent the next few years training on the aircraft and participating in SAR missions from southern Ontario, all the way to Nunavut. He was also the unit Plans Officer, and it was in this role that he developed a taste for the life of an Air Operations Officer (AOO). In 2021, Capt Horvat then changed trades again to become an AOO.

That same year, Capt Horvat was posted to the Canadian Mission Control Centre, where he oversaw a national system that monitored emergency beacons across the country, through the use of satellites and ground receiving stations. If a plane crashed, a boat sank, or a hiker became lost and activated their hand-held beacon, he would be alerted and would then task the appropriate Joint Rescue Coordination Centre, providing assistance and information as required.

In 2025, Capt Horvat was posted to Barker College as an instructor, to train the next generation of AOOs.

In his free time, Capt Horvat enjoys spending quality time with his spouse, building Lego sets, playing games on his XBox, and playing with his two cats.

Born and raised in Türkiye, Capt Izbulan moved to Canada in 2004, beginning a new chapter with no roadmap, no rank slides, and no safety net— just a determination to rebuild and learn fast. Canada became the place where Capt Izbulan shaped her education, found her professional footing, and later stepped into service with the Royal Canadian Air Force.

At the University of Toronto, Capt Izbulan completed a Bachelor of Science in Honors, majoring in Psychology and Criminology, studying human behaviour, risk, and decision science. Prior to joining the military, Capt Izbulan worked as a behavioral therapist in residential clinic homes, overseeing patients and tracking progress daily, managing treatment routines, monitoring behavioural goals, and documenting outcomes through ABA-based intervention models. The work was structured, practical, repetitive, and impact-driven—focused on real progress rather than titles or theory.

In 2021, Capt Izbulan joined the Royal Canadian Air Force through the Direct Entry Officer (DEO) program, commissioning directly into the Air Operations Officer (AOO) trade. Most of Capt Izbulan’s RCAF career has been spent within 17 Wing OSS (Operations Support Squadron), where duties included serving as a Force Protection Officer, supporting base security planning, personnel safety, threat risk mitigation, and emergency preparedness. Capt Izbulan also worked in duty cycles as the Duty Watch Officer, Operations Liaison, and OSCER on-scene incident coordination, all in direct support of 17 Wing OSS military operations, where verified information, calm coordination, and clear documentation were the real currency.

At Barker College in Winnipeg, Capt Izbulan now trains graduating Air Operations Officers and develops OSCER aircraft emergency incident response training modules, focusing on decisions that hold up under stress, workflows that make sense, and coordination that survives reality.

When not teaching, Capt Izbulan is usually found with a notebook and coffee, untangling process flaws early, but the best hours are spent with family, partner, and son, Mert, whose curiosity for science, space, and endless questions keep life grounded, fast-thinking, and occasionally hilarious in a way that still stays in-bounds of professionalism.

Lieutenant Dwayne Pettitt is an instructor and the Course Director for AOO 2502 at RCAF Barker College.

After completing basic training in April 1997 he studied to become an Aviation Systems Technician at the Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Technology and Engineering in Borden Ontario. He was then posted to in December 1998 to 441 Tactical Fighter Squadron in Cold Lake Alberta. He took two years leave without pay from 2003 to 2005 to support his wife studying her masters degree at Cranfield University in Cranfield UK.

After returning to 441 Sqn, Lt Pettitt participated in the amalgamation of 441 Sqn and 416 Sqn that then became 409 Tactical Fighter Sqn where he continued to work as an Aviation Systems Technician specializing in armament systems.

From there he was posted to 10 Field Technical Training School in 2007 where he instructed armament systems to new armament specialists.

In 2009 Lt Pettitt was appointed the rank of MCpl and Posted to 435 Transport and Rescue Sqn where he would specialize in flight systems. In 2014 after a promotion, then Sgt Pettitt was posted to 402 Sqn were he first worked as a Sqn servicing and snags I/C and then assumed a position in the aircraft engineering office as the propulsion systems life cycle material manager.

He was then promoted to WO in 2018 and posted back to 435 Sqn as a crew chief. Lt Pettitt took the opportunity in 2019 to retire from the regular force and join the reserves as the Wing Operations Duty WO of the 17 Operational Support Squadron located at 17 Wing Winnipeg.

Lt Pettitt commissioned from the ranks and took his current position in May of 2024 and has since re-enlisted in the regular force to carry on his career as an AOO.

Born in Santiago, Chile, Capt Bielaski came to Canada and lived most of his life in Northern Ontario in 1986. In 2009, he joined the army as a Signaller, underwent trades training at CFB Kingston, and was posted to CFB Edmonton with Headquarters and Signals, 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group. Before military life, he was a server and bartender.

During his time in Edmonton, former Corporal Bielaski “deployed” to some of Canada’s most beautiful areas like CFB Wainwright, CFB Suffield, and Yellowknife where he enjoyed sleeping outside in a tent. Starting with Charlie Troop looking after the squadron’s IS/IT issues, he eventually switched to Alpha Troop where he helped put up heavy modular tent for officers, played with machine guns, and worked the Forward Command Post riding around in a Bison.

After a short release, Capt Bielaski rejoined as an officer in the Air Combat Systems Officer trade, after completing his degree in Economics with Honours. He bounced around trades, learning a great deal at Base Operations at CFB Borden, then 17 Wing Winnipeg at 435 squadron operations, the 402 squadron Aircraft Structures Shop, and Wing Operations as an assistant duty officer – before finally landing on the Air Operations Officer trade.

After completing AOO trades training, Capt Bielaski was posted to 14 Wing Greenwood in the stunning Nova Scotia valley as the Course Coordinator at 404 Long Range Patrol and Training squadron in 2023. There, he coordinated Canada-wide with units sending students to complete their CP140 Aurora OTU, focusing on administrative issues, liaising with local flying squadrons, and honing his skills with FlightPro.

Though a niche position not found at every Wing, having a strong knowledge of FlightPro allowed him to impart to students how to use it – though he’s currently rebuilding the program to make it easier.

Capt Bielaski hopes to retire in Winnipeg, and is here with his wife, his son Silas, and German Shepherd. He enjoys gaming, shooting, running, and will be trying dancing in the new year. He’s also looking to switch offices since Capt Hannappel is too boisterous.

Capt Alex Strelley enrolled in the Canadian Armed Forces in December 2021 as a Direct Entry Air Operations Officer, a decision he celebrated by spending Christmas imagining the creative “leadership development opportunities” awaiting him at CFLRS. He also attempted to recall the arcane art of boot-shining, with mixed results. Upon arrival at BMOQ in St-Jean sur Richelieu during the tail end of COVID, he and the rest of his course were rewarded with a week-long isolation period—an experience that offered ample time to consider the uncanny similarities between CFLRS and a low-budget correctional facility. Several colleagues agreed wholeheartedly, as evidenced by the number who chose to execute a Voluntary Release almost immediately.

After graduating BMOQ in April 2022, he spent five months in Cold Lake on BTL, where 4 OSS generously allowed him to shadow Daily Operations and occasionally contribute something of value. The mentorship and exposure he received there proved invaluable when he attended the Air Operations Officer Course from September to December 2022. Serial 2201, with the course still developing as they progressed, nonetheless forged strong bonds and came out the other side with functional knowledge and friendships that have survived to this day.

Posted back to 4 OSS in January 2023 as Deputy Daily Operations Officer, he applied course theory, prior civilian experience, and a healthy sense of humour to the daily chaos of Wing Ops. In August of that year, he advanced an impressive ten feet across the office floor to assume the Daily Operations Officer role. Over the following year, he mentored a brand-new AOO graduate, strengthened the unit’s processes, and routinely solved more problems than he created—learning quickly that SNIC in a place named “Cold Lake” is not just a suggestion. In January 2024, he was Accelerated-Promoted to Captain—an official endorsement that he was, in fact, solving more problems than he was creating.

In August 2024, following his OC’s transition to civilian life, he stepped into the Officer Commanding Wing Operations role. For the next 13 months, he led a team of people who were, in many cases, wiser than he was, overseeing operations, force protection, and mission planning. Promoted AWSE Major in April 2025, he became the Wing Operations Lead Planner for 4 Wing’s contribution to Op CADENCE, drafting OPP annexes, editing others, and serving as the afternoon A3 during execution.

In August 2025, he was posted to Barker College in Winnipeg as an AOO Instructor and Tactical Data Link Director. There, he refreshed his teaching abilities, instructed AOO 2501, is currently directing the TDL 200 Serial 2502 course, and travelled to Germany for Ex STEADFAST DUEL, where he supported a NATO CAOC in simulated conflict.

Outside of work, Capt Strelley enjoys riding his motorcycle, assembling overpriced LEGO Star Wars kits, launching into Helldives on alien worlds, and spending time with his wife Alisa and their dog Dexter.