CWO Geoff Rusconi enrolled in the Canadian Armed Forces in April 1997 with the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI).

He had two domestic deployments with 1 PPCLI on Op GRIZZLY and Op RECUPERATION, and one overseas deployment in Bosnia on Op PALLADIUM.

As a Met Tech, he worked as a Weather Observer at 4 Wing Cold Lake, Observer Supervisor, and Ballistic Meteorological Section 2IC in Shilo, MB where he completed an eight-month tour to Afghanistan on Op ATHENA, providing ballistic meteorological support to the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery and the United States Army.

In 2008, he was promoted to Sergeant and posted to the Canadian Forces School of Meteorology (CFS MET) as an instructor, specializing in teaching meteorological theory until promoted to Warrant Officer in 2011.

In 2012, he was posted to the Joint Meteorological Centre (JMC) in Gagetown as the Expeditionary Warrant Officer, responsible for Force Generation for all domestic and deployed operations. He remained in that position until promoted to Master Warrant Officer and employed as the Operations MWO from 2014 to 2016.

In 2016, he was selected as the Canadian Liaison and Instructor for the United States Air Force Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Academy at Maxwell AFB-Gunter Annex in Montgomery, Alabama where he delivered the Advanced Leadership Experience curriculum and acted as an advisor to the Commandant.

In July 2019, he was promoted to Chief Warrant Officer and was posted to back to the JMC as the Unit Chief Warrant Officer.

In 2021, CWO Rusconi was privileged to be chosen for a senior appointment and posted to Borden, ON as the 16 Wing Chief Warrant Officer, and April 2024, he was selected for his current position as the 2 Canadian Air Division Chief Warrant Officer in Winnipeg, MB.

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.

Lieutenant-Colonel (LCol) Egide (Ed) St-Pierre enrolled in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) in December 1996 as an Aviator and was selected for the Aerospace Control Operator (AC Op) occupation. His first posting was to the NORAD Underground Complex in North Bay, Ontario, where he gained valuable insight into the role of NORAD and the importance of international defence partnerships.

Upon promotion to Corporal, he was posted to Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, where he served as a Ground Controller. Motivated to expand his responsibilities and leadership opportunities, he pursued a commission and was selected for the University Training Plan for Non-Commissioned Members (UTPNCM) in 2004. Over the next four years, he completed his degree at the University of Regina.

Following graduation and completion of the Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Aerospace Control Officer course at the Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Control Operations (CFSACO), LCol St-Pierre was posted to Comox, British Columbia. There, he was promoted to Captain and enjoyed the unique experience of Vancouver Island living until being selected for Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) training and subsequently posted to Cold Lake, Alberta.

While serving in Cold Lake, LCol St-Pierre met his spouse, Trisha, and served as the Standards Officer for four years before returning to CFSACO in 2016, where he continued serving as a Standards Officer for the school. In 2018, promoted to Major, he was posted to 1 Canadian Air Division (1 CAD) as the Staff Officer Aerospace Standards and Regulations. He remained at 1 CAD for four years before being selected as the Deputy Commandant of Barker College in 2022.

Promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel in 2026, LCol St-Pierre is returning to 1 CAD this summer to continue serving within the Aerospace Readiness team.

Throughout his career, LCol St-Pierre has deployed in support of operations in Kuwait, Mali, and Bahrain. He remains committed to service and continues to enjoy the challenges, opportunities, and rewarding experiences that a career in the Canadian Armed Forces provides.

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.

Major Jay Ballard currently serves at 8 Wing Trenton as the Culture Evolution Advisor. Prior to joining the CAF, they gained extensive experience in emergency services as an Emergency Department Registered Nurse, Firefighter, and Medical First Responder.

Commissioned as a Nursing Officer in 2018, Major Ballard was initially employed as a Primary Care Nurse at CF Health Services Centre Atlantic (Stadacona) in Halifax. They later served as a High Readiness Nurse with 1 Canadian Field Hospital, Det. Halifax, contributing to expeditionary medical capability and operational readiness. During this period, they deployed on Operation LASER, the CAF’s domestic response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Posted to 8 Wing Trenton in 2020, Major Ballard qualified as an Aeromedical Evacuation (AE) Crew Member with the Canadian Forces Aeromedical Evacuation Flight. As a Flight Nurse, they conducted domestic and international missions, delivering advanced patient care across multiple aircraft platforms in complex operational environments.

In 2025, Major Ballard followed their passion for aviation and initiated a Component and Occupational Transfer to become an Air Operations Officer.

Major Ballard resides in Belleville, Ontario, with their cockapoo, Frankie, and proudly considers Nova Scotia home. Outside of service, they enjoy camping, hiking, sports, and travel.

I was posted to CFB Winnipeg on OJE fresh after Basic Training in September 2025. I Enrolled in 2025 March and started Basic in June 2025. My parents live in India with my younger brother. I have worked as a freelance ESL (English as a Second Language)/IELTS trainer on my free time during my college days. Afterwards, I immigrated to Canada and worked as a Restaurant Cook at Denny’s London, Ontario.

Pickleball is my favourite hobby. I am waiting for summer to play more in Winnipeg. I also love to read books, play video games, watch movies, learn new skills and travel.

I just finished BMOQ in September 2025. Before joining, I have worked with Kal Tire as a manager, Northern Lights College as International Recruitment and Business Development Coordinator. I have also worked in the hospitability industry for 3+ years. I am married for 5 years and counting and recently blessed with a beautiful baby boy who is currently 3 months old. We live in Dawson Creek, BC.

Hobbies and Interests: Soccer, Chess, Singing, interacting and meeting people, family time, martial arts, volunteering, gaming.

I joined the CAF in 2018 as an HRA. After my training, I was posted to Ottawa in 2019, where I worked various positions within CJOC. I began my career as a deployment HRA within the J3 small missions’ cell. Later I moved onto position management and CFTPO taskings for both domestic and deployed operations and exercises. Finally, I went on to work at the unit orderly room as a pay and records clerk. From there I applied for the University Training Program, receiving my offer in 2024. I have since completed my degree and have been carrying out OJT as a duty officer with 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron’s operations center. Before joining the CAF, I worked as an administrative analyst with BMO, and prior to that I worked in retail. During this time, I also obtained a diploma from Seneca College. In 2024, after receiving my UTPNCM offer, I requested a posting to Edmonton to be with my partner. He is an Infantry Officer. Together we have a Pitbull-Labrador fur baby named Sonny. My hobbies include cooking, reading, and annoying my dog. I truly believe that food brings people together, and this has led to me experimenting a lot with cooking. My favourite genre of books are classics, such as works by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, and Jules Verne.

Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, 2Lt Villaescusa Chavez moved to Vancouver, British Columbia, in 2017 to pursue a diploma in Law Enforcement Studies at the Justice Institute of British Columbia, with the goal of building a career in public service. After becoming a Canadian Permanent Resident, he began pursuing opportunities in law enforcement while closely following developments within the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). When the CAF opened enrollment to Permanent Residents, he immediately applied, recognizing an opportunity to serve Canada in a meaningful way. While awaiting the outcome of his application, he was hired as a Corrections Officer at the Victoria Regional Correctional Centre, where he developed valuable experience working in a high-security correctional environment.

Two years later, he accepted an offer to join the Canadian Armed Forces and was sworn in as an officer. Following the successful completion of Basic Military Officer Qualification (BMOQ), he was posted to 19 Wing Comox as part of the Basic Training List program with 442 Squadron, where he continued his professional development within the Royal Canadian Air Force. He will be posted to 5 Wing Goose Bay upon graduation. His journey from Arizona to Canada reflects a strong commitment to service, leadership, and personal growth, shaped by experiences in corrections, law enforcement studies, and military service.

I grew up in Saskatchewan and enrolled as a direct entry AOO beginning basic training in late 2024. After graduating BMOQ in February 2025 I was posted to 15 Wg Moose Jaw, before serving a tasking as OPFOR at CFLRS St-Jean. I returned in August and have been working as a Planner at 15 OSS until the start of my trade course in January 2026.

I studied Computer Science and Math at the University of Saskatchewan from 2018 - 2023. My hobbies/interests include learning about history, linguistics, geography, travelling, camping, backpacking, and playing video games. My immediate family consists of my parents, my sister, and two brothers.

My work experience includes retail, working as a Teaching Assistant for Computer Science and Math courses, and as an Undergraduate Research Assistant. After university, I decided to pursue a career in the military as it aligned closer to my interests. I also have a strong desire to give back to Canada as I greatly appreciate the opportunities and freedoms our country has provided me and my family.

I joined the RCAF in 2009 as an AVN Tech and, following my initial training in Borden, was posted to 423 Sqn in Shearwater in 2011 where I worked on the Sea King helicopters. I transferred to 12 AMS in 2013 and spent the next four years in Engine Bay, specializing on the T-58 GE 100 engine. In 2017, I received my promotion to MCpl and moved to Borden to become an instructor at CFSATE. In 2018, I had the chance to be part of the RCAF contingent which went to the UK to carry the Queen’s Guard Duties in London and Windsor. During my time at CFSATE, I also worked as a Course Director and Standard Rep before being selected for the UTPNCM program in 2022 and being appointed OCdt. I then moved to Sherbrooke to complete a degree in Economics at Bishop’s University which I completed in the fall of 2025. On the personal side, I have been married for 16 years to my wife, Cynthia, and we have three daughters: Olivia (15), Rosalie (13) and Daphné (9). I like to play or watch most sports, but hockey comes at the top of the list. My other main interests are everything related to the financial markets and the economy, as well as reading in general.

Originally from Gaspe Region in Quebec. Raised in Bagotville; developed an early connection to the RCAF, particularly through the sound of the CF-18 and witnessing the CH-146 in action during the 1990 Saguenay flood.

Joined the CAF in 2003 as an Artilleryman. Following initial training in Valcartier, was posted to the RCAS in Gagetown. Served in a variety of positions within both the Gun and STA streams.

In 2010, was appointed to the rank of MBdr and posted to 5 CDTC. Served as an instructor on both the PLQ and BMQ-Land.

In 2013, was posted to 4th Regt (GS). Promoted to the rank of Sgt and served as the Trg Sgt before assuming the position of Bty Ops WO. In 2018, was promoted to the rank of WO and subsequently served as the TSM of SUAS Troop.

In 2019, was posted to the Canadian Army Command and Staff College in Kingston. Served as an instructor Targeting Course and both the Basic and Advanced CDE Course. Instructor/Evaluator for the PSS-SOF Target Mensuration course and served as a course staff for the Joint Weaponeering Course.

Upon completing 20 years of service in 2023, pursued a new challenge within the CAF through UTPNCM program as an AOO. Upon selection, completed a BBA.

Blessed to share life with my spouse Brandi, three daughters and our dog. Enjoys outdoor activities, technology, continuous learning, music, sports, and gaming.

Patrick was born in Accra, Ghana, and later moved to Helsinki, Finland, after completing high school to pursue his university education. Following this, he relocated to Canada in 2013 (Regina, SK) for his postgraduate studies. Patrick's diverse educational background led him to explore opportunities in both the computer industry and the social sector after university, providing him with a unique skill set.

With a keen interest in merging technology with business analysis implementation to address societal inequalities, Patrick currently serves as a Business Intelligence Analyst with the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, Government of British Columbia.

Outside of work, Patrick is a family-oriented person with three precious girls (ages 10, 7, and 18 months). His heart belongs to nature, so you'll often find Patrick wandering through lush forests or basking by the seaside. Patrick also loves to travel worldwide to experience other cultures and communities.

Patrick chose to join the Canadian Armed Forces for several reasons. Key among them is his sense of duty; he feels a strong sense of duty and patriotism toward Canada and wants to serve in the military to protect the nation and its citizens. Additionally, he seeks to make a meaningful difference in the world by contributing to peacekeeping efforts, humanitarian missions, and disaster relief efforts both domestically and internationally.

Finally, Patrick is drawn to the adventure, excitement, and the chance to test his limits that military service offers.

Raised on my family’s dairy farm in Antigonish, NS, I grew up loving nature and art so after high school I enrolled in the Bachelor of Technology in Environmental Horticulture program from Dalhousie.

This assisted me with finding unique employment at landscaping companies over the years, performing landscape maintenance, design, and snow removal functions. I quickly grew into a key player on these teams and took on various supervisory roles. The latest position I held was Grounds and Transport Supervisor at St FX University where I supervised 10-12 full time and seasonal grounds and transport staff.

In summer of 2024 I married my husband. He is also a member of the CAF and currently a senior HRA working on HMCS Frédérick Rolette. I had been thinking of joining the CAF a few years prior, and the timing was right, so I finally joined.

While still relatively new to the CAF yet, I’ve enjoyed my time in Shearwater where I’ve made friends and have been given many great opportunities.

My hobbies are many, but lately I spend my free time trail running, needle crafts, hiking and visiting with family.

Lieutenant
Olivia Bolano

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.