Jurisdictions sign MOU to collaborate for aerospace, defence funding

With billions of dollars ready to build up Canada's defence network, area agencies are hoping to collaborate and maximize the opportunity.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) announced this week between Leduc County, Sturgeon County, the City of Cold Lake and Edmonton Airports is expected to foster economic diversification through a strategy focused on aviation, aerospace and defence sectors, training, and investment and business development.

The parties will jointly advocate to the provincial government to recognize Highway 28 as a vital economic corridor supporting aerospace and defence development, said a release issued Thursday.

An increased labour market demand for aviation-related skills and trades training, including aircraft maintenance engineers in maintenance, structures and avionics.

The partners foster development for regional assets like the Cold Lake Regional Airport, Edmonton International Airport and Villeneuve Airport.

Other priorities include the continued support of modernization efforts at 4 Wing Cold Lake, the Cold Lake Air Weapons Range, and CFB Edmonton, as well as expanding commercial passenger air opportunities.

There's real value in partners bringing distinct strengths and aviation roles together, said Myron Keehn, president and CEO of Edmonton Airports.

"As Cold Lake continues to gain importance from an operational and workforce perspective, we're committed to supporting that growth in the North through collaboration, shared learning, and aligned priorities. Together, we're positioning our regions to better serve northern communities and future opportunities," Keehn said.

The organizations are positioning Northern Alberta as a connected, competitive hub for aerospace, aviation, and defence investment, said Alanna Hnatiw, mayor of Sturgeon County.

By aligning our efforts, we are strengthening our value proposition and giving industry and investors greater confidence in our region's ability to support long-term, sustainable growth," she said.

Cold Lake Mayor Bob Mattice called it a once-in-a-lifetime defence modernization on the horizon.

"By working collaboratively, we are strengthening regional capacity, aligning infrastructure and investment, and positioning ourselves for expanded aerospace, defence, and future commercial air opportunities," Mattice said.