Cold Lake welcomed leaders from across Canada this week as the city hosted S.T.A.R. 2026 (Summit for Technology, Aerospace and Research), a three-day conference focused on the future of aerospace, defence, innovation and autonomous technologies.

The annual event brought together representatives from all levels of government, the Canadian Armed Forces, industry, post-secondary institutions and the innovation sector to discuss emerging opportunities and strengthen partnerships within Canada’s aerospace and defence industries.

Cold Lake positioned for future growth

A recurring message throughout the summit was Cold Lake’s growing role as a centre for aerospace and defence, particularly as the Canadian Armed Forces prepares for the arrival of the F-35 fighter fleet at 4 Wing Cold Lake.

Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul MLA Scott Cyr, Alberta’s Military Liaison, represented the provincial government during the conference, delivering opening remarks on behalf of Premier Danielle Smith before later providing the keynote address at the summit’s Hangar Dinner.

Cyr said Alberta has identified aerospace, defence and innovation as strategic priorities, with Cold Lake playing an important role in that vision.

Building more than military infrastructure

During his keynote address, Cyr spoke about the need to pair military investment with community investment.

He said attracting and supporting military members and their families requires strong transportation networks, housing, healthcare, education and employment opportunities that allow communities to grow alongside military operations.

“As Canada’s Future Fighter Capability introduces the F-35 fleet at 4 Wing Cold Lake, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to strengthen our economy, create skilled jobs and position our region as a long-term leader in aerospace and defence,” Cyr said.

Collaboration seen as key to success

Conference discussions emphasized that governments, industry, Indigenous communities, educational institutions and the Canadian Armed Forces all have a role to play in shaping the sector’s future.

Speakers highlighted collaboration as essential to attracting investment, encouraging innovation and creating opportunities for businesses, researchers, skilled trades and future workers.

Regional projects already gaining momentum

Several initiatives already underway in the Lakeland were highlighted during the conference.

Among them was Portage College’s Aerospace Campus, which is training the next generation of aerospace workers, along with Alberta’s investment in DEFENDS (Dual-Use Ecosystem for Future Engineering, National Defence and Sovereignty), a partnership connecting post-secondary institutions, industry and the military to accelerate defence innovation and commercialize emerging technologies.

Participants also discussed the importance of transportation infrastructure and economic corridors in supporting future aerospace and defence development.

Bringing national attention to the Lakeland

Cyr said S.T.A.R. continues to raise Cold Lake’s profile nationally by bringing together leaders from across Canada to discuss the future of the sector while showcasing the strengths of northeastern Alberta.

He thanked the City of Cold Lake, Mayor Bob Mattice, council, administration, the organizing committee, sponsors, speakers, exhibitors and volunteers for hosting the event.

The summit concluded with a focus on building on the partnerships and ideas developed over the three days, with organizers and participants expressing optimism that Cold Lake is well positioned to become one of Canada’s leading aerospace and defence hubs in the years ahead.