GOLD SPONSORS

2025 Keynote Speakers

Manon Larocque

Director General, Canadian Hydrographic Service

Driving Hydrographic Innovation in Canada
Manon Larocque brings extensive experience in marine data management and digital transformation, playing a key role in advancing hydrography in Canada. Her keynote will focus on the transformative impact of S-100 standards in revolutionizing hydrography, improving data sharing, and fostering global interoperability. The adoption of these standards is reshaping how hydrographic data is collected, analyzed, and applied for better decision-making. 

Keith J. Masback

Principal Consultant, PLUM RUN, LLC

Shaping the Future of GEOINT
Keith Masback is a recognized leader in the field of geospatial intelligence, having contributed extensively through his work with the U.S. National Geospatial Intelligence Agency (NGA) and later as the CEO of the U.S. Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF). The keynote will explore how GEOINT is shaping global security strategies, focusing on its expanding role in decision-making across industries and governments, and its growing importance in addressing global challenges while enhancing strategic outcomes.

Nadine Alameh

Executive Director, Taylor Geospatial Institute

Leading Innovation in Geospatial Science
As the inaugural Executive Director TGI, Nadine Alameh’s work focuses on harnessing geospatial data to address critical challenges in climate, health, and security. With a distinguished career in the geospatial industry, which includes her leadership as the CEO of OGC, her efforts have paved the way for a more collaborative and interoperable global geospatial infrastructure. Nadine will explore how geospatial technologies are shaping solutions for pressing global issues like climate change, sustainability, food security, and resilient infrastructure.

Alexander Verbeek

Policy Director, The Environment and Development Resource Centre

Bridging Climate Change and Global Security
Alexander Verbeek is a policy director specializing in the intersection of climate change and security, with a background in international diplomacy. Known for his thought leadership through his popular newsletter, The Planet, Verbeek brings a dynamic approach to addressing planetary challenges such as water security, food systems, and sustainable development. His keynote at GeoIgnite 2025 will highlight the critical link between environmental sustainability and global security in today’s rapidly evolving world.

Eric Loubier

Director General of the Canada Centre for Mapping and Earth Observation, Natural Resources Canada

Exploring the Potential of AI and Earth Observation to Tackle Critical National Challenges
A seasoned leader in geomatics and Earth Observation with two decades of experience in the federal government, Eric Loubier has vast expertise in developing and implementing national geomatics and Earth observation strategies. In his talk, Eric will explore the integration of AI with Earth observation, and how this powerful combination is transforming Canada’s approach to addressing critical national issues like climate change, natural resource management, urban planning, and disaster response.

Peter Rabley

CEO, Open Geospatial Consortium

Advancing Geospatial Innovation Through Collaboration
Peter Rabley is a key figure in advancing global geospatial standards and innovations. The OGC’s work is crucial for fostering collaboration and ensuring that geospatial technologies are interoperable, scalable, and accessible, which is increasingly important in addressing challenges like climate change, urban planning, and resource management. Peter’s keynote at GeoIgnite 2025 will offer insights into the future of geospatial technology and its transformative potential across industries.

Denis Hains

Founder, President & CEO, H2i

Driving Global Collaboration in Hydrography and Ocean Mapping
Denis Hains is a recognized leader in the global hydrographic and hydrospatial community, renowned for his contributions to advancing ocean mapping technologies, networking, and standards. As the former Director General of the Canadian Hydrographic Service and Hydrographer General of Canada, he played a key role in shaping both national and international hydrographic initiatives. Denis’s talk will explore the current state of global hydrography and hydrospatial technologies, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration and how new technologies and standards are enhancing the mapping and understanding of our oceans.

Advisory Committee

GeoIgnite Co-Chairs

David Gachuche

CEO
RiverCross Technologies

Ted MacKinnon

Senior Geomatics Technologist
Natural Resources Canada