Preserving capacity, General Tom Lawson, Chief of the Defence Staff, Keys to Canadian SAR
Issue link: http://vanguardcanada.uberflip.com/i/742410
www.vanguardcanada.com OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016 41 See the full interview online Q How did you start out in this industry and how has it brought you to where you are today? My deep appreciation of the defence sec- tor began while at the London Economic Development Corp. KONGSBERG Grup- pen of Norway approached us to provide the business case for London as they were looking for a location in Canada. Through working with them, I became aware of the significant cluster of defence-related com- panies we had in London (beyond GDLS- C) and was soon immersed in the sector. Q What is your role at your organization today? As president of Pilot Hill Ltd. I produce and organize The Best Defence Confer- ence in November each year and provide a range of consulting services to companies and organizations. My varied experience in export development, stakeholder relations and business development has provided me with a solid foundation on which to as- sist defence companies with their business development needs. Q What was your most challenging moment? The decision to give up a great job at a great organization to strike out on my own. Q What was you're a-ha moment or epiphany that you think will resonate most with our reader, tell us that story. I knew that if I did not pursue my passion for the defence industry and take the con- ference into the private sector, I would al- ways look back with deep regret at the path not taken. What drives me today is the opportunity to develop even more creative platforms for the Best Defence Conference that will en- hance the ability of companies to actually conduct business. Q What is the one thing that has you most fired up today? Technologies of all kinds are profoundly changing the way we work, live and play. The Technology Showcase is a new ele- ment to this year's Best Defence Confer- ence which I hope becomes an established, must-see aspect of the conference. I am amazed at the number of talented and cre- ative companies that exist in Canada and I am only touching the tip of the iceberg. Q What is the best advice you received? Trust yourself. Q What is the habit that contributes to your success? I just keep moving ahead until I achieve the goal. I don't let obstacles stop me from finding a path forward. Q What is your parting piece of advice? It is scary to leave behind a secure posi- tion to start a business. That first year is an emotional rollercoaster but the ride is what makes it valuable whether you suc- ceed or fail. Q What people or organizations do you believe best embody the innovation mindset? I only have to look right in my own back yard to see that GDLS-C embraces in- novation throughout its entire corporate culture and acts as an innovation catalyst throughout its supply chain. I really get excited when I meet a supplier that has gone from making simple commodity products to providing really creative solu- tions and developing their own IP. Q How is your organization changing the game within your industry sector? I see us filling a need by acting as a cata- lyst for strategic partnerships and bringing technology-driven innovators to the table. What technologies, business models and trends will drive the biggest changes in your industry over the next two years? Artificial intelligence is being applied to manufacturing and the whole area of addi- tive manufacturing will leave behind those companies that do not invest in technology. HeatHer Pilot President Pilot hill ltd.