Mayor Announces Defence Construction Panel for Winnipeg Industry

Released: June 12, 2026 at 8:16 a.m.

As Canada moves to expand its military capacity, Winnipeg construction companies will get a closer look at upcoming defence-related construction opportunities coming to the city at an event organized by Mayor Scott Gillingham on June 25.

The Sky Economy: National Defence Panel on Winnipeg Construction Opportunities will bring members of the Winnipeg Construction Association and Manitoba Heavy Construction Association together with military, defence, and federal procurement officials.

“Winnipeg is already one of Canada’s most important aerospace and defence cities, and there is more opportunity ahead,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham. “This event is about making sure local construction companies know what work is coming, understand how the federal process works, and are ready to compete.”

The panel will provide information on the scope of upcoming defence-related construction projects in the Winnipeg area, including expansion of 17 Wing. It will also give companies a chance to learn more about how to become qualified Department of National Defence construction suppliers.

Confirmed panelists include:

  • Major-General Jeff Smyth, RCAF Chief of Air and Space Force Development
  • Colonel Jody Hanson, Commander, 17 Wing / CFB Winnipeg
  • Major Chris Dyer, Commanding Officer, Real Property Operations Detachment, Winnipeg
  • Representatives from Defence Construction Canada and Public Services and Procurement Canada

Gillingham said the panel is part of his broader Sky Economy initiative, which is focused on growing Winnipeg’s role in aerospace, defence, aviation, advanced manufacturing, and other industries connected to the Winnipeg airport area, 17 Wing / CFB Winnipeg, and CentrePort South.

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