Boundless Innovation: Pioneering the Future of Aerospace & Defence and High-Impact Leadership with France Hébert

The featured content celebrates notable women leaders in Ottawa, highlighting their contributions in light of International Women's Month 2024. Produced in collaboration with the Power of Why Podcast and Invest Ottawa, with support from BDC Capital's Thrive Venture Fund, this initiative aims to honor female role models who significantly impact their communities and embody the spirit of International Women's Month.

Among the five inspirational leaders recognized this year is France Hébert, a trailblazer in the aerospace and defense sectors. With an early passion for math, physics, and aviation, Hébert joined the Canadian Armed Forces at 18, where she was immersed in a disciplined environment requiring high-stakes decision-making and complex problem-solving. One of the crucial leadership lessons she took away from her military experience is that the most significant limitations often stem from within ourselves, rather than external factors.

Hébert's 35-year career reflects her commitment to challenging both personal and professional limitations. She has played a transformative role in defense and security training by integrating technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and simulation into military programs. Notably, she led efforts in securing the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) contract, which aims to revolutionize military pilot training in Canada, establishing new standards and practices that align with contemporary demands.

As the Vice President and General Manager of Defence and Security Canada at CAE, as well as President of SkyAlyne, Hébert is at the forefront of a new era in defense innovation. She emphasizes that effective leadership is not about having all the answers; instead, it involves breaking down barriers, instilling trust within teams, and fostering an environment that promotes innovative thinking and creativity.

The article promotes the third episode of a five-part podcast series featuring these leaders, reaffirming the importance of women's contributions to knowledge-based industries and economic development in Ottawa. This project not only showcases individual achievements but also emphasizes the collaborative efforts necessary to drive significant change in various sectors.

In summary, the highlighted women, including France Hébert, exemplify the impact that dedicated, innovative leaders can have on their fields, paving the way for future generations. Through their efforts, they inspire others to recognize that true leadership involves empowering teams and encouraging a culture of innovation, ultimately contributing to a more dynamic and forward-thinking society. The content presents a call to action to value and harness the capabilities of women in leadership roles, especially during significant observances like International Women’s Month.