--- title: "Speakers (Canada 26)" description: "CBRNe World provides those tasked with defending against CBRN and IED threats with the essential practical, scientific and political information. Access the current and previous issues of the magazine by registering as a member." url: "https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26" date: "2026-07-30T21:09:24+00:00" language: "en-GB" --- # Confirmed Speakers (Canada 26) [ ![Kirk Fudge](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FFudge%20Kirk.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=5ed366b8) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3944:kirk-fudge&catid=108) ### [Kirk Fudge](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3944:kirk-fudge&catid=108) 07 April 2026 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Kirk Fudge is the Division Chief of Technical Operations with the Toronto Fire Services, bringing nearly three decades of operational and strategic experience in hazardous materials, CBRNE response, and joint operations coordination. In his current role, he provides leadership over specialized technical operations programs, including Hazmat and CBRNE response, while advancing public safety interoperability across partner agencies. His work focuses on aligning frontline operations with strategic planning to enhance preparedness, response capability, and integrated emergency management outcomes. [More from Kirk Fudge](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3944:kirk-fudge&catid=108) [ ![Maksymilian Stela](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FStela%20Maksymilian.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=e7c1336b) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3943:maksymilian-stela&catid=108) ### [Maksymilian Stela](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3943:maksymilian-stela&catid=108) 07 April 2026 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Maksymilian Stela is a CBRN expert at the Biohazard Prevention Centre at the University of Lodz in Poland. During his more than 25 years of military service at the Military Institute of Chemistry and Radiometry, he served as Head of the CBRN Reconnaissance and Decontamination Department, as well as Head of the Laboratory for the Verification of the Chemical Weapons Convention. He also chaired the military standardisation subcommittee on equipment for defence against Weapons of Mass Destruction and was a member of the NATO JCRBND CDG Detection, Identification and Monitoring Panel. He is currently an expert and technical coordinator for CBRN-related projects under the Horizon Europe Programme, the Internal Security Fund, and the EU CBRN CoE Initiative. His main areas of interest include the detection and identification of chemical contamination, the testing of such systems, CBRN incident response procedures, and the CBRN protection of public spaces. [More from Maksymilian Stela](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3943:maksymilian-stela&catid=108) [ ![Brian Annett](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FAnnett%20Brian.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=40070598) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3942:brian-annett&catid=108) ### [Brian Annett](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3942:brian-annett&catid=108) 07 April 2026 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Brian Annett is an Advanced Care Paramedic and Operations Superintendent with extensive experience across emergency operations and specialized response. Since 2009, he has served on the CBRNE team, where he now leads the program and supports multidisciplinary preparedness and incident management. Over his career, Brian has coordinated complex operational responses, guided frontline teams, and contributed to the advancement of hazardous incident readiness. He continues to apply his deep operational background and paramedic expertise to strengthen emergency response capabilities across the organization. [More from Brian Annett](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3942:brian-annett&catid=108) [ ![Laura Cochrane](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FCochrane%20Laura.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=50a7e297) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3938:laura-cochrane&catid=108) ### [Laura Cochrane](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3938:laura-cochrane&catid=108) 26 March 2026 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Laura Cochrane is a seasoned expert in CBRN Medical Countermeasure Development. She has over the years worked across international collaborations, driven medical device development, and provided scientific leadership in crisis response across CBRN preparedness. Laura holds advanced degrees and certifications from institutions such as Royal Military College of Canada, St. Andrews University, University of Bath, Cambridge University, and London School of Economics. Laura served as an Aerospace Engineering Officer with the Royal Canadian Airforce and held various positions in Life Science organizations where she is currently the CBRN Medical Head with SERB pharmaceuticals. [More from Laura Cochrane](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3938:laura-cochrane&catid=108) [ ![Chief Superintendent Mark Roberts](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FRoberts%20Mark.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=5baadece) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3919:chief-superintendent-mark-roberts&catid=108) ### [Chief Superintendent Mark Roberts](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3919:chief-superintendent-mark-roberts&catid=108) 02 March 2026 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Mark has over 30 years Policing experience in Northern Ireland. In his current role he is head of Protective Services overseeing Armed Policing, Firearms Licensing, Close Protection and Policy within Operational Support Department. Mark originally trained as a biochemist being awarded a PhD by the Queens University of Belfast in 1994. He holds a number of Command qualifications including Public Order and Public Safety Silver and Multi Agency Gold Incident Command. He has been actively involved in CBRN Policing since 2006 and is currently qualified to Gold Command level. For a significant portion of his career Mark has been involved in the development of the response to Major Incidents, holding the Service Portfolio for Aviation Security and Airport Policing Command and leading the Disaster Victim and Identification Team. His particular passion is driving a victim focused approach to multi-agency response in complex operating environments. [More from Chief Superintendent Mark Roberts](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3919:chief-superintendent-mark-roberts&catid=108) [ ![Thomas James](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FJames%20Thomas.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=a1feccfe) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3873:thomas-james&catid=108) ### [Thomas James](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3873:thomas-james&catid=108) 16 February 2026 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Thomas James has been leading on the delivery of analytical chemistry research to support CBRN policy for almost 10 years. Working for UK Health Security Agency and its predecessor Public Health England, Thomas has led on the delivery of the PHOENIX project, the spiritual successor to the well-known ORCHIDS project, which further developed a key national capability for CBRN research within the UK Government. More recently Thomas has led on the CHIMERA project, aiming to redefine chemical simulant use in research, further investigate the influence of the wash-in effect on decontamination and to revalidate current UK response to an ever-changing series of threats. Through close collaboration with UK and International partners, Thomas aims to provide critical research that supports robust and comprehensive decontamination strategies for first responders. [More from Thomas James](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3873:thomas-james&catid=108) [ ![Dr Carmela Jackson Lepage](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FJackson%20Lepage%20Carmela.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=8b76aa21) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3869:dr-carmela-jackson-lepage&catid=108) ### [Dr Carmela Jackson Lepage](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3869:dr-carmela-jackson-lepage&catid=108) 11 February 2026 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Dr. Carmela Jackson Lepage is a senior Defence Scientist at DRDC Suffield Research Centre with over 20 years of experience in chemical defence science and technology. She earned her Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Regina in 2002, following early defence-focused research involving Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion. Since joining DRDC in 2002, she has led major research efforts in chemical warfare agent (CWA) sampling and analysis. She served as Head of the Detection, Analysis and Identification Group beginning in 2010 and became Head of the Chemical Threat Defence Section in 2024. Dr. Jackson Lepage’s work spans advanced analytical methodologies for CWAs, and detection capability development for the Canadian Armed Forces. She has provided extensive training for civilian, military, and first-responder communities and supported national security operations with deployable analytical laboratory expertise. She currently leads scientific personnel delivering Canada’s chemical defence S&T programme across detection, protection, decontamination, and hazard assessment [More from Dr Carmela Jackson Lepage](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3869:dr-carmela-jackson-lepage&catid=108) [ ![Gord Armstrong](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FArmstrong%20Gord.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=296d79ee) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3862:gord-armstrong&catid=108) ### [Gord Armstrong](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3862:gord-armstrong&catid=108) 28 January 2026 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Gord Armstrong brings nearly 25 years of service and experience, with over 15 of those years in Toronto Paramedic Services, Special Operations Division. Over 15 years as a Public Order member and a dozen years as an Advanced CBRNE technician. Since 2017 Gord has been a certified trainer for Toronto’s Public Order Unit and Joined the CBRNE training cadre in 2021. First, in a part time role and full time since 2023. In his role as a CBRNE trainer he has helped develop ongoing, joint CBRNE team training, Bloc training for Toronto Paramedic Service CBRNE members, and helping evolve the Toronto CBRNE Technician course. Gord was a member of security elements for the Toronto G20, Pan Am games, and Presidential visits, along with innumerable lower profile events and demonstrations throughout Toronto. During his career, Gord continues to strive for both lifelong learning and improvement in the pursuit of operational excellence, while developing and mentoring the next generation of high-risk response specialists. [More from Gord Armstrong](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3862:gord-armstrong&catid=108) [ ![Adam McFadden](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FMcFadden%20Adam.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=82d81cc2) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3860:adam-mcfadden&catid=108) ### [Adam McFadden](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3860:adam-mcfadden&catid=108) 26 January 2026 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Adam is a Hazmat Technician, Shift Training Instructor and Former Recruit Training Officer for Canada’s Largest Fire Service; as well as a member of the Joint Response Hazmat & CBRNE Team with many years of experience responding to bomb threats, suspicious packages and white powder calls. He is also the owner of Firehouse Training, a private-industry fire service training company, developing various programs in the areas of industrial firefighting response, lithium-ion battery fire safety, hazardous materials spill response and terrorism awareness. Adam has over 20 years of experience in the Hazmat industry, has completed Cargo Tank Hazmat Specialist Training, Hazardous Materials Incident Command & Safety Officer training programs with the Michigan State Police Academy. Adam has spoken previously at industry conferences including the Florida State Hazmat Symposium, New England Hazmat Conference, Continuing Challenge Hazmat Conference in California, and the Ontario Hazmat Responders Association Hazmat Conference in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada. Adam has also recently participated as a contributing author on two hazmat related texts; including NERHD Hazmat Drills Vol. II & Building a Hazmat Team Guidebook, presented by The Hazmat Guys Co. [More from Adam McFadden](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3860:adam-mcfadden&catid=108) [ ![Ari Forman](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FForman%20Ari.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=a8c9e0cf) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3859:ari-forman&catid=108) ### [Ari Forman](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3859:ari-forman&catid=108) 23 January 2026 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Ari Forman is the CEO and co-founder of Scatr Inc., a technology company developing advanced hyperspectral Raman systems for chemical and narcotics detection. He leads deployments and pilots with public safety, border security, and law enforcement agencies across North America and Europe, focused on modernizing CBRN and field detection capabilities. [More from Ari Forman](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3859:ari-forman&catid=108) [ ![Zachary Kallenborn](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FKallenborn%20Zachary.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=f428e014) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3823:zachary-kallenborn&catid=108) ### [Zachary Kallenborn](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3823:zachary-kallenborn&catid=108) 31 December 2025 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Zachary Kallenborn is an MPhil / PhD student in War Studies at King's College London researching risk and uncertainty with topical focuses on global catastrophes, drone warfare, critical infrastructure, WMD, and apocalyptic terrorism. He is also affiliated with the University of Oxford, the Center for Strategic and International Studies, George Mason University, and the National Institute for Deterrence Studies. His extensive research, writing, and analysis occasionally receives global news coverage, and influences a broad range of state, federal, and global security policies and strategies. Zachary appeared in Netflix's "UNKNOWN: Killer Robots," is an officially proclaimed U.S. Army "Mad Scientist," and is on the board of advisors of Synthetic Decision Group, Inc. and the Michael J. Morell Center for Intelligence and Security Studies at the University of Akron. [More from Zachary Kallenborn](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3823:zachary-kallenborn&catid=108) [ ![Dan Cartwright](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FCartwright%20Dan.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=d17bc0c6) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3822:dan-cartwright&catid=108) ### [Dan Cartwright](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3822:dan-cartwright&catid=108) 31 December 2025 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Mr. Dan Cartwright, former Deputy Assistant Commissioner, National Fire Chiefs Council, National Deputy CBRN(e) Strategic Lead Dan Cartwright has over 30 years’ experience in emergency response, national resilience, and civil protection. His career spans frontline fire and rescue leadership, national policy development, and international collaboration on Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) preparedness. He currently works with cross-government partners on public safety and resilience programmes and represents the UK as a Civil CBRN expert to NATO. Alongside this, he serves as a Reservist Major in Specialist Group Military Intelligence. Dan has supported multi-agency responses to major incidents and international events, and contributes to improving how civil and military organisations plan, train, and work together. He remains committed to practical, proportionate resilience, supporting collaboration across emergency services, government, and international partners. [More from Dan Cartwright](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3822:dan-cartwright&catid=108) [ ![Ltc. Thomas Holmberg](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FHolmberg%20Thomas.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=4f870f53) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3820:ltc-thomas-holmberg&catid=108) ### [Ltc. Thomas Holmberg](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3820:ltc-thomas-holmberg&catid=108) 16 December 2025 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Ltc Thomas Holmberg has served in the Swedish Armed Forces since 1988, with extensive experience in CBRN operations and training. He has held key roles at the Swedish CBRN Defence Centre, including Development Officer for Army CBRN, Head of Exercise and Evaluation, and head of Training Support. As Head of the CBRN School he took the initiative creating and leading the International CBRN Winter Course. Since 2019, he has led the Training and Capability Development Division and represents Sweden in the JCBRND-CDG and the Doctrine and Terminology Panel. His career reflects a strong commitment to advancing CBRN training and operational effectiveness. The latest of his initiatives is to create an NATO CBRN Winter Exercise, Toxic Winter. Toxic Winter will be conducted 2027 in Sweden. [More from Ltc. Thomas Holmberg](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3820:ltc-thomas-holmberg&catid=108) [ ![Dr. Eva Dickson](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FDickson%20Eva.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=067be78a) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3816:dr-eva-dickson&catid=108) ### [Dr. Eva Dickson](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3816:dr-eva-dickson&catid=108) 08 December 2025 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Dr. Eva Gudgin Dickson is Adj. Assoc. Prof. at the Royal Military College of Canada, and has been a specialist in the area of protection and decontamination for high hazard (CBRn) agents for more than 34 years. The projects her group has executed support clients worldwide and her collaborators have spanned the globe. Dr. Dickson’s work has focused on requirements and standards development, technology and response gaps and needs, research and development of new materials and PPE designs, realistic qualification and evaluation including methods development, life cycle management support, training, commander’s guidance, and support to procurement. She also is the author of patents on the design of novel protective materials and systems and as well as one book and many papers and reports in the area. [More from Dr. Eva Dickson](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3816:dr-eva-dickson&catid=108) [ ![Corey Collings](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FCollings%20Corey.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=a8b3ec24) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3724:corey-collings&catid=108) ### [Corey Collings](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3724:corey-collings&catid=108) 02 September 2025 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Corey Collings is a seasoned defense and emergency response leader with over 20 years of experience spanning product development, R&D, and operational training. As Technical and Training Director at First Line Technology, he drives innovation in support of Defense and Homeland Security missions, leading cross-functional teams and delivering global training initiatives that strengthen national preparedness. Recognized as a Subject Matter Expert in CBRNe technologies, Corey is known for translating complex technical challenges into practical, mission-focused solutions that protect communities and enhance operational readiness. [More from Corey Collings](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3724:corey-collings&catid=108) [ ![Lieutenant Colonel Martin Laverack](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FLaverack%20Martin.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=de8d4c7f) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3301:lieutenant-colonel-martin-laverack&catid=108) ### [Lieutenant Colonel Martin Laverack](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3301:lieutenant-colonel-martin-laverack&catid=108) 21 May 2024 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Lieutenant Colonel Martin Laverack assumed the SO1 FP & CCBRN post in Land Operations Command in HQ Field Army in January 2024. Commissioned into the Royal Logistic Corps from the ranks in August 2011. His initial appointment was as a Sqn 2ic in 11 EOD Regt RLC in Catterick. His other Regimental appointment was as the Sqn 2ic in DEMS training Regt where he was primarily responsible for delivery of High Threat EOD training. As a staff officer he completed two appointments in DEODS in AHQ which led to his attendance on ICSC(L) at the Defence Academy. Subsequently he completed an Initial grade two appointment as a Requirements Manager in DE&S before taking up his appointment as the Operations Major for CBRNe in 11 EOD & Search Regt. Currently employed as SO1 FP & CCBRN he is the lead staff officer in the Land Ops Command for all land Force Protection, Operational Risk and C-CBRN activity. [More from Lieutenant Colonel Martin Laverack](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3301:lieutenant-colonel-martin-laverack&catid=108) [ ![Chief Yannick Morvan](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FMorvan%20Yannick.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=ef81bb21) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3185:chief-yannick-morvan&catid=108) ### [Chief Yannick Morvan](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3185:chief-yannick-morvan&catid=108) 13 February 2024 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Yannick Morvan, as Battalion Chief in the specialized operations division at the Montreal Fire Department, leads the CBRN team and program in support to the departments field operations. Hazmat Technician since 2005 and firefighter for the last 31 years he also is the team leader of the CBRNE branch of the 6th Canadian Heavy Urban Search and Rescue national task force of Montreal (CAN-TF6). Finaly he his a member of the Counter Terrorism Advisory Committee of Montreal (CAAM) since 2019 and International Board Member in the Counter Terrorism Preparedness Network (CTPN) since 2021. He was nominated in 2023 by the CTPN as Deputy Chair of the new CBRNE experts working group. The response to terrorist attacks, as in most emergencies, occurs first and foremost at the local or municipal level. Convinced that cities that develop response capabilities in an integrated manner are more resilient during interventions of this nature, Chief Morvan works in close collaboration with the Montreal Police Department (SPVM) under the counter terrorism advisory committee. The partnership between the Montreal FD and the SPVM on this subject is complementary considering that these events have two components: the criminal aspect (SPVM) and the protection of property, lives and the environment (SIM). It is in this spirit that they planned and coordinated anti-terrorist operations during the15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity which was held in Montreal in December 2022. To maintain this agility, the Counter terrorism committee of Montreal analyzes the CBRNe response during upcoming major events like, for example, the arrival of the Formula 1 Grand Prix held every June in Montreal. [More from Chief Yannick Morvan](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3185:chief-yannick-morvan&catid=108) [ ![Dr Christina Baxter](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FBaxter%20Christina%201.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=f2ce1a4f) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3287:dr-christina-baxter&catid=108) ### [Dr Christina Baxter](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3287:dr-christina-baxter&catid=108) 30 January 2024 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Dr. Christina Baxter is the CEO of Emergency Response TIPS, LLC which provides practical, evidence-based solutions for emergency response through the development of next generation tools for enhanced situational awareness and responder safety; instructional design materials for instructor-led and web-based programs in the areas of CBRNE, hazardous materials, and clandestine laboratory response; technology transition guidance for emerging technologies; and, emergency planning for hazardous materials and emergency response. Prior to forming Emergency Response TIPS, LLC, Dr. Baxter was the CBRNE Program Manager for the Department of Defense’s Combating Terrorism Technical Support Office where she was responsible for identifying capability gaps in the combating terrorism CBRNE mission space, illuminating or developing innovative solutions, and delivering them to military, interagency, and law enforcement operators in the field as rapidly as possible. Dr. Baxter holds B.S. degrees in Chemistry and Environmental Science from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from the Georgia Institute of Technology. She has greater than 20 years of experience in the hazardous materials/CBRN response community where she remains active in teaching and participating in standards development processes. She is currently the chairperson of the NFPA Technical Committee on Chemical Protective Clothing and is a member of the NFPA Technical Committees on Hazardous Materials/WMD Operations, Technical Committee on Tactical and Technical SCBA, and others. Dr. Baxter is also a member of the Interagency Board, the IAFC Hazmat Committee, and the IAFF’s Hazmat Advisory Board. [More from Dr Christina Baxter](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3287:dr-christina-baxter&catid=108) [ ![Michael ‘Casey’ Collins - Chair](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FCollins%20casey.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=d62cedbf) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3102:michael-casey-collins&catid=108) ### [Michael ‘Casey’ Collins - Chair](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3102:michael-casey-collins&catid=108) 21 December 2023 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Michael “Casey” Collins is the former Deputy to the Commander of Joint Task Force Civil Support (JTF-CS), headquartered at Fort Eustis, Virginia. When directed, JTF-CS conducts chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear (CBRN) response operations after a CBRN incident; JTF-CS also conducts all-hazards defense support of civil authorities (DSCA) in support of the Lead Federal Agency. JTF-CS’ mission is to save lives, prevent further injury, and provide temporary critical support to enable community recovery. During his tenure at JTF-CS, Collins led the planning effort for a number of critical projects including U.S. CBRN and medical support for the 2010 Canadian Winter Olympics; furthermore he participated in the response efforts in New York and New Jersey for Super Storm Sandy in 2012 and the COVID-19 Response Mission, which included medical support across 26 states as well as Vaccination Operations spanning 17 states. Most recently Collins and JTF-CS participated in response operations in North Carolina after the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene. Previously, Collins served in the U.S. Navy for 29 years, retiring at the rank of Captain. Notable assignments included squadron command of the VAQ-140 Patriots and VAQ-129 Vikings as well as command of Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads. [More from Michael ‘Casey’ Collins - Chair](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3102:michael-casey-collins&catid=108) [ ![Lt. Col. Anders Kildal](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FKildal%20LtCol%20Anders.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=f4ee4c7e) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3005:lt-col-anders-kildal&catid=108) ### [Lt. Col. Anders Kildal](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3005:lt-col-anders-kildal&catid=108) 08 September 2023 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Lt. Col. Kildal assumed the position commandant in May 2023, after six years as a civilian. During which he lead operational Covid-19 work in one of largest municipalities in Norway. He had also been section head Emergency preparedness and response section at The Directorate for Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety. Where he also held the position as chief of staff for the Crisis Committee for Nuclear Preparedness. He has a bachelor in nursing, a master in public administration, Officer Candidate School, the Norwegian Military Academy and several master modules from The Norwegian Defence Command and Staff College. Lt. Col. Kildal has more than 20 years in the armed forces, has worked in EUs Nordic battlegroup, and was deployed to Afghanistan as part of ISAF. His military background is from Military Police, Medical Services and CBRN, and he has held positions as company commander, section head, and military assistant for the Norwegian Surgeon General. [More from Lt. Col. Anders Kildal](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3005:lt-col-anders-kildal&catid=108) [ ![Keith A. Drabick](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FCheif-Drabick-Picture.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=8d17e336) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2869:keith-a-drabick&catid=108) ### [Keith A. Drabick](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2869:keith-a-drabick&catid=108) 15 May 2023 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Keith A. Drabick is the Fire Chief for the Village of East Palestine Ohio. Chief Drabick has 37 years’ experience in the Emergency Services field. Originally from rural Western Pennsylvania, he started his career in a small volunteer fire department. He began taking classes to further his career in both EMS and Fire related categories. In the early 1990’s he obtained his EMT, ProBoard FFI & FFII along with becoming a Pennsylvania Fire Instructor. He went on to obtain his Paramedic and continued to obtain certifications in the technical rescue and haz-mat fields. He progressed his way through the ranks with experience and education to hold the position of Assistant Chief for a local fire department and Chief for a local EMS service. During his tenor as Chief, the volunteer EMS service was transitioned to a fully staffed career EMS service. He also served as a member of the PA Regional 4 EMS Strike team. [More from Keith A. Drabick](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2869:keith-a-drabick&catid=108) [ ![Ryan Putman](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FPutman%20Ryan.png%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=16cacb95) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2158:ryan-putnam&catid=108) ### [Ryan Putman](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2158:ryan-putnam&catid=108) 17 January 2022 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Ryan Putman serves as a Deputy State Fire Marshal for the Office of the State Fire Marshal, Utah Department of Public Safety, specializing as a Fire Investigator and Hazardous Materials Specialist. He began his Public Safety career as an EMT in 2002 and has been with the Office of the State Fire Marshal since 2016. Ryan created the Fire Marshal’s robotics program and developed the virtual and online training programs, sharing his expertise through published articles and speaking engagements across North America. He holds an Associate of Science from Weber State University, a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management from Columbia Southern University, and a Master of Science in Management and Leadership from Western Governors University. His professional certifications include Hazardous Materials Incident Commander, Hazardous Materials Officer, Hazardous Materials Safety Officer, Radiation Specialist, US FAA Certified Remote Pilot, IAAI-Certified Fire Investigator, and NAFI-Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator. [More from Ryan Putman](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2158:ryan-putnam&catid=108) [ ![Col. Gaetan Boireau](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fspeaker-images%2FBoireau%20Gaetan.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%2C%22%7D&hash=68c63fe2) ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2066:lt-col-gaetan-boireau&catid=108) ### [Col. Gaetan Boireau](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2066:lt-col-gaetan-boireau&catid=108) 29 October 2021 | [Speakers](https://cbrneworld.com/events/cbrne-convergence-canada-2026/speakers-canada-26) Colonel Boireau has served in CBRN defense since 2003. He notably commanded the French CBRN reference unit, the 2nd Dragoon Regiment. He has deployed several times in operations, and also served in tactical and strategic circles for national affairs and international issues. He is currently head of the NRBC office of the joint military general staff. [More from Col. Gaetan Boireau](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2066:lt-col-gaetan-boireau&catid=108)