AIAC Awards Canadian Astronauts at Aerospace Summit 2025

The Aerospace Industries Association of Canada (AIAC) is set to honor Canada’s astronauts, both past and present, with the prestigious Hon. Marc Garneau Award during the upcoming Canadian Aerospace Summit 2025. This significant recognition highlights the remarkable contributions made by Canadian astronauts to space exploration and the aerospace sector.

Taking place in Ottawa on October 28, 2025, the award will be accepted by members of the Canadian Space Agency’s active astronaut corps, including Jeremy Hansen, David Saint-Jacques, Joshua Kutryk, and Jenni Gibbons. This marks the first occasion that the award is being presented to a group, underscoring the collective achievements of all Canadian astronauts.

In a statement, Mike Mueller, President and CEO of AIAC, expressed pride in recognizing those who exemplify the vision and leadership essential to the aerospace industry. “Canada’s astronauts embody the vision, innovation, and leadership that define our industry,” he noted. “It is an honour to recognize them and celebrate the Honourable Marc Garneau’s legacy at this year’s Summit.”

The Hon. Marc Garneau, the first Canadian in space and a former cabinet minister, has been instrumental in shaping the aerospace landscape in Canada. His legacy serves as a guiding force for aspiring space explorers. Lisa Campbell, President of the Canadian Space Agency, emphasized the importance of this recognition. “Canada’s astronauts represent the very best of our country — courage, curiosity, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible,” she stated.

The award will not only celebrate individual astronauts’ achievements but also recognize their collective legacy in advancing space exploration. As Canada prepares for future missions, including Artemis II, their leadership remains pivotal in defining the nation’s role in human spaceflight.

Established in 2022, the Hon. Marc Garneau Award aims to highlight extraordinary efforts in building and supporting the aerospace industry. This year’s presentation marks the third time the award has been given, following previous recipients such as Michel Ouellette in 2023 and Marc Garneau himself in 2022.

The Canadian Aerospace Summit, organized by AIAC, is a key event in the aerospace calendar, providing a platform for networking among industry leaders and government officials. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the latest innovations in aerospace and gain insights into current challenges and opportunities within the sector.

AIAC represents Canada’s aerospace manufacturing and services sector, which ranks as the world’s seventh-largest aerospace industry. Contributing over $34 billion to the economy, the sector exports 70% of its output and invests heavily in research and development, with approximately $1.2 billion allocated for 2024. The industry supports nearly 225,000 jobs across Canada, showcasing its significance to the national economy.

This award ceremony promises to be a memorable highlight of the Canadian Aerospace Summit, celebrating the inspiring achievements of those who have ventured into space and motivated generations of Canadians to reach for the stars.