The KF Centre for Excellence was proud to host the Canadian Wildfire Conference 2025on October 1-2, welcoming wildfire leaders, researchers, and aviation innovators to Kelowna for two days of learning, connection and action. uniting global leaders in wildfire response, research, and technology. In a region where wildfire risk is a lived reality, this event carried special weight for the Okanagan.
Expanded from a one-day event to a two-day program, this year’s conference marked a major step forward for wildfire collaboration in Canada. Organized by Canadian Firefighter, Fire Fighting in Canada, Helicopters, and Wings, the event drew together the full spectrum of wildfire suppression stakeholders—ground crews, air operators, suppliers, Indigenous leaders, and government agencies.
Aviation and Innovation on Display
On our apron, guests could explore the latest in aerial firefighting technology, including the Coulson Aviation T-140 Air Tanker, the Conair RJ85 Airtanker, and helicopters such as the Bell 212 and Airbus H125. Land vehicles and suppression equipment were also showcased, giving attendees a close look at the tools shaping the future of wildfire response.
Inside, exhibitors such as Perimeter Solutions, SEI Industries, Drone Amplified, Firestorm, Rosenbauer America, and Helicopter Transport Services presented cutting-edge technologies—ranging from fire-retardant systems to portable pumps and drone innovations.
Key Conversations for the Okanagan
The educational program featured thought-provoking sessions on topics directly tied to the Okanagan’s future resilience. Highlights included:
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John Vaillant’s keynote, The New World Order of Weather, examining climate change and the wildfire crisis.
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Indigenous Stewardship and First Nations Needs, led by Blaine Wiggins, exploring traditional forest management and the risks faced by Indigenous communities.
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Local leadership, including City of Kelowna Assistant Fire Chief Dennis Craig and Wildland Fire Ecologist Colleen Ross, sharing how prescribed fire and burn programs are shaping proactive land management.
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Aviation voices, with representatives from Coldstream, Yellowhead, and VIH Helicopters, and the BC Wildfire Service discussing structure protection, fatigue management, and future detection strategies.
Why Kelowna Matters
Hosting the Canadian Wildfire Conference in the Okanagan carried unique weight. Our region has faced some of the most challenging wildfire seasons in Canada, reminding us that fire prevention and preparedness are not optional—they are essential. Bringing together diverse voices at the KF Centre reinforced how aviation, community collaboration, and Indigenous knowledge must converge to strengthen wildfire resilience.
Looking Forward
The 2025 Canadian Wildfire Conference was more than an industry showcase—it was a commitment to shaping a safer future for communities across Canada. The conversations, partnerships, and innovations shared here will ripple outward, influencing how we prevent, detect, and respond to wildfires in the years ahead.
At the KF Centre for Excellence, we are proud to serve as a gathering place for these critical conversations—where aviation, innovation, and community meet to spark solutions that matter.
