The Aerospace Industries Association of Canada (AIAC) announced the election of Cynthia Garneau, president of Bell Helicopter Textron Canada, as chair of the AIAC Board of Directors.

Garneau succeeds David Gossen, president of IMP Aerospace & Defence, who served as chair of the AIAC board over the last year.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as AIAC’s board chair,” said Garneau. “Maintaining our strategic edge, both here in Canada and around the world, will require a commitment to leveraging our expertise in collaborative innovation to drive growth and attract diverse talent across industries. I look forward to working with AIAC’s board and management team to ensure the ongoing success of Canada’s aerospace industry in the years ahead.”

Jim Quick, president and chief executive officer of AIAC, officially welcomed Garneau to her new role at AIAC’s Annual General Meeting on Nov. 7.

The board also acknowledged the service and contributions of Gossen, AIAC’s outgoing chair.

“Mr. Gossen’s leadership and strategic vision have been invaluable to AIAC’s growth and achievements over the last year,” Quick added. “I would like to personally thank David for his commitment to our association and industry and am very pleased that he will remain active on AIAC’s board in the coming year.”