About Us

The association proudly represents the industry in BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba by promoting activities, connecting individuals, creating networking opportunities and events and hosting WestDef, Canada’s Premiere Defence and Security Conference. WestDef is the only national conference with a focus on maintenance, support and sustainability along with the programs surrounding those issues.

WCDIA also runs a series of networking events across the west. These “Coffee Clubs” are for sharing best practices, showcasing capabilities, education and providing quality networking for both existing and new members.

Utilizing a network comprised of industry, Government agencies, national associations and affiliate organisations, the series of events and sessions are designed to attract the right people, with the right information at the right time. Assisting government with inbound trade missions, creating a showcase of western capacity and capabilities or finding ways to advocate the issues facing the industry in the west, WCDIA is the organisation poised to assist.

If you need to identify companies for supply chain development, innovative technology or need to source companies with unique engineering skills, contact WCDIA and we will be happy to assist. We are focused on opportunities for the west and want to encourage any company or organisation local, national or international to participate.

History

The Western Canadian Defence Industries Association (WCDIA) was formed in 2009 and was developed for SMEs to learn, grow and connect on the A, D, S industry.

Over the past 9 years, and through the successful development of WestDef, and more recently adding in TACWest, WCDIA has become the facilitator of business between Primes, SMEs, and business alike. Since WestDef's inception, over 900 people have attended the conference, 90 different speakers and keynotes have presented on a wide range of topics, and delegates from across Canada, the USA, the UK and Australia have participated.