NCO Conference 2026: Leadership’s role in expansion and mobilization

NCO Conference 2026: Leadership's role in expansion and mobilization

May 13, 2026 - Defence Stories

Estimated read time - 1:04

On May 29, the Non-Commissioned Member Leadership College (NCMLC) will host the 2nd edition of the Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) Conference at Fort Saint-Jean, in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. Under the theme "Professionalization in the Context of Expansion and Mass Mobilization", this event is a must-attend for those involved in NCM leadership development.

A dialogue between experts and decision-makers:
This year's conference promises highly enriching exchanges, bringing together prominent figures from military and academic leadership. Canadian Armed Forces Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) Bob McCann, Major-General Jeannot Boucher, Commander of the Canadian Defence Academy, and Brigadier-General Krista Bouckaert, Chief of Staff to the Chief of Defence Staff will share their strategic vision. Several Level 1 CWOs, academic experts, and participants from over 24 NATO member and partner nations will also take part in the discussions.

Meeting tomorrow's challenges:
In a constantly evolving environment, the CAF must face recruitment and growth challenges while maintaining high standards and flexibility in personnel training. Discussions will focus on the transformations required to maintain a highly professional Force despite sustained and accelerated expansion.

An accessible event for all:
To ensure accessibility from coast to coast, the event will also be available virtually.

Join us to take part in this discussion on the future of the CAF.

In brief:

• What: NCO Conference
• When: May 29, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. EDT
• Where: Fort Saint-Jean in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu and virtually
• Registration no later than May 25: NCO Conference - 2026