Simulation World Canada Innovation Conference 2024

Women in Technology

For the first time in the event’s history, the Canada Innovation Conference held a Women in Technology panel where the strength of diversity and inclusion became clear. The panel was led by Ansys’ own, Marketing Specialist Rachel Betzner and included three incredible leaders: Department of National Defence Lieutenant-Colonel Melissa Reyes, Ansys Principal Technical Specialist Laila Salman, and Invest Ottawa Vice President, Strategy, Marketing, and Communications Sonya Shorey. The panel shared stories and data that reinforced the importance of developing, attracting, and retaining women from every walk of life in powerful science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. The panel left several audience members so inspired that members who were only there for the women in tech panel decided to stay to learn more.

Future Vision of Ansys

Area Vice President Greg Margolis kicked off the Canada Innovation Conference by sharing Ansys’ vision for the future of simulation that is focused on digital transformation, artificial intelligence/machine learning, and sustainability. He shared an example from Earth Rescue, an Ansys online series, and later explained how simulation is evolving.

“Supported by a new digital revolution, there is an opportunity to collectively define the future of simulation through the creation of simulation-driven, next-gen solutions,” he said. “Simulation is no longer the solution itself, rather it is the necessary capability that drives the solution.”

Inspiring Keynote Speakers

His Worship Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, then delivered an inspiring speech on his vision for Ottawa as a city and the future of technology in Canada. It was clear that Ottawa is open for business and opportunity is rampant.

The CEO of Invest Ottawa and Area X.O, Michael Trembley, was also present. He spoke about how Ansys helps Invest Ottawa and Area X.O assist the Canadian government and tech businesses in driving forward into new frontiers of innovation. Learn more about how Area X.O has partnered with Ansys by checking out the Area X.O Simulation Discovery Portal powered by Ansys!

Ansys Chief Technology Officer for Aerospace & Defense, Steve Bleymaier, closed out the keynote sessions by describing “the imperative for simulation in A&D,” and how Ansys’ breadth and depth enables customers to implement digital engineering, which reduces cost and risk while increasing reliability and availability.