It is a tremendous honour to serve as the new President of the Canadian Military Engineers Association (CMEA). I step into this role with humility and enthusiasm, mindful of the rich legacy of service, innovation, and camaraderie that defines our Engineer family. The Canadian Military Engineers have always lived up to our motto—Ubique, Latin for “everywhere.” From combat operations to infrastructure development, from humanitarian support to disaster relief, our presence has been constant, our impact enduring. It is in that spirit of service without boundaries that I look forward to working with all of you in the months and years ahead.

I want  to begin by acknowledging Colonel David Burke (Ret'd), who served the Association with distinction and dedication for more than a decade. His steady hand and tireless commitment laid the foundation from which we now build. On behalf of the entire CME community, I extend sincere thanks for his leadership and example.

Looking forward, the CMEA is entering a period of renewal and growth. Over the past year, we have welcomed an outstanding team to the Association’s leadership: LCol (ret’d) Lee Goodman as Executive Director, CWO Mike Golden (Ret'd) as Senior Vice President, Major Alex Landry as Secretary, Maj Ryan Southwood (Ret'd) leading Corporate Engagement, LCol Craig Braddon (Ret'd) as Veterans Engagement lead, and Kyle Scott spearheading Honours & Awards. Each brings remarkable experience and energy, and together they signal a refreshing of the board that balances continuity with new ideas. Their leadership, alongside our regional and chapter representatives, ensures that the Association remains vibrant, relevant, and connected to our members.

At the national level, two important initiatives are already underway. First, we are finalizing a new five-year strategic plan to be ratified and implemented in 2026. This plan is the result of consultation and reflection and charts a clear path to strengthen member services, improve communication, and ensure that the CMEA continues to serve as the voice and community of Canada’s Military Engineers. Second, we are completing a long-overdue refresh of the Association’s website, making it easier for members to connect, access services, and celebrate our shared history and achievements.

My vision as President is to ensure that the CMEA remains true to its ethos—for Engineers, by Engineers —while adapting to the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s members. That means supporting serving engineers in their professional development, assisting those transitioning to second careers, and ensuring our veterans and their families remain connected to the CME family. It also means celebrating our history and traditions while embracing innovation and diversity as essential parts of our future.

To our members, past and present, thank you for your trust and commitment. To our volunteers and leaders across the country, thank you for the countless hours you dedicate to sustaining our community. And to our younger engineers, know that your voices, energy, and ideas are vital to the future of this Association.

Together, and true to our motto Ubique—everywhere—we will continue to build an Association that reflects the strength, professionalism, and spirit of the Canadian Military Engineers. I look forward to engaging with you, hearing your perspectives, and moving forward as one engineer family.

Chimo!

Dan A. Doran
President
Canadian Military Engineers Association