About OCDAE
The Ontario Council of Drone and Aviation Educators (OCDAE) is a professional organization dedicated to advancing drone and aviation education across Ontario. Through collaboration, advocacy, and skill development, OCDAE supports educators, students, and industry professionals in integrating aviation and drone technology into educational pathways and workforce training programs.
Our Mission
OCDAE’s mission is to foster excellence in aviation, drone technology, and aerospace education by:
- Providing professional development for educators.
- Supporting curriculum advancements in aviation and drone-related disciplines.
- Connecting students with industry leaders to prepare them for careers in STEM.
- Advocating for innovation and policy development in the aviation and drone sector.
Our Vision
OCDAE envisions a future where aviation and drone technology are accessible to all students, creating new career opportunities and advancing Ontario’s role as a leader in aerospace innovation.
1. Governance Overview
OCDAE is a not-for-profit organization committed to advancing career development, education, and training in drone and aviation technology across Ontario. Our governance structure ensures transparency, accountability, and strategic oversight while fostering collaboration among educators, industry professionals, and policymakers.
This governance model aligns with national regulatory standards in Canada and the USA to ensure compliance and operational integrity.
2. Governance Framework
A. Leadership Structure
OCDAE’s governance is overseen by an Elected Executive Team, which ensures the organization’s financial, legal, and operational integrity. The Board of Directors provides strategic oversight, and various committees and working groups support specialized initiatives.
B. Board of Directors
The Board of Directors provides strategic direction, oversight, and fiduciary responsibility for OCDAE. It consists of:
- Chair/President – Leads the board and represents the organization externally.
- Vice Chair/Vice President – Supports the Chair and assumes responsibilities as needed.
- Secretary – Maintains records, meeting minutes, and legal documentation.
- Treasurer – Manages financial oversight, budgeting, and reporting.
- Directors at Large (5-10 Members) – Represent various sectors and provide expertise.
- Founder (Board Member & Honorary Advisor) – Ensures the continuity of OCDAE’s mission and provides ongoing strategic guidance.
Each executive member has voting rights and serves a renewable term based on OCDAE’s bylaws.
C. Committees & Working Groups
To execute its mission effectively, OCDAE operates through several standing committees and working groups:
- Education & Curriculum Development Committee – Advances drone and aviation education programs.
- Industry Partnerships & Workforce Development Committee – Aligns education with industry workforce needs.
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Committee – Promotes inclusive policies and practices.
- Technology & Innovation Committee – Supports advancements in drone and aviation technology.
- Membership & Engagement Committee – Focuses on member growth, retention, and engagement.
Ad Hoc Committees
Temporary committees may be established to focus on specific projects, such as:
- Awards & Recognition Committee – Celebrates outstanding contributions in aviation education.
- Annual Conference Committee – Organizes OCDAE’s key professional development event.
D. Steering Committee
The Steering Committee provides high-level strategic oversight, ensuring OCDAE’s governance and operations align with its long-term vision.
Responsibilities:
- Facilitate collaboration between the Board, Advisory Council, and Regional Representatives.
- Oversee major projects, regulatory compliance, and strategic policy frameworks.
- Provide an escalation point for high-level decisions.
Composition:
- Chair/President (Board Representative)
- Vice Chair/Vice President
- One representative from the Advisory Council
- One representative from each Standing Committee
- Executive Director (Ex-Officio)
- Founder (Honorary Advisor)
E. Annual General Meeting (AGM) & Executive Meetings
The AGM is held annually and includes:
- Educators from elementary and secondary levels.
- Post-secondary stakeholders and training institutions.
- Government liaisons and policymakers.
- Industry partners and sponsors.
During the AGM, members review reports, approve financial statements, and elect executive roles as necessary.
The Executive Team meets monthly to discuss ongoing initiatives and ensure smooth governance operations.
3. Accountability & Compliance
A. Bylaws & Policies
OCDAE operates under bylaws and policies that comply with national regulations in Canada and the USA, including:
- Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (CNCA) – Board structure and transparency requirements.
- IRS 501(c)(3) Compliance (for U.S. operations) – Tax-exempt status maintenance.
- Conflict of Interest Policies – Ensuring governance integrity.
- Financial Reporting Standards – Preventing misuse of funds and ensuring accountability.
B. Code of Conduct & Ethics
All members, directors, and staff adhere to OCDAE’s Code of Conduct, which includes:
- Conflict of interest policies.
- Annual ethics compliance declarations.
- Ongoing governance and ethics training.
4. Conclusion
By adhering to national and international best practices, OCDAE ensures effective governance, legal compliance, and stakeholder accountability. Our governance model establishes OCDAE as a leading authority in drone and aviation education, fostering transparency, innovation, and professional development in the sector.