From RCAF Officer to AI Innovator Driving Global Change: Devashish Paul (CMR RMC 1988)
After leaving the military, Devashish moved into the tech world just as it was starting to accelerate. Over the next 20+ years, he built a career across Canada, Silicon Valley, Europe, and Asia, working in semiconductors, networking, and high-performance computing. His focus was always on solving big, practical challenges, helping build technologies that sit behind everyday systems, from global communications networks to advanced computing platforms.
Alumni Spotlight: Colonel (Ret’d) Nishika Jardine, RMC 1986 — A Career Built on Service
In November 2020, she was appointed Veterans Ombud, taking on a national role focused on fairness for Veterans and their families. The work of the Office of the Veterans Ombud is direct and important. It reviews complaints related to the Veterans Bill of Rights, looks at issues connected to programs and services administered by Veterans Affairs Canada, and identifies systemic problems that affect Veterans and their families.
Test Pilot. Combat Leader. Global Aviation Strategist. Billie Flynn, CMR RMC 1981
A graduate of the Royal Military College of Canada, Flynn went on to serve 23 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, retiring as a Lieutenant-Colonel and Combat Squadron Commander. During that time, he built a reputation as a highly capable fighter pilot and leader, entrusted with demanding operational responsibilities at home and abroad. He led 441 Tactical Fighter Squadron and commanded Canadian Task Force Aviano during Operation Allied Force, flying combat missions over Kosovo and the former Republic of Yugoslavia. The unit’s contributions were later recognized with Battle Honours awarded by Queen Elizabeth II, marking an important chapter in Canadian military aviation history.
Can psilocybin ease distress in the dying? Research shows promise
On a late winter day, the sun seeped into Andrew Chernysh’s RRMC RMC 1997 room inside Ottawa’s century old Saint-Vincent Hospital. It illuminated family photos and postcard-sized Group of Seven prints that blanket one wall and bounced off a bouquet of birthday balloons suspended near his wheelchair. The military veteran and cybersecurity specialist smiled. Chernysh, 52, has advanced ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). He was diagnosed with the neurodegenerative disease five years ago. He is paralyzed from the neck down and is fully dependent on others for his needs. He relies on a ventilator to breathe.
Alumni Spotlight: Leadership, Service, and Representation Colonel Chung Wong, RMC 2004
Beyond his leadership role, Col Wong is a champion for diversity and inclusion within the Defence Team. As the military Champion for the Defence Team Canadian Asian Network (DTCAN), established in 2025, he works to amplify the voices of Asian Canadian members and foster a more inclusive culture across the CAF.
From Royal Roads to National Leadership: Major-General Krista Brodie, RRMC Class of 1993
Major-General Krista Brodie, a graduate of Royal Roads Military College and a distinguished leader in the Canadian Armed Forces, continues to exemplify service, professionalism, and leadership on the national and international stage. As Chief of Staff of Canadian Joint Operations Command, she brings decades of operational experience to one of Canada’s most senior military appointments.
Navigating Leadership: From Aerospace Command to Ocean Adventure — Max Shaw, RMC ’93
A Mechanical Engineering graduate of the Royal Military College of Canada (RMC ’93), Max’s academic journey continued through the prestigious Athlone Fellowship, leading him to complete a Master’s degree in Flight Dynamics at Cranfield University in the United Kingdom. His time abroad was marked not only by academic excellence but also by a pursuit of challenge—whether in whitewater kayaking or climbing—reflecting the resilience and determination instilled during his formative years at RMC.
BGen (Ret’d) William Fletcher: Leading with Courage, Humility, and Honour
His defining moment came during his deployment to Afghanistan in 2006, where, as a Major commanding C Company, he led from the front in some of the most dangerous combat conditions faced by Canadian forces in recent history. Repeatedly exposing himself to heavy enemy fire, Fletcher personally rendered first aid to wounded soldiers before continuing to lead the assault, actions that earned him the Star of Military Valour, making him only the second recipient in Canadian history. His courage, tactical acumen, and unwavering commitment to his soldiers embodied the highest standards of military leadership.
Advancing Defence Capability Through Logistics Excellence: Elizabeth Eldridge, RMC 2010
Throughout her naval career, LCdr Eldridge has led diverse, multidisciplinary teams across domestic and international operations. As a logistics officer, she has supported the Canadian Armed Forces in tactical, operational, and strategic sustainment roles—ensuring that people, equipment, and resources are aligned to deliver mission success. Her contributions have been recognized through multiple awards and scholarships, reflecting both professional excellence and academic impact.
Strengthening Public Trust Through Leadership: Matthew Hartney (RMC 2008) Named Partner at BDO Canada
In his new role, Matthew will support BDO’s national Government and Public Sector (GPS) platform and lead a Western Canada team focused on British Columbia’s public sector and First Nations governments. Through this work, he will help strengthen financial management practices and support public‑serving organizations in delivering meaningful outcomes for the communities they serve.
Against the Tide: Major Stephanie Bigelow RMC 2008 Makes History in the English Channel
Her preparation was as remarkable as the swim itself. Planning a Channel crossing often takes years and requires securing a support vessel, assembling a trained crew, and meticulous physical preparation. While posted in Kingston, Maj Bigelow completed much of her training in Lake Ontario and was supported throughout by fellow members of the Canadian Armed Forces who served as part of her boat crew during the crossing.
Alumni Spotlight: Rob Francis (RMC 2000)—Service, Leadership, Impact
Over 20 years in the CAF, Rob served in several Canadian warships and held leadership roles at sea and ashore, developing teams that could execute under pressure while maintaining accountability and cohesion. He later led the Office of Personnel Selection at Canadian Forces Base Halifax, where he helped guide talent decisions and reinforced the importance of selecting, developing, and supporting people as a core leadership responsibility.
