The alumni community is proud to celebrate Major Elizabeth Thebault (RMC 2008), named the 2025 Captain Nichola Goddard Leadership Award Laureate, a distinguished honour recognizing exceptional early‑ to mid‑career contributions to Canada’s defence and security landscape.
An officer in the Royal Canadian Air Force, Major Thebault has built a career defined by operational excellence, technical mastery, and steadfast leadership while also balancing the demands of motherhood. Her professional journey reflects the very values of courage, integrity, and service that the Captain Nichola Goddard Leadership Award was created to honour.
From RMC Graduate to Aviation Pioneer
After joining the Canadian Armed Forces in 2004, Major Thebault graduated from the Royal Military College of Canada in 2008 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. She went on to complete rigorous flight training on the Grob, Harvard II, and King Air aircraft, earning her Wings in 2010.
That same year, she made history as Canada’s first female C‑17 Globemaster III pilot, flying with 429 Transport Squadron in Trenton an achievement that marked a significant milestone for the Royal Canadian Air Force and for women in military aviation.
Operational Impact at Home and Abroad
At just 25 years old, Major Thebault deployed in support of operations in Afghanistan, completing eight missions into theatre and contributing to both the sustainment and conclusion of Canada’s 12‑year engagement. Her operational career would continue to span the globe, supporting Operation Impact and global air mobility missions across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Indo‑Pacific, Canada, and the High Arctic.
She later served in Operational Test and Evaluation at 434 Squadron, earning her Test Director Qualification, before returning to 429 Transport Squadron as a Major, Flying Supervisor, and Instructor Pilot, mentoring the next generation of aircrew while maintaining high operational standards.
Leadership That Inspires
Throughout her career, Major Thebault has exemplified quiet confidence and exceptional competence—qualities noted by those who have worked alongside her since her earliest days in uniform. Her leadership style, professionalism, and commitment to those she serves with reflect a deep sense of responsibility to both mission and people.
Balancing high‑tempo global operations with the responsibilities of raising two children, she stands as a powerful example of resilience and dedication, demonstrating that excellence in service and personal commitment can go hand in hand.
A Legacy Worth Celebrating
Named in memory of Captain Nichola Goddard, the first Canadian female soldier killed in combat, the Captain Nichola Goddard Leadership Award honours leaders whose careers have had a tangible impact on Canada’s security and defence community. Major Thebault’s achievements, character, and service embody that legacy in every respect.
As alumni, we take pride in celebrating leaders like Major Elizabeth Thebault trailblazers who break barriers, lead with integrity, and inspire the next generation through service, courage, and quiet determination.