Canadian astronaut to address 2026 Women with Drive Summit
Theme for 2026: Thriving in a shifting world
OTTAWA, ON (December 15, 2025) — Trucking HR Canada is excited to announce another feature speaker for the 2026 Women with Drive Leadership Summit on March 5, 2026 in Toronto.
Dr. Shawna Pandya — astronaut, aquanaut, and emergency and aeromedical transport physician — will deliver a keynote speech. As the first named female commercial Canadian astronaut with the Virgin Galactic Delta class of spacecraft, Dr. Pandya speaks passionately about overcoming fear, resilience, and lifelong learning.
“The 2026 Women with Drive Leadership Summit is shaping up to be the best one yet,” says Angela Splinter, CEO of Trucking HR Canada. “It’s going to be a powerful day to connect, learn, and engage in meaningful conversations that accelerate women’s participation in our industry.”
The theme for 2026, Thriving in a shifting world, focuses on how to lead during a time of economic strain, rapid technological change, and geopolitical instability.
The full-day event this year also features a keynote presentation from Melissa Leong — national media personality, sought-after speaker, and award-winning author of the feel-good finance guide, Happy Go Money — as well as specialized break-out sessions and networking for leaders and developing leaders in our sector. The day is for everyone who is committed to advancing the participation of women and other underrepresented groups in the sector.
Registration is open now. Watch for announcements about more speakers, panelists, and breakout sessions in the coming weeks. The day also includes recognizing the 2026 recipient of the Women with Drive Leadership Award and a special ceremony to welcome new signatories to our Women’s Leadership Accord.
The annual event is attended by 300 industry leaders, developing leaders, and change makers who are committed to fostering real change in Canada’s trucking and logistics sector. This flagship event always sells out, so take advantage of early bird pricing available for a limited time and reserve your spot.
EARLY BIRD PRICING STARTS NOW!
Register now to reserve a seat or table at Women with Drive at the early bird rate.
Trucking HR Canada is the recognized national authority on workforce strategy for the trucking and logistics sector. We’re a non-profit centre of excellence, engaging with employers, governments, think tanks, industry groups, and stakeholders.
Media contact: comms@truckinghr.com
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