Melanie De Young stands as a distinguished leader in the aerospace and defence industry, bringing two decades of expertise to the field. With seven years dedicated to managing Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) initiatives, she went on to establish Soventis in 2026, where she serves as Principal IRB/ITB Consultant. Melanie is celebrated for her exceptional skill in contract management and the successful delivery of complex ITB programs.

A respected voice within the industry, Melanie contributes her insights and leadership as a member of the Board of Directors for the Industrial Participation Association of Canada (IPAC), currently chairing the Government Relations Committee. Her academic credentials include a Professional Logistics Designation from The Logistics Institute and a Bachelor of Commerce (Co-op) from Dalhousie University, underscoring her commitment to excellence and lifelong learning.

Widely recognized across the Canadian defence sector, Melanie is an active presence at trade shows and industry events, driving business development and thought leadership. Her comprehensive mastery of ITB policy encompasses both major corporations and small enterprises, and she is renowned for cultivating high-value strategic partnerships that deliver measurable business impact and maximize ITB credits.