Leading into the Future: An Interview with the New Operations Programme Chair Team
The CANSO Operations Programme is entering an exciting new chapter with its newly appointed Chair, Maartje van der Helm (LVNL), and Vice Chair, Marie-Pier (MP) Berman (NAV CANADA). Together they bring fresh energy, extensive experience and a shared commitment to shaping the future of global ATM operations.
Their leadership comes at a transformative moment: traffic is projected to double over the next two decades; new entrants are accelerating; and ATM must adapt to rising complexity. Both leaders see the Operations Programme as uniquely positioned to help ANSPs meet these challenges. With a strong foundation already in place, their goal is to build momentum and align the Operations Programme efforts with the Complete Air Traffic System (CATS) CONOPS, ensuring ANSPs worldwide are equipped to modernise and thrive.
“The coming years promise profound transformation,” says Maartje. “Collaboration, shared learning and innovation will be at the heart of how we navigate that shift.”
Background and Journey
Maartje’s perspective has been sharpened in complex, international settings where interests aren’t always aligned, teaching the value of coalition-building, clarity and keeping shared goals in sight. MP’s philosophy was shaped early by strong role models in Canadian aviation. She learned that respect, listening and genuine curiosity are the cornerstones of trust and performance and that the best leaders create environments where people feel valued, heard and empowered.
Both highlight lessons that remain central today: step outside your comfort zone, stay curious and embrace diverse perspectives as sources of strength.
Vision for the Next two-three Years
They envision the Operations Programme as a driver of collaboration, knowledge-sharing and innovation across the global operations community, both a thought partner and a solutions partner, connecting ANSPs, surfacing best practice, and bridging operational needs with emerging technologies and policy frameworks.
A shared ambition is to strengthen cross regional collaboration and broaden participation in workgroups. Concrete, practical outputs that members can apply at home will be a hallmark of success. Flagship moments, such as the OSC Connect 2026, taking place in Abu Dhabi 2-5 February, will help build relationships, catalyse ideas and shape the industry’s next steps.
Priorities and Engagement
The leaders emphasise tight alignment with the CATS vision, delivering actionable tools that address near-term operational realities while enabling long-term transformation. Engagement, they stress, grows from relevance and purpose: when members see their input reflected in real outcomes, motivation and ownership follow.
“It’s not just about participation; it’s about purpose,” notes Maartje.
Leadership Style and Challenges
Their style is collaborative, inclusive and purpose-driven: connecting perspectives, building trust and enabling others to contribute meaningfully. Leading a diverse, global group requires adaptability and empathy, recognising that solutions cannot be one-size-fits-all but must respect regional contexts while advancing shared ambitions. Balancing regional realities with global alignment will be a core challenge; focusing on common goals while allowing flexibility in execution will be key.
Your Role at the Core — A Call to All CANSO Members
This next phase is member powered. We invite all CANSO members to get involved expand participation in Operations Programme workgroups, contribute practical examples and lessons learned, collaborate across regions, and engage at OSC Connect 2026.
Every contribution an idea, a case study, a lesson learned—moves the whole community forward.
Advice & Inspiration
Be proactive. Share openly. Get involved. The programme’s strength lies in its diversity of perspectives and experiences. Maartje champions curiosity and courage—challenging assumptions and embracing complexity as a driver of progress. MP emphasises pushing beyond comfort zones while leading with integrity, empathy and follow-through.
Looking Ahead
As their term begins, the Chair and Vice Chair are united in optimism and committed to co-creation with the community. MP sums it up:
“The future of aviation will be shaped by how well we work together today. Every contribution matters—an idea, a lesson learned, a collaborative effort. These are exciting times, and it’s a privilege to help shape what comes next.”
