By Newell Durnbrooke
On September 29th and 30th, Ottawa’s swanky Infinity Convention centre hosted the first ever Operator’s Expo (aka Op Ex). The two day show featured several dozen exhibitors displaying wares which cover the entire tactical spectrum: From sleeping bags to assault rifles. Attendance was restricted to Canadian military personnel, Law enforcement and Corrections officers. Admission and registration were free to anyone with the proper I.D.. To keep this event from attracting any negative public reaction there was no formal signage announcing the show. However the sea of pick-up trucks in the Infinity parking lot plus the streams of short haired individuals in black clothing and tactical footwear would have been a tip off for any passers by. “One of the primary objectives of organizing this show was to give operators a chance to bring their requirements directly to the manufacturer.” said Patrick Goodbody, Op Ex’s founder. “Another opportunity our show provides is the the ability for attendees to network with their fellow industry professionals.” Due to COVID-19 restrictions at the time, it looked doubtful that an in-person trade show would be allowed to proceed. However, it thankfully got the green light at the last minute and to ensure success, the organizers had a strict enforcement policy for being double-vaccinated (with proof) and a mask mandatory policy when not in your booth. Both days Infinity caterers laid on a decent lunch for the exhibitors. Despite this being the inaugural edition, taking place in the midst of a pandemic, and the first day (29 September) co-inciding with the new federal holiday for Truth & Reconciliation, attendance was better than expected. One of the most popular of the booths was that of the Arrowhead Coffee Company. While one might question how coffee could be tactical, Arrowhead is in fact a veteran-owned enterprise and their dark roast would ensure you never fall asleep while on watch. Esprit de Corps Magazine was proud to be among those exhibitors present at the premier Op Ex. Already the dates are booked for next year – 1–2 June, 2022. “We are looking to add training opportunities from some of the top tactical brands in the country.” said Goodbody. “Stand by for details.” Op Ex 2022 is definitely part of Esprit de Corps’ planning schedule for next year. Bravo Zulu to the organizers for a job well done.
