14 Wing Chief Warrant Officer
Chief Warrant Officer J.K. Harper, MMM, CD
Born in Whitehorse, Yukon, Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) Justin Harper began their career in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) in 2000 as a reservist with the Cadet Instructor Cadre in Victoria, British Columbia. In March 2003, they completed a component transfer and commenced service as an Aviation Systems Technician with the Air Reserve at 443 Maritime Helicopter Squadron (MHS), also in Victoria.
In 2005, CWO Harper transitioned to the Regular Force, remaining with 443 MHS and serving in both first- and second-line aircraft maintenance. As an embarked member of helicopter air detachments deployed with the Royal Canadian Navy, they participated in domestic operations and major international missions, including Operation ALTAIR (2006) and Operation MOBILE (2011).
Promoted to Sergeant in 2012, CWO Harper completed second language training and was subsequently posted to the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Academy at CFB Borden, where they served as a member of the directing staff, contributing to the professional development of future RCAF leaders.
Following promotion to Warrant Officer in 2016, CWO Harper was posted to 1 Canadian Air Division Headquarters in Winnipeg, Manitoba, joining the Aircraft Maintenance Standards and Evaluation Team. In this capacity, they played a key role in policy modernization and provided operational oversight of maintenance support activities across the RCAF.
In 2019, upon promotion to Master Warrant Officer, they attended the Non-Commissioned Member Executive Professional Development Program at the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario, earning a certificate in General Military Studies. That same year, CWO Harper was honoured with induction into the Order of Military Merit, recognizing exceptional service to Canada.
In 2020, they were posted to the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff, serving within Chief of Force Development in the National Capital Region. There, they contributed to strategic-level planning for RCAF future-force development, including capability initiatives such as the P-8 acquisition, CC-295 implementation, and CH-149 upgrade. They also supported the evolution of talent management for the CAF’s senior NCM cadre, including Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class and Master Warrant Officer ranks.
Upon promotion to Chief Warrant Officer in 2022, CWO Harper returned to 443 MHS as the Squadron Chief Warrant Officer, where they provided leadership and mentorship during a period of operational growth.
In 2025, CWO Harper was appointed as the 14 Wing Chief Warrant Officer in Greenwood, Nova Scotia, where they will serve as the senior Non-Commissioned Member, supporting operational effectiveness and member well-being across the Wing.