DTCAN co-chair pays visit to engineers at CFB Edmonton
June 12, 2025 - Capt Kyle Ho, Real Property Operations Unit (West) Program Officer
In a powerful show of unity and cultural celebration, RPOU(W) and 1 CER hosted LCdr Beth Lei, Co‑chair of the DTCAN.
The unofficial visit took place on April 29 at CFB Edmonton.
LCdr Lei, born in Taipei, Taiwan, brings over 30 years of distinguished service in the CAF. Her operational deployments span Afghanistan, Sudan, and the Multinational Force and Observers mission in Egypt. She served as the Canadian Deputy Task Force Commander in South Sudan.
Her academic credentials are equally impressive, as she holds a First‑Class Honours Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, a Master of Arts in Conflict Analysis and Management, and a Master of Laws specializing in Alternative Dispute Resolution.
Although not an official visit, LCdr Lei’s visit to introduce the DTCAN to local members in Edmonton was a personal initiative as the DTCAN co‑chair. She shared her journey, the DTCAN’s mission, the importance of Asian representation and outreach, and the value of promoting cultural awareness for Canadians of Asian descent in the Defence Team.
“Asian culture is engrained in Canadian culture, and DTCAN is here to ensure that every voice is heard and valued,” LCdr Lei said. “I believe that leaders who embrace diversity are better equipped to handle complex challenges, as they benefit from a wider range of perspectives and make more informed decisions. Inclusive leadership empowers individuals and fosters stronger, more adaptable teams.”
Major Melissa Gilbride, 1 CER Deputy Commanding Officer and a long‑time member of the DWAO, touched on the benefits that come from demographic groups in the CAF.
“Networks like DTCAN and DWAO help ensure that everyone, regardless of background, feels welcome and valued in our ranks,” she said.
LCdr Lei’s presence added a meaningful layer to the Canadian Military Engineer birthday celebration and the upcoming Asian Heritage Month led by RPOU(W) and 1 CER.
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While visiting Canadian Forces Base Edmonton, Lieutenant‑Commander Beth Lei toured 1 Combat Engineer Regiment’s facilities.
Photos by Capt Kyle Ho, Real Property Operations Unit (West) Program Officer
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Lieutenant‑Commander Beth Lei (centre) poses with some of the newest Defence Team Canadian Asian Network members from Canadian Forces Base Edmonton.
Interested members from 1 CER, 1 PPCLI and other units were encouraged to join the growing DTCAN community after LCdr Lei’s visit.
Speaking later, 1 CER Commanding Officer Lieutenant‑Colonel Michael Veitch, discussed the DTCAN.
“Grassroots networks like DTCAN are essential to building a Defence Team where everyone feels seen, respected and empowered,” he said. “Celebrating all cultures strengthens our cohesion and operational effectiveness.”
RPOU(W) Commanding Officer LCol Johnathan Hallett also professed support for the DTCAN and other similar groups.
“We are proud to support efforts that bring people together through shared stories and cultural appreciation,” he said.
DTCAN is not an exclusive organization. It is a welcoming network for both military members and civilians who are passionate about celebrating cultural diversity and promoting equity and inclusion within the CAF and Defence Team.
To learn more about DTCAN or to get involved, please contact dtcan-raced@forces.gc.ca.