FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Pfaff Technologies Strengthens Leadership Team to Support Growth and Launch of Pfaff Defense
Toronto, ON | January 14, 2026
Pfaff Technologies today announced key additions and leadership changes designed to support the company’s continued growth and its expansion into defence and aerospace markets through the launch of its new division, Pfaff Defense.
As part of this next phase, Doug Wilson has joined Pfaff Technologies as Executive Chairman. Wilson brings senior leadership experience across manufacturing, operations, and strategic growth initiatives, and will work closely with the executive team to provide guidance on governance, long-term strategy, and partnerships as the company scales and enters more regulated markets.
“We are very pleased to welcome Doug to the team,” said Chris Pfaff, Founder of Pfaff Technologies. “As we grow the business and expand into defence, having experienced leadership at the board level is critical. Doug brings valuable perspective and discipline that will help guide the company responsibly through this next stage.”
In addition, Richard Boake has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer, reflecting his expanding responsibilities within the organization. Boake has played a central role in overseeing day-to-day operations, manufacturing execution, and cross-functional coordination. As COO, he will focus on operational readiness, capacity planning, and aligning production capabilities with the company’s growth objectives, including the needs of defence and aerospace customers.
Pfaff Technologies has also strengthened its executive team with the appointment of Aaron Merkle as Chief Financial Officer. Merkle brings a strong background in financial leadership, operational finance, and strategic planning, with experience supporting growing organizations through periods of expansion, increased complexity, and capital planning. In his role, Merkle will oversee financial strategy, reporting, and systems as Pfaff Technologies continues to scale its operations and pursue new market opportunities.
“These leadership changes are about building the right structure to support where the company is going,” Pfaff added. “Doug, Richard, and Aaron each bring complementary strengths that help ensure we can grow in a thoughtful, well-managed way while remaining collaborative and accessible to our customers and partners.”
The launch of Pfaff Defense formalizes the company’s increasing involvement in defence and security-related work. The division is focused on supporting customers through composite manufacturing, additive manufacturing, and precision fabrication for applications such as unmanned systems, structural and non-structural components, enclosures for sensitive equipment, and custom defence and aerospace parts.
Pfaff Technologies holds its Controlled Goods Program designation, enabling the company to responsibly support defence and aerospace programs involving regulated materials, data, and technologies.
Together, these leadership appointments and the launch of Pfaff Defense reflect Pfaff Technologies’ commitment to building long-term capability, strengthening governance, and positioning the company as a collaborative partner for customers seeking manufacturing support or joint development opportunities.
About Pfaff Defense
Pfaff Defense is the defence-focused division of Pfaff Technologies, supporting defence and security programs through composite manufacturing, additive manufacturing, and precision fabrication. The division works collaboratively with customers and partners, offering support from early development through to scalable production.
About Pfaff Technologies
Pfaff Technologies is a Canadian manufacturing company specializing in composites and additive manufacturing. The company supports automotive, aerospace, industrial, and defence markets, with a focus on quality, reliability, and long-term partnerships.
Media Contact
Pfaff Technologies
Email: Media@pfafftechnologies.com
Phone: (289) 220-0337
Website: www.pfafftechnologies.com