Biography

Richard L’Abbé

Richard L’Abbé graduated in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Ottawa in 1979. Two years later, he co-founded Med-Eng Systems, which became a world recognized leader in the design and production of suits, helmets and electronic products to protect first responders against explosive devices. Mr. L’Abbé began as Production manager, and evolved to the position of President and CEO, and has traveled to over 90 Countries.

Under his leadership, Med-Eng Systems had won numerous awards including Canada’s Top 50 Best Managed Private Company Platinum status, and the Canada Export Award lifetime achievement award. Mr. L’Abbé was the first civilian to be awarded the International Association of Bomb Technicians and Investigators Distinguished Service Award, and he received the Medal of Distinction from the Hungarian Building Society.

In 2004, Mr. L’Abbé was named the Ottawa Business Journal’s CEO of the year. In May 2008, he was awarded the “Entrepreneur of the Year” by Canada’s Venture Capital and Private Equity Association. He is now a partner in the Calabogie Motorsport Park race circuit.

Mr L’Abbé is retired, serves on several community-related boards, and is a mentor for a number of local executives.