Title: The status and scientific promise of the Thirty Meter Telescope
Abstract: The Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) is one of only three next-generation optical telescopes planned, with a sensitivity more than 100 times better than that of the largest telescopes today. Canada has been a major partner in this project for over two decades. I will review the motivation for building this next generation of telescopes, highlight some of the key science drivers, and summarize the design choices that make TMT unique and highly competitive. I will also summarize the changes in TMT leadership and engagement activities that have led to a positive transformation in how the project is perceived by Hawaiian leadership and many in the local community. Finally I will provide an update on the status and timeline of the project, and how this relates to recommendations in the CASCA Long Range Plan for Astronomy.