Judy Sander, Manager

When Judy isn't cross-country skiing, canoeing, playing hockey, enjoying time spent with her family, she is managing the Innovation Centre. Judy provides overall leadership and financial accountability. In addition, Judy takes a lead role on managing innovative projects and applying to various funding programs.

Heather MacDonald-Craig, Office Manager

Have you heard Heather's beautiful bagpiping skills? Well, when Heather isn't playing the pipes for the Thunder Bay Police Pipes and Drums, she is managing the day to day operations of the Innovation Centre. Through her position as office manager, Heather is also responsible for online and direct training in the areas of software development, project management and financial controls.

Rick Prior, Director of Development

Rick brings his extensive business background of over 30 years includes sales and management experience in both the retail and wholesale sectors.He served previously as the Northern Ontario Vice-President for Ontrac Equipment Services and has lived and travelled in the region for over 25 years. Rick is an avid all-season outdoorsman enjoying all that nature has to offer from hunting and fishing to alpine and cross country skiing. He focuses on working directly with businesses seeking growth through innovation.

Melissa McClement, Director of Communications

When Melissa isn't spending her days with her son, Jack, she is responsible for the marketing and communications at the Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre. Through her position, Melissa assists in the overall marketing of the centre; special events and programs.

Ken McLellan, IION Commercialization Specialist

Ken has worked nearly three decades in the paper industry in northwestern Ontario and Minnesota, in both Coated Fine Papers and Newsprint. He and his wife, Betty, established a retail clothing specialty store now past 15 years’ successful operation. On a part-time basis he has taught courses in Chemistry and Paper for both Lakehead University and Confederation College. He has done Technology Transfer consulting work with small business, and Product Development within the paper industry.

James Ellard, Business Development Officer

James is a recent graduate of Lakehead University through their business program majoring in Information Systems with a minor in Human Resources. At the office James takes on many tasks that often include government and private research, web administration, event coordinating, project development, and anything else that lands on his desk.