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.

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.

Graham Mailhot, Business Advisor

A graduate of the University of Waterloo’s Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology Program Graham is responsible for providing one on one advisory support for innovative small and medium-sized businesses and entrepreneurs in Northwestern Ontario. Much of his time at the office is spent proactively engaging with businesses and entrepreneurs to discuss opportunities and working with the Innovation Centre team to provide appropriate support, advice and connections.

Nick Kolobutin, Commercialization Specialist

Nick brings five years worth of marketing experience working with businesses ranging from small start-ups to large multi-national corporations.  An MBA graduate from McMaster University specializing in marketing strategy; Nick is here to assist entrepreneurs obtain market acceptance of your products and get them into the hands of buyers.  In addition, he also holds a Human Resource certificate and a minor in Economics.  Nick has a keen eye for emerging technology, is an avid sports enthusiast, and world traveler.