Our Team

Judy Sander, Interm Executive Director

When Judy isn't cross-country skiing, canoeing, or enjoying time spent with her family, she supporting entrepreneurs in Northwestern Ontario.  For the past 20 years, Judy has been supporting the growth of many unique businesses. She helps with developing the market strategy, obtaining funding, making connections, finding advisors and coordinating the team. Judy knows from experience that being a business owner is challenging,  she believes that the right support can make it easier to achieve success.

Email Judy - judy@nwoinnovation.ca

Jeff Coull, Director of ICT

Jeff is the Director of ICT, serving as the primary business technology subject matter expert for NOIC clients. In this capacity, he is responsible for leading NOIC’s digital adoption programs and overseeing NOICs broadband infrastructure projects.

Prior to joining the Innovation Centre, Jeff held a leadership role as Director of Professional Services at Retalon Inc. In this position, he successfully developed and implemented predictive analytics and AI solutions tailored to the specific needs of clients in the retail sector, with a focus on planning, inventory management, and price optimization. Jeff was accountable for overseeing all facets of Professional Services, from conducting business discovery to training, user acceptance testing and account management. Jeff's background in both client and vendor-facing roles involving complex software implementations has provided him with invaluable insight into the challenges and concerns faced by clients in this space. He is eager to leverage this experience to further technology adoption in Northwestern Ontario and bring lasting value to NOIC's clients.

Email Jeff - jeff@nwoinnovation.ca

Carole Long, Business Development Advisor 

Carole has first-hand experience of starting, owning and operating a business in Thunder Bay. Her passion and enthusiasm for economic development in the North has brought her to The Innovation Center. She is creative, not only in problem-solving but also in the kitchen where she loves to try new techniques and recipes. Carole has successfully obtained a patent and can help you through the process. If you have a business or a product idea and would like support email Carole.

Email Carole - carole@nwoinnovation.ca

Amanda Esposti, Programs & Operations Coordinator  

Amanda comes to the Innovation center with 15 years' experience in business and operations management. From managing small businesses in Thunder Bay, to overseeing operations in the services wing, and lastly a focus on financial administration. Her diverse skill set includes a focus in sales & business marketing, client services, human resources, finance, & project management. Her passion in life lies with creating memories with her family. Amanda is looking forward to a strong partnership with the Innovation center, driving forward the organization's goals.

Email Amanda - office@nwoinnovation.ca

James Ellard, Marketing and Branding Specialist

James has been working on the Innovation Centre's and clients' marketing and branding efforts for over 10 years. He enjoys helping our clients achieve a professional branded look as they start getting their products on the shelf. On his off time, James likes to be active in a variety of sports and activities like hockey, snowboarding, curling, to name a few.

Abigail Sherlock, Community and Outreach Coordinator

Abigail is studying business at Confederation College and has a background in marketing and entrepreneurship, having been involved in starting multiple business ventures. Abigail is excited to help entrepreneurs succeed by connecting them with the relevant programs and services available at the Innovation Centre as the Community and Outreach Coordinator.

Email Abigail - abigail@nwoinnovation.ca