Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.  The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.

Another episode from Edmonton hosted by Christopher Drobot.  Having worked and lived across Western Canada, Christopher has recently made a shift out of an 18 year career (with one company) in food retail management to now exploring Edmonton’s innovation ecosystem. His experience launching a store in a new market helped him realize his excitement around bring ideas into reality, and the power of a supportive network in making that happen. His time at Rainforest has been eye-opening in just how much is happening in the community to make things happen.

Christopher is currently involved in the Aquatic Biosphere Project, working on funds development for the push to bring a world-class aquarium to the city of Edmonton; is working towards building a Machine Learning model with retail applications; and is completing the final courses towards his MBA. He is a husband, and a father of two homeschooled children. He sees parallels between the entrepreneurial path and homeschooling and is teaching his children how to unleash their inner entrepreneur as well.

James Kierstead is a lifelong entrepreneur with a commitment to innovation, excellence, and enhancing people’s lives. He has led multiple businesses, and successfully grew a local manufacturing company to a large international presence. His current role as President at Levven Electronics sees him responsible for managing the vision and growth of the company as they carve a new path in wireless, intelligent building systems. James is a member of Entrepreneur’s Organization, the A100, Alberta Women Entrepreneurs, and he was the driving force behind bringing Rainforest AB to Edmonton. James believes in success through collaboration and through giving of himself.

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Credits...

This Episode Sponsored By: Levven Electronics and Alberta Enterprise Corporation

Graphic Design: Mackenzie Bedford

Episode Music: Tony Del Degan

Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan