Deep Tech Canada today announces a strategic evolution in its leadership structure, designed to build upon the organization's strong foundation while positioning it for accelerated growth in Canada's innovation ecosystem.
As part of this planned transition, Janice Warkentin Steeves, current Executive Director, will assume the role of President and CEO, while founder and visionary leader Marie D’Iorio will continue her role as Founder and Past President, serving as senior advisor and mentor, leveraging her national network and scientific expertise.
"This transition represents the natural evolution of an organization that has flourished under Marie's inclusive leadership," said Janice Warkentin Steeves. "Throughout her 40-year career, Marie has demonstrated exceptional vision and compassion in building collaborative communities across Canada's innovation ecosystem. Her ability to bring people together and foster meaningful connections has shaped not just our organization, but the entire landscape of Canadian deep tech. I'm honoured to continue building on the foundation she's established."
Marie D'Iorio, who has served as President since the organization's inception, will remain deeply engaged in Deep Tech Canada's mission. "I'm excited to continue helping through the benefits of ageing: time to connect, learn and mentor," said Marie. "I have enjoyed watching Janice's vision come to life. Her passion, drive, and ability to dream big while making those dreams reality are inspiring. She has an incredible gift for connecting people and ideas in ways that create real impact. This transition allows her to fully unleash that potential on a national scale."
The leadership transition also includes Barry Sanders, Scientific Director of Calgary’s Quantum City, completing his successful term as Board Chair, with Val Chiykowski, Senior Associate at Evok Innovations assuming the role. Barry reflected, "It's been an honour to chair the board during such a dynamic period. The organization is stronger than ever, and I'm confident in this leadership team's ability to drive continued success."
Val Chiykowski, incoming Board Chair, emphasized the continuity of mission: "This leadership structure positions us perfectly for continued growth. Marie's stature in the Canadian innovation community and decades of leadership will continue to benefit the organization in her advisory role, while Janice has already proven her ability to drive both strategic vision and operational excellence. It's an ideal combination for our expanding mandate."
Key Leadership Changes:
This transition reflects Deep Tech Canada's commitment to building on its strong foundation while positioning itself for continued growth in Canada's evolving innovation landscape.
Deep Tech Canada acknowledges that Indigenous Peoples have been and continue to be the traditional guardians of this land we call Canada, where we live and work.