WEtech Alliance is proud to announce the appointment of four dynamic leaders to its Board of Directors for the 2025–2026 term. Armed with expertise in AI, industry, government, and economic development, these leaders bring the vision and momentum needed to propel WEtech Alliance’s mission: supporting tech and innovation-based companies to start, sell, and scale across Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent.

“Each year, our Board evolves with fresh perspectives and proven leadership. The addition of these new Directors will help fuel the momentum of our growing innovation ecosystem,” said Steve Renaud, VP of Operations at CenterLine (Windsor) Limited and Chair of the Nominating Committee. “Their insights will strengthen our region’s ability to accelerate innovation, support entrepreneurs, and create opportunities for talent to thrive.”

• Debbie Landers, Principal, Future Now Consulting
• Mike Fisher, Manager of IT, County of Essex
• Andrea Yzeiri, Chief Data & Analytics Officer and Lead AI Engineer, Picsume
• Gordon Orr, CEO, Invest WindsorEssex & Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island

In addition to welcoming new Directors, WEtech Alliance is proud to announce the 2025-2026 Executive Committee lineup: 

• Aisling Douglas – Chair
• Sanela Stefanovski – Co-Vice Chair
• Tom Schnekenburger – Co-Vice Chair
• Paul Mancini – Treasurer

“I am honoured to continue my role of Chair at such a pivotal moment for tech and innovation in Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent,” said Aisling Douglas, reappointed Chair of the Board. “Our outgoing Past Chair, Barry Leavitt, leaves behind a strong legacy of governance and growth. On behalf of the Board, I want to thank him for his tireless dedication, and I look forward to building on this foundation with our new Directors and Executive team as we continue to support making WEtech an anchor for innovation. The year ahead will also be an important one as the Board comes together to renew and advance our strategic plan, ensuring WEtech is well-positioned to meet the future needs of our community and region.”

As WEtech welcomes its new Board members, we also express our deepest gratitude to those completing their terms. Their contributions have shaped the organization’s growth, culture, and impact over the years.

• Barry Leavitt, ENWIN Utilities (Retired) (Past Chair – Ex-Officio)
• Brian Hendel, President, Splice Digital
• Joe Goncalves, Vice President, Investment Attraction & Strategic Initiatives, Invest WindsorEssex

Additionally, we extend sincere thanks to Hector Frias and Sheryll Westcarr, who stepped down during the year, for their service and commitment.

“Strong governance depends on strong leaders, and our outgoing Directors have exemplified this through their commitment, vision, and passion,” said Steve Renaud, Chair of the Governance Committee. “Their guidance has left a lasting impact on WEtech and the broader innovation community. On behalf of the Board, I want to sincerely thank Barry, Brian, Joe, Hector, and Sheryll for their contributions and for helping position WEtech for continued success in the years ahead.

With the addition of new Directors, the continued strength of our Executive team, and the foundation laid by our outgoing leaders, WEtech Alliance remains small but mighty in its mission. In the year ahead, we will continue to support the innovators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers who are driving growth across Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent. None of this would be possible without the trust of our founders and companies, the dedication of our team, and the unwavering partnership of our community.

Learn more about our Board of Directors at www.wetech-alliance.com/our-board