Yvonne Pilon is the President and CEO of WEtech Alliance. At the age of 24, she founded her first tech venture, AD2IT, and by the age of 29, became the youngest woman to lead a Regional Innovation Centre. Yvonne has over 10 years of experience in the tech sector with a core focus on growing companies and building a thriving entrepreneurial community. She is also the host of the #TechInTheCity podcast.
OUR TEAM
JOHN-MARC VACHON
John-Marc joined the WEtech team as Director of Programs & Marketing in March 2015 after over 17 years in the restaurant industry. He brings with him over 15 years of Management experience as well as extensive knowledge of Social Media Marketing & Graphic Design. His work as Director of Marketing for Wendy’s Windsor-Essex has won both local & National Awards, including recognition of his locally created Community Connection Program.
ADAM CASTLE
Adam Castle has spent the last six years working in Economic Development in Windsor-Essex, specializing in business development and growth across multiple sectors and working with companies of all sizes. Adam is a highly driven and successful Business Advisor with an entrepreneurial spirit. He started his first business when he was 15 and continues to run it today.
SUSANA MARTINS
Susana has been with WEtech Alliance since 2022 as a Business Advisor, Startup Services. As both a Professional Engineer and CPA, CMA, Susana brings 25 years of professional experience in engineering, program management, and accounting spanning a variety of sectors. Over her career, she has become well versed in working with small businesses and enjoys helping owners identify existing business challenges, and better prepare for future growth.
MICHELLE TENO-WACHTER
Michelle Teno-Wachter has been with WEtech Alliance since 2010 as the Administrator for Member Services. Michelle is the “concierge” for WEtech; as she is the greeter, caller and the go-to-person assisting with all WEtech inquiries. Michelle brings a wealth of Administrative experience and organizational skills from working at The Windsor Star for 32 years.
JENNIFER BRIGNALL-STRONG
Jen’s media career spans over 15 years, with experience in marketing, promotions, copywriting, and radio production. Her work has been featured in multiple local publications, including The DRIVE Magazine and Windsor Body. As an active member of the community, Jen also volunteers her time as a member of the Board of Directors for the Sexual Assault Crisis Centre. She is also a regular contributor to AM800 CKLW and Tourism Windsor-Essex and runs Tailgate Takeout; a local food blog showcasing the best places to eat and explore in YQG. Through her work, she hopes to showcase the region as an amazing place to work, play, and live.
SUSY KUSTRA
Susy joined WEtech Alliance in 2022 as Manager of Programs and Client Engagement. She brings with her over twenty years of experience in various marketing management roles, including Director of Marketing for the largest wire and cable manufacturer in North America. In addition to her corporate experience, Susy has owned and operated several small businesses over the years. Returning to Windsor in 2019, Susy began exploring program management in the non-profit sector, leading an employment program to prepare newcomer women to enter the Canadian work force. Her newest mission is giving back to the community by sharing her knowledge, experience, and entrepreneurial spirit. Susy holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Windsor and speaks English, French, Italian and Spanish.
SAM BRANTON
Sam Branton is a young professional with passions for healthcare, business, and the region. As a graduate of Western University’s Health Science program and St. Clair College’s Business Marketing program, she possesses a well-rounded skill set that combines knowledge of healthcare with expertise in marketing strategies and event planning. Beyond her professional background, she has a deep appreciation for the outdoors and enjoys rock climbing. Additionally, she holds a strong affection for the the regional community and strives to make a positive impact within it.
AISLYN LAURENT
Aislyn Laurent is a passionate community advocate with over 5 years of experience building strong partnerships with industry, talent and research. With an MSc. in Biochemistry and a background in computer science, she’s developed a unique skillset which includes experience in event planning, collaboration, academic publishing, grant and proposal writing, and much more. As the co-founder of the WinHacks and BorderHacks hackathons, Aislyn has helped bring together tech talent from all over Canada – in addition to her work championing diversity in research as part of the founding team for the LGBTQ+STEM colloquium. Aislyn has set her sights on helping develop the Windsor-Essex region into a hub for innovation and cutting-edge technology by continuing to foster cross-disciplinary collaboration, and by supporting founders in their quest to create the future.
MAITRI MOU
Maitri Mou brings a wealth of experience to her role as a Program Coordinator, drawing from a robust background in business advisory, IT, and project management. With four years of immersion in top-tier companies, Maitri has refined her expertise in steering through complex projects and crafting innovative solutions to address a multitude of business challenges. Equipped with a Business degree from the University of Windsor, Maitri possesses a versatile skill set that spans business consulting, e-commerce and digital business advisory, partner management, and the seamless execution of large-scale events. Over the past two years, Maitri has not only assisted entrepreneurs in Windsor-Essex but has also extended her support to those across Ontario and the United States. From spearheading small-scale endeavors to orchestrating grand initiatives, Maitri’s portfolio is a testament to her unwavering dedication and passion for driving positive change in the Windsor-Essex community and beyond.
