NRC IRAP: Retrospectives and Perspectives

Paul Barran

I have been an industrial technology advisor (ITA) with NRC IRAP for over 20 years. From my early days at NRC IRAP to today, collaboration has remained key to the program's success. As part of NRC IRAP's BioMedical Sector Team, we serve as a point of access and a resource, not only to NRC IRAP but to other government departments and broader communities. For example, NRC research centres will call upon us for industry intel— to find out what's happening, determine if there is a market for a certain kind of technology and how to access that market. There is also collaboration with organizations, like the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), who has a keen interest in the adaptation and development of medical technologies for space exploration and astronaut health. CSA has accessed the expertise of the BioMedical Sector Team to better understand where Canada's capabilities are in this area and what technologies are being developed in Canada that could potentially be made space-ready. I have experienced so much collaboration working for NRC IRAP, the results of which have been invaluable. My whole career has been focussed around trying to help build the life sciences industry in Canada. It's been gratifying to see how the industry has evolved and developed over time and to see the difference NRC IRAP has made along the way.

Maureen Hatanaka

I have a degree in Food Science and worked with food companies as a food consultant for a number of years before joining NRC IRAP in 1997. I officially became an industrial technology advisor (ITA) in 2003. The time I spent in industry continues to help me in supporting my clients in a variety of ways. In addition to the technical advice I am able to provide, I also assist clients in other ways to grow their business. For example, helping a firm transition from small scale production to larger commercial production can be daunting. Having someone with that industry experience who has lived through those challenges is reassuring for many NRC IRAP clients.

I love helping our clients to progress and achieve their goals. I have worked with firms that had no sales in the beginning and watched them grow to become a major player in their industry—that is very rewarding to see. When I hear about many of our client success stories it really speaks to the supportive atmosphere at NRC IRAP. Everyone supports each other in delivering our program and helping our clients succeed.

Over the years I have been involved in many different initiatives as part of NRC IRAP, from business process review, to the program's AgFood Sector team and now, as part of the 75th Anniversary Internal Celebrations team. My professional journey with NRC IRAP has really been about connections, whether industry or internal program connections. What stands out for me, is the gratitude shown for my efforts, whether it is a client expressing their appreciation, receiving an industry award or for participating in special initiatives, like our NRC IRAP Wellness West initiative that focused on supporting firms in the Natural Health Product, Health and Wellness sector. Those are fond memories for me. It means that what I contributed had a positive impact and that people value the time and effort I put into that initiative.

Cynthia Shippam

I feel like I've been a scientist ever since elementary school. I've always been fascinated by the natural world, how it works, and how people, working together, can learn more through science. That is what makes being part of NRC IRAP such a joy, enabling people and companies to make the most of science and innovation for the benefit of all Canadians.

My graduate studies and post-doctoral research focused on viral genetics, and I was fortunate to have mentors who embraced the practical world of research and technology commercialization. Working at the UBC Industry Liaison Office, I was exposed to the world of technology transfer and intellectual property, which inspired my interest in patents and how they work.

I soon pursued a certification as a patent agent and worked at a major national law firm. It was exciting to be exposed to the diversity of innovation that flows through an organization and the challenges involved in protecting it. But, as interesting as those challenges were, I missed being part of the science and working with researchers and engineers. After moving to a start-up, I decided to pursue an MBA in Technology Management. This opened the door to a position at a global video technology firm. This was an exciting role, managing a large patent portfolio in a very large company. It was also impressive to see the many benefits to Canada that arise from the careful mixing of technology, innovation, investment and entrepreneurship.

While I had always been aware of the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) and had previously worked for the NRC as an undergraduate student, it was with this enhanced appreciation of the importance of cultivating technology for the benefit of all Canadians that I returned to the organization a few years ago as part of NRC IRAP.

As an ITA, I get to work with innovators and entrepreneurs as they transform their inventions into products, and shape ideas into the economic engines of our future. I am very passionate about the world-class research being done here in Canada, and am proud to be part of the NRC IRAP team.

Hong Yu

I received my professional engineering designation in material science at Tongji University, one of the top engineering universities in Shanghai, China. I then moved to Canada to complete my Master of Science in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at the University of Manitoba. Soon after, I began working as an engineer in a variety of industries, namely aerospace and medical devices. For 15 years, I provided expertise in design and manufacturing as well as program management, product development, strategic planning, technology and business development, and international expansion.

I have been with NRC IRAP for nearly 8 years as an industrial technology advisor (ITA). My first few years were based in Winnipeg and now I am in Victoria, B.C. Being an ITA is one of the best jobs. It is a role where you are learning on a daily basis. I really need to be on top of industry trends and new technologies to help our SMEs improve their competitiveness.

My time in industry has helped me understand how technology enables business growth and transformation. These experiences are invaluable, they are helping my clients at the local level as well as helping me to contribute to national and international initiatives, particularly as a member of the NRC IRAP aerospace sector team.

ITAs are not only invested in helping their own clients, we are great collaborators. We are supportive, inquisitive and critical; that is how we push to find the best solutions for our clients and for industry. By nature, the NRC IRAP culture stimulates collaboration. We all want to help each other and pull in as much insight, expertise, knowledge and capability to ensure each and every client is getting the very best advice. This collective and unspoken commitment is what makes NRC IRAP advisory services priceless.

Tamer Al-Ramahi

I began my career as a chemical engineer in the Middle East, working in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates for a number of years. I also worked in Central and South America and the Far East, mainly in the Philippines. In each of these countries I was evaluating different technologies for improved efficiencies in the energy sector. I spent many years in the field building plans and supporting technicians for unit design, installation, maintenance, preventative measures, and resolving any issues that emerged in operations for oil, water treatment, natural resource management and environmental sustainability.

When I came to Canada in 2003 and joined NRC IRAP as an industrial technology advisor (ITA), I soon realized that my experience in operations was my greatest strength in being able to help small and medium-sized businesses build and evaluate their technology. Usually when I visit a client, the first thing I examine are their operations. When we talk about energy projects, you must also consider information and communications technology (ICT) and environmental impacts — you cannot separate these, they should all work together. Identifying challenges for my clients is one thing, but to implement the solution is quite another and that is my responsibility as an ITA, to help guide business leaders towards solutions.

In 2014, I met a client who was struggling. I could see they were applying their technology in the wrong market, so I connected them with another company that was looking for a solution that I believed the other client could offer. Eight years later, both companies have expanded their product lines and are thriving. When I meet with them, they both still express gratitude for the help I offered. It is in those moments that I feel proud, because I know that I have done my job right.

NRC IRAP is a program backed by the highest caliber of people and delivered in a way that seeks to take R&D to the next level. Through technological innovations it seeks to improve processes, increase efficiencies in operations, and build skilled teams and business growth that is tied to enhancing product and service offerings to industry. NRC IRAP is a great program, backed by great people. There are so many different positions, we all come from different backgrounds and experiences. All of this knowledge and expertise accessible in one place — it is amazing.

Colleen Christensen

I have been an industrial technology advisor (ITA) in Saskatoon since 2014, focusing primarily on small and medium-sized businesses invested in human medicine, veterinary medicine and agriculture. I also co-lead the NRC IRAP Cannabis Advisory Committee and sit on the advisory board of the NRC's Aquatic and Crop Resource Development Research Centre and on the Animal Feed Standards Committee of the Canadian Hemp Trade Association.

I absolutely love science, I always have. Back in 1998, when I was doing my Ph.D., I remember a company that started as a spin-off from the lab. From that experience, I knew I wanted to find a career that married both business and science. I did just that, carving a path for myself, becoming a leader in a few companies and even starting my own business before joining NRC IRAP.

There are 2 distinct experiences that I feel add great value to what I offer as an ITA. Firstly, I went through failure as much as I went through success in business; secondly, through both, I had to figure things out. Looking at a large endeavour or a hefty goal can be intimidating; you learn how to break it all down and figure out what can be executed and when. As you come up against roadblocks, you find yourself rethinking and readjusting because you have a drive to keep moving forward. Having that drive and confidence to keep moving towards your goal requires a combination of resilience and grit. I recognize those qualities in my clients and it's very rewarding to be by their side to help them find a way to move forward. That is leadership and knowing that I am building leadership for new entrepreneurs is very gratifying.

One of the unique offerings of NRC IRAP is that we are a network of professionals from a multitude of backgrounds. It is thrilling to sit with my colleagues and clients and see all the different disciplines coming together to brainstorm. These conversations span science and technology, to every aspect of business. There is an excitement that you can feel as we all work to move a business to new heights. It is more than helping a company grow, it is about building something that is better and stronger for all of Canada, that is what we do at NRC IRAP.

Sandra Perez Torres

I joined NRC IRAP almost 4 years ago and I currently lead the Data, Analytics and Reporting (DAR) team. I hold master’s degrees in Finance and Economics and come with a strong background in economic analysis and reporting. Setting targets for industry growth based on economic outlook is second nature to me.

Ever since I was a little girl, I have always liked solving puzzles and making something new out of existing materials. Making sense of data and understanding what it’s telling us is similar to solving a puzzle; it involves looking through and around data to see something that might not be obvious, and using that intelligence to stay one step ahead.

The DAR team works toward a common objective, to lead in analyzing, validating and reporting on business data. Our team doesn’t just present our findings, we put the puzzle pieces together to uncover how we can make better decisions for better program delivery. Validating data is critical and supports informed decision-making to ensure we are meeting industry demands. This was evident when COVID-19 hit and NRC IRAP needed to act quickly to be able to support its clients and Canadian firms. The pandemic brought a unique challenge, requiring us to verify if there was a need to adapt program delivery in light of the effects on employment, business growth of our firms and of course the economic conditions that they were all trying to navigate.

I’m proud to belong to a team of incredibly smart and hard-working individuals both within my DAR team, and across the entire program. NRC IRAP fosters an environment of participation and confidence in each other. In this environment, I am able to dream a little, think outside the box and never stop learning. At NRC IRAP we are always learning and bringing new solutions forward to support the growth of small and medium-sized businesses and ultimately Canada’s growth. To see the successes of our clients come to fruition, time and again, is incredibly rewarding.

Peter Rosenthal

I worked as an avionics engineer and product manager in the aerospace industry for 25 years before becoming an NRC IRAP industrial technology advisor (ITA). What I realized soon after joining NRC IRAP was that there were many opportunities to work on different projects within the NRC in conjunction with my ITA role. I was able to work with the NRC’s Aerospace Research Centre to collaborate on different projects that linked small and medium-sized businesses, large multinational organizations and universities. I also discovered that NRC IRAP had an Aerospace Sector team, which brings together ITAs across Canada with aerospace industry experience. Being part of this sector team has remained a fantastic experience, working with my colleagues in just about every segment of this industry from drones, to space technologies and clean tech.

A year ago, I became the acting regional director for NRC IRAP in the Montreal area. We are a team of 12 ITAs, 2 regional contribution agreement officers and a client engagement advisor, all from varied backgrounds: IT, materials and health sciences, among others. It is such a hardworking and dedicated team; I am lucky and proud to have been given the opportunity to work alongside such talented professionals.

Regardless of our role, we get to see the value that NRC IRAP delivers in many ways. I see first-hand some incredible success stories of innovation, growth, job creation, and other positive impacts to businesses, to industry and to Canada. NRC IRAP support is so much more than just funding, it is also expert advisory services to help SMEs accomplish their goals. One of the most fulfilling parts of working at NRC IRAP is when a client sends us a note of thanks, telling us how much they appreciate the guidance of their ITA.

Kanwal Dhaliwal

I joined NRC IRAP in 2017 as an innovation advisor, which has since transitioned into the role of client engagement advisor (CEA). I have a background in software engineering, business administration and extensive experience helping entrepreneurs with their product development, commercialization and business strategies. With these experiences, I was able to quite naturally fit into my role at NRC IRAP.

Being a CEA allows me to be in contact with Canadian SMEs to explain what NRC IRAP is and the types of assistance and expertise we have to offer. I am able to assess if a client is at the stage where NRC IRAP can support their goals, or if another government program is better suited to their needs. Overall, my goal is to guide Canadian firms to grow their business.

CEAs are well connected with other government departments and agency partners, and also connected internally through a variety of projects and initiatives. For example, I work with NRC IRAP's Client Inclusiveness team on our equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) portfolio to improve our program's reach to a diversity of clients across Canada. This is just one of the many initiatives at NRC IRAP.

During my time with NRC IRAP, I have come to greatly appreciate the impact our program has on Canadian entrepreneurs. A rewarding part of my job is helping our clients identify pain-points and relaying how we and/or other programs can help them overcome challenges. Sometimes, these companies come back years later and thank me for guiding them to the right program(s) at the right time. Not only are our clients grateful to NRC IRAP for the support we provide; I feel equally grateful that I am able to assist them in moving beyond their challenges to realize their goals.

Patricia Loder

In 2000, I joined the NRC as a network member at Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador. I became an NRC IRAP industrial technology advisor (ITA) in 2003 and have been serving Canadian firms in the Atlantic & Nunavut region ever since. For 22 years as an ITA, I have engaged with firms in a wide number of industries including agriculture, nutraceuticals, engineering, fishing, construction and clean tech.

My tenure with NRC IRAP has granted me many opportunities to facilitate research and business connections across the world in countries like Finland, Iceland, Greenland, Norway and Germany. It has also allowed me to facilitate connections in remote areas in Canada and the circumpolar regions. As a member of the Indigenous community, I am especially proud to serve in Nunavut and Labrador, to address the particular needs and interests of both remote and Indigenous communities here. My experiences with NRC IRAP, coupled with my academic background and Indigenous culture, have effectively made me an "Arctic expert." This has served me well as part of NRC IRAP's Indigenous Support Network, and our Northern Group and in helping the NRC's research programs in the Arctic.

What I have enjoyed most about my work at NRC IRAP are the people and the stories. I love working with my colleagues and clients, who are always so full of energy to help improve the world through innovation. Among the many amazing experiences I have had over the years, I especially recall a memorable trip to Siberia in 2001 to obtain licensing and research agreements for the NRC and for Canadian firms from an institute dealing with sea buckthorn berries. It was an unforgettable trip; from travelling to remote Siberia, to engaging with researchers, to losing and finding our passports and, above all else, to learning more about remote conditions, cultures and challenges. As I near the end of my professional career, I am grateful for the opportunities NRC IRAP has afforded me to assist in innovation in some of the toughest environments and conditions, and for the incredible success stories that came with it.

Sonia Nour

I joined the NRC in 2013 as a client relationship leader supporting the Energy, Mining and Environment Research Centre and transitioned to NRC IRAP at the end of 2018. I am currently a program advisor for NRC IRAP International, providing advice on governance and strategy for Canada's participation in Eureka and for the Canadian International Innovation Program. In addition, I am the program lead for collaboration with France on the international team.

I have been immersed in innovative and disruptive technologies throughout my career and enjoyed an international upbringing. As a university student, I had the opportunity to complete an internship as a material test engineer in Grenoble, France. After graduating with a degree in Chemical Engineering from McGill University, I was offered a process engineering job with that same organization at their head office in Paris and I lived in France for the next 6 years.

My career progressed on both the engineering and international fronts; it was fast paced and I was constantly learning. In particular, my role as a global base oils consultant had me visiting many refineries worldwide, an experience that allowed me to learn firsthand about game-changing technologies and how to navigate global business cultures.

Soon after my return to Canada, I completed my MBA and took on a position as a commercial business manager with a Canadian SME that was working on converting non-recyclable and non-compostable residues into biofuels and bio-based chemicals. Being part of this company allowed me to live the challenges that innovative SMEs face in developing and commercializing their technology. It was through this experience that I was inspired to continue to support Canadian innovation.

Today, I am fully invested in helping Canadian SMEs scale-up and expand internationally. My role with NRC IRAP International focuses on working with a variety of stakeholders and countries in developing bilateral and multilateral opportunities for Canadian companies. I also look at the potential and strength of Canada's SME community and find synergies to facilitate collaboration and co-innovation with international partners.

NRC IRAP International has been helping Canadian SMEs in this way as an associate member of Eureka for 10 years. In June 2022, Canada, along with South Korea, became one of the first non-European countries to officially transition from associate membership to full membership in Eureka. This was a significant milestone as we are now able to facilitate more opportunities for international expansion of Canadian companies and ensure that Canada remains a strong player in global innovation. I am proud to have been a key contributor to this milestone, working with so many of my colleagues at NRC IRAP International and the NRC's International Innovation Office.

Hamid Sarreshtehdari

Shortly after graduating from university, I started working in the information and communications technology (ICT) field. For over 25 years, I held positions that spanned from developer to executive in a variety of firms and sectors. My years of experience in ICT taught me the importance of staying current with technology trends and keeping an eye out for where and how things are moving. This has helped me effectively manage software development projects and teams over the years and it also prepared me to take on my role as an industrial technology advisor (ITA) with NRC IRAP.

In 2004, I became part of the NRC IRAP team and began working with Canadian firms to support their innovation. It was clear to me that, in order to be successful as an ITA, clients need to be successful. One of the ways I help firms move towards their success is to challenge myself to learn every part of what they are trying to achieve, both technically and as a business, and understand where their innovation fits in the market. My experience in various industries is complementary to some of my colleagues on Go to Experts (GTX) and Community of Interest (COI) teams. These teams bring together ITAs and client engagement advisors on very specific priority technology areas. Our goal is to leverage each other's expertise so we can identify and address technical complexities in projects and provide our SME clients with relevant and timely advice, to help them achieve their innovation goals and thrive in the market place. I have been part of the NRC IRAP ICT Sector team, and currently I am a member of various GTX and COI teams, including AI-Big Data, Blockchain, Biomedical and AgFood.

As professionals, so many ITAs across NRC IRAP excel in their field. As a collective group we rely on each other and work as a team leveraging the wealth of knowledge, expertise and insight, across all disciplines, to deliver the best advice possible to our SME clients. The dedication and drive of each ITA to help SMEs succeed, builds an incredible trust with our clients. That trusted relationship is critical and it makes all the difference in our ability to deliver NRC IRAP in a meaningful way that leads to client success.

Christine Reed

My career at NRC IRAP began 23 years ago, when I joined the IT department. I worked on many different projects, including the deployment of SONAR 1.0, NRC IRAP's client relationship management system, and remember the huge undertaking to equip staff with laptops and mobile devices for the first time. It was truly amazing to have been part of this initiative which became foundational to how we continue to work and interact to this day.

When I transitioned into the role of industrial technology advisor (ITA), I brought along my knowledge of software and my industry experience in large-scale software development. I was supporting a variety of businesses, from start-ups to well-established companies in a range of industry sectors. By 2017, I took on the position of regional director in Ontario; by then I had gained a vast understanding of our program and its importance to Canadian businesses.

Among the many outstanding moments I've had here at NRC IRAP, the drive to serve is something that I see demonstrated on a daily basis by the team around me. From my fellow regional directors, to ITAs, administrative teams, regional contribution agreement officers, and colleagues across all regions and divisions, we are program driven and supported by teamwork. That is why it was such a rewarding moment in 2018, when the federal government announced NRC IRAP as a pillar in its innovation agenda and we were recognized as a flagship program. At NRC IRAP we all know how special our program is, but to be acknowledged in this way was a powerful and proud moment for me.

At NRC IRAP, we are a cross-Canada network of skilled and professional colleagues who work consistently to make a positive difference in the lives of Canadian entrepreneurs and their businesses so that they, in turn, can make a positive impact on the lives of Canadians. It is not just one person making this impact, it's all of us working together, that is our formula to helping small and medium-sized businesses succeed.

Nadine Cyr

I have been with the NRC since 2010 and joined the Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP) Client Enablement team as a planning and policy analyst in 2021. Before coming to the NRC, I worked as a program manager in an Alberta R&D funding organization and leveraged knowledge transfer programs to support entrepreneurs. During my time with the NRC, I built on that through developing a more thorough understanding of policy, performance measurement and strategic planning. Over the last 10 years, I have gained valuable insight into how government policies and funding activities work to advance R&D, product development and overall innovation in Canada.

As part of the Client Enablement team, I focus on process and tool improvement projects to support NRC IRAP's field staff. Our team looks for solutions to make things more efficient and effective, all while maintaining the integrity of our program. My work in the Client Enablement team is fast paced and diverse, an environment where I thrive. The diverse nature of my work gives me the opportunity to interact with staff across the program. I am always amazed at the wealth of knowledge and expertise our staff brings to the table and their commitment to getting things done. I have come to appreciate the role I play in supporting our clients and I'm proud to work alongside like-minded people who are always eager to help.

The efforts made at NRC IRAP over the course of the pandemic to support better access to personal protective equipment, sanitization materials, vaccine and therapeutics, and other in-demand products, has demonstrated how quickly and how well we can maneuver to ensure the safety and well-being of Canadians and others across the globe. I feel the pandemic has really taught us how important innovation in science, engineering and technology is. My passion for innovation and science is what drew me to the NRC and it is what keeps me here.

Neeraj Vats

I came to NRC IRAP with a Ph.D. in microbiology and two decades of private sector experience in human health and diagnostics. My roles over the years in industry encompassed R&D, applied research, IP, product development, clinical trials and the regulatory approval process. My time in the private sector also gave me the opportunity to gain insight into on the manufacturing of medical devices and the commercialization of these products.

When I joined NRC IRAP as an industrial technology advisor (ITA) just over 2 years ago, the knowledge I gained through my industry experience was put into action as part of the Diagnostics Subject Expert Team (SET), one of several specialty teams formed by NRC IRAP to respond to critical industry challenges arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the Diagnostics SET, we evaluated and engaged with Canadian SMEs to assess where they were in their product development lifecycles and to learn how we could help them produce much-needed diagnostics solutions and products quickly. All the SETs made significant contributions in helping Canadian businesses pivot to deliver these solutions.

The big take away for me, being part of the Diagnostic SET, is that Canada has a tremendous depth of innovation capabilities ranging from the most basic kind of diagnostics, such as rapid tests, to medical equipment used in clinical laboratories, hospitals and research facilities. It was wonderful to work collaboratively with my colleagues to help so many SMEs overcome the challenges they faced, so they could innovate faster to meet pandemic needs. This was possible because so many knowledgeable professionals at NRC IRAP pulled together. We have a lot of people across our program who are very talented and dedicated to what they do. Together we are combining our strengths to make the biggest difference, helping Canadian SMEs.

Kerri Pereira

I became part of the NRC team as a Human Resources (HR) hiring advisor over 15 years ago. I eventually became the HR generalist for NRC IRAP and, from the moment I started, I fell in love with the program. This was the first time in my career that I really experienced the direct impact of my work in such a rewarding way. I could see how, as a program, we were making a difference to the small and medium-sized businesses that we support.

The culture at NRC IRAP is very much focused on strong service delivery, giving our clients the best support possible and always striving to do more. For me, that meant doing more to equip every member of NRC IRAP to excel and building out a strong HR team to support the whole complement of professionals working across the program; it was an incredible experience.

Growing as a professional, it seemed natural that I would transition from having NRC IRAP as a HR client to actually becoming part of the program. I am now part of the NRC IRAP Client Enablement team as a program advisor for 2 portfolios: Conflict of Interest (COI) and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI). In my COI advisor capacity, I recently assisted in rolling out our new NRC COI policy. In doing so, it was important for me to design employee training in a way that employees had the chance to have a conversation, ask questions and understand how the policy applies to their day-to-day operations.

As the program advisor for EDI, this is a journey that I feel particularly proud to be on. Early in my career I gained a passion for creating equitable and inclusive workplaces. I took many cross-cultural competency courses to understand how people from different cultures may experience everything from job postings to onboarding. I get to build on this training to find ways to make NRC IRAP more inclusive. While the program is diverse, there is always the opportunity to become even more so, and to look at our processes in a way that seeks to remove barriers in recruitment and retention. There is also an educational piece, so that we all understand why we are changing what we are doing. I have to say that the common thread to all my experiences working with NRC IRAP has been this collective desire to strive to do more and ask ourselves, "How can we be better?" The results from this kind of work can't be anything but good.

Stéphane Héroux

I began working as an industrial technology advisor (ITA) in 2013. I support innovative small and medium-sized businesses across a large area of eastern Quebec, covering Rimouski, Gaspésie and Magdalen Island. This area is home to many different firms active in a large variety of sectors from clean tech to biotech, to marine and forestry.

Prior to joining NRC IRAP, I spent 12 years in the private sector, primarily in forestry. I worked for various companies on challenging projects such as eco-building, developing a technology to make wool from flax fibre, and even started my own company and did contracts abroad. Having owned my own business is the experience that helps me the most to understand what entrepreneurs go through, I can relate to their feelings, needs and challenges. All client projects, big or small, are important to me. I want to help my clients bring their idea to life and make it a success; my main motivation is their success. Through NRC research centres, IRAP ITAs and partners, I have access to a network of experts and expertise to help SMEs succeed in their R&D, IP and patent processes.

At the NRC, we have a network of talented people and the right collaborative culture and capacity to help SMEs succeed every step of the way. At NRC IRAP, I am proud to work among highly-skilled and knowledgeable people; every day I learn something new from my colleagues. The program has an impact that goes way beyond the dollar amount. It is the joint venture we undertake with SMEs that leads to success, big or small. Even these small successes help companies move forward, innovate further and achieve great things.

Gina Funicelli

I spent the first 15 years of my career in the private sector, developing software products for the North American market. I oversaw the product development cycle—everything from design, testing, training and documentation to after-market tech support. I then moved into academia where I worked as a technology transfer professional and later as the Dean of Research for a few colleges across Canada. My professional experiences enveloped research and innovation—these have always been common threads.

In my current role as a client engagement advisor (CEA) with NRC IRAP, I am typically the first point of contact for companies seeking advice and/or funding support. I meet entrepreneurs and get to know them, understand their vision and then determine if they are ready for NRC IRAP support. CEAs are also well-versed in other government programs and resources, so we can help firms leverage them. NRC IRAP, at its core is really about helping Canadian entrepreneurs move forward with their ideas and grow their business to provide benefits to Canada. This is where my enthusiasm lies, moving innovation to market. I hear about new ideas and technologies and I think, "How can I help this firm develop this further into something that has the potential to positively impact the way we live?"

I have observed tremendous effort by the NRC IRAP team to go the extra mile. In our collective effort, we continually look for ways to support Canadian businesses. We challenge ourselves to explore new and different ways to support entrepreneurs, for example, those who incorporate community-giving into their business model. There is a focus on inclusion at NRC IRAP and the caliber and dedication of my colleagues to this end is remarkable. We are all here doing our best each day to help Canadian businesses succeed and we embrace continuous improvements to our programs and services to better meet the needs of all Canadian entrepreneurs.

Hisham Al-Zanoon

I am an agile expert and scrum master with over 30 years of experience in software development and deployment. I am also an entrepreneur who built and operated my own pharmaceuticals CRM SaaS firm for nearly 8 years. I brought all these experiences with me to NRC IRAP over 7 years ago when I joined as an industrial technology advisor (ITA) serving firms in Kitchener, Waterloo and Guelph.

In 2018, when the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came into effect, I completed a GDPR certification to provide another layer of technical advice to my clients. My goal was to support firms in their ability to comply and ensure data privacy for staff and clients alike. I created a framework to guide firms and led over 100 advisories to date. My strategy is to bring the entire team into a workshop, so every member is clear on the role they play in responsible data practices and to make this an integral part of a company's fabric, culture and DNA.

As an ITA, we all have our areas of expertise and we work together to leverage each other's knowledge and experience so that our SME clients have the right strategy for growth. This might mean helping them with regulatory compliance, building new technology or modernizing their marketing approach. Sometimes firms can't see that they can grow beyond 40%. They might be able to grow 300% by adopting a new approach or moving into an uncontested market space; it is our job to spot those opportunities and help the firm grow in that direction.

There are many feel-good moments as an ITA, from playing a part in helping a 5-person start-up grow into a unicorn firm with over 1,200 employees, to supporting a client with a student hire. For me the most rewarding is in creating a job for a new graduate. I always imagine what that young person is feeling and the smile on their face when they realize they have landed their first professional job. I remember, quite vividly, a rural client of mine that told me that he met an engineering graduate who was working in a coffee shop. My client said, "I wish I could help her." 3 days later, I'm happy to say, the client was able to make her a job offer with support through our Youth Employment Program. Those are the feel-good moments. Our role as an ITA is in helping, not only companies to become successful, but for people to become successful and achieve their goals. To me this is a part of the NRC IRAP commitment to build a better Canada.

Sylvie Berthiaume

With a Master's degree in Organic Chemistry, I started my career as a research scientist in the field of drug discovery for a number of pharmaceutical companies in Canada and the U.S. I went on to do an MBA and then made the transition to the business arena holding positions as a Director in Sales & Marketing, Brand Management, and even owned my consulting firm in the U.S.

Having a scientific background and business marketing expertise helped me accrue a lot of experience, not only through different roles with different organizations, but also through all the challenges and opportunities along the way. I brought this combined knowledge and experience with me to the NRC when I began working as a client relationship leader in 2013. A year later, I moved into the role of industrial technology advisor (ITA) and spent some time working with the NRC IRAP International team. For me, it was a natural move as I had a fair bit of experience working and living abroad. Working in any country is first and foremost a cultural experience, you learn how to behave and conduct yourself both personally and professionally in relation to the local customs and culture.

Regardless of what part of the world I was in, or in what capacity, people were always at the heart of everything—that is still true today. As the planning and policy analyst (PPA) for the Quebec region, I have the privilege of working on many different projects with my regional team and on many initiatives with my national team of fellow PPAs. In my region, I help plan how we can leverage NRC IRAP, federal and provincial programs and services to benefit SMEs in our province. I also work collaboratively with other PPAs on special client cases and in standardizing processes and procedures to improve both the client and employee experience. At the end of the day, everything I do is with people and for people and I never lose sight of that.

In 2018, I embarked on a graduate degree in applied ethics and had the opportunity to co-lead the Business Ethics initiative at NRC IRAP. This meant developing tools and processes as part of our due diligence that considered not only the ethics of the project or the science, but also the entire value chain. With the recent project completion in December 2021, we were able to better equip ITAs to evaluate business ethics in a broader yet more intricate way. To me this was more than an initiative, it is part of a culture change in business. I am very proud to have been part of something that creates such positive impact on multiple fronts for future Canadian innovation.

Ryan Johnson

Early in my career as an Industrial Engineer, I found myself working for a large multinational company. I realized very quickly that I didn't want to be a small part of a very large organization, so I made the move to work with smaller companies. I knew this was going to be a lot more work, but I felt this would enable me to contribute in a more meaningful way. I held positions as a manager, senior manager, director, president and consultant and, with every position, I remained committed to improving product design and manufacturing. I grew as a business professional learning how to balance the technical tactics needed to produce a singular solution, to being able to address gaps that were the root to more complex problems in design and manufacturing.

In 2014, I became an industrial technology advisor with NRC IRAP and it proved to be a seamless transition. It was an extension of what I was doing in private industry: supporting SMEs so they could grow and develop. Every time I meet a new client, I look to understand their pain points and ask myself, "What advanced systems, engineering technologies, methodologies or strategies can be adopted to have a positive impact?"

What I have enjoyed most over my career is helping people. It's not simply about working with a company, it is about working with its people to help them move past a challenge they have been struggling with for a long time. I recall once walking onto a shop floor, everyone was deflated from recent news that their work was about to be shut down. At the request of operations, I investigated the manufacturing issue at hand and assessed the core of their productivity challenges. I started to coach the company, work with them, hands-on, like a team member to turn things around. Aside from reducing costs and increasing their output, the biggest reward was seeing those same people with renewed energy, inspired to be on that same shop floor. Moments like that hit you deep, lasting a lifetime.

As an ITA I am blessed to have the ability to help many SMEs. A majority of clients come to the NRC IRAP looking for funding. They are often surprised when they learn that they can leverage invaluable knowledge and expertise that exists within the NRC IRAP network. The recipe to our success as a program is in our ability to develop strong relationships with our clients and to respond to their needs, whether that is scientific, technological or the many other facets of business operations. NRC IRAP was built to have true staying power because, at its heart, it's about people helping people.

Jennifer Berry

I began my career as a food scientist in product development, moved into a technical sales role and travelled internationally learning about food and nutrition product commercialization and how to lead a team. Because of these experiences, I came into the role of industrial technology advisor (ITA) able to advise my clients, not solely on matters of research in food science, but also in product development, commercialization and human resources. When I meet with a client and listen to their story, I start to share their energy and feel inspired to support them. As ITAs we contribute our knowledge, pull in resources and do what we can to help firms succeed. These advisory services are core to our program.

Since I started working with NRC IRAP just over a year ago, my experience with my colleagues, in my sector across the country, and in my region, has been tremendous. If one of my small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) clients has a very unique challenge, I reach out to my network of colleagues to ask for input. Every time, the result is that someone either knows how to solve the issue or we work together collaboratively, sharing knowledge to find the solution. Even when I reach out to a colleague that has never met me before, they are always very willing to help whether it is for our SMEs or to help me gain a better understanding of a program or a process. NRC IRAP is a cooperative, supportive place and it gives me incredible confidence to know that every day we are giving our best to each other and to the firms that we support.

Alberto Vargas

Alongside an MBA, a Master's Degree in Economics and graduate-level certifications in management and marketing research, I have developed extensive experience in the area of economic and policy research and data analysis.

I joined NRC IRAP in August 2019 as a program advisor working under the Program Expertise Data and Analytics Reporting team (DART). It is our responsibility to conduct in-depth statistical analysis to better understand the nature of Canadian SMEs investing in research and innovation. Our work on the DART team supports informed decision-making for program development and aims to improve our service offerings to our clients and support the achievement of their goals. For example, we look at high-growth firms in terms of what characteristics they are exhibiting that may correlate to their steady trajectory of development. These findings are then used to build on our strategy to support more innovative SMEs to grow and expand their innovation.

What is truly amazing, is that I work for an organization that values the importance of performance metrics and uses this data to help achieve its goal of accelerating the growth of Canadian businesses. This is a mission worth pursuing and one that I fully believe in. Over the years, I have developed an expertise in data analysis and the ability to share this expertise to this end is something I am very proud of.

I enjoy the team I work with, the DART team, my colleagues in Division Services and everyone across other regions and teams. Everyone is cooperative, supportive and exhibits such a high standard of professionalism. I feel very privileged to be part of such an outstanding group of professionals.

Anne-Marie Harte

I came to NRC IRAP 5 years ago, after having held positions in engineering, R&D and market research for different organizations in different industries. I obtained my undergraduate degree in engineering physics from the University of Saskatchewan; as a prairie girl, I am very proud of that. I also earned an MBA from University of Western Ontario and a Ph.D. in Materials and Mechanical Engineering from the University of Cambridge.

As an Industrial Technology Advisor (ITA) my role is much more than simply providing technical advice; I see it as more of a holistic approach. Our clients at NRC IRAP are running technical businesses. They come to us with their challenges and opportunities and we need to offer help in a way that all facets of the technical and business align. ITAs have that scientific or technical expertise along with a business background; without that combination it would be difficult to help our clients to innovate and grow. Helping firms grow is the best part about being an ITA. We all have our own career successes and now we are in a position to share our knowledge, so we can help others be successful too.

I feel that there is a lot of freedom to explore at NRC IRAP. Whether it is doing a deep dive with a client to find a solution or getting involved internally to contribute, connect or learn about something new. I experience this often as a member of the Advanced Manufacturing Sector team. I get to work with other ITAs to discuss challenges and discover opportunities for our clients in this space. It is a powerful think tank that works to provide great insight for our clients and colleagues alike.

I have to say that one of the silver linings of working through the COVID-19 pandemic, is that I have been able to meet many amazing colleagues outside of my field of expertise and outside of my region that I may never have had the pleasure of meeting. NRC IRAP is an amazing collection of people with different backgrounds, experiences and humour, yet we all have the same dedication to be supportive to each other as colleagues and to the many businesses we assist.

Jean Léger

I came to NRC IRAP in December 1998 as an Industrial Technology Advisor (ITA) covering the North-West region of New Brunswick. I was a civil engineer by trade with experience in construction project management when I joined. One year in, I was recruited to be the regional representative on the Business Process Improvement (BPI) team. This assignment put me on an accelerated path to learn everything about the program and its accompanying processes, policies and broader government guidelines. I was soon asked to co-lead 2 significant business processes and application teams. For this, I travelled the country for 2 years and got to meet and know almost every employee and position in the program, which helped launch my career.

This became the enabling factor in my ability to contribute to national initiatives and to better serve my clients as an ITA. In my 23 years at NRC IRAP, I have had the opportunity to contribute to many teams, both regional and national, formal and informal, program focused and client focused. The relationships I have made with my colleagues across all these teams, in the central office in Ottawa and across Canada have been amazing. I don't know of another group of people that are so dedicated. There is no weak link in NRC IRAP, everyone is excellent at what they do and everyone pushes in the same direction all the time, I have found no exception to that.

Since I have been with NRC IRAP, I enjoy going to work every day. As an ITA, the best part of my job is meeting with my clients to learn about their ambitions and then to find ways to assist. When you are in touch with entrepreneurs and teams that are so enthusiastic about what they are doing and so driven to accomplish their goals, they become my inspiration to give the very best back. I remember once asking a client what they felt was my greatest contribution to their success. They replied it was that I stuck with them in their most challenging times, that I helped them to work through it and believed in them every step of the way. That reply stuck with me and it follows me into every client relationship.

There are many hardships in business; that is the side to the success story that you don't always hear about, but as an ITA you see often. So, when I am working with a company and witness their growing pains, financial hardships and other challenges, and years later they have become a huge success, I know what it took for them to get there. It makes me happy to think that NRC IRAP played a part in that success.

Laurie-Ann Ulmer

In October 2008, I moved over to NRC IRAP after 3 years working with the former NRC Plant Biotechnology Institute in Saskatoon. I vividly remember the phone interview for my current position. My children were in the process of getting ready for school in the morning when my potential new boss called. I found myself juggling the interview alongside helping my children get organized and out the door. Later, I learned that it was this juggling act that landed me the job with NRC IRAP. I had proven my ability to handle multiple priorities and tasks simultaneously.

Today, in my region, we are 4 administrative assistants working together as a team in much the same way. We cover for each other and jump in to assist on whatever is needed in the moment, we really try to make it all seamless. A big part of our success is based on the relationships we have built with everyone on our team. I make it a point to reach out frequently to my fellow admins, my supervisor, directors, advisors and everyone in the region, so that when anyone needs help, they know where they can find support.

There is so much teamwork at NRC IRAP, not only within my own team, but across all regions and divisions of the program. Over time, I have come to learn and appreciate what other colleagues are doing in the background to assist me in supporting my team. There are many areas like finance, human resources, information technology and policy all working together perfectly in the background, so everything flows smoothly in the foreground.

As admins, we are often the "go-to" people for many different challenges and my desire to provide solutions sometimes takes me outside of my comfort zone. Whether I'm being asked to lead a group or invited to participate in a new initiative, I get to meet new colleagues, discover new ways of doing things, and it helps me contribute in my own way. Together, these little contributions that we all make add up, which in turn has a large impact on the success of our program and our clients.

Gilles Sarrazin

With a degree in mechanical engineering and a Master's Degree in aircraft design, my career path took me directly into aerospace engineering. I served in the Canadian Armed Forces for 18 years and was responsible for support and maintenance of many aircraft fleets. After I retired from the military, I spent 20 years working for Bombardier on product and program development and in customer support roles. So, when I joined NRC IRAP as an Industrial Technology Advisor (ITA) in 2016, I came with 38 years of experience in aerospace.

Today, in my role as Regional Director, I have moved into developing strategies to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in my region. I consider how to best address current industry challenges and issues to meet the needs of specific sectors. I strive to support my team in identifying opportunities that provide NRC IRAP with a stronger footprint in our region, so my team can do what it does best, provide SMEs with the best expertise and the most valuable advice.

I enjoy being able to take a step back to see the big picture in my region and identify how NRC IRAP can be the most beneficial in this space. This is something I also experienced as part of the Aerospace Sector team. I know what it takes to build an aircraft and I know what the "state-of-the-art" is in terms of the technology to do so. Couple that with the ability to step back to see where the industry is going and should be going, this provides valuable insight that helps us best support our firms in developing their innovations and in connecting them to industry and to other SMEs to produce solutions. Now, with NRC IRAP, I get to do this for all sectors, not just aerospace.

I have learned a lot about what is going on in the various industrial ecosystems. I am amazed at the high-tech advancements happening across industries, across Canada and across NRC IRAP. I am learning all the time through assessments and through my team, who have a shared a passion to support Canadian SMEs.

Hélène Pepin

I started working as an industrial technology advisor (ITA) with NRC IRAP in 2020, after acquiring 40 years of international industry experience in aerospace propulsion, advanced manufacturing, industrial applications, automation and robotics. It was during my time in Singapore while working with an organization similar to the NRC to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large companies develop technologies that I began thinking, "I would love to do this for my country." I was very happy to join NRC IRAP and bring my experience back to home soil for the benefit of Canadian SMEs.

An important trend of development at the moment is Industry 4.0. This integrated digital transformation is not only affecting manufacturing, but also business, management and human resource models alike. I have been fortunate to have been exposed to new technologies supporting manufacturing transformation during my time abroad. This is an important area to explore and build on with our SMEs. As an ITA, I am keen to assist companies in optimizing a variety of manufacturing technologies through AI, machine learning, robotics, 5G and additive manufacturing.

Specializing in manufacturing as an ITA has brought me in touch with a diversity of clients in several industries, including my original speciality—aerospace. Being able to help Canadian companies to evolve and grow is very exciting to me. The work we do through NRC IRAP is essential to helping our Canadian SMEs move into the future.

Jonathan Davidson

I began my career at NRC IRAP as a regional contribution agreement officer back in 2008 and moved into the regional program support officer role in 2018. I have seen the program evolve significantly since I started. To remain current, we are constantly changing, adapting, acquiring new skills, updating our training and processes, and looking for better ways of doing things. As a result, year after year, NRC IRAP continues to improve how it delivers programs and services to our clients.

My role is to support my colleagues and our clients with challenges they may be facing in the delivery of our program, so problem solving is a big part of my work. I have the opportunity to take a look at different situations and map out how to resolve them, while simultaneously staying aligned with our policies and regulations. It's both a very reactive and proactive position depending on the day. I need to understand the policies and procedures in place, go to the very heart of the problem and then determine the best course of action to support my colleagues and our clients so that the situation is resolved to everyone's satisfaction.

NRC IRAP has many talented individuals, and everyone has a different background, different expertise, and different experiences. I think that this adds a wide range of skills and cultural insight for the entire team. We have staff who come from countries all over the world. I have heard from my colleagues about their pilgrimage to Mecca, what it was like growing up in Asia or going to school in Eastern Europe. Sharing these personal experiences is both eye-opening and enriching. To me, the diversity at NRC IRAP is our biggest strength.

Ashif Tam

In my position, what I love the most is helping my colleagues. I really invest in learning what my team needs to be effective and then do whatever I can to help. If it is ordering a certain supply, registering someone for a conference or onboarding a student, I won't hesitate to jump in. We all have to work as a team, from the admins, to regional contribution agreement officers (RCAOs), to Finance, to senior management, to industrial technology advisors (ITAs). No matter the role, we are all contributors to the success of our program and, ultimately, the success of our clients. Whenever I read a story or article that highlights the positive impact that NRC IRAP has had on a client, even though I may not be directly involved, I know that I have contributed in some way.

Since I joined NRC IRAP I have felt blessed to have great people around me. I feel that we have a shared drive to do our best for Canadian SMEs and a desire to be supportive in any way we can. One of the team initiatives that we undertake every year really captures this supportive spirit. To end the year, right before winter holidays, we participate in the kilogram challenge. This was an idea that came from one of our regional directors, to have a community food drive and for fun guess how many kilograms of food we collectively contributed. The last 2 years this event has gone virtual, but the end result is still the same—the winner gets bragging rights and lots of food donations are made to serve the local community. We do a lot of great things at NRC IRAP, internally and externally, and it humbles me to be a part of it.

James Oickle

Having worked with technology in one form or another for almost 30 years, I am lucky at this point in my career to take some of what I have learned and share it with others. More importantly, I can reach out to my diverse set of peers at NRC IRAP to help Canadian SMEs create new products, new jobs, and ultimately, the future Canadian economy.

As an industrial technology advisor (ITA), I focus on how a company is structured. I need to understand the team and their projects and how they think completion will help them innovate, grow, and enter new markets. I strive to work closely with my clients to help them identify opportunities and equip them with the right tools and expertise to seize them.

I have only been a part of the NRC IRAP team for a short time, but I have already seen the positive changes that take place for a business as a result of our advisory services and funding support. I am also excited to see NRC IRAP's commitment to supporting Canadian Indigenous communities. As part of NRC IRAP's Indigenous Support Network, I see first-hand how directors and senior leadership are making efforts to extend our programs and services to reach more Indigenous-led businesses on their terms.

Richard Lajoie

I spent the majority of my career in the Silicon Valley in different positions, eventually holding the position of VP R&D for an international high-tech firm. With a very large team of engineers, we built machine learning, speech recognition, voice biometrics and data analytics software. Over several years, I gained extensive experience in developing and commercializing such products for large-scale international enterprise clients.

I was closely involved in mergers and acquisitions over several years and honed my financial and technical due diligence capabilities. As an NRC IRAP industrial technology advisor (ITA), these skills have allowed me to quickly evaluate companies to identify strengths and weaknesses and recognize the most effective approaches to helping small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs).

The entrepreneurial spirit in Canada is incredible, and the SME activity in our country is really quite remarkable. In the 4 years that I have been an ITA, I have met so many talented young entrepreneurs and very much enjoy hearing about their innovative ideas, their aspirations and their vision. I consider myself privileged to be actively participating in the Canadian entrepreneur ecosystem helping our SMEs succeed and to be surrounded by such talented people at NRC IRAP.

Erin Price

As a regional contribution agreement officer, I enjoy being hands-on right from the beginning, preparing firms for and guiding them through the claims process. I am available to help them with any questions they have throughout the duration of their NRC IRAP-supported project. The rapport that this position allows me to establish with clients often becomes a connection that remains long after the project ends. For instance, one client called me excited to share that they were able to progress their breast cancer treatment to human trials and she thanked me for my help along the way. My favourite part of my job is being here to help our clients, and then watching them succeed. When I see an NRC IRAP client in the news, I am so proud of their accomplishments. When I work with a client and then see their product on the shelf of my local store, well yes, that's going in my basket. Those connections go beyond the project and really make me proud to be doing what I do.

Carl King

I am a professional mechanical engineer by training and have been working as an industrial technology advisor with NRC IRAP since 1996. I started my career working in the mining industry, moved into manufacturing, then later on to construction and project management. After a period of working in Norway's offshore oil platform construction industry, I managed a large project to design and build a construction facility for Canada's East Coast offshore oil and gas platforms. I have also owned several of my own successful businesses along the way, where I came to understand the challenges faced by start-ups. My experiences are across many sectors and I consider myself a generalist with a solid understanding of what a business needs to thrive. I have a wide range of clients in so many different industries and every client presents different opportunities, often different technologies and different challenges. Changes in technology are perpetual and I am proud to be part of NRC IRAP, a program that is so keenly dedicated to the need for Canada to continue to grow and prosper, to be technically advanced, and to remain relevant in this ever-changing and competitive world.

Ernest Siu

I joined NRC IRAP in 2009 as an industrial technology advisor and I am now acting as a regional director in the Prairies. I would say the most important part of what I do is to ensure that our clients are equipped with the information they need to succeed. The most valuable advice is to guide our clients toward market understanding and to identify the extent to which there is real customer traction for their product or service. I find the most challenging and rewarding projects are with early-stage entrepreneurs. They have great ideas and have the determination to push forward, but sometimes there isn't enough data to support successful commercialization of their idea. Providing advice to clients sometimes means having those difficult conversations, because our goal is to guide them towards success. When clients come back to say they have a new model or a new idea, I think that speaks to the drive and tenacity of the entrepreneur and also speaks to their willingness to be open to the business and technical advice that NRC IRAP provides.

Tamara Kononoff

NRC IRAP's sector teams are highly specialized groups, where we come together to share our knowledge and expertise to help our clients in their respective sectors. I think one of the biggest benefits is our ability to communicate industry needs to other government departments and to find opportunities and synergies for Canadian small and medium-sized businesses. With our team located across Canada, we can see similar issues and challenges among many of our SME clients and then come up with a plan to address them for all. What was once a problem now becomes an opportunity. NRC IRAP has a strong network of expertise and knowledge from coast to coast to coast. Relying on that diversity is our biggest strength. I consider myself lucky to have access to this network of team members that I work with directly, it's my favourite part of the job.

Mike Jain

When I first joined NRC IRAP as an industrial technology advisor (ITA), it was important for me to build relationships both inside and outside the organization. I looked first to build relationships where there were none. I remember reaching out to a firm that I thought was a good fit for our program. I gave a presentation about the program but I could see from their body language that they were a bit skeptical.

At the end of our meeting they said they didn't think NRC IRAP had anything to offer other than red tape, which they did not have time for as a busy company. It was an eye-opening experience that left me with a strong desire to correct that opinion, by demonstrating that NRC IRAP is a flexible program delivered by an agile team who stand ready to deliver based on our clients' needs. Over time, I not only built a working relationship with this client, I also developed their trust in the program. Whether we work on one or multiple projects with clients, NRC IRAP services and support go beyond simply benefitting the client; it creates a positive impact on many fronts. When small and medium-sized businesses advance technologically and grow, they create new jobs and new products, and expand into new markets—all of which benefits our economy, not to mention Canadians who now have access to these new products and services. Sometimes these benefits also extend globally, beyond Canada's borders. To witness, in real time, the many positive outcomes of the work we do, gives me immense satisfaction and pride to be part of NRC IRAP.

Maj-Britt Herzog

Regional contribution agreement officers (RCAOs) play a fundamental role in supporting the delivery of NRC IRAP. As an RCAO, I work in collaboration with directors, industrial technology advisors (ITAs), fellow RCAOs and with clients. I believe the success of NRC IRAP is definitely linked to a team approach. This team approach took on heightened importance during the administration of the NRC IRAP Innovation Assistance Program in 2020-2021, a temporary wage-subsidy program to help innovative small and medium-sized businesses weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Because our team worked tirelessly to assist each other through a heavy workload, and over a short amount of time, the program was able to provide businesses with timely and much-needed assistance. It is very gratifying to know that our efforts have such great impact and really make a difference not only to our clients, but overall to Canada.

Andrew Bauder

It's hard to believe that I have been with the NRC for almost 20 years! I am currently a member of the NRC IRAP International Office that supports Canadian companies to co-innovate with international partners. In particular, I have worked collaboratively with the Brazilian and German governments, as well as other international partners in developing funding programs and coordinating Canadian SME participation in international partnership-development activities. As NRC IRAP's international lead for collaborations with Germany, last year we launched a new program, the Canada–Germany 3 + 2 collaborative call for proposals in AI for industrial production. A lot of collaboration went into building and launching that proposal, which resulted in 32 Canadian and German partners from industry, academia, research institutes and NRC research centres, all working together on AI solutions for manufacturing. There is a great deal of work with partners in the background to develop and build on our international programs. The work is gratifying because there is nothing that drives me more than meeting with clients to learn what they do and how they want to grow their business, then being able to help them execute on their plans and expand into global markets.

Carlene Fuentes

Early in my career, I worked in the private sector and had a drive to support entrepreneurs, which stemmed from my own interest in wanting to run a business. When I began working at NRC IRAP in 2003, I took my passion for entrepreneurship and applied it to government administration. I was invested in leveraging my experience for the benefit of the program and have always looked for opportunities to get more involved. It is in branching out, year in and year out, in different ways that has granted me the opportunity to connect with so many colleagues. I have been involved in 15 Government of Canada Workplace Charitable Campaigns, have provided support to NRC IRAP's Advanced Manufacturing Sector Team since its inception and am currently the lead for NRC IRAP's 75th Celebrations Team. For nearly 2 decades, I've worked in many areas across NRC IRAP to learn, contribute and build relationships—all of which have made my job interesting and fun. I have also seen how connecting and collaborating across the program has made us stronger both internally and in our relationships with clients and partners. I may not be on the frontline, but I am going to do everything I can in the background to make NRC IRAP a success.

Anushiya Kumarakulasingam

I first heard about NRC IRAP during my co-op interview and I thought, "I want to work here. I want to be part of a program that really makes a difference for Canada!" Thankfully, I was able to join this talented team which has allowed me to grow personally and professionally. I remember giving my first presentation at an NRC IRAP regional meeting; I was so nervous that I was reading from a piece of paper. It turns out that those nerves were unwarranted as, when I looked up everyone in the room was smiling back at me. I could feel the warmth of my new colleagues; I put the paper down and began to speak. I realized in that moment that this was my team, they were rooting for me and they were here to support me. The more I began interacting with NRC IRAP colleagues across the country, the more I realized that there is a genuine passion for supporting each other. I believe it's this passion that sets our program apart. At NRC IRAP, not only are our people passionate about what we do within our own roles, we are passionate about the team and supporting each other so that we can grow, thrive and better support our clients as a program. As the project lead for NRC IRAP's 75th anniversary, I knew that honouring the people behind the program was going to be an important part of our story and our celebration.

Pierre Vallée

In my role as a client engagement advisor (CEA), I provide advice and connections to relevant resources to support firms appropriate to their stage of innovation and growth journey. I often provide advisory services by matching early-stage firms with other organizations and programs. Receiving early-stage advisory services can be a turning point for many small and medium-sized businesses, as it can create momentum for companies to keep innovating and growing. CEAs have a trusted network of stakeholders and partners at the regional and national level, and we work together to provide optimized service to firms. What I enjoy about NRC IRAP is that we are supporting innovative firms and, as a result of what we do, we are learning all the time. I consider myself fortunate to be part of an organization where there is so much expertise, collaboration and passion to help our firms and our colleagues succeed.

Geralyn MacDonald

I joined NRC IRAP over 23 years ago and in 2018, I became a regional program support officer (RPSO). There are 5 RPSOs across Canada and we all share a passion in making things run smoothly and improving our operations. We are a very dynamic team that leverage each other's skills and strengths to support the implementation and delivery of NRC IRAP across our regions. I have been part of many program initiatives and projects over the years, several of which required a high degree of collaboration and forward-thinking execution. In the earlier days of the COVID-19 pandemic, we had to respond swiftly to help develop processes and tools to deliver 3 rounds of the Innovation Assistance Program (IAP) - a temporary wage subsidy program to assist innovative small and medium-sized businesses. This was an effort we delivered in record time. It was extremely busy, but also a very rewarding undertaking knowing that we achieved this feat to help companies during difficult times. Watching NRC IRAP grow and experience challenges, opportunities and important milestones along the way is a testament to our agility and our steadfast commitment to serving the needs of our clients.

Dennis Sindrey

The team helped bring forward SMEs who had the right business, technical and manufacturing capabilities in this field to produce solutions for Canada and for export. A particular highlight in this role involved working with the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) to help them establish bio-surveillance capabilities at Toronto Pearson Airport. I saw this as an opportunity to run some trials using existing Canadian diagnostics technologies. We set up temporary laboratories in 2 of their terminals. We brought in an NRC IRAP client that was developing a rapid antigen test, and another that was developing a new application of infrared technology that signaled COVID-19 biomarkers through a 30-second finger scan. We also involved an NRC IRAP client that had a Health Canada-approved PCR test, so at the end of the day their trial could be validated. In addition, we connected the GTAA with another client that had the cloud data system to process the results of the test and send them directly to passengers' cell phones, so they could show a negative test result before boarding. Overall, the trial tested 33,000 passengers and employees and detected 115 positive tests. It was amazing to bring these SMEs together for this trial and even more amazing to see what Canada can do.

Maria Negulescu

The Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Subject Expert Team (SET) at NRC IRAP put everything we had into helping Canadian companies to overcome the challenges in pivoting to PPE manufacturing. It was much more than looking into specifications on how to make face shields, gowns, masks and respirators. At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there were no Canadian manufacturers of PPE, no Canadian standards in place, and there were no certified laboratories in Canada to sanction PPE products for use.

There were many gaps to address and many solutions needed in a short timeframe. As such, NRC IRAP, in collaboration with numerous stakeholders (including the Canadian Standards Association, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, Next Generation Manufacturing Canada, Health Canada, the NRC's Metrology Research Centre and Advanced Manufacturing program, Public Health Agency of Canada, Standards Council of Canada, among others) came together to address these gaps. With a lot of hard work in a short amount of time, we were able to define an ecosystem that supported Canadian manufacturing capabilities for PPE.

Over 130 Canadian SMEs stepped up to pivot to PPE production in the early days of the pandemic. I am grateful to have worked for NRC IRAP, where we were able to be part of this journey. Together we increased Canadian PPE production and worked on the standardization and distribution of PPE products to protect Canadian healthcare professionals working on the frontlines. It was an amazing experience and I am grateful to my fellow PPE SET team members for all their hard work and contributions.

Perry Quan

I joined the NRC IRAP International team in 2013 when it was just a start-up, so to speak, and became the team leader. While operationalizing the financial support for Canadian firms was important, a lot of focus was also placed on creating advisory service offerings to help Canadian SMEs develop their international co-innovation strategies and plans, and build key R&D partnerships with innovators abroad. One of the most interesting and rewarding parts of the job is being "on the ground" in different parts of the world supporting Canadian clients in real time, helping them to identify partnering opportunities, and advising them on collaboration issues, be they business, financial, technical or otherwise. The support I provided to clients was more than just business and technical, it also included how to engage with different cultures, different business practices, and how to navigate what was often for them a new business landscape. Creating new international programs, testing them, investing in the ones that worked, scaling them up and absorbing so much knowledge along the way reflects the entrepreneurial spirit of NRC IRAP International that today serves over 500 Canadian SMEs per year.

Denise Prevost

I have been with IRAP for 20 years. As a Program Officer with Division Services there are always many things on the go. One day you are working on policy guidance, another day you are building business and functional requirements and another day you're onboarding a new program. I enjoy connecting with my colleagues, not only to help answer their policy and program questions, but also to understand from their shoes, what they need on the ground.

It's important to have a central office that takes care of program integrity in the back end, so our frontline colleagues have what they need to deliver great services. Though I am not on the frontline delivering the program, when I hear how IRAP has made a difference in the success of our clients, I know that each of us at IRAP had a part to play and it makes me proud to be part of this team.

Jewelle Smith-Johnson

Whether I am managing operations, overseeing support of the Grants and Contributions program or compiling financials, all my tasks involve connecting and collaborating in some way with colleagues, clients and other stakeholders. This sense of connecting and collaborating was heightened during the pandemic with the roll-out of the Innovation Assistance Program. This wage subsidy program resulted in a substantial workload for many of us; yet we all pulled together and worked hard to ensure that Canadian firms affected by the pandemic had the help they needed at the time they needed it.

There is a shared passion to support each other and our clients that is felt throughout IRAP. What has added depth to my enjoyment in being part of IRAP is the culture, one that strives to promote equity, diversity and inclusion. I am proud to be part of our cultural commitment to listening, educating, validating and taking positive action towards creating an environment of respect and equal opportunity for all employees to achieve career goals.

Cindy Yiu

I have been working with IRAP for the past 7 years and my administrative tasks vary greatly. I often have the opportunity to provide help and support to my colleagues during busy periods for the program which allows me to discover, learn and grow at the same time. In addition to the ongoing work of the entire team to support, accompany and advise our clients — the companies we work with — we can also count on the moral support of colleagues when needed.

Solidarity and mutual help are always available whether on a professional or personal level. We feel supported and well surrounded. Being part of the IRAP team is both interesting and rewarding. The diligent and devoted work of each IRAP member to help clients innovate in their respective fields contributes to the success of the program. There is an immense pride in working for the good of Canada.

Erin Geary

I came to NRC IRAP in 2019, after 25 years of working with a post-secondary institute in fundraising and as a director of advancement services. My current role as a manager of operations and finance (MOF) is similar in many ways. It is about building partnerships within NRC IRAP and across the NRC, to ensure that my team in the Pacific region have what they need to deliver and support our program. I learned quickly that I am surrounded by incredibly experienced and knowledgeable people, and it is important to me that I become just as much a resource to my colleagues as they are to me.

When I first joined NRC IRAP, I attended a leadership forum where our MOF group from across Canada used the opportunity to sit together. As a group, we wanted to ensure we were carrying out the program in a consistent manner across all NRC IRAP regions. The experience was invaluable for me, as I was able to learn from my fellow MOFs, get to know them and build relationships.

It is very satisfying when you like and believe in what your program is trying to achieve. I believe in NRC IRAP's mission which is to identify firms that need help innovating their products and then to help them reach their full potential. I appreciate the clarity of our mission and that we have been successful doing it for a really long time. I know how important it is to be on the "back end" doing my work to support this mission. Being a life-long learner is integral to who I am and to this position. I embrace and enjoy every opportunity to learn, and I'm lucky that I work for a program that not only supports this but encourages it.

Adam Braceland

I have been an industrial technology advisor (ITA) for 7 years with NRC IRAP where I have been a member, co-lead and lead for the Mining Sector team. I worked collaboratively on an ecosystem initiative to help develop mining 4.0. The sector team did a great job in helping address some of the key challenges faced by mining multinationals and we did this by employing innovative solutions developed by Canadian SMEs. NRC IRAP helped bridge that gap, fund the ideas, bring the solutions to fruition and commercialize them as quickly as possible.

I have seen many clients embrace the expertise offered by NRC IRAP, an opportunity to connect, benefit from guidance, advice and a multitude of advisory services. I have watched small companies grow and corporations join forces to collectively tackle larger innovative projects; the result of which has led to one great innovative global reaching project after the next.

By supporting strong and innovative SMEs, NRC IRAP promotes growth not only to firms and their internal capacity to innovate, but also growth for Canada in terms of societal and economic benefits. The most satisfying part of my job as an ITA is watching a company succeed, a company where you tried to make a difference; you made useful connections, you saw a potential issue and provided the right advice at the right time. It is highly rewarding to see that company succeed.

Pamela Presley

I came to NRC IRAP early in my career and have been with the program for over 23 years. I was one of only 3 female industrial technology advisors (ITAs) in my region at the time which heightened my awareness of some of the demographic disparities that exist in the Canadian business landscape. As I began to see various barriers that exist for women in business, it became clear to me that they were not the only group affected. Addressing inequities and barriers is something I have been passionate about for a long time.

When the Client Inclusiveness team was established at NRC IRAP, I knew I wanted to be a part of it. Our mandate is to effect a culture change, so that equity and inclusiveness become more a part of our everyday language and behaviours, and become fully ingrained in the NRC IRAP program. There is much work to be done and our team is dedicated to creating a better NRC IRAP both internally within the organization as well as externally, through our program delivery that touches thousands of clients every year.

I am incredibly proud of the work we do on the Client Inclusiveness team, while at the same time humbled by the real struggles faced by many entrepreneurs. When EDI is embedded into our thoughts and behaviours, we become much richer as a program and better positioned to understand and meet the unique needs of Canada’s diverse business communities.

Godwin Liu

Since 2016, I’ve had the pleasure of being an NRC IRAP industrial technology advisor (ITA), serving Canadian businesses in the Toronto area. I am a physicist by training, with a Master of Science degree in Medical Imaging, and my career has yielded a wealth of practical experience in software systems development and entrepreneurship. In my first job as a joint-founder in a medical devices company, I learned the value and the difficulties of integrating hardware and software technologies as part of inventing something new. Managing software and technology development for successful start-up, scale-up and business growth, defined my career in industry for over 17 years.

When I learned about NRC IRAP, I was excited by the breadth of support it offers to SMEs. Not only could I continue to provide advice and guidance to firms, but the program also includes the possibility of providing them with financial support. Combined, these resources give companies the edge they need to expedite the development of new technologies and innovations, and I loved that idea. So, I took on the role of an ITA, became a member of NRC IRAP’s information and communications technology (ICT) sector team and am currently the go-to expert team lead in artificial intelligence (AI) and big data. Today, I am able to help Canadian SMEs with their digital transformation, so they have the right foundation to apply AI, machine learning and other applications that are needed to be competitive in any industry.

While delivering NRC IRAP over the years, I have contributed to some amazing innovations, and have also been part of some remarkable public service moments. In March 2020, at one of the most uncertain times of the pandemic, our Ontario NRC IRAP team checked in with 1,000 companies to see what their needs and challenges were and to offer support. It was such a fulfilling experience to see the entire team pull together in aide of our clients when they needed it the most. This was happening across all regions in Canada and you could really feel the dedication of the whole of NRC IRAP during this time to support Canadian SMEs.

I am very proud to work for a program that is focused on the success of our clients. I get to work with colleagues across the country who have expertise on different kinds of technology and in a variety of industries. We work together and draw on each other’s expertise, not only from a technical standpoint, but also in resolving the pragmatic issues that entrepreneurs face day-to-day in growing their businesses. That is where I think NRC IRAP’s special place is within Canada’s innovation ecosystem–it’s the personal touch. We combine science and technical knowledge with business and market expertise to find and create the best opportunities for our clients.