ABOUT CUTRIC
Our Successful Team of
Professionals
Executives
Josipa
Petrunic
Petrunic
President & CEO, CUTRIC
About Josipa
As the President & CEO of CUTRIC, Dr. Josipa Petrunic is leading the formulation of national transportation and energy systems analyses, including battery electric vehicles (BEV), hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and zero-emissions transit technologies.
As one of Canada’s leading experts in Zero-Emissions Bus (ZEB) innovation deployment projects, Dr. Petrunic has designed, developed and launched the Pan-Canadian Electric Bus Demonstration & Integration Trial (Phases I-II), the Pan-Canadian Hydrogen Fuel Cell Demonstration…
Education
PhD – Science and Technology Studies (Economics and Mathematics Stream), University of Edinburgh
M.Sc. – Science and Technology Studies (Economics and Mathematics Stream), University of Edinburgh
M.Sc. – Political Science and Public Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science
BJ – Political Science and Journalism, Carleton University
About Nadia
Nadia is recognized for creating revenue generating and cost saving opportunities for Canadian advanced manufacturers and non-profits. For the past 15+ years, she has served as a convener
across industry, government, and academia leading exciting projects around Canadian Innovation and the low carbon economy.
During her time with Canada’s national Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association (APMA) and Ontario’s Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, she successfully implemented structured sales strategies to improve membership and foreign direct investment goals, respectively. In addition, she has worked extensively with global automotive suppliers and manufacturers, where she led Industry 4.0 implementations, planned and executed corporate Environmental Social Governance (ESG) strategies, and secured government funding for over $150M in global business expansions
At CUTRIC, Nadia holds an advisory role in supporting the planning and execution for strategic initiatives around Membership, Marketing and Communications
Nadia is currently based in Mississauga, Ontario.
During her time with Canada’s national Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association (APMA) and Ontario’s Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, she successfully implemented structured sales strategies to improve membership and foreign direct investment goals, respectively. In addition, she has worked extensively with global automotive suppliers and manufacturers, where she led Industry 4.0 implementations, planned and executed corporate Environmental Social Governance (ESG) strategies, and secured government funding for over $150M in global business expansions
At CUTRIC, Nadia holds an advisory role in supporting the planning and execution for strategic initiatives around Membership, Marketing and Communications
Nadia is currently based in Mississauga, Ontario.
Bachelor of Science, University of Guelph
About Vincent
Vincent Guglielmo, Director: Special Projects at CUTRIC, will be taking an active role in special projects, partner development and other strategic development work supporting CUTRIC’s build out of the all-important public transit sector.
Vincent brings over 20 years of automotive industry experience, with foundational understandings of manufacturing and supply chains, operations, marketing, and stakeholder engagement, as well as extensive involvement in the evolution of Canada’s automotive, mobility and transportation industries.
As a past senior executive of Canada’s Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association (APMA), he helped grow the organization through member, strategic partnership and stakeholder development, government advocacy and policy development, event and operational management and engaging in international trade development activities, to support and help strengthen the Canadian auto sector through its technological and digital transformations, as it evolves in new manufacturing processes, connectivity and new vehicle technology development.
More recently, he has worked as Director, Ecosystem and Business Development at the Centre for Integrated Transportation and Mobility (CITM), a Regional Technology Development Site operating at the Innovation Factory in Hamilton, Ontario within the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), developing the ecosystem, supporting partner development and the start-up community for innovations in automated/connected vehicles, electrification, mobility, multi-modal and transportation technologies.
Vincent is currently based in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada and is a graduate of McMaster University’s DeGroote School of Business.
Vincent brings over 20 years of automotive industry experience, with foundational understandings of manufacturing and supply chains, operations, marketing, and stakeholder engagement, as well as extensive involvement in the evolution of Canada’s automotive, mobility and transportation industries.
As a past senior executive of Canada’s Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association (APMA), he helped grow the organization through member, strategic partnership and stakeholder development, government advocacy and policy development, event and operational management and engaging in international trade development activities, to support and help strengthen the Canadian auto sector through its technological and digital transformations, as it evolves in new manufacturing processes, connectivity and new vehicle technology development.
More recently, he has worked as Director, Ecosystem and Business Development at the Centre for Integrated Transportation and Mobility (CITM), a Regional Technology Development Site operating at the Innovation Factory in Hamilton, Ontario within the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), developing the ecosystem, supporting partner development and the start-up community for innovations in automated/connected vehicles, electrification, mobility, multi-modal and transportation technologies.
Vincent is currently based in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada and is a graduate of McMaster University’s DeGroote School of Business.
Marie-Claude
Perreault
Human Resources Legal Advisor
About Marie-Claude
Marie-Claude has been a member of the Quebec Bar since 1990, and a member of l’Ordre des conseillers en ressources humaines agréés as a certified industrial relations counsellor (CRIA) since 2002. She was a partner at a major Montreal law firm for 23 years, during which time she worked for employers operating out of Quebec for Canadian, American, and European companies. In addition, from 2013 to 2016, she held the position of Vice President Human Resources, Occupational Health and Safety and Legal Affairs for a public company (TSX Toronto) with operations in Canada and the United States. Marie-Claude was responsible for the integration of working conditions for all companies acquired by the head office (approximately 20 acquisitions over a 3-year span) across different jurisdictions.
Her management experience, combined with her years of experience as a managerial attorney in labour and employment law as well as in occupational health and safety law, has bestowed her with a global understanding and vision that allows her to adopt strategies that encompass all aspects of the business.
Her management experience, combined with her years of experience as a managerial attorney in labour and employment law as well as in occupational health and safety law, has bestowed her with a global understanding and vision that allows her to adopt strategies that encompass all aspects of the business.
ZEB Consulting Services
About Caren
Caren Moss, the Operations Coordinator at CUTRIC, optimizes the production process by identifying and solving problems at all levels of the business and is responsible for creating an organized and collaborative working environment.
Ms Moss also supports the positive branding and reputational growth of CUTRIC nationally. Prior to CUTRIC, Caren worked in operations and volunteer management and has extensive experience with NGOs and grassroots organizations in the art industry in South Africa.
Caren Moss is currently based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Ms Moss also supports the positive branding and reputational growth of CUTRIC nationally. Prior to CUTRIC, Caren worked in operations and volunteer management and has extensive experience with NGOs and grassroots organizations in the art industry in South Africa.
Caren Moss is currently based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
PGDip. Marketing Management, University of South Africa
Hons. BA Art History, University of South Africa
BA. Art History, Rhodes University
Certificate in Creative Writing, Rhodes University
Certificate in Public Relations, University of South Africa
Managing for Results, Gordon Institute for Business Science
Hons. BA Art History, University of South Africa
BA. Art History, Rhodes University
Certificate in Creative Writing, Rhodes University
Certificate in Public Relations, University of South Africa
Managing for Results, Gordon Institute for Business Science
About Holly
Holly Hixson, Project Manager of Sustainable Transit Initiatives, manages a diverse portfolio of work within the Zero Emissions Bus Consulting Services division at CUTRIC. Prior to CUTRIC, Ms. Hixson managed various stakeholder engagements, dissemination projects, and international events focused on mobility, housing, and wellbeing in cities.
Holly has completed a Masters in Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Amsterdam, as well as dual Bachelor's degrees in Planning, Public Policy, & Management, and Psychology at the University of Oregon. Holly is a member of the Founding Board of Directors at Women in Urbanism Canada.
Holly is currently based in Montreal, Quebec.
Holly has completed a Masters in Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Amsterdam, as well as dual Bachelor's degrees in Planning, Public Policy, & Management, and Psychology at the University of Oregon. Holly is a member of the Founding Board of Directors at Women in Urbanism Canada.
Holly is currently based in Montreal, Quebec.
M.Sc. - Urban and Regional Planning, University of Amsterdam
B.Sc. - Planning, Public Policy, & Management, University of Oregon
B.Sc. - Psychology, University of Oregon
B.Sc. - Planning, Public Policy, & Management, University of Oregon
B.Sc. - Psychology, University of Oregon
Roberto
Sardenberg
Senior Lead – Data Science and Knowledge Management
About Roberto
Dr. Roberto Sardenberg currently works modelling the performance of ZEB buses and related infrastructure in transit systems through the use and development of the Rout∑.i™ 2.0 tool. The outcomes of this predictive modelling help transit agencies to assess technologies and make appropriate choices for their deployments. Roberto also works in gathering and analyzing empirical data coming from the operation of zero-emission vehicles, providing valuable key performance indicators to the operators and incorporating real world operation data into the modelling work.
Roberto previously worked with electrical measurement techniques to retrieve microscopic information on electrochemical cells and nano-structured samples. His research interests include the electrical characterization, modelling and simulation of electrical devices, sensors, and electrochemical cells. He contributed to the development of the measurement theory of Impedances by investigating constraints imposed on measured data by physical principles such as causality relations.
Dr. Roberto Sardenberg is currently based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Roberto previously worked with electrical measurement techniques to retrieve microscopic information on electrochemical cells and nano-structured samples. His research interests include the electrical characterization, modelling and simulation of electrical devices, sensors, and electrochemical cells. He contributed to the development of the measurement theory of Impedances by investigating constraints imposed on measured data by physical principles such as causality relations.
Dr. Roberto Sardenberg is currently based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
PhD – Physics, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Brazil
M.Sc. – Physics, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Brazil
BSc – Physics, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Brazil
M.Sc. – Physics, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Brazil
BSc – Physics, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Brazil
About Junli
Junli Hu is the Zero-Emission Bus (ZEB) Simulation GIS Technician responsible for working on ZEB performance modelling and geospatial data analysis. This work assists cities and transit agencies across Canada and the US to plan their fleet electrification. Mr. Hu also performs literature reviews to aid CUTRIC’s modelling projects to enhance the functionality of the RoutΣ.i 2.0 modelling tool.
Junli received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Earth and Environmental Sciences Co-op with a specialization in Geographic Information System (GIS) from McMaster University and he is currently pursuing the GIS Professional (GISP®) designation.
Prior to CUTRIC, Junli worked as a GIS Technician for Ontario Land Trust Alliance. He created the maps and geoprocessed spatial data through ArcGIS to support various land conservation projects. During Junli’s co-op, Junli utilized his GIS knowledge and geospatial techniques to support electric mobility data analysis for McMaster Institute for Transportation & Logistics and to assist the implementation of Source Protection Plans for the Regional Municipality of Halton.
Junli Hu is currently based in Vaughan, Ontario, Canada.
Junli received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Earth and Environmental Sciences Co-op with a specialization in Geographic Information System (GIS) from McMaster University and he is currently pursuing the GIS Professional (GISP®) designation.
Prior to CUTRIC, Junli worked as a GIS Technician for Ontario Land Trust Alliance. He created the maps and geoprocessed spatial data through ArcGIS to support various land conservation projects. During Junli’s co-op, Junli utilized his GIS knowledge and geospatial techniques to support electric mobility data analysis for McMaster Institute for Transportation & Logistics and to assist the implementation of Source Protection Plans for the Regional Municipality of Halton.
Junli Hu is currently based in Vaughan, Ontario, Canada.
Hon. B.Sc. – Earth and Environmental Sciences Co-op, McMaster University
About Titash
Titash Choudhury, the Social Scientist – Low Carbon Smart Mobility is responsible for CUTRIC’s social science research. As part of the ZEB Consulting Services™ team, she also undertakes research for CUTRIC’s members and clients to understand the social impact of transit electrification in Canada.
Ms. Choudhury has worked in various sectors like Energy, Environment, Wildlife, Mental Health and Education. Prior to CUTRIC, she worked as a researcher with the Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association to solve the existing issues faced by urban Indigenous people in Canada.
Ms. Choudhury has a Masters in Anthropology from the University of Alberta, and a Masters in Ecology and Sustainable Development from Tata Institute of Social Sciences, India.
Titash Choudhury is currently based in Edmonton, Alberta.
Ms. Choudhury has worked in various sectors like Energy, Environment, Wildlife, Mental Health and Education. Prior to CUTRIC, she worked as a researcher with the Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association to solve the existing issues faced by urban Indigenous people in Canada.
Ms. Choudhury has a Masters in Anthropology from the University of Alberta, and a Masters in Ecology and Sustainable Development from Tata Institute of Social Sciences, India.
Titash Choudhury is currently based in Edmonton, Alberta.
M.A – Anthropology (University of Alberta)
M.A – Ecology Environment, and Sustainable Development, Tata Institute of Social Sciences
Hon. B.Sc – Microbiology, West Bengal State University
M.A – Ecology Environment, and Sustainable Development, Tata Institute of Social Sciences
Hon. B.Sc – Microbiology, West Bengal State University
About Ted
Ted Wojcinski works as an Electric Utility Senior Consultant with CUTRIC.
He utilizes his demonstrated expertise in the electricity distribution utility industry for CUTRIC’s ZEB Consulting Services Team to contribute to the needs assessment from an electrical and technical standpoint for energy transition and ZEB implementation.
He utilizes his demonstrated expertise in the electricity distribution utility industry for CUTRIC’s ZEB Consulting Services Team to contribute to the needs assessment from an electrical and technical standpoint for energy transition and ZEB implementation.
Mullieka
Pellerin
Fractional Program Manager of ZEB Consultation Services
About Mullieka
Mullieka Pellerin, the Fractional Program Manager of ZEB Consultation Services at CUTRIC, where she oversees and manages a diverse portfolio of zero-emission bus implementation planning projects
Prior to CUTRIC, Mullieka worked in manufacturing and operations where she held progressive positions in quality control, product/ process engineering, operations management, network optimization and several mergers/acquisitions. She received her LSSBB training and certification at both Kodak’s and Maple Leaf Foods Global training facilities. She received her project management certification with PMI (PMP®) and institutionalized a center of business excellence and PMO infrastructure in several companies. Her last appointment prior to independent consulting was as a VP of Operations at FMAV where her mandate was to introduce standards,procedures and policies on a national scale in preparation for the sale of the company.
Mullieka Pellerin is currently based in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.
Prior to CUTRIC, Mullieka worked in manufacturing and operations where she held progressive positions in quality control, product/ process engineering, operations management, network optimization and several mergers/acquisitions. She received her LSSBB training and certification at both Kodak’s and Maple Leaf Foods Global training facilities. She received her project management certification with PMI (PMP®) and institutionalized a center of business excellence and PMO infrastructure in several companies. Her last appointment prior to independent consulting was as a VP of Operations at FMAV where her mandate was to introduce standards,procedures and policies on a national scale in preparation for the sale of the company.
Mullieka Pellerin is currently based in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.
Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
Project Management Professional (PMP®)
B.Eng. – Chemical Engineering, Dalhousie University
Project Management Professional (PMP®)
B.Eng. – Chemical Engineering, Dalhousie University
About Mahnoor
Mahnoor Ayyaz, the Zero-Emission Bus Simulation GIS Technician at CUTRIC, is responsible for GIS data analysis and zero emission fleet implementation and rollout planning. This work assists cities as well as transit agencies across Canada and the US to plan their fleet electrification. Ms. Ayyaz is also working to enhance the functionality of the RoutΣ.i 2.0 modelling tool.
Prior to CUTRIC, Ms. Ayyaz worked in the Transportation industry where she was responsible for creating streamlined workflow and cost-saving analysis for the collection of road-data. She also worked in Utilities where she made efficient processes and GIS related solutions.
Ms. Ayyaz received her Bachelor of Environmental Studies Degree in Geography and Environmental Management with a Specialization in Geomatics from the University of Waterloo. She also has her Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification received from QCDMS Consultants.
Ms. Ayyaz is currently based in Milton, Ontario.
Prior to CUTRIC, Ms. Ayyaz worked in the Transportation industry where she was responsible for creating streamlined workflow and cost-saving analysis for the collection of road-data. She also worked in Utilities where she made efficient processes and GIS related solutions.
Ms. Ayyaz received her Bachelor of Environmental Studies Degree in Geography and Environmental Management with a Specialization in Geomatics from the University of Waterloo. She also has her Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification received from QCDMS Consultants.
Ms. Ayyaz is currently based in Milton, Ontario.
BES, Geography and Environmental Management, Geomatics Specialization, University of Waterloo
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification, QCDMS
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification, QCDMS
About Bernard
Bernard Ross, the Zero Emission Bus (ZEB) Simulation Modeller at CUTRIC, works on simulating ZEB performance using the RoutΣ.i modelling tool, helping transit agencies to make informed decisions in implementing decarbonization strategies. Mr. Ross also collaborates with the ZEB consulting team to improve the tool’s functionality.
Prior to CUTRIC, Bernard worked as a computational physicist for six years, using algorithms to solve complex physical systems. He received a Master’s in Science from the University of Guelph, where he used mean-field theory equations to simulate neutron star matter. He has also been driving a Zero Emission Power Wheelchair for as long as he can remember!
Bernard Ross is currently based in Guelph, Ontario.
Prior to CUTRIC, Bernard worked as a computational physicist for six years, using algorithms to solve complex physical systems. He received a Master’s in Science from the University of Guelph, where he used mean-field theory equations to simulate neutron star matter. He has also been driving a Zero Emission Power Wheelchair for as long as he can remember!
Bernard Ross is currently based in Guelph, Ontario.
M.Sc. - Physics, University of Guelph
Certificate in Data Science, University of Guelph
B.Sc. - Nanoscience, University of Guelph
Certificate in Data Science, University of Guelph
B.Sc. - Nanoscience, University of Guelph
About Scott
Scott Saunders is a Professional Engineer (P.Eng) working in the role of Electrical Engineer: Sustainable Transit Initiatives. His main duties at CUTRIC involve supporting the ZEB Consulting team in performing customer site visits, developing standards related to electrical infrastructure data collection and planning, and managing engineering design work completed in support of a wide variety of sustainable transit feasibility and implementation projects taken on by CUTRIC.
Scott graduated with a B.Sc Electrical Engineering from Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador and has worked in a wide variety of industries including metal fabrication, electric utility operations and capital projects, and most recently as a project manager for heavy construction work in the Pulp & Paper industry. Scott has experience with budgeting, planning, procurement, design, construction and commissioning as it relates to electrical substations and infrastructure.
Scott is currently based in Saint John, New Brunswick.
Scott graduated with a B.Sc Electrical Engineering from Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador and has worked in a wide variety of industries including metal fabrication, electric utility operations and capital projects, and most recently as a project manager for heavy construction work in the Pulp & Paper industry. Scott has experience with budgeting, planning, procurement, design, construction and commissioning as it relates to electrical substations and infrastructure.
Scott is currently based in Saint John, New Brunswick.
B.Sc Electrical Engineering from Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador
About Ryan
Ryan Welfle, the Zero-Emission Bus Transportation Planner and Developer at CUTRIC, works with the GIS expert advisor and Senior Data Scientist to identify the manual aspects of the currently used GIS methodology that can be automated efficiently and effectively. Mr. Welfle designs and develops automated GIS toolsets to perform route-based, block-based and vehicle-based modelling, to generate outputs such as – route profiles integrating non-revenue and revenue distances, feasibility outcomes, charger cluster analyses, and on-demand options.
Prior to CUTRIC, Ryan Welfle worked as a GIS Technician designing fibre optics circuits. He also volunteered as a coordinator for various community garden/seed-saving initiatives. He received his Bachelor in Environmental Studies, as well as a Certificate in Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing from York University
Ryan Welfle is currently based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Prior to CUTRIC, Ryan Welfle worked as a GIS Technician designing fibre optics circuits. He also volunteered as a coordinator for various community garden/seed-saving initiatives. He received his Bachelor in Environmental Studies, as well as a Certificate in Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing from York University
Ryan Welfle is currently based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Bachelor in Environmental Studies, York University
Certificate in Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing, York University
Certificate in Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing, York University
About Jessica
Jessica has extensive experience launching and managing complex bidding cycles, collaborating with civil society actors, liaising with municipal governments and conceptualizing and developing in-person and online events.
Jessica started her career in the publications department of the Centre for International Governance Innovation, before taking on a number of project development and program management roles at FIM-Forum for Democratic Global Governance and the World Design Organization, including leading five cycles of the World Design Capital initiative.
Ms. Hanson completed a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at McGill University, a Masters of Arts in International Relations at the University of Sussex and obtained the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification in 2015.
Jessica is currently based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Jessica started her career in the publications department of the Centre for International Governance Innovation, before taking on a number of project development and program management roles at FIM-Forum for Democratic Global Governance and the World Design Organization, including leading five cycles of the World Design Capital initiative.
Ms. Hanson completed a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at McGill University, a Masters of Arts in International Relations at the University of Sussex and obtained the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification in 2015.
Jessica is currently based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
MA in International Relations
BA in Political Science
MA in International Relations
BA in Political Science
About Tanyaradzwa
Tanyaradzwa Muswera, the Zero-Emission Bus Simulation GIS Technician at CUTRIC is responsible for providing innovative GIS solutions in spatial analysis, including work on ZEB performance modelling which encompasses, among other processes, route, block and vehicle modelling. Ms. Muswera also works with the ZEB Consulting Services team to enhance the functionality of the RoutΣ.i Modelling Tool.
Prior to CUTRIC, Tanyaradzwa worked as a GIS Analyst in natural resource management, providing geospatial analysis support, designing and developing GIS models and tools as well as producing high quality cartographic products. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Geography from University of Zimbabwe and a joint Master of Science Degree in Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation for Environmental Modelling and Management from University of Twente (ITC), the Netherlands and Lund University, Sweden.
Tanyaradzwa Muswera is currently based in Calgary, Alberta.
Prior to CUTRIC, Tanyaradzwa worked as a GIS Analyst in natural resource management, providing geospatial analysis support, designing and developing GIS models and tools as well as producing high quality cartographic products. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Geography from University of Zimbabwe and a joint Master of Science Degree in Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation for Environmental Modelling and Management from University of Twente (ITC), the Netherlands and Lund University, Sweden.
Tanyaradzwa Muswera is currently based in Calgary, Alberta.
M.Sc. – Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation for Environmental Modelling and Management, University of Twente (ITC), the Netherlands and Lund University, Sweden
Hon. B.A. – Geography, University of Zimbabwe
Hon. B.A. – Geography, University of Zimbabwe
About Mohammad
Mohammad Kharouf, the Zero Emission Bus (ZEB) Simulation Modeller at CUTRIC, conducts techno-economic feasibility studies using the RoutΣ.i modelling tool in order to help transit agencies make informed decisions towards decarbonizing public transit bus routes. Mr. Kharouf also works with the ZEB consulting team to enhance the functionality of the RoutΣ.i modelling tool. Prior to CUTRIC, Mohammad worked for 10 years as an electrical engineer leading the electrical design and construction of massive, electrified railway projects. He received a Masters of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of British Columbia where he developed a novel optimization model for the decarbonization of the transit bus system considering emissions reduction targets and distributed energy resources.
Mohammad is currently based in Kelowna, British Columbia.
M.A.Sc. – Electrical Engineering, University of British Columbia
B.Sc. – Electrical Engineering, University of Jordan
B.Sc. – Electrical Engineering, University of Jordan
Membership Success
About Yawen
Yawen Luo, the Membership and Commercialization Projects Coordinator at CUTRIC, supports CUTRIC’s membership recruitment and stakeholder relations activities. Yawen also coordinates the organization’s multiple commercialization projects.
Prior to CUTRIC, Yawen worked in various roles related to zero-emission mobility, including project management in a hydrogen cylinder manufacturer for fuel cell electric vehicles and policy analysis for renewable energy in a consulting firm.
Yawen Luo is currently based in Montréal, Québec, Canada.
Prior to CUTRIC, Yawen worked in various roles related to zero-emission mobility, including project management in a hydrogen cylinder manufacturer for fuel cell electric vehicles and policy analysis for renewable energy in a consulting firm.
Yawen Luo is currently based in Montréal, Québec, Canada.
MPA – Master of Public Administration, University of Saskatchewan
B.A. – International Politics, Beijing Language and Culture University
B.A. – International Politics, Beijing Language and Culture University
About Marie-Ève
As a Membership Success Officer at CUTRIC, Marie-Ève Assunçao-Denis supports CUTRIC’s national membership outreach efforts through various mediums including email, meetings, presentations and other communications mechanisms. She acts as a liaison and support officer for current and potential members and partners, while also developing and implementing membership recruitment and retention strategies, focus group methodologies, interviews and surveys.
Prior to CUTRIC, Ms. Assunçao-Denis worked as a transportation planner and project manager at several international organizations including ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability, the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) and UN-Habitat. She has contributed to public policies, active and public transportation projects as well as urban and community development proposals. Before moving back to Canada in 2019, she worked a few years in international and community development, which led her to live in seven countries over four continents. She also studied bicycle planning, architecture and graphic design, and she is a published researcher in the field of active transportation. She is fluent in French, English and Spanish, and also speaks Portuguese.
Marie-Ève Assunçao-Denis is currently based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Prior to CUTRIC, Ms. Assunçao-Denis worked as a transportation planner and project manager at several international organizations including ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability, the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) and UN-Habitat. She has contributed to public policies, active and public transportation projects as well as urban and community development proposals. Before moving back to Canada in 2019, she worked a few years in international and community development, which led her to live in seven countries over four continents. She also studied bicycle planning, architecture and graphic design, and she is a published researcher in the field of active transportation. She is fluent in French, English and Spanish, and also speaks Portuguese.
Marie-Ève Assunçao-Denis is currently based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
M.U.P. – Urban Planning, McGill University
Planning the Cycling City Summer School, University of Amsterdam’s Urban Cycling Institute
AA Mexico City Visiting School, Architectural Association School of Architecture
B.A. – International Development Studies and Political Science, McGill University
Certificate in International Cooperation, University of Montreal
A.C.S. – Community Development and Intercultural Relations, Marie-Victorin College
Planning the Cycling City Summer School, University of Amsterdam’s Urban Cycling Institute
AA Mexico City Visiting School, Architectural Association School of Architecture
B.A. – International Development Studies and Political Science, McGill University
Certificate in International Cooperation, University of Montreal
A.C.S. – Community Development and Intercultural Relations, Marie-Victorin College
Operations & Communications
About Leah
Leah Geller is a senior writer and editor with more than 20 years of experience communicating complex information in an engaging and meaningful way.
With a B.Sc. from McGill, Leah specializes in translating technical and scientific information into content for a general audience. She has written on behalf of cabinet ministers, senior executives and Canada’s Chief Science Advisor, and has been published in university and trade magazines.
Leah Geller is currently based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
With a B.Sc. from McGill, Leah specializes in translating technical and scientific information into content for a general audience. She has written on behalf of cabinet ministers, senior executives and Canada’s Chief Science Advisor, and has been published in university and trade magazines.
Leah Geller is currently based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Marketing
About Melissa
Melissa Heynes is the National Marketing Lead. In this role, Melissa leads CUTRIC’s marketing initiatives and provides administrative support to the CUTRIC team across Canada. Melissa is responsible for accounts payable and receivable, coordinating executive schedules, internal communications, executive support, marketing and advertising strategies and sponsorship sales.
Prior to CUTRIC, Melissa worked as a Professional Officer of Marketing and Communications at the City of Cape Town (South Africa).
Melissa Heynes is currently based in Okotoks, Alberta, Canada.
Prior to CUTRIC, Melissa worked as a Professional Officer of Marketing and Communications at the City of Cape Town (South Africa).
Melissa Heynes is currently based in Okotoks, Alberta, Canada.
Diploma in Public Management at the University of South Africa
Certificate in Public Relations at the University of South Africa
Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP) from the Digital Marketing Institute
Certificate in Public Relations at the University of South Africa
Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP) from the Digital Marketing Institute
Commercialization
About Michele
Michele Davies has built her career on the front lines of corporate Canada adopting emerging technologies. From the earliest days of web-enabled applications, enterprise resource planning systems and internet-driven business models, she has helped executive teams to plan and deliver strategic initiatives. As a business generalist, her projects cross lines of business, leverage her political acuity and structure complexity.
The foundation of her career focused on developing the processes, people, and systems to support strategic goals. Over the last 15 years her operations expertise expanded to include finding, developing and managing significant domestic and international partnerships. Most recently, she led and managed government and industry partnerships that supported the development of large strategic initiatives including leading a proposal to support the $400M ENCQOR proposal submission that brought pre-commercial 5G R&D infrastructure to small and medium companies in Ontario and Quebec. An earlier IBM transit smartcard proposal valued at $200M harnessed IBM’s global knowledge base, local and international partners, and technology credentials to create a competitive market position.
Known for her strategic and grounded approach, Ms. Davies received an MBA from Ivey Business School and B. Math from the University of Waterloo and received her management consulting and project management training at IBM’s global training facilities.
The foundation of her career focused on developing the processes, people, and systems to support strategic goals. Over the last 15 years her operations expertise expanded to include finding, developing and managing significant domestic and international partnerships. Most recently, she led and managed government and industry partnerships that supported the development of large strategic initiatives including leading a proposal to support the $400M ENCQOR proposal submission that brought pre-commercial 5G R&D infrastructure to small and medium companies in Ontario and Quebec. An earlier IBM transit smartcard proposal valued at $200M harnessed IBM’s global knowledge base, local and international partners, and technology credentials to create a competitive market position.
Known for her strategic and grounded approach, Ms. Davies received an MBA from Ivey Business School and B. Math from the University of Waterloo and received her management consulting and project management training at IBM’s global training facilities.
Maria
Pinto
Project Manager: Rail Innovation and Smart Mobility
About Maria
Maria Pinto, the Project Manager, Rail Innovation at CUTRIC, manages CUTRIC’s Smart Rail Innovation initiative.
Prior to CUTRIC, Maria led integrated physical security projects with the introduction of new technology in transportation facilities with the Government of Canada. She participated in the development of the Confederation Line, the Ottawa Light Rail Transit project and the Hwy 417 Expansion project. She holds the Next Generation Transportation certificate from the Simon Fraser University and has a Master of Science in Logistics Management with Transportation System concentration from the Universidad Nacional de la Fuerza Armada Nacional in Venezuela.
Maria Pinto is currently based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Prior to CUTRIC, Maria led integrated physical security projects with the introduction of new technology in transportation facilities with the Government of Canada. She participated in the development of the Confederation Line, the Ottawa Light Rail Transit project and the Hwy 417 Expansion project. She holds the Next Generation Transportation certificate from the Simon Fraser University and has a Master of Science in Logistics Management with Transportation System concentration from the Universidad Nacional de la Fuerza Armada Nacional in Venezuela.
Maria Pinto is currently based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Certificate – Next Generation Cities and Transportation, Simon Fraser University, British Columbia
M.Sc. – Logistics Management (Transportations Systems Concentration), Universidad de la Fuerza Armada Nacional, Venezuela
B. Sc. – Architecture, Universidad de los Andes, Venezuela
Advanced Technician – Design of Civil Engineering Construction, IUT Antonio José de Sucre, Venezuela
M.Sc. – Logistics Management (Transportations Systems Concentration), Universidad de la Fuerza Armada Nacional, Venezuela
B. Sc. – Architecture, Universidad de los Andes, Venezuela
Advanced Technician – Design of Civil Engineering Construction, IUT Antonio José de Sucre, Venezuela
About Jess
Jess Smith, as the Manager of Commercialization and Operations, is responsible for the EBus Phase I Project (including all Program Steering Committees and Subcommittees), along with our Pan-Canadian Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Bus Project (with MiWay), and our National Autonomous Smart Shuttle Project (with various transit agencies) in addition to coordinating activities for CUTRIC’s Board of Directors.
Jess has previously sat on the boards of Halifax Pride, Fierté Canada Pride, Nova Scotia Rainbow Action Project, East Coast Rainbow Softball Association, and Lunenburg County Ground Search and Rescue. Prior to CUTRIC, they worked as a Legal Coordinator and Digital Producer in Halifax.
Jess Smith is currently based in Halifax, Nova Scotia with plans to return to Alberta later in 2023.
Jess has previously sat on the boards of Halifax Pride, Fierté Canada Pride, Nova Scotia Rainbow Action Project, East Coast Rainbow Softball Association, and Lunenburg County Ground Search and Rescue. Prior to CUTRIC, they worked as a Legal Coordinator and Digital Producer in Halifax.
Jess Smith is currently based in Halifax, Nova Scotia with plans to return to Alberta later in 2023.
