Industry experts to speak about revolutionary fresh water monitoring technology

College of the Rockies is pleased to host industry leaders Brandon Nichols and Pilar Portela on Thursday, March 12 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the college’s Lecture Theatre (Room 250).

At the free presentation, Nichols and Portela will discuss revolutionary technology that will allow for real-time monitoring of lakes, rivers, and wildlife in the local water table. This technology is expected to lead to improved management of the water table, provide new data for long-term studies, increase the understanding of the effects of climate change on the local water table and potentially create new industry positions for locals.

Nichols holds a Master’s degree in Applied Science in Mining Engineering from the University of British Columbia. He is a Sector Manager on Genome B.C.’s Agrifood and Natural Resources team and has worked in research and development for 15 years, leading academic and industry teams on mining, energy, climate change, and ecological projects.

Portela, the founder and CEO of i4C Innovation and Astra Smart Systems, holds a bachelor’s degree in International Trades and a Masters in Project Management. She has a passion for technology and sustainability fueled by over 20 years of experience. As leader of i4C and Astra, she spearheads efforts to help industries like local mining and forestry sectors improve their environmental stewardship.

This Genome BC presentation is offered through a partnership between College of the Rockies and Genome BC. A catalyst for the life sciences cluster on Canada’s west coast, Genome BC manages a cumulative portfolio of over $625 million in research projects, and science and technology platforms. Working with governments, academia and industry across such sectors as forestry, fisheries, agriculture, environment, bioenergy, mining and human health, the goal of the organization is to generate social and economic benefits for B.C. and Canada.

A moderated question and answer period will follow the presentations.

“We’re pleased to host another Genome BC presentation in what has become an annual event,” said Darrell Bethune, Dean of Business and University Arts and Sciences at College of the Rockies. “The subject of water stewardship is tremendously important to our region. We welcome community members and students to come learn more about the role of technology in understanding and managing our water systems”

The Genome BC presentation is free but pre-registration is appreciated at: genomebc.ca/events

Lead image: Industry leaders, Brandon Nichols (pictured) and Pilar Portela, will speak about revolutionary fresh water monitoring technology at a free Genome BC presentation. The event will take place March 12 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in College of the Rockies’ Lecture Theatre (Room 250). Photo submitted

College of the Rockies

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