Holly Gardner, PhD

Holly Gardner, PhD has a diverse work experience spanning various industries and roles. In 2000, they served as a Reserve Infantry Officer in the Canadian Armed Forces until 2003. From 2003 to 2006, they worked as a Program Manager at the Bonnechere River Watershed Project, overseeing 13 land stewardship programs and being responsible for project development, research, community outreach, fundraising, budgeting, media relations, and planning.

From 2006 to 2008, Holly was the Technical Studies Coordinator at the Trent Conservation Coalition, where they conducted risk assessments for municipal drinking water systems and coordinated efforts between consultants, conservation authorities, and government staff.

In 2015, they joined the Ontario Centre of Innovation as a Program Manager, later becoming the Business Development Manager until 2018. Their responsibilities included managing projects and fostering innovation partnerships.

From 2018 to 2019, Holly worked as a Senior Program Advisor at the Ontario Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks, providing guidance on policy and program development.

In 2018, they also started working as the Director of Strategic Initiatives at NXM LABS INC., where they played a crucial role in directing and overseeing initiatives.

In 2021, Holly became the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer at Bug Mars, involved in the establishment and management of the company. Additionally, Holly joined SoCitty as a Co-Founder in 2020 and currently holds the position.

Finally, in 2021, they became the Vice President of Operations at NuPort Robotics, responsible for overseeing the operational aspects of the company.

Holly Gardner, PhD, has an extensive education history in the field of sustainability and environmental science. Holly obtained their Bachelor of Science (honours) degree in Environmental Science from Trent University, where they studied from 1999 to 2003. Afterward, they pursued a Master of Environmental Studies degree with a focus on the Sustainability Program at Queen's University from 2008 to 2010. Holly then went on to complete their highest level of education, earning a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social and Ecological Sustainability from the University of Waterloo, where they studied from 2010 to 2016.

In addition to their academic achievements, Holly has also obtained certifications in other areas. Holly completed the Venture Deals Fall 2020 program at Kauffman Fellows and became certified in Cybersecurity (CC) through (ISC)² in April 2023. This diverse set of certifications complements their educational background and signifies their commitment to staying current in their field.