About

Leadership & Vision
Throughout my career, I’ve led teams, built companies, and helped shape industries by bringing bold ideas to life. In 2018, I founded Synauta Inc, which used Artificial Intelligence to save energy and chemicals in desalination and water reuse plants. My vision was to build a company that changed the desalination industry, making it more efficient as well as building a company that people loved to work at. In 2022, we sold the company to Gradiant Corporation, making it one of the water industry’s fastest (yet successful) exits. My focus has always been on leveraging technology to solve complex challenges, whether in engineering, business, or beyond. As a leader, I believe in mentorship, strategic thinking, and creating a world leading culture where people can flourish.

From launching startups to driving innovation in established organizations, my journey has taught me that leadership is about adaptability—balancing vision with action, guiding teams through uncertainty, and making tough decisions that drive real impact.

Adventure is in my Blood
While “Professional Mike” appears at conferences in a suit and tie, “Everyday Mike” is usually wearing outdoor clothing, ready to run, hike, ski and get outside. Much like time in the outdoors, leadership requires persistence, resilience, strategy, and the ability to navigate unknown terrain. Living in Canmore, Alberta, I draw daily inspiration from the mountains. I find that nature offers the perfect balance to the fast-paced world of technology and entrepreneurship. The wilderness teaches patience, problem-solving, and the importance of trusting both preparation and intuition—skills that have been invaluable in my career.

What Drives Me
At my core, I’m passionate about doing hard things —whether that’s a building a company, a team, a breakthrough innovation, or walking the entire length of a mountain range. I believe that great leadership isn’t just about expertise; it’s about curiosity, collaboration, and the courage to challenge the status quo.
I thrive on tackling big problems, empowering people, and finding solutions where others see roadblocks. Whether it’s in business or on a mountainous backcountry trail, I’m always looking for the next adventure.