CME Productivity Forum – Enhance Efficiency and Save on Costs

Rowda Mohamud, Director, Business Development, BDC Advisory Services

Rowda has been a pivotal member of BDC for 15 years, bringing expertise in consulting, project management, performance improvement and business development. She launched BDC’s Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) tax credit consulting practice in 2010 and has since held key advisory roles, helping BDC clients boost productivity, ensure regulatory compliance and grow their businesses. Recently, she led national initiatives in AI, digital transformation, cybersecurity and sustainability. Rowda holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Materials and Metallurgical Engineering from the University of British Columbia and a Certificate in Program and Portfolio Management from the University of Toronto.

Amy Carter CET, MBA, Director, Partner Services, Samuel Automation

Amy Carter holds an Executive MBA in Business Analytics and is a Certified Electrical Engineering Technologist with two decades of experience in Industrial Automation. Her career has grown from roles in the field to Global Leadership positions within the Automation industry. Her recent focus has been on Digital and Business Transformation, pushing the boundaries of AI & RPA for the optimization of manufacturing and business processes. Amy has a passion for supporting Women and Youth in STEM and is committed to DE&I pushing for a positive culture shift in the field to make it a warm and welcoming place for everyone.

Bershu Nkwawir, M.Sc. P. Eng, Digital Transformation Director, Schneider Electric

Bershu is a business leader and Professional Engineer with over 30 years in consulting, automation, and digital transformation. His customer-centered, hands-on approach has been successful on numerous critical projects in manufacturing, resource extraction, energy, and infrastructure.

As Digital Transformation Director at Schneider Electric, Bershu is enabling operational and profitability ambitions of manufacturers, through accelerated digital transformation programs. Prior to Schneider Electric, Bershu guided businesses through the complexities of advanced manufacturing and digitalization as part of Honeywell Connected Enterprise, and as Founder and President of P3 Inc. His leadership at Siemens, with the 360-degree exposure to automation technology in diverse sectors, is a testament to his deep understanding of the industry. Bershu holds a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the Technical University of Munich. He is passionate about technology’s role in enhancing productivity and living standards, which he is convinced is better accelerated by alignment of higher education with industry needs. He serves on advisory councils at Sheridan College and Niagara College.

Carlie Bell, Director of Consulting, Citation Canada

Carlie has over 20 years of experience in leadership development, change management, and business strategy. She’s a passionate advocate for women in leadership and has spent much of her career mentoring young professionals, both in academia and through her own consulting practice. Carlie holds certifications in Change Management and Brain-Based Coaching, and brings a people-first approach to every challenge. Outside of work, she supports equity in sports as a head trainer and team manager for her daughter’s hockey team.

Moderator – Martha Breithaupt, ICD.D, Partner, Tax – Credits & Incentives, BDO Canada

Martha is a non-dilutive funding expert with over two decades of experience as a thought leader, speaker, board member, and tax practitioner. Martha builds professional practices with diverse technical and financial teams, currently with national accounting firm BDO, as a Tax Partner in Credits & Incentives and leader of the new Clean Technology Tax credit practice, and as Founder and Producer of State of Science, the Youtube video series touring the industrial, R&D and tech landscape in Canada. Martha regularly advises executive teams and boards on innovation, governance, and non-dilutive funding.

Cameron Gray, Sector Manager, Advanced Manufacturing, Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI)

With 12 years of experience in Ontario’s diverse manufacturing sector, Cameron has had the privilege of working all across Southern Ontario, spanning Kingston to Windsor, gaining a unique perspective on the province’s manufacturing landscape. Cameron’s background spans multiple industries, including aerospace, automotive, textile manufacturing and more, where he gained expertise in various processes such as stamping, welding, injection molding, and extrusion. As a former Quality Manager, he has a passion for Quality Innovation.

Nicole Hynum, Supervisor of Custom Business Programs, Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO)

Nicole has more than 15 years of diverse experience in the electricity sector. These include working with industry to enable awareness of, and participation in, the IESO’s Save on Energy programs. Leading the implementation of the IESO’s new consolidated website as well as managing the organizations social media and corporate brand initiatives.  She’s also held operational roles managing corporate procurement and business planning functions. Prior to this, she held various positions relating to energy conservation with the Ontario Power Authority and Energyshop. Ms. Hynum has a Master’s degree in Advocacy and Political Leadership as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Minnesota.

Damir Naden, Manager of DSM Industrial Sales, Enbridge Gas

Damir is a seasoned energy conservation expert at Enbridge Gas, where he leads demand-side management and energy transition planning for industrial clients. With a strong foundation in engineering and energy systems, Damir and his team work closely with manufacturers and large-scale facilities to uncover and implement impactful energy-saving opportunities. Their focus includes process heat recovery, system optimization, and other strategies that help industrial operations optimize energy use and lower operating costs. Damir is a trusted partner in advancing energy efficiency across Ontario’s industrial sector.