INNOVATOR
AWARDS
Celebrating the drive, passion, and spirit of innovators in our community while inspiring those who are just starting their journey.
ABOUT THE
AWARDS.
Innovation in Action: Highlights from the 2025 Innovator Awards Luncheon
Save the Date and Nominate for 2026!
Join us for the 2026 Innovator Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at the Wenatchee Convention Center.
The Innovator Awards Luncheon celebrates the drive, passion, and spirit of innovators in our community while inspiring those who are just starting their journey.
When talking about game changers in technology or business, people often look at Seattle entrepreneurs and companies for inspiration. But world-class innovation and development is happening right here in NCW. It is important for us to shine a light on those in our community – our neighbors, family, and friends – who are excelling in their industries, championing growth for our community, and paving the path for the next generation.
Relive the magic of the 2025 Innovator Awards!
Explore the full event gallery featuring every moment, from inspiring speeches to on-stage celebrations. Browse photos in chronological order and download your favorites for free.
K-12 FUTURE TECHNOLOGY LEADER OF THE YEAR WINNER
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Future Technology Leader of the Year recognizes K-12 students whose innovative technology projects demonstrate leadership, learning, and hands-on experience
Gerardo Guerrero
Quincy High School junior Gerardo Guerrero built a four-level video game from scratch using the Godot engine, combining advanced coding, UX design, and hardware skills. As a mentor and Tech Camp leader, he’s inspiring the next generation of coders while expanding his school’s tech capacity—and he earned a perfect score on the AP Computer Science exam.
Meet the Next Generation of Innovators: 2025 K–12 Future Technology Leader Finalists
K-12 FUTURE TECHNOLOGY LEADER OF THE YEAR FINALIST VIDEO
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K-12 FUTURE TECHNOLOGY LEADER OF THE YEAR WINNER
STEM COLLEGE INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR WINNER
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STEM College Student Innovator of the Year highlights post-secondary students who exhibit creativity, critical thinking, and leadership through innovative projects addressing real-world challenges.
Dillon Cornelius & Juan Martinez
Wenatchee Valley College students Dillon Cornelius and Juan Martinez designed an electromechanical control system for Dryden Dam in collaboration with Chelan PUD engineers. Through 3D modeling, prototyping, and a presentation to commissioners, their student-led innovation is strengthening local infrastructure and supporting agriculture and salmon research.
STEM COLLEGE INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR FINALIST VIDEO
Student Innovators Solving Real-World Challenges: 2025 STEM College Finalists
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STEM COLLEGE INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR WINNER
STEM CHAMPION OF THE YEAR WINNER
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STEM Champion of the Year recognizes educators and community members dedicated to fostering STEM learning experiences and promoting STEM pathways for students.
Lindsay Groce
As a Professor of Chemistry at Big Bend Community College, Lindsay Groce bridges classrooms and communities through mentorship, outreach, and partnership. A founder of the STEMinists Club for Women and the STEMPosium and leader of cross-institutional initiatives, she expands STEM access and identity for rural and transfer students while integrating storytelling and the humanities into science education.
STEM CHAMPION OF THE YEAR FINALIST VIDEO
Inspiring the Next Generation: 2025 STEM Champion of the Year Finalists
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STEM CHAMPION OF THE YEAR WINNER
NEWCOMER IN TECHNOLOGY WINNER
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Newcomer in Technology / Innovative Use of Technology in Business celebrates organizations that have embraced technology innovation, transforming the work environment or developing technologies that advance production and efficiency, or differentiate their product or service.
Bigfoot Communications, a social purpose enterprise of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, is expanding broadband access and digital sovereignty across tribal lands. By operating and managing network infrastructure, Bigfoot connects households, schools, health services, and tribal enterprises while ensuring communities have access to reliable, high-speed internet close to home.
NEWCOMER IN TECHNOLOGY FINALIST VIDEO
Expanding Digital Access and Opportunity: 2025 Newcomer in Technology Finalists
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NEWCOMER IN TECHNOLOGY WINNER
ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR WINNER
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Entrepreneur of the Year recognizes entrepreneurs who have displayed exceptional vision and leadership in building a new company, developing a new product or service, or creatively delivering an existing product or service to the marketplace.
Edwin Eaton
Edwin Eaton, founder of iPro Building Services, transformed a local janitorial business into a multi-state enterprise—expanding his impact through BluePrint Consulting and Cinch Software. By developing tools that streamline operations and mentoring others in the industry, he’s elevating standards, empowering entrepreneurs, and redefining what’s possible in service-based business.
ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR FINALIST VIDEO
Building Business with Purpose: 2025 Entrepreneur of the Year Finalists
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ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR WINNER