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
The Innovator Awards Luncheon celebrates the drive, passion, and spirit of innovators in our community while inspiring those who are just starting their journey.
For 25 years, the Innovator Awards have celebrated the people, ideas, and organizations shaping the future of North Central Washington. This annual event recognizes the drive, passion, creativity, and community spirit of innovators across the region—while inspiring the next generation of leaders just beginning their journey.
During the luncheon, NCW Tech Alliance will present five Innovator Awards live on stage, honoring students, educators, entrepreneurs, technology leaders, and community champions who are making a meaningful impact through innovation.
Save the Date and Nominate for 25th Annual 2026 Innovator Awards!
Join us for the 2026 Innovator Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, from 11:00 am - 1:30 pm at the Wenatchee Convention Center.
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K-12 FUTURE TECHNOLOGY LEADER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS
presented by:
Future Technology Leader of the Year recognizes K-12 students whose innovative technology projects demonstrate leadership, learning, and hands-on experience
2026 Awardee
Elliot Tiegel
Cascade High School senior Elliot Tiegel invented OhmLife Insoles, an energy-harvesting shoe insole designed to turn the pressure and motion of walking into usable power for electronic devices. Combining outdoor safety, sustainability, product design, and entrepreneurship, he pitched his invention at the inaugural Flywheel Student Pitch Competition, where he earned the Fan Favorite award and $500 to continue developing his idea.
STEM COLLEGE INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR FINALISTS
presented by:
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.
2026 Awardee
Monica Oropeza Rojas
Monica Oropeza Rojas participated in applied agricultural research examining drip irrigation and X-disease management in cherry orchards. Working alongside Jacob Pitt and Edith Chamberlain at Washington State University's Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center Northfield Lab, she contributed to research exploring relationships among irrigation practices, tree health, and disease-vector management. The project addresses a significant challenge for Central Washington's tree fruit industry by investigating orchard management practices that could support healthier trees while contributing to X-disease management strategies.
STEM CHAMPION OF THE YEAR
FINALISTS
presented by:
STEM Champion of the Year recognizes educators and community members dedicated to fostering STEM learning experiences and promoting STEM pathways for students.
2026 Awardee
Dr. Ryan Christoph
Omak School District leader Dr. Ryan Christoph expands STEM opportunities through innovative CTE programs and hands-on career pathways. By connecting students with robotics, engineering, computer science, aviation, and skilled trades, he has built a future-focused STEM ecosystem that strengthens real-world learning and career readiness across his community.
NEWCOMER IN TECHNOLOGY FINALISTS
presented by:
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.
2026 Awardee
RiverCom 911 has modernized critical emergency communications infrastructure serving Chelan and Douglas counties, where mountains, canyons, rural communities, and radio dead zones create unique challenges for first responders. Its technology upgrades improve how information moves from a person calling 911 through dispatch to the 23 law enforcement, fire, and EMS agencies relying on RiverCom. Its finalist interview explores the technology working behind the scenes during an emergency, the importance of better mapping and communication, and what it means to innovate when the systems being upgraded have to be dependable 24/7.
ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
FINALISTS
presented by:
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.
2026 Awardee
Kelli and Adam Rynd
Kelli and Adam Rynd grew Woodin Enterprises from the original Lake Life storefront in downtown Chelan into a multi-brand retail business with locations across North Central Washington. Their growth has required more than opening additional stores. They developed management structures, marketing systems, e-commerce capabilities, customer loyalty programs, and operational processes that allow the company to expand while maintaining distinct brands.
2025 Innovator Award Videos Produced by:
