The People Behind the Work

We are pleased to introduce you to Aidan McKenna, Environmental Technician at SYLVIS.

Aidan holds a degree in Plant Biology from the University of Calgary. He is currently pursuing his Professional Biologist designation in Alberta and continues to build experience in biosolids management and environmental field operations.

Before joining SYLVIS in 2025, Aidan worked in environmental laboratories and lagoon hydrographic surveying, where he operated GNSS and GPS equipment to collect hydrographic data from wastewater lagoons across Canada.

Since joining SYLVIS, Aidan has become a valued member of the City of Calgary Dewatered Biosolids Demonstration Program, supporting project delivery through soil sampling, biosolids site supervision, and mapping. Through this work, he has developed strong field skills and a broad understanding of biosolids management in Alberta.

Outside of work, Aidan is a self-proclaimed movie enthusiast who is always ready to share recommendations and discuss films with anyone willing to chat.

We are pleased to introduce you to Dr. Akshit Puri, Applied Research Scientist at SYLVIS.

Akshit leads SYLVIS’s research and data management programs, with a focus on advancing the company’s work in soil health, nutrient management, reclamation, carbon sequestration, forest fertilization, dryland agriculture, and bioenergy cropping through residuals management. Working collaboratively with the project teams across British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan, Akshit strives to demonstrate the value of residuals to landowners, clients, and stakeholders through research and demonstration activities on farms, ranches, and plantations.

Akshit brings more than 11 years of experience in environmental sciences, with a background spanning both the forestry and agriculture sectors. He completed his PhD and MSc in Soil Science from the University of British Columbia, where his research focused on increasing the growth and establishment of conifers through the application of bioinoculants.

In addition to his research experience, Akshit has taught soil science and environmental stewardship courses at the University of British Columbia and Kwantlen Polytechnic University. He also previously served as an Assistant Professor of Applied and Environmental Science at the University College Dublin.

Through both research and teaching, Akshit is committed to bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and practical application in residuals management, soil health, carbon sequestration, and sustainable land management.

Outside of work, Akshit enjoys exploring historical and scientific topics, reading, and travelling to sunny destinations. He is fluent in three languages and is currently learning a fourth.

We are pleased to introduce you to Carlie Chaney, Business Development Coordinator and Health and Safety Coordinator at SYLVIS.

Carlie previously worked as a Project Coordinator with SYLVIS, bringing over four years of experience in residuals management. In her current role, she supports business development and the creating of resource materials for the company.

Carlie graduated from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Her passion for science and travel have taken her around the world, from conducting biodiversity monitoring in the foothills of Romania to teaching in Japan. Upon returning to Canada in 2022, she transitioned into environmental science by completing a certificate in Land Reclamation at the University of Alberta and joining SYLVIS shortly thereafter.

Since 2023, Carlie has served as SYLVIS’s Health and Safety Coordinator, where she plays a kay role in overseeing the company’s Safety Management System and fostering a strong safety culture across the organization. Her responsibilities include maintaining health and safety documentation, coordinating training, ensuring compliance with occupational health and safety regulations, and assisting with site inspections and incident investigations. Carlie also coordinates safety audits to uphold SYLVIS’s Certificate of Recognition (COR) with the Alberta and British Columbia Construction Safety Associations (ACSA and BCCSA), while managing safety training and records to help ensure safe and compliant operations across the company. 

In her dual role, Carlie combines strong organizational and communication skills to support both safe operations and strategic growth at SYLVIS.

Outside of work, Carlie enjoys spending time outside in the garden and walking in local parks with her family.

We are pleased to introduce you to Carson Li, Project Manger at SYLVIS.

Carson brings a strong background in soil science, nutrient management, and sustainable agriculture. He holds a Masters of Soil Science degree from the University of Brish Columbia and is a Professional Agrologist. 

Throughout his career, Carson has led applied research and extension programs across a range of crop and livestock systems, including dairy, organic vegetables, forages, and blueberries. During his time at the University of British Columbia, his research focused on monitoring and quantifying greenhouse gas emission from various on-farm nutrient management scenarios in British Columbia.

Most recently, Carson served as Agronomy Consultant at the British Columbia Centre for Agritech Innovation, where he guided agritech companies on product development, commercialization, and demonstration projects. He also developed and delivered technical training programs to support workforce development with British Columbia’s agricultural sector.

At SYLVIS, Carson integrates his technical expertise and industry experience to manage projects that advance innovative and sustainable solutions for residuals management and land application. His approach combines scientific rigor with practical insights to support clients, communities, and the environment.

Outside of work, Carson enjoys playing tennis, exploring British Columbia’s beautiful nature, and cooking for family and friends.

We are pleased to introduce you to Christian Evans, Senior Environmental Scientist at SYLVIS.

Christian is a Senior Environmental Scientist and Professional Agrologist with over thirteen years of experience in project management, residuals management, nutrient management, and greenhouse gas modeling. He has worked in consulting roles in a variety of private- and public-sector settings. As the Team Lead for British Columbia at SYLVIS, Christian manages a group of project managers while also overseeing a diverse portfolio of residuals management projects.

Christian is passionate about the role beneficial residuals use can play in our society. He is particularly interested in the carbon implications of residuals use and nutrient management and enjoys a variety of work that ranges from consulting to fieldwork to business development. His experience encompasses systems organization, staff training, greenhouse gas and carbon modeling, literature reviews, and the planning and implementation of operational biosolids projects, including regulatory compliance, site assessments, biosolids fertilization planning, budget development, data analysis, and report preparation. 

Christian enjoys leveraging SYLVIS’s extensive experience and technical knowledge to design and implement effective project systems and deliver successful outcomes for clients. He is committed to ensuring clients are well-informed and well-served, while also helping cultivate strong, experienced project teams within SYLVIS.

Christian is the proud father of two boys and enjoys spending time outdoors – whether on the mountain, on the water, or in the garden. When driven inside, he can often be found reading or playing guitar.

We are pleased to introduce you to Curtis Navratil, Senior Project Manager at SYLVIS.

Curtis is a Senior Project Manager and registered Professional Engineer in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba with over 30 years of experience managing and implementing diverse residuals management projects across Western Canada. He is committed to the development of environmentally sustainable practices for the beneficial use of organic residuals within the agricultural, municipal, and industrial sectors.

Curtis has specialized in organic residuals recycling since 1994 and brings extensive experience in environmental engineering, agriculture, and reclamation. After receiving his B.Sc. in Civil Engineering from the University of Alberta, Curtis worked as a Project Engineer with the Greater Vancouver Regional District Residuals Management Group, contributing to several award-winning organic reclamation projects in British Columbia. He also spent 21 years as the sole proprietor of LW Diamond Environmental Services, leading the development and operational implementation of residuals management projects across Western Canada. 

At SYLVIS, Curtis manages and implements residuals management projects in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, overseeing full program execution from planning and coordination through to applications and reporting. He works closely with landowners to procure sites in both agricultural and reclamation settings, supporting the successful identification and development of suitable application areas. He ensures all activities are completed in compliance with regulatory requirements and client expectations, while managing project teams and contractors.

When not at work, Curtis can often be found on the golf course or camping with his family.

We are pleased to introduce you to Daniel Cassino, Vice President of Finance at SYLVIS.

Daniel brings a blend of financial expertise and strategic leadership to the SYLVIS team. With a strong background in corporate finance and strategy, he supports SYLVIS in achieving its mission – to Make Waste History. His work focuses on building scalable systems, improving efficiency, and strengthening financial clarity across the organization.

Prior to joining SYLVIS, Daniel served as Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at a drilling and blasting company, where he led initiatives across multiple departments. He also spent several years at a global investment bank, advising on mergers and acquisitions and capital markets transactions across North America – experience that shaped his analytical and execution-focused approach to leadership.

Daniel thrives on bridging strategy with action and is known for fostering collaboration between teams to drive meaningful results.

When he’s not in the office, you’ll likely find Daniel on a river fly fishing, tying his own flies, playing guitar, or exploring trails on his dirt bike.

We are pleased to introduce you to Elling Dahlen, General Manager of SYLVIS.

Elling brings extensive experience in business leadership, investment, and operational management, and plays a key role in driving strategic growth and operational excellence at SYLVIS. He is committed to advancing innovative and sustainable environmental solutions in support of SYLVIS’s mission to Make Waste History.

Prior to joining SYLVIS, Elling co-founded a private investment firm focused on acquiring, operating, and growing small and medium-sized businesses in Canada. He has been actively involved in acquiring and operating multiple businesses, including serving as Co-CEO of a powder coating company, where he led significant revenue and EBITDA growth while implementing operational efficiencies and strategic sales initiatives. 

Elling’s financial expertise stems from his experience as an investment analyst at a leading hedge fund based out of New York, where he specialized in North American industrials, and his tenure at a leading global investment bank, where he advised clients on mergers and acquisitions on both the buy-side and sell-side. 

Outside of work, Elling enjoys golfing, snowboarding, and traveling. Whether exploring the outdoors or tackling new business challenges, he’s always up for an adventure.

We are pleased to introduce you to Ike Martinez, Project Coordinator at SYLVIS.

Ike holds a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Veterinary Science: Production Option and brings experience in wildlife habitat improvement and land stewardship. Prior to joining SYLVIS, he worked with the Spokane Tribe of Indians as a Wildlife Mitigation Project Manager, where he specialized in projects focused on soil, crop, and rangeland health.

At SYLVIS, Ike plays an integral role in residuals management projects across Alberta and Saskatchewan, including supporting the City of Calgary’s dewatered biosolids management programs. His responsibilities include project implementation, fieldwork, data management, and report writing. Ike also coordinates hauling activities, supports regulatory soil sampling, prepares regulatory documentation under Alberta’s Guidelines, and supervises biosolids applications at project sites to ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with regulatory requirements.

In addition to his technical and field responsibilities, Ike actively supports landowner engagement for site procurement activities, helping maintain strong relationships with SYLVIS’s land partners. 

Outside of work, Ike is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys hiking, fishing, camping or hunting – or preparing to do all the above.

We are pleased to introduce you to Karel Beijer, Project Coordinator at SYLVIS.

Karel Beijer holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and brings a diverse background in the environmental sector through his experience in the Mount Royal University Science Co-op program and work abroad. Prior to joining SYLVIS, he worked in integrated pest management across Alberta, on a regenerative agriculture farm in central Alberta, and as an ecological restoration technician for Alberta Environment and Parks in the Castle Region.

Karel began his career at SYLVIS as an Environmental Technician and progressed into the role of Project Coordinator, bringing strong hands-on field experience to program delivery and oversight. He plays an integral role in residuals management projects across Alberta, with a primary focus on the Calgary Dewatered Biosolids Program. His responsibilities include overseeing field operations related to biosolids management, biomass harvesting, site maintenance, and plantation management, as well as coordinating hauling operations and field crews, supervising application activities, supporting monitoring and sampling programs. Karel also serves as one of SYLVIS’s health and safety representatives and leads maintenance coordination for the Calgary vehicle fleet and equipment.

Karel is passionate about the restoration and enhancement of marginal land through innovative residuals management and agricultural practices. Finding solutions to challenges excites and motivates him to continually strive to learn and grow.

Outside of work, Karel is a proud father of two young daughters who keep him busy exploring and learning about the world around them.

We are pleased to introduce you to Karl Steinicke, Fleet Manager at SYLVIS.

Karl is a Registered Forest Technologist with extensive experience in biosolids management, heavy equipment operation, and site safety. He began operating equipment for SYLVIS in 2005 on Vancouver Island while attending the Forest Resources Technology Program at Malaspina University-College. Upon graduation, Karl worked full-time in the forestry sector on Haida Gwaii while continuing to support SYLVIS projects during his time off.

In 2011, Karl transitioned into a larger operational role with SYLVIS, contributing to residuals beneficial use projects across British Columbia and Alberta. His experience includes forest fertilization, agricultural and rangeland fertilization, soil mixing, and mine reclamation projects. 

As Fleet Manager, Karl oversees SYLVIS’s fleet of heavy equipment and is responsible for equipment mobilization, maintenance coordination, budgeting, procurement, and operational readiness. He works closely with project teams to ensure equipment operators and landowners are properly trained and that field operations are completed safely and efficiently.

Outside of work, Karl enjoys exploring British Columbia’s fishing spots and spending time working on his property on Vancouver Island.

We are pleased to introduce you to Kasia Caputa, Senior Environmental Scientist at SYLVIS.

Kasia is a Professional Agrologist with over 15 years of experience in environmental science, including ecological research, environmental site assessments, regulatory permitting and reporting, and residuals management. She holds a Masters degree in Environmental Science and brings extensive knowledge of soil fertility and regulatory frameworks related to beneficial residuals management.

Since joining SYLVIS in 2013, Kasia has managed a wide range of consulting and operational projects based out of the Edmonton office and now leads and mentors junior staff. She work focuses on the beneficial use of wood ash, biosolids, pulp sludge, and other residuals to improve soil fertility and support reclamation initiatives across agricultural, landfill, and mining settings.

Kasia has extensive experience delivering biosolids beneficial use projects in Alberta, including marginal land improvement, willow biomass plantation establishment, soil mixing, and reclamation demonstration. She has served as Project Manager for several major initiatives, including the City of Calgary Dewatered Biosolids Demonstration Project and a soil fabrication demonstration with the City of Winnipeg.

In addition to project management, Kasia acts as a Qualified Professional within her practice areas of biosolids management and environmental monitoring. She is passionate about using residuals responsibly in order to solve environmental challenges.

Outside of work, Kasia enjoys gardening and exploring the outdoors with her family.

We are pleased to introduce you to Katrina Miller, Environmental Scientist at SYLVIS.

Katrina is a Professional Agrologist with over 13 years of experience in environmental consulting across Alberta and British Columbia, including groundwater and soil remediation, environmental planning, regulatory compliance, and residuals management. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science at the University of Calgary, where her honours thesis focused on developing an integrated monitoring approach for pathogenic bacteria in groundwater.

At SYLVIS, Katrina develops and manages operational residuals management programs throughout British Columbia. She plays a key role in the ongoing management and delivery of long-term biosolids management initiatives, including the Regional District of Nanaimo’s award-winning forest fertilization program and the City of Prince George’s biosolids management program. Her experience spans all aspects of project management, including proposal development, site procurement, project implementation, environmental monitoring, sampling, data interpretation, reporting, and liaising with clients. 

Katrina also executes SYLVIS’s consulting projects focused on regulatory compliance, beneficial use evaluations, and navigating new regulatory landscapes for residuals uses. 

Outside of work, Katrina enjoys exploring new places and experiencing local food and culture both close to home and abroad.

We are pleased to introduce you to Lee Coburn, Equipment Operator at SYLVIS.

Lee supports biosolids application operations at SYLVIS’s beneficial use projects on Vancouver Island. His responsibilities include biosolids fertilization activities, equipment maintenance, biosolids stockpile management, and road maintenance and clearing to support safe and efficient field operations. 

Lee brings extensive hands-on equipment and maintenance experience developed through his upbringing on his family’s dairy farms in Ontario. He initially pursued a career as a pilot before transitioning into the high-tech sector. Prior to joining SYLVIS in 2022, Lee spent 16 years as a senior manager with General Electric and an additional 5 years overseeing commercial sites for Loblaws in Ontario. He is an advocate for residuals management and is also a registered wastewater practitioner, having designed and installed both commercial and residential septic systems. 

Lee is passionate about working outdoors and contributing to residuals management solutions through hands-on field operations.

Outside of work, Lee enjoys golfing, travelling, hiking, and sailing on the Pacific Ocean.

We are pleased to introduce you to Linda Rebmann, Office Administrator at SYLVIS.

Linda plays a key role in supporting SYLVIS’s day-to-day operations and helping keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. With a strong background in administration, human resources, team support, client service, and accounting support, she is passionate about creating positive experiences for both staff and clients. In her role, she also supports the accounting team with accounts payable and accounts receivable functions.

Since joining SYLVIS in 2012, Linda has brought dedication, professionalism, and a people-first approach to her work. With more than 25 years of experience across administrative and business environments, including the financial services industry, she is known for her approachable nature, positive attitude, and ability to build strong relationships across all levels of an organization. Her friendly and outgoing personality helps foster a collaborative, supportive, and welcoming workplace culture.

Linda is passionate about service excellence and takes pride in supporting both the company’s goals and the people who help achieve them. She values being part of a strong team environment and is always willing to lend a hand wherever needed.

Outside of work, Linda enjoys spending time with family and friends, cooking, travelling, and making the most of the outdoors whenever she can.

We are pleased to introduce you to Mark Teshima, Senior Business Development Scientist at SYLVIS.

Mark brings more than two decades of consulting, provincial government, and academic experience in residuals and recycling. Throughout his career, he has worked across all facets of residuals management, including policy development, beneficial use assessments, land application suitability studies, and operational program management. He has bult a strong network of residuals generators, regulators, and landowners throughout the Prairies and Pacific Northwest, and has implemented residuals management in mine reclamation, marginal land improvement, biomass development, agricultural and forest fertilization, landfill reclamation, and soil product development.

Mark has been instrumental in advancing innovative residuals management in Alberta. Throughout his time at SYLVIS, he has contributed to several notable projects, including Heidelberg’s award-winning progressive operational restoration program at the Sechelt Sand and Gravel Mine, diversification of management solutions for EPCOR biosolids in the Edmonton region, and the City of Calgary’s biomass demonstration program. 

In his role as Senior Business Development Scientist, Mark is responsible for developing residuals management opportunities across the Prairies while also providing senior technical review and support across SYLVIS projects. His technical expertise, collaborative approach, and strong industry relationships continue to support the grown and success of SYLVIS’s beneficial use programs.

Outside of work, Mark can often be found at the arena or soccer field cheering on his three children, or enjoying time with his family skiing, golfing, and backcountry hiking.

We are pleased to introduce you to Mike Van Ham, President and Founder of SYLVIS.

Mike has been a driving force in the advancement of beneficial residuals management for more than 35 years. Recognized internationally as a scientific authority in biosolids management and the land application of organic residuals, Mike has dedicated his career to developing innovative, science-based solutions that transform residuals into valuable resources.

Mike founded SYLVIS in 1989 to assist the Greater Vancouver Regional District in researching and developing management solutions for more than 300,000 tonnes of stockpiled biosolids. Since then, he has led the growth of SYLVIS into an environmental consulting and residuals management company known for innovation, technical excellence, and environmental stewardship across North America.

As a Registered Professional Forester and Professional Agrologist, with a long-standing career as a Professional Biologist, Mike has contributed to biosolids research, policy development, product innovation, and operational program implementation around the world. He has worked closely with municipalities, industry leaders, regulators, and stakeholders to advance sustainable residuals recycling practices and develop practical solutions for complex environmental challenges.

Throughout his career, Mike has played a pivotal role in shaping residuals management practices in British Columbia and beyond. He was instrumental in supporting the scientific research and demonstration projects that informed the development of the Organic Matter Recycling Regulation and helped establish best management practices for biosolids use in British Columbia. Under Mike’s leadership, SYLVIS has successfully managed residuals in mine reclamation, marginal land improvement, biomass development, agricultural and forest fertilization, landfill reclamation, and soil product development.   

Mike’s work has contributed to several pivotal biosolids programs, including one of the longest-standing mine reclamation programs in British Columbia, the establishment of biosolids forest fertilization program in British Columbia, and the largest willow marginal land conversion project in North America. His leadership and commitment to sustainable innovation have earned numerous awards, including the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence for innovative research and implementation of a regional residuals management program involving numerous residuals generated from municipalities and industry in a synergistic program accepted and supported by stakeholders.

Mike continues to lead SYLVIS with a strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, and advancing the beneficial use of residuals to support environmental restoration and long-term resource recovery.

Outside of work, Mike can often be found in his “fish room” where over 3,000 L of water across multiple aquariums support distinct aquatic ecosystems from around the world.

We are pleased to introduce you to Morgan Hamilton, Project Coordinator at SYLVIS.

Morgan completed her Masters in Soil Science from the University of British Columbia and is currently an Articling Agrologist. She has experience in project coordination, soil science, data management and interpretation, and community engagement. At SYLVIS, Morgan provides technical field, laboratory, and office support for a wide range of residuals management projects.

In her role as a Project Coordinator, Morgan has developed experience in Land Application Plan development, regulatory compliance, project reporting, and transportation subcontractor coordination. She works closely with landowners, generators, and transporters to ensure residuals are managed in accordance with Land Application Plans and regulatory requirements. Morgan also plans, coordinates, and conducts environmental monitoring and sampling programs for soil, water, vegetation, and residuals in support of both operational and research-focused initiatives.

Morgan is passionate about sustainable land management and values the opportunity to contribute to projects that support environmental stewardship and beneficial use practices. Her strong organization skills, technical background, and collaborative approach make her a valuable member of the SYLVIS team.

Outside of work, Morgan enjoys deepening her knowledge and relationship with landscapes through natural dyeing, gardening, and studying seaweed identification.

We are pleased to introduce you to Natalie Bulmer, Project Coordinator at SYLVIS.

Natalie joined SYLVIS in 2018 and has developed extensive experience supporting the beneficial management of residuals through land application programs. She holds a degree in Environmental Science from the University of Calgary and obtained her Alberta Professional Chemist designation in 2023.

Natalie began her career at SYLVIS as an Environmental Technician in British Columbia, where she developed a strong foundation in beneficial residuals management, field monitoring, and environmental sampling. In this role, she gained hands-on experience supporting a range of field activities for SYLVIS’s residuals management programs.

After transitioning to Alberta, Natalie advanced into the role of Project Coordinator, where she has become an important member of the Calgary Dewatered Biosolids Demonstration Program. She has developed expertise in the management of willow production systems and biosolids fertilization on marginal land. As a Project Coordinator, Natalie provides technical, operational, and regulatory support for a variety of residuals management projects. She plays a key role in coordinating field programs, supporting environmental compliance, and contributing to project reporting and delivery. Her work includes coordination of transportation and field operations, Land Application Plan support, and environmental monitoring programs for soil, water, vegetation, and residuals.

Natalie is recognized for her strong technical capability, attention to detail, and collaborative approach to project coordination. 

Outside of work, Natalie enjoys do-it-yourself renovations and can always spare five minutes to tell you about her latest project.

We are pleased to introduce you to Randy Radloff, Fleet Operations Coordinator at SYLVIS.

Randy is a seasoned trades professional with over 30 years of hands-on experience across a range of industries, including municipal operations, oilfield services, agriculture, logging, and transportation. He supports biosolids application operations at SYLVIS’s beneficial use projects at OK Ranch and in the Southern Cariboo Region of British Columbia. With a strong background in equipment operation, vehicle maintenance, and site management, Randy brings a dependable, safety-focused, and solutions-oriented approach to field operations.

Since joining SYLVIS, Randy has applied his extensive background in off-road contracting, heavy equipment operation, and hands-on mechanical knowledge to support land reclamation and residuals management projects. He holds a Class 1 with Air endorsement, along with certifications in H2S Alive, WHMIS, Transportation of Dangerous Goods, and other industry safety training, reflect his commitment to safe and efficient operations.

Throughout his career, Randy has worked in diverse environments including road construction, mill operations, water treatment facilities, and off-road contracting. Randy’s deep industry experience and practical approach make him a valuable contributor to SYLVIS’s mission of delivering innovative and sustainable environmental solutions.

Outside of work, Randy enjoys hunting and fishing in the southern regions of British Columbia.

We are pleased to introduce you to René-Carl Dionne, Head of Operations at SYLVIS.

René-Carl is a Professional Agrologist with extensive experience managing residuals projects across both Quebec and British Columbia. He holds a degree in Agricultural and Environmental Sciences from McGill University and began his career in the agro-environmental advising sector, where he specialized in nutrient management and implementation of best management practices in agriculture. This foundation led him to the field of residuals management, where he has since developed and overseen dozens of successful land application projects involving liquid and dewatered residuals, including biosolids, wood ash, and industrial and agri-food residuals.

As Head of Operations, René-Carl oversees SYLVIS’s operations and project delivery throughout British Columbia and Alberta, managing a diverse portfolio that includes agricultural and forest fertilization, land reclamation, and consulting-based residuals management initiatives. His role includes proposal development, site assessments, regulatory authorizations, project management oversight, and leading multidisciplinary teams to ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently and in alignment with client and landowners expectations. 

René-Carl brings more than a decade of experience working closely with government agencies, First Nations, municipalities, clients, landowners, and the public. His technical expertise has been instrumental in advancing residuals management projects throughout British Columbia. In his leadership role, he also focuses on operational excellence by supporting team development and identifying synergies across projects.

Outside of work, René-Carl enjoys spending time with his family and is a proud father of two boys. When he is not with family, he can often be found sailing the Strait of Georgia, enjoying time on the snow, or tackling house renovation projects.

We are pleased to introduce you to Trudy Naugler Klassen, Head of Resourcing & Systems at SYLVIS.

Trudy is a Professional Agrologist with over 15 years of experience spanning agricultural and environmental science, applied research, project delivery, and team leadership. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Chemistry from Dalhousie University and a Master of Science in Resource Management and Environmental Studies from the University of British Columbia.

Throughout her career, Trudy has progressed from hands-on field and laboratory research to leading teams and developing the systems that support successful project delivery. In her current role, she focuses on workforce planning, hiring, and operational systems, helping ensure SYLVIS has the people, tools, and processes needed to deliver high quality work. She is passionate about creating clarity, alignment, and the conditions that allow both individuals and teams to succeed.

Trudy remains actively connected to the technical foundations of residuals management, drawing on expertise in nutrient management, soil health, fertilizers, water quality, regulatory compliance, and communicating technical information to a variety of audiences. At SYLVIS, she has managed and provided senior support for projects such as biosolids growing media production, water treatment residuals utilization, soil-plant landfill leachate treatment systems, biosolids use in mine reclamation, and biomass plantation fertilization.

Outside of work, Trudy enjoys outdoor adventures with her family and exploring great food.

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We are pleased to introduce you to Vanessa Menunzio, Senior Business Development Coordinator at SYLVIS.

Vanessa obtained her diploma in Environmental Protection Technology at Kwantlen Polytechnic University.  She began her career with SYLVIS as an Environmental Technician, where she supported residuals management projects at sites across British Columbia and Alberta. Through this work, she developed a strong technical understanding of the beneficial use of residuals, which ultimately led to her transition into business development.

In her role as Senior Business Development Coordinator, Vanessa plays a key role in enabling SYLVIS’s business development function by developing proposals, systems, and marketing materials that contribute to the company’s growth and client engagement efforts. She supports the coordination of tours and events and helps communicate SYLVIS’s expertise and values to interested parties through a range of business development initiatives. Through her work, Vanessa helps strengthen the Business Development Team by ensuring high-quality materials and effective systems are in place to support strategic growth in alignment with SYLVIS’s mission to make waste history.

Outside of work, Vanessa enjoys traveling to destinations both near and far with her husband and son.