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The drought is a critical issue in California. Water rates have increased, parched lawns have become a common sight, and Governor Jerry Brown’s recent Executive Orders have put pressure on consumers to take action. One San Francisco startup, WaterSmart Software, pairs technology and data analytics with behavioral science and social norms to change the way the world uses water. WaterSmart works with over 40 water utilities throughout California, and in 7 other states, to respond to this unprecedented drought.
Join four members of the WaterSmart Software team – Robin Gilthorpe, CEO, Jeff Lipton, Director of Marketing, Ora Chaiken (Cornell MBA ’88), Director of Client Services, and Carolyn Strauss (Cornell MPA ’12), Client Services Manager – for an informal happy hour and panel discussion. Topics will include the California water policy environment, the application of innovative technologies to address the drought, and the challenges faced by a growing startup tackling a large-scale problem.
6:30pm - 7:00pm - Reception
7:00pm - 8:00pm - Waterside Chat with Robin Gilthorpe, Jeff Lipton, Ora Chaiken, and Carolyn Strauss
8:00pm - 9:00pm - Networking
Robin Gilthorpe has over twenty years of experience in leveraging technology to solve global problems. He is tasked with scaling the WaterSmart business. Prior to WaterSmart, Robin was CEO of Terracotta Inc., a big data software provider.
Jeff Lipton manages WaterSmart Software’s go-to-market strategy development and marketing campaign activities, along with sales operations support. Prior to WaterSmart, Jeff managed channel development and regional field marketing for EnerNOC, an international leader in energy intelligence software and demand response solutions.
Ora Chaiken oversees the successful implementation and continuous operation of WaterSmart’s utility partners. Prior to joining WaterSmart, Ora worked at Stagecast Software and Softback Expos, where she managed corporate websites and worked with potential customers.
Carolyn Strauss is responsible for working with individual utility partners to ensure that the implementation process and ongoing program are seamless and successful. Before joining WaterSmart, Carolyn worked on conservation and sustainability programs at the United States Department of Agriculture.
Please contact Carolyn Strauss '12 with questions.
