Ron Shlien, M.S.M. — Co-Founder
I am an entrepreneur, innovator, and institutional builder with more than four decades of experience building organizations that combine creativity, education, and public impact in Canada and internationally. As co-founder of Mad Science, I helped build a small educational initiative into a globally recognized STEM organization operating in more than 25 countries and inspiring millions of children each year. Over the course of my career, I have focused on developing programs, partnerships, and platforms that make science, creativity, and innovation accessible to the next generation. My work has also included advising governments and emerging technology companies on innovation and commercialization. I served as Canada’s inaugural Entrepreneur-in-Residence, working alongside the Office of the Chief Science Advisor to help strengthen Canada’s innovation ecosystem and support forward-looking technology and policy initiatives. Beyond entrepreneurship, I have been deeply involved in public service. I regularly preside over Canadian citizenship ceremonies, welcoming new Canadians and speaking about the responsibilities and opportunities that come with citizenship. I was honoured to receive the Meritorious Service Medal (MSM) and the King Charles III Coronation Medal for contributions that brought distinction to Canada. I have also been recognized with the Entrepreneur of the Year Award from Ernst & Young and the Canadian Export Achievement Award from Export Development Canada. Throughout my career, I have worked at the intersection of entrepreneurship, education, innovation, and public service, helping connect ideas, institutions, and people to build meaningful impact. I remain passionate about supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders, and about building organizations and initiatives that help Canada innovate, grow, and inspire.
Stackforce AI infers this person is a leader in Education and Innovation sectors with a strong entrepreneurial focus.
Experience: 40 yrs 1 mo
Skills
- Entrepreneurship
- Leadership
- Investment Strategy
- Technology Advisory
- Innovation Policy
- Collaboration
- Creative Development
- Partnership Development
- Audience Engagement
- Early Childhood Education
- Operations Management
- Content Development
Career Highlights
- Co-founded a globally recognized STEM organization.
- Advised Canadian government on innovation and technology.
- Received multiple awards for contributions to education and entrepreneurship.
Work Experience
Government of Canada
Entrepreneur in Residence (2 yrs 2 mos)
TIGER 21
Member and Advisor (6 yrs 3 mos)
YES / KNOW Magazines
Director, Co-Owner (4 yrs)
Little Explorers Childcare Centers
Director, Co-Founder (5 yrs 10 mos)
Angel Investor:
Independant (18 yrs 2 mos)
Mad Science Productions
Co-Founder | Director (19 yrs 8 mos)
Mad Science Group Inc.
Co-Founder | Chief Innovator | Director (40 yrs)
Education
Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com.) at McGill University - Desautels Faculty of Management