The Shift Coastal
Technologies Team
Meet the Experts Driving Innovation in Maritime Solutions
At Shift Coastal Technologies, our team is the cornerstone of everything we do. With deep expertise in maritime operations, engineering, and technology, we’re committed to helping clients solve complex challenges and achieve better outcomes. Each team member brings a unique set of skills and experience, unified by a shared passion for innovation, collaboration, and sustainability.
James Spencer
James Spencer is the founder of Shift Coastal Technologies Ltd., where he secured $35M in funding for coastal tech initiatives…
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James Spencer
FOUNDER & CEO
James Spencer is the founder of Shift Coastal Technologies Ltd., where he secured $35M in funding for coastal tech initiatives through partnerships with First Nations, government, and industry. With over 20 years in the marine resource sector and a background in coastal sciences, he brings deep expertise in product development and marine operations. James led the creation of the OceanSled® Ranger, the first ASV acquired by the Canadian Coast Guard. He holds a Biology degree from the University of Victoria and a Project Management Certificate from the University of Toronto.
Julian Bakker
Julian is a planner, geographer, and autonomous systems expert who bridges people, places, and progress through innovative…
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Julian Bakker
CIVIL SECTOR LEAD – MARINE AUTONOMY
Julian is a planner, geographer, and autonomous systems expert who bridges people, places, and progress through innovative planning and cultural insight. He played a key role in helping the Canadian Coast Guard acquire its first ASV through work in Haida Gwaii. Julian holds a Master’s in Geography from the University of Victoria and a Bachelor’s with distinction from Vancouver Island University.
Katie Smith
PROGRAM MANAGER
Katie brings a strong background in fisheries management, ecosystem mapping, and project development. She holds a…
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Katie Smith
PROGRAM MANAGER
Katie brings a strong background in fisheries management, ecosystem mapping, and project development. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology (University of Victoria), a PMP Certification, and advanced training in remotely piloted systems. Katie excels in aligning technology with community-driven goals to create impactful, sustainable outcomes for marine resources.
Brant Chlebowski
Brant brings market intelligence, strategic vision, and a background in startup technologies, ocean innovation, and communications to his role as Director of Marketing.
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Brant Chlebowski
DIRECTOR, MARKETING
Brant brings market intelligence, strategic vision, and a background in startup technologies, ocean innovation, and communications to his role as Director of Marketing. He translates emerging technology into compelling market positioning and go-to-market strategy, with experience working alongside First Nations, government and coastal industry partners. He holds an M.B.A. in Sustainable Innovation (University of Victoria) and an M.A.S. in Marine Biodiversity & Conservation (University of California, San Diego).
Colin Dobell
Colin is Vice President of Technology at Shift Coastal Technologies, bringing 25+ years in robotics, remote inspection, and…
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Colin Dobell
VP TECHNOLOGY
Colin is Vice President of Technology at Shift Coastal Technologies, bringing 25+ years in robotics, remote inspection, and manufacturing. He specializes in strategy, product development, and operations, with a track record including a 300% revenue increase at Inuktun and successful post-acquisition integration with Eddyfi. An inventor on multiple patents, Colin drives innovation to tackle complex maritime challenges.
Sebastian Berg
Sebastian leads the design of advanced maritime technologies at Shift Coastal Technologies, including the CiMS and OceanSled…
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Sebastian Berg
DIRECTOR, PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
Sebastian leads the design of advanced maritime technologies at Shift Coastal Technologies, including the CiMS and OceanSled projects. With a Mechanical Engineering Technology Diploma from Camosun College and a background in industrial design, he specializes in rugged solutions for coastal environments, focusing on system integration, prototyping, and navigation for real-time UxM technologies.
Captain (RCN Ret'd) Kurt Salchert
A former Captain in the Royal Canadian Navy, Kurt brings over 30 years of leadership across defence and security, maritime operations…
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Kurt Salchert
CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER
A former Captain in the Royal Canadian Navy, Kurt brings over 30 years of leadership across defence and security, maritime operations, emergency management, Indigenous partnership, and technology innovation. He holds a Masters Degree in Defence Studies (Royal Military College), a PMP Certification, and advanced certifications in Emergency Management and Environmental Response. As Shift’s Chief Strategy Officer, Kurt bridges advanced marine technologies with strategic execution, guiding long-term growth, partnerships, and data-driven solutions that strengthens Shift’s leadership in the defence, security, environmental response and regulatory enforcement sectors.
Richelle Eke
Richelle has over 20 years of experience in high-tech R&D and senior management, specializing in remotely operated inspection equipment and robotics.
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Richellen Eke
PRINCIPAL, RESEARCH and DEVELOPMENT
Richelle has over 20 years of experience in high-tech R&D and senior management, specializing in remotely operated inspection equipment and robotics. Richelle brings deep technical expertise and leadership to our mission of developing fully Canadian-owned IP and next-generation uncrewed systems that enhance coastal security and operational capability in Canada and abroad.