| Advisory Board |
Page 1 of 2  Franco Lodato Vice President & Managing Director Nature inspired design—biomimicry or bionics—is not something you’d normally associate with office furniture. But it’s what inspires Franco Lodato, vice president of design exploration and development. Experienced in the world of wireless communications, wearable technologies, and consumer markets for 22 years, he spent much of that time implementing bionic design in these arenas. “Bionics draws from the simplicity, efficiency, functionality, and beauty of design in nature and applies these principles to the design of everyday things,” says Franco. In his book, Bionics in Action, he explores these principles. At Pininfarina, he expands upon this exploration: Franco now leads Pininfarina Americas Operation. Well-published in leading design and technology periodicals, Franco has also worked with the MIT Media Lab and taught biodesign methodologies and innovative design at conferences worldwide.  Richard Tavener Co-Founder I believe “you get what you give.” Over the years this philosophy has made all the difference, from inspiring people to realize their dreams to reforming education. Along with a terrific production crew, I ventured ‘on the road’ for The Entrepreneurs! Tour of America. The Tour has traveled over 120,000 miles to 48 states, 120 cities broadcasting and webcasting live interviews with over 1,500 of America's visionaries. For six years, I was on-air host of Living the American Dream, a nationally syndicated radio and webcast program. I tried my hand at writing a book called Just Say YES!, which looking back was one of those “good experiences” that helped me I write my second book “The Integration of Media & Education.” The documentary film Mr. K: A Common Man with Uncommon Vision, hosted by Academy Award-winning actor Chris Cooper was a project I am proud to have produced along with Rudy Poe . This film has won numerous international awards including two Emmys®. Currently, I am executive producer of The imagine it! Project a multimedia educational documentary film series about how people can change the world through science, engineering and entrepreneurship. Originally from Toronto, Canada, I am a graduate of Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Arts & Sciences in Journalism and Communications. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it |
