Scientific Board of Advisors

The Sky Vegetables Scientific Board of Advisors is comprised of leaders with in-depth knowledge and expertise in the fields of urban gardening, hydroponics, aquaculture, green building design and construction.

The Board provides Sky Vegetables with valuable insight into the technical, business and engineering aspects of sustainable rooftop agriculture.

Will Allen, Chief Executive Officer, Growing Power.  Mr. Allen is a nationally renowned urban farmer who, through his non-profit company, Growing Power has transformed the cultivation, production and delivery of healthy foods to underserved, urban populations.  Mr. Allen was named a MacArthur Fellow in 2008 by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation for his extraordinary creativity and achievements in developing Growing Power as a sustainable model for urban agriculture.  Mr. Allen recently served on the Obama transition team for Agriculture.

Michael Christian, President, American Hydroponics.  Mr. Christian is a leader in the field and manufacturer of re-circulating hydroponic systems.  His company provides state-of-the-art performance products and services for year round growing with an emphasis on conserving resources.  Mr. Christian is a sought after authority on hydroponic system design and grower support and currently works with many growers world wide to provide equipment, consultation, grower support and feasibility studies on large commercial operations.

Kevin Fitzsimmons, Ph.D.  Dr. Fitzsimmons is Professor of Agriculture and Biosystems Engineering at the University of Arizona and Director of the University’s Environmental Resources Department.  Dr. Fitzsimmons has received numerous awards for his work in aquaculture and has served as President of both the U.S. and World Aquaculture Society and as Chairman of Aquaculture Without Frontiers.  He also serves on the Editorial Advisory Board for Reviews in Fisheries Science.

Jonathan Todd, President and COO, John Todd Ecological Design.   Mr. Todd is President and Chief Operating Officer of John Todd Ecological Design, an organization established to commercialize groundbreaking Eco-Machine wastewater treatment systems utilizing a visionary ecological philosophy and award winning practical design.  Mr. Todd’s work, which spans eleven countries on five continents, includes comprehensive construction design, consulting and facility operations services to public and private clients throughout the world.