Dickson Despommier – Often dubbed the ‘father of vertical farming,’ Despommier, a retired professor from Columbia University, penned the book “The Vertical Farm.” He is a pioneer in promoting the idea of growing food in skyscrapers, introducing it as a sustainable solution to the world’s food challenges.
Dr. Toyoki Kozai – As President of the Japan Plant Factory Association and a professor at Chiba University, Kozai has been at the forefront of plant factory research. He has published extensively on the principles and technologies behind vertical farming.
Sam Schatz – Managing Director and Global Head of Farm Development for AeroFarms, a leading vertical farming company. AeroFarms is recognized for its state-of-the-art aeroponic systems and its commitment to sustainable agriculture.
Marc Oshima – Co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer of AeroFarms. Marc plays a crucial role in promoting vertical farming technologies and their benefits to the world, fostering partnerships and expanding AeroFarms’ reach.
Dr. Nate Storey – Co-founder of Bright Agrotech (now part of Plenty), Storey is known for his deep knowledge in vertical farm systems, production strategies, and LED lighting for crops. His YouTube channel offers a plethora of information on these subjects.
Irving Fain – CEO and co-founder of Bowery Farming, Fain leads one of the most technologically advanced vertical farming operations in the world. Bowery Farming uses robotics, AI, and data analytics to optimize crop growth.
Paul Gauthier – A plant scientist and entrepreneur, Gauthier founded Just Grow, a consultancy focused on advancing the vertical farming industry. His research at Princeton University on optimizing plant growth in vertical farms is noteworthy.
Christine Zimmermann-Loessl – Chairwoman of the Association for Vertical Farming (AVF). Under her leadership, AVF promotes best practices, standardization, and the scaling of vertical farming globally.
Mike Zelkind – CEO of 80 Acres Farms, Zelkind has been instrumental in expanding vertical farming operations in multiple locations, offering fresh, pesticide-free produce to consumers and emphasizing the importance of reducing the carbon footprint in agriculture.
Tobias Peggs – CEO of Square Roots, a company merging technology with farming. They operate shipping-container farms in urban areas, emphasizing transparency, local produce, and tech-driven methodologies.
