Melanie Fontaine brings to KAST passion, skill and deep commitment to benefit the Kootenay science and tech communities.

After moving to the West Kootenays in 2020, she managed a small business while settling into the Kootenay life. Melanie led the KAST team as Executive Director from 2021-2023 before moving into the Director of Operations role while starting a family.  She enjoys creating relationships across the region and bringing renewed energy to programs, both current and future, for KAST.

Melanie comes from a strong scientific background in biochemistry research with a Master of Science degree from the University of Alberta. Some of her experiences include working at a non-profit hospital in Kenya and for the Provincial Health Services Authority in Vancouver.

Outside of work, Melanie can be found spending time with her partner and fur-babies, whether that be skiing the local mountains, creating stained glass art or gardening in her backyard.