Mentors
Welcome to the Sunstone Innovation Challenge Mentor Program
Are you passionate about fostering innovation and guiding the next generation of entrepreneurs? Join our esteemed group of mentors for the Sunstone Innovation Challenge and make a lasting impact on young innovators!
As a mentor for the Sunstone Innovation Challenge, you will have the opportunity to:
Share your expertise and experiences with aspiring entrepreneurs
Help shape innovative ideas and business strategies
Expand your professional network
Contribute to the growth of the CSU innovation ecosystem
If you are interested in becoming a mentor for the Sunstone Innovation Challenge, please reach out to us at: csulb-iie@csulb.edu
Meet Our Current Mentors
Dan Abir
Software Marketing Savant | Creative Business Solutions Advisor, Tribal Engineering LLC
Dan Abir is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in solving complex engineering challenges for manufacturing firms in Aerospace, Defense, and Renewable Energy. As a Software Marketing Savant and Creative Business Solutions Advisor, Dan specializes in innovative engineering software and services. His passion lies in helping startups and individuals turn visions into reality. With extensive international business experience, Dan excels at guiding companies into North American markets, while his expertise in sales training and business development allows him to craft scalable solutions for organizations of all sizes.
Sam Anvari
Associate Professor of Graphic Design, CSU Long Beach
Sam Anvari is a graphic designer and information architect with over 20 years of direct hands-on experience in interaction and mobile/web design practice. Sam has an MFA in Graphic Design from OTIS College of Art and Design, where he worked on his research project under the supervision of Kali Nikitas, Stuart Bailey, and Erik Spiekermann. Sam holds a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering. Crossing over to graphic design with a mathematics and engineering background has allowed Sam to look at communication challenges from a unique perspective. Sam views graphic design as a multidisciplinary practice between art, system engineering, and linguistics to establish a clear and universally understandable dialogue.
Nitin Bajaj
Entrepreneur | Growth Strategist | Host, The INDUStry Show
Nitin Bajaj is an entrepreneur and growth strategist with expertise in product management, digital innovation, and business development. As the founder and host of The INDUStry Show, he shares insights from industry leaders with aspiring entrepreneurs. With expertise in product management and business development, Nitin helps companies navigate the complexities of the digital landscape, fostering growth and innovation.
Natan Bershtel
Business Strategist | CPG Industry Expert | Former Educator
Natan Bershtel is a versatile professional with a unique blend of experience in education, business leadership, and the packaging industry. After a nearly two-decade career as a teacher and coach, leveraging his mathematics background, Natan transitioned to the business world. He spent five years successfully running and expanding his family business, culminating in its acquisition. Now, Natan applies his diverse skill set to help CPG brand founders launch and scale their businesses in collaboration with Pelagic. His expertise in business leadership, sales, and the packaging industry, combined with his educational background, allows him to provide valuable insights and guidance to emerging entrepreneurs in the consumer goods sector.
Uli Blankenstein
President, Global CMO, Special and Precious Metals, Manufacturing
Uli is a results-driven executive who boosts manufacturing companies’ performance and growth. As a C-level leader, he spearheads global strategy, seamless cross-cultural operations, and growth-focused business development. His extensive experience spans the US, Germany, Singapore, Japan, and China, where he has built and led high-performing global organizations primarily in the manufacturing of high-purity and high-value metal products used globally. Currently, he serves as Vice President of Strategy and Execution at Materion Corporation, a global multi-billion dollar leader in semiconductor materials. Previously, as Chief Market & Innovation Officer at HC Starck Solutions, he led a successful PE exit. He has senior-level management experience in public, private, and PE-backed companies. Uli's background includes international business education in Germany, the US, and France, giving him a unique global perspective.
Nick Collica
Technology Strategist | Agile Expert | Blockchain Innovator
Nick Collica is a seasoned technology strategist with over a decade of experience in driving software development initiatives and leading cross-functional teams to operational excellence. He specializes in Agile methodologies, advanced business analysis, and the strategic application of emerging technologies to solve complex challenges and exceed business objectives. Nick's expertise extends to blockchain technology, including smart contract and decentralized application (DApp) development. His active participation in significant workshops and programs has honed his skills in business development and community building strategies. Nick is passionate about leveraging his diverse skill set to develop innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of businesses and communities, consistently driving transformative change in dynamic, technology-focused environments.
Jim Cooper
Market Intelligence Strategist | Startup Advisor | Research Innovator
m Cooper is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in startups, market research, and competitive analysis. As CTO of Braid Theory, an early-stage startup advisory firm in Los Angeles, and founder of Conscientia Research, Jim specializes in helping businesses enter new markets and achieve competitive success. His expertise spans market intelligence, validation research, and economic development, with a focus on evidence-based entrepreneurship. Jim's diverse background in economics, political science, biology, and mathematics, coupled with his experience in both the U.S. and Australia, allows him to provide unique insights to startups and established companies alike. A dedicated mentor and advisor, Jim is passionate about STEM/STEAM education and Lean Startup methodologies, consistently driving innovation and intellectual capital growth in the business world.
Robb Dorf
Business Growth Strategist | Export Consultant | Entrepreneurial Leader
Robb Dorf is a seasoned business professional with over 25 years of experience in sales, marketing, logistics, and scaling businesses across multiple sectors. As the founder and former CEO of PureFit, Inc., Robb successfully grew the company from concept to profitability, selling over 30 million nutrition bars and expanding to 30 countries. His expertise in global market expansion is now utilized in his role as an Export Consultant for the Small Business Administration, where he guides clients through federal and state export assistance programs. Robb's customer-focused approach and proven track record in achieving revenue and profit objectives make him a valuable asset in driving business growth and success. His diverse experience includes establishing national accounts with major retailers, developing cost-effective brand awareness campaigns, and building high-performing teams across various industries.
Reece Fiebich
Software Engineering Manager | Aerospace Technology Specialist, Coronal
Reece is currently the head of Software for an advanced manufacturing company, Coronal, that he co-founded last year. Coronal has recently closed their over-subscribed pre-seed round and are currently scaling up production. In addition to software, Reece also engages in sales, investor relations, and government certifications. Previously, Reece worked at 2 startups: Relativity Space where he was responsible for the flight software on Relativity's first rocket and Loon, a company spun out of Google hardware incubator GoogleX where he managed an engineering team and also engaged in government relations.
Lynn Foster
Founder and CEO of Z-Field Technologies LLC
Lynn Foster is the Founder and CEO of Z-Field Technologies LLC. He previously held technology industry positions in corporate, entrepreneurial and government settings. Lynn previously managed the State of California’s CalTIP commercialization program and served as the Emerging Technologies Director of a Top Ten Law Firm. Lynn’s primary technical focus is Nanotechnology. He is the Editor and Co-Author of the best selling textbook, “Nanotechnology: Science, Innovation & Opportunity” (Prentice Hall, 2005). He wrote the first Trade Study on Nanotechnology and organized many of the early knowledge conferences and Trade Missions in the field. Lynn serves as Chairman of the Caltech Entrepreneurs Forum and on the leadership committee of TechConnect, a national technology partnering conference that regularly draws 3000 attendees from University Technology Licensing Offices, Corporate Venture Capitalists and early stage companies. He previously served on the Nanotechnology and Emerging Technologies Committees of the US Chamber of Commerce and on the Advisory Board of Finaventures, a Venture Capital fund. He had 21 years of active and reserve service with the US Army including service in the first Gulf War and Bosnia.
Alexander Greg
Civil Engineer | Port & Harbor Specialist | Environmental Expert
Alexander Greg is a seasoned civil engineer at P2S, specializing in ports and harbors with over 20 years of experience. His expertise spans environmental planning, emissions reduction, and regulatory compliance in maritime infrastructure. Alexander excels at developing sustainable port solutions that balance economic growth with environmental stewardship. His innovative approaches have helped numerous organizations navigate complex regulatory landscapes while optimizing port efficiency and minimizing ecological impact. As a thought leader in the field, Alexander continues to drive advancements in maritime civil engineering, focusing on safety, sustainability, and cutting-edge port development strategies.
Michael Grimshaw
Entrepreneurship Educator | Business Mentor | Angel Investor
Michael
Michael Grimshaw is a seasoned entrepreneur and educator with over 23 years of experience in founding, funding, and mentoring startups across various sectors. As a Business Management and Entrepreneurship Faculty at California State University-Dominguez Hills, he inspires students to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Michael's expertise extends to his role as Executive Director of The Entrepreneurial Institute at CSUDH, where he fosters an entrepreneurial spirit within the university community. His track record includes successfully guiding multiple startups to funding, acquisition, or IPO. As a Co-Founder of serious improv! and an active angel investor, Michael continues to drive innovation and leadership development. His diverse background, including his status as a Vietnam veteran with a Bronze Star, enriches his approach to business and education.
Dean Heiss
Energy Executive | Project Management Expert | Sustainability Innovator
Dean Heiss is a senior manager at Southern California Edison, specializing in project management and finance. With a background in aeronautical science and an MBA in sustainability, Dean brings a unique perspective to the energy sector. He excels in managing complex projects, improving operational efficiency, and driving financial performance. As a founder of the CSULB Incubator, Dean also mentors startups and entrepreneurs. His diverse expertise, including a commercial pilot's license and professional certifications in estimating and Lean Six Sigma, makes him a versatile leader in energy, sustainability, and business innovation.
Girish Kannalli
Co-Founder and CXO
Steering a startup as Co-Founder and CXO, Girisg focuses on delivering innovative IT consulting services that drive growth and solve complex problems for clients in healthcare, insurance, finance, and retail. Harnessing over three decades of industry and Technology experience, he and his team excel in tailoring technology stacks and engagement models to meet specific business objectives.
Girish also works extensively with Startup echo systems in Orange county and is an Angel Investor and has actively invested in more than 20 plus startups. He is a Charter member with TiE SoCal chapter which focuses on Entrepreneurship.
Calvin Leung
Entrepreneur | SpaceX
Calvin Leung is a three-time finalist and part of the 2017 winning team of Cal State Long Beach’s Innovation Challenge. A seasoned entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the manufacturing and fulfillment industry, Calvin combines strategic thinking with hands-on leadership. He holds an undergraduate degree in Marketing and Information Systems, as well as an MBA. Before joining SpaceX, where he currently works, Calvin led his company to project close to $500,000 in annual revenue EBITDA. As a mentor, he is passionate about sharing his entrepreneurial insights, guiding students in business strategy, and fostering innovation and leadership.
Cynthia Kirkeby
Innovation Strategist | Entrepreneur | Creative Thinker
Cynthia Kirkeby is a versatile entrepreneur and innovator with a knack for connecting seemingly unrelated dots to create unique insights and opportunities. Her diverse skill set spans niche finding, strategic partnerships, branding, technology, and product design. Cynthia's approach combines creative thinking with strategic determination, enabling her to identify and develop innovative solutions across various fields. Her expertise in professional writing and graphic design complements her ability to bring ideas to life. As a firm believer in the power of hard work and imagination, Cynthia continues to push boundaries in entrepreneurship and innovation, inspiring others to see beyond the obvious and think differently.
Frank Martinez
President/COO for LandCare Tech| tree services and vegetation management | Operations
Currently serving as President/COO for LandCare Tech, formerly known as Mario’s Tree Service, a trusted leader in tree services and vegetation management with over 16 years of experience. The company specializes in utility line clearance, fuel reduction, and emergency disaster recovery cleanup, offering comprehensive services that help communities stay safe and resilient. With a nationwide presence, LandCare Tech has earned a reputation for excellence in managing vegetation around utility infrastructure, reducing wildfire risks, and providing swift, reliable support during emergency situations. Their team is dedicated to delivering sustainable solutions that protect both people and the environment, ensuring safety and operational continuity for their clients across the United States.
Kent Mihlbauer
Channel Sales Strategist | Partnership Developer | Revenue Growth Expert
Kent Mihlbauer is a seasoned channel sales leader with extensive experience in nurturing strategic alliances and driving marketplace presence. His expertise lies in creating engaging atmospheres around company offerings while significantly boosting sales. Kent has a proven track record of establishing partnerships with ISVs, SIs, major tech companies, and advertising agencies. He excels in implementing enablement programs, ensuring sales team readiness, and spearheading marketing and training initiatives. With a strong history of devising strategies to expand partnership networks and enterprise collaborations, Kent consistently catalyzes substantial revenue growth across organizations. His transformative approach to enhancing go-to-market roadmaps and channel sales effectiveness makes him a valuable asset in driving business growth and fostering strategic partnerships.
Alex Nesbitt
CEO Coach | Strategy Consultant | Business Transformation Expert
Alex Nesbitt is a seasoned CEO coach and strategy consultant with extensive experience in business transformation, technology integration, and leadership development. As a former partner at Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and startup founder, Alex brings a unique blend of corporate strategy and entrepreneurial insight to his work. He excels at guiding executives through complex business challenges, leveraging his expertise to drive organizational growth and innovation. Alex's background in both established consulting firms and the startup ecosystem enables him to provide valuable perspectives on scaling businesses and integrating cutting-edge technologies. His approach combines strategic thinking with practical implementation, making him a trusted advisor for CEOs and business leaders seeking to navigate today's rapidly evolving business landscape.
Steven Riggs
Global Executive | Innovation Strategist, Riggs Consulting Group
Steven Riggs is a seasoned global executive with extensive experience in fostering innovation and developing usage-based product solutions. As the founder of Riggs Consulting Group, he leverages his expertise in building international teams, launching start-ups, and driving portfolio growth and profitability on a global scale. Steven excels at crafting growth strategies while optimizing operations for cost efficiency. Known for his dynamic and inclusive leadership style, he builds high-performing diverse teams through effective communication. Steven's strengths include cultivating C-level customer relationships and challenging the status quo to leverage new processes and technologies, ultimately enhancing productivity and customer experience. His areas of expertise span global matrix environments, multi-country leadership, strategic planning, sustainability, and circular economy initiatives.
Jose Rivera
Academic Administrator | Engineering Technician | Higher Education Expert
Jose Rivera is a versatile professional serving dual roles at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB). As the Interim Director at the School of Art, he brings expertise in academic administration, overseeing program operations and fostering artistic excellence. Simultaneously, Jose works as an equipment technician in the College of Engineering, providing crucial technical support to enhance the learning experience of engineering students. His unique combination of administrative skills and technical knowledge allows him to bridge the gap between creative and technical disciplines. Jose's experience in both roles positions him as a valuable asset in higher education, adept at navigating the complexities of academic management while ensuring hands-on technical support for students and faculty alike.
Marcus Rosenthal
AgTech Innovator | Robotics Engineer | Sustainability Entrepreneur
Marcus Rosenthal is a seasoned executive with extensive experience in building and leading multidisciplinary teams across engineering, operations, manufacturing, R&D, sales, marketing, and business development. His passion lies in creating innovative organizations that positively impact the planet and people's lives. Marcus excels in solving complex problems and developing new technologies, particularly in AgTech, indoor farming, sustainable packaging, IoT, and robotics. His expertise spans from integrating existing technologies to inventing entirely new solutions. With a proven track record in commercializing technologies, building strategic partnerships, and developing efficient supply chains, Marcus consistently delivers projects on budget and on time. His diverse technical knowledge and strategic approach make him a valuable leader in driving sustainable innovation and business growth.
Venkatesh Sankaran
CEO, Saguna Consulting Services LLC & Hugenx
Venkatesh Sankaran is a versatile business leader with a passion for innovation and growth. As CEO of SAGUNA CONSULTING SERVICES LLC and HUGENX, he leverages his expertise in business development, CRM, and vendor management to drive success in the consulting and technology sectors. Venkatesh's diverse background, combining Electronics Engineering with an MBA in International Marketing, enables him to bridge technical and business realms effectively. His role as President of SUR Academy and Foundation further demonstrates his commitment to education and community development, making him a well-rounded mentor and strategist.
Arie Shen
Founder, Board Member, CxO, EASTM
As a board member, fractional CxO, Executive as a Service (EaSTM), technologist & master of Business Development and Sales, Arie has been helping companies succeed in the US and in international markets. His company brings technological solutions to business problems, sales and growth to his clients, while performing operational oversight and process improvements.
Ameed Taylor
Financial Analyst | Business Consultant | Multilingual Expert
AI Engineer and Oracle Cloud ERP Architect with 10+ years of experience. Develops next-gen applications using LLMs, specializing in healthcare solutions and ERP implementations. Community leader in AI, contributing to Cohere For AI and Hugging Face. Supports AI-driven innovation at CSU Long Beach and organizes LA's largest Generative AI hackathon.
Travis Taylor
Senior Project Executive, P2S Inc.
Travis Taylor brings over 30 years of experience in managing consulting, engineering, design, and construction projects at P2S Inc. His expertise spans infrastructure upgrades, energy assessments, and environmental remediation for diverse clients across the United States. Travis excels in combining management skills with technical expertise to deliver creative, cost-effective solutions. At P2S, he leads project management training and oversees project execution. His international experience, including ventures in South America, adds a global perspective to his extensive portfolio in the engineering and construction sectors.
Ram Reddy
Technology Executive | Author | Strategic Advisor, Reddy Consulting Group
Ram Reddy is a seasoned technology executive with extensive experience in aligning IT strategies with business objectives for global Fortune 500 companies. As founder of Reddy Consulting Group, he leverages his expertise across multiple industries, including Aerospace & Defense and Financial Services. Ram authored "Supply Chains to Virtual Integration" (McGraw Hill) and excels in enterprise architecture, cloud technologies, and strategic change management. His leadership approach focuses on building high-performing global teams and implementing effective IT governance models.
Rahul Vishwakarma
Rahul Vishwakarma (BCS Fellow) is a seasoned technologist, innovator, and mentor with over 15 years of industry experience. Currently an Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) at Blue Ridge Labs @ Robin Hood, he leverages his expertise to guide innovators and entrepreneurs. He has worked at Dell Technologies and Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), earning 59 granted U.S. patents. He actively mentors aspiring engineers and entrepreneurs, offering strategic insights and technical guidance to help bring innovative concepts to life.
