Avatar Studio Participant Profile: Andy Kwak

About Andy Kwak:

I am currently a Project Manager of Horizontal Directional Drilling at Robert B. Somerville. Previously, I was involved in major trenchless crossings within the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, serving as Project Engineer. I am passionate about sustainable fuels and integrating environmentally conscious practices to reduce the industry’s environmental footprint while enhancing operational efficiency.

About Avatar Ignite and Studio:

The Ignite program was an activity-packed & fast-paced incubator led by industry leaders, offering valuable insights into entrepreneurship and the evolution of our sector. It provided a comprehensive overview of the current state of the energy industry, with direct guidance on navigating innovation. While aligning the team and narrowing our focus for the Shark Tank pitch was challenging, the leadership and mentorship from the Avatar team made the process achievable. The connections and friendships built during this phase were invaluable.

The Studio phase took things a step further, emphasizing overwhelming volumes of deliverables against tight timelines. Passionate and driven individuals from Ignite carried their momentum into Studio to fine-tune their ideas supported by the "Avatar frameworks" and expansive network which is among the best in the industry for fostering entrepreneurs and empowering them to overcome startup challenges.

One of my favorite aspects was the leadership training provided by external experts, which encouraged the team to embrace leadership roles and tackle complex team dynamics. This experience is rare in my current line of work, making it even more impactful. A standout moment was Kevin’s (Avatar CEO) mantra—“Everyone’s a driver, not a passenger.” leaving behind a lasting impression, shaping how I approach my career and personal growth.

Next steps:

Although BioFeed Nexus did not progress to the next phase of the Avatar framework, the team is actively exploring ways to pursue the project independently. We remain committed to refining the idea and seeing it through to fruition. On a personal level, I plan to stay involved in sustainable fuels and continue identifying gaps in the market that align with future energy transition opportunities.

Is there anything else you'd like to add?

I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to both the Avatar team and CRIN for the opportunity to participate in the 2024 cohort. This experience has provided invaluable insights and unlocked a new perspective on the industry and my career. I am eager to witness and contribute to the ongoing energy transition and innovation shaping our field.