Leigh Kelson

Technology Commercialisation, Sales & Marketing Tech pioneer, Network & Ecosystem Development, Advisory, Board Member

Leigh Kelson is a technology entrepreneur and the Program Director at FireTech Connect, an Australian government-funded initiative aimed at helping startups develop new firefighting technologies.1 2

Professional Background

Kelson is described as a cloud computing pioneer and media tech veteran with extensive experience in the technology sector.2 3 He has founded ten ventures over the course of his career, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and expertise in various technological domains.3 5

Current Role

As the Program Director at FireTech Connect, Kelson plays a crucial role in advancing firefighting technology in Australia. He advocates for moving beyond traditional fire detection methods, such as using people in towers with binoculars, and encourages the adoption of more advanced technologies.1

Expertise and Initiatives

Kelson is involved in various innovative projects aimed at improving wildfire detection and management:

Exploring the use of drones fitted with lasers for mapping high-risk dry areas
Investigating satellite technology for detecting extreme fire behavior
Overseeing the development of sensor networks for real-time fire detection
Collaborating with researchers and local firefighting agencies to implement new technologies1

Location and Additional Information

Based in Noosa Heads, Queensland, Australia, Kelson brings his extensive experience to FireTech Connect.3 4 His LinkedIn profile can be found under the username "leighkelson".3

Kelson's work at FireTech Connect is part of a broader effort to modernize firefighting techniques in response to devastating wildfire seasons, such as the 2019-2020 fires in Australia.1