Leo Brooks (BMus '96, MA '22), Partnerships and Commercialization Coordinator, Research and Innovation Services

Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I grew up in Calgary and came to Lethbridge to pursue my music degree, studying percussion with Dr. Linda Pimentel. About a year after I graduated, I moved to the Ottawa/Gatineau region where I lived for 22 years working as a freelance performer, music teacher, instrument builder, and drum circle facilitator. I came back to Lethbridge in 2019 to pursue my master's degree. I've since worked as a sessional instructor in the music department and I am currently an assistant director of the Global Drums Percussion Ensemble.

How long have you been at ULethbridge and what do you do here?
Not counting my time as a master's student or sessional instructor, I've been working full-time only since the end of May. As the Partnerships and Commercialization Coordinator, my responsibilities include cultivating strategic partnerships between ULethbridge researchers and external stakeholders, fostering innovation, driving the commercialization of research outcomes and supporting partnership grant applications and agreements.

What's the best part of your job?
Getting to know ULethbridge faculty and researchers and the incredibly creative and innovative work that they are doing. 

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I love playing music any time I can, including being the drum major of a local bagpipe band. I am also crazy about 3D printing, woodworking and board games. I also adore walking in the coulees with my dog Luna (an American Leopard Hound).