Innovation Tri-Valley dubs Lab a game changer

Citing the Lab as an "anchor of innovation" within the region, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory was honored with the inaugural "Founder’s Award" by the Innovation Tri-Valley Leadership Group on Wednesday.

Congressman Eric Swalwell presented the award during the annual #GameChangers Awards for business and technology leaders who epitomize the spirit of Innovation Tri-Valley.

"The spirit of this area is keep innovating, keep evolving," Swalwell said. "The Lab is a leader in that. The Laboratory advances the cause of science and technology in the name of national security and an energy future. It works with the schools to create the next pipeline of workers and it keeps the nation safe.

"It has continued its long history of innovation."

In accepting the award, Buck Koonce, senior adviser to the director, cited the Lab’s long history as "the new ideas" Lab, which he said goes beyond protecting the nation. It includes working to address housing issues, working with local business, promoting education and serving the community.

He thanked Innovation Tri-Valley as well as the five mayors within the region, who provide continuous support, and champion the Lab during the annual gathering of mayors in Washington, D.C.

Innovation Tri-Valley was formed to create initiatives and programs to bring in and locally train a skilled workforc, and to attract new businesses while helping existing businesses grow. The group also explores solutions to myriad issues facing the region, from transportation and housing costs to education and infrastructure. Members include business leaders representing industry sectors from technology to retail, professional services to wine. Lawrence Livermore and Sandia national laboratories are active members.

The #GameChangers Awards are bestowed upon two businesses from each of the cities that serve Innovation Tri-Valley – Livermore, Pleasanton, Dublin, San Ramon and Danville. The mayors from each of the cities handed out the awards.

In addition to the Lab, award recipients include Topcon Positioning Systems and POC Medical Systems in Livermore; Nuubia SF and Leaf Healthcare in Pleasanton; Callidus Cloud and iTrade Network in Dublin; FunMobilitiy and GE Global Software Center in San Ramon; and Social Source and Choicelunch in Danville.