Eric D. Hadden, photo via WET Hadden

The Water, Energy, And Technology (WET) Center at Fresno State is kicking off the new year with a new leader.

The WET Center has announced the appointment of Eric D. Hadden as its new director.

A Fresno native, Hadden is replacing Interim Director Benjamin Francis, who has also served as an assistant director and venture development manager.

Hadden graduated with an MBA from the Craig School of Business at Fresno State and comes from a career in the water technology sector.

His most recent job was vice president of sales and marketing at Laval Underground Surveys. He also founded Blueprnt, a business management consulting firm.

In a Q&A blog post from the WET Center, Hadden says he wanted the opportunity to combine his passion for business with his desire to tackle issues related to water, agriculture and sustainability.

“I view the WET Center as one of the best mechanisms we have to provide early-stage entrepreneurs in the ag, energy, and water spaces with the resources and physical space they need to gain a competitive advantage and accelerate their growth in the region that we call home,” said Hadden.

He said that in his experience, cross-collaboration with industry stakeholders, governmental bodies and academic institutions drives advancements in the field.

He said artificial intelligence will have a huge impact on water, energy and agriculture, and there are industry stakeholders involved with the WET Center that are investing in it.

While none of the companies involved with the WET Center are billion-dollar firms, he said some have the potential to become the next $5-25 million dollar success story.

Valley Ventures, the flagship incubator program of the WET Center, is accepting applications through the end of February for its next cohort.