Eric designs for IYF’s future. By combining expertise in AI, workforce development, entrepreneurship, and digital systems, he translates promising ideas into new programs, products, and partnerships that expand economic opportunity for young people. Eric also represents IYF on the AI for Career Development (AICD) Coalition Steering Committee. 

Before joining IYF, Eric cofounded Perennial Foods Group (PFG), an agriculture social enterprise that supported Ethiopian smallholder farmers to adopt sustainable agriculture practices that increased their economic opportunities. As the Director of Operations, Eric led the company’s production, packhouse, international procurement, business intelligence, expansion, and technology activities. As a tech for impact professional, Eric worked at both Abt Associates and the Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Agency designing, budgeting, developing, advising, and managing digital initiatives. 

He holds a MPA in Development Practice from Columbia University as well as Bachelors Degrees in International Relations and in Cognitive Studies from Tulane University. No matter where Eric is living, he carries the culinary and musical traditions of his first home, Louisiana, with him always.