The School of Business and Economics (SBE) at Sonoma State University (SSU) in Rohnert Park, CA today has recently appointed a new entrepreneur in residence: Chris Stewart, a prominent entrepreneur, and co-founder and president and COO of Pocket Radar, a speed-tracking technology company.

In this role Stewart leads cross-disciplinary, co-curricular entrepreneurship and innovation activities and programs for students at Sonoma State University. His appointment was made possible by generous support from the Kalmanovitz Charitable Foundation, and is part of the School of Business and Economics’ Inclusive Excellence Initiative that’s focused on elevating student success and community impact by leveling the playing field for all students.

A first-generation college student who began his career as a design engineer, and research and development project manager at Hewlett-Packard and Agilent Technologies, Stewart has more than 35 years of experience in leading technology companies and start-ups. He brings expertise in design, new product development, strategic business planning, patents and consulting. In 2009 he founded his own technology companies, Invention Planet LLC and Pocket Radar Inc.

“I’ve always been a believer in inclusive, quality education as a catalyst for change and innovation. I look forward to working with students, faculty, and staff to nurture diverse talents and abilities, build self-reliance, and empower students of all backgrounds through the principles of business entrepreneurship,” says Stewart.

Stewart has been a volunteer faculty member at Sonoma State University where he’s lectured in courses on electrical engineering and business entrepreneurship. He also serves as chairman and lead industry advisor of the SSU Makerspace External Advisory Board and Electrical Engineering Department, respectively.

“Chris Stewart’s deep experience in leading successful technology start-ups, as well as his long-time support of entrepreneurial efforts at Sonoma State University and the regional community, makes him an excellent choice as our entrepreneur in residence,” says Dr. Karen Thompson, Interim Dean of the School of Business and Economics.

“In addition to supporting all entrepreneurially minded students on campus, part of Chris’ role is to work directly with SSU’s Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) office on infusing entrepreneurial thinking into programs and activities that foster innovative thinking, and inspire action among first-generation college students. We look forward to leveraging Chris’ expertise and leadership in helping to launch careers and businesses out of Sonoma State University.”