Where have you previously worked in cannabis? How/why did you end up working there?
I began my cannabis career in Louisville, CO, after moving from Utah to join the industry. I had been diagnosed with Crohn's disease about two years prior, and when I discovered cannabis, I regained my quality of life. I felt that the stigma surrounding cannabis prevented many others from finding the relief they were desperately seeking. This led me to Compassionate Pain Management, which quickly transitioned to Ajoya, one of Colorado's premier dispensaries. After three years, my partner and I decided to move to Hawaii and assist in the growing market there. I then worked as the Assistant Director at Cure Oahu (one of the three legal cannabis companies on Oahu) and enjoyed working there for close to four years. I implemented Dutchie there and found the first POS service that I truly loved, which brought me here after moving back to the mainland to be closer to family.
What did you like most about working with cannabis? What’s a stand out memory from that time?
The countless times I witnessed people return after traveling across the country to Colorado to see if cannabis could help them were the most impactful. Their stories and experiences drove me further into the cannabis industry, and it was a daily inspiration.
What have you learned moving from plant-touching work to tech? Did anything about the change surprise you?
The differences are immediately apparent; first, I no longer handle cannabis and discuss its effects with customers. However, in the same vein, we are still helping our communities access a medicine that many desperately need. I probably miss the "old school" cannabis enthusiasts and their stories the most.
What’s your advice for those starting out in cannabis? What is there to look forward to?
I suggest joining the cannabis industry if the plant holds personal significance for you. Any job is just a job, but when you believe in your mission and the help that you are providing to your community, coming to work every day is a breeze!
