We Are the Industry is an ongoing series featuring Dutchie employees with deep experience in the cannabis industry. Dutchie's employees care about the industry because we are the industry.
Which cannabis companies have you worked for?
Prior to joining Dutchie, I worked at two vertically-integrated cannabis companies in Michigan, Pincanna and McKinney alternative investments.
What did you like most about working with cannabis?
I entered the cannabis industry in Michigan shortly after the adult-use program was launched. I loved the feeling of building something from scratch and the challenge of having to pivot with every change (and there were many!). The most passionate people work in cannabis and I loved working alongside them.
What have you learned moving from plant touching work to tech?
As the cannabis industry matures in the United States, effective use of technology will become the most important factor in being successful. This industry has many challenges but understanding how to use technology can help you run leaner and more efficient businesses, allowing you to keep your costs down, and your output high. Looking back on my time on the plant touching side, I see all the opportunities there are for operators to use technology to improve their processes and help them run their businesses.
What’s your advice for those starting out in cannabis?
Be curious and get involved in as many different aspects of the business as you can - don’t just stick to the narrow focus of your own job. The cannabis industry is ever-changing and extremely challenging. Understanding the industry from a high level will make you an asset very quickly. One of the best things about working in the cannabis industry is that you will likely be asked to wear many hats; take advantage of this opportunity and jump in wherever you can.
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