Jessica Thornton

Jessica is a collaborator at BII+E who uses creative problem solving around human-centred design, strategic foresight, and design research methods to advance innovation policy. Formerly at BII+E, she was responsible for leading several major projects, including Employment in 2030 and Digitally Lit. Previously, Jessica led user research as part of the Impact of Tech on Ontario’s Workforce Project, as well as BII+E’s engagement in various education related projects such as Basecamp, SHAD at Ryerson, ZerotoStartup, and YRDSB Climate Hack2Action.

Before BII+E, Jessica spent nearly a decade in the not-for-profit sector, in a range of roles, tackling issues such as housing affordability, transportation accessibility, and sustainable food system development.

Jessica holds an Honours BA in Anthropology and Equity Studies from the University of Toronto, a certificate in food security from Ryerson University, and a diploma in Fundraising and Volunteer Management from George Brown College. Jessica recently completed a Master of Design in Strategic Foresight and Innovation at OCAD University, exploring the futures of public engagement.