Craig is a seasoned technology and innovation leader with a keen eye for identifying promising new research and driving business growth. With a proven background in pilot scale-up biotechnology, he specializes in partnering with innovators and visionaries to bring their new ideas to market. His expertise spans diverse sectors, from nanotechnology, biotechnology and commercialization of university technology, where he has demonstrated ability in navigating partnerships, investment channels, and processes. At Dakota BioWorx, Craig leverages his experience to harness groundbreaking concepts and propel them towards commercial viability, always keeping a sharp focus on delivering value to both clients, consumers, and investors.

Dr. Neal Connors is an industrial microbiologist with four decades of experience in the bioprocess field. His expertise in bioprocess development reflects involvement with a diverse portfolio of projects including bioactive natural products, proteins/enzymes, renewable chemicals, therapeutic proteins, whole cell biocatalysis, and vaccines. He brings a unique perspective on biomanufacturing to Dakota BioWorx that has been forged over a career working in senior leadership and consulting positions for small- mid-, and large-sized companies developing and launching bioprocess-based products and technologies. Neal is a leader in the biotech field as an active member of the Society for Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology, former member of the BioMADE Leadership Council, and editorial board member for the Journal of Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology and Enzyme and Microbial Technology. Neal received his BS in Biology from Norwich University and his PhD in Microbiology from The Ohio State University.

By applying principles of engineering to his foundational degree in biology from South Dakota Mines, Dan mixes disciplines with surprising results. His hands-on experience cultivating a variety of microorganisms with diverse growth requirements makes him an invaluable partner for clients as he works to transition their ideas from benchtop shaker flasks to full scale pilot runs.

Greg combines hands-on startup engineering experience in the fermentation industry with a graduate education from South Dakota School of Mines in chemical and biochemical engineering. As a result, he is gifted at guiding clients and collaborators through the early pilot stages of development, preparing both to enter the bio economy at full speed.

Gail has an extensive career in administrating large-impact programs, with a diverse range of experience in Higher Education, Sporting Events, and Healthcare. Her expertise is directing the big picture to the minute details of the programs she works on. Her position with Dakota BioWorx is to take the big- picture concepts for the team and clients and develop, implement, and manage the details daily. Her experience designing and directing educational training programs will be integral in administrating the soon-to-be-launched certification program to build and support workforce readiness.