Kinser judges Bright Sparks

Candace Kinser is joining the Bright Sparks judging panel for the 2014 awards.

Kinser says she is proud and delighted to be part of Bright Sparks, New Zealand’s premier showcase for brilliant young minds that fosters upcoming school-age talent in technology, electronics and software.

“For many, Bright Sparks begins a life-long journey into a technology career and I look forward to seeing what the emerging crop of brilliant Kiwi talent produces for Bright Sparks 2014,” she says.

Established in 2000, Bright Sparks is run by The Skills Organisation, an association representing organisations in the technology sector. These include universities, emerging entrepreneurs, government agencies, high growth domestic companies and multinational companies.

Ross Petersen, Bright Sparks manager, says that Kinser is an asset to the judging panel, and is a champion for technology in New Zealand.

“She is also a great role model for young women involved in - or interested in - technology,” he says.

"With technology set to become among the highest earners for New Zealand by 2020, it is important as many Kiwis as possible have the knowledge and opportunity to participate in the field.”

Bright Sparks finalists will be announced on October 7, following judging on October 6.

Other panel members are chief judge Garry Reynolds, Paul Corder, Peter Jenkins, and Dr Chris Chitty.

Following the completion of a three year term as CEO of NZTech, Kinser will be joining Talent International as a non-executive director.