Dr. Chowaniec has been recognized for his leadership, business excellence and innovation. In 1998, the Ottawa-Carleton Research Institute honoured him with its prestigious Chairman's Award. Also in 1999, he received the Gold Business Person of the Year Award from the Greater Chamber of Commerce.. He is involved in a number of local business. and community initiatives and his commitment and participation has positioned him as a key spokesperson for the high tech community in the Ottawa area. Dr. Chowaniec is frequently quoted in local and national press and is often a guest on national business TV programs.. He was the chair of the Ottawa Economic Development Corporation and member of the Ottawa Partnership from 1999 to 2001.. He has also served on the board of the National Research Council’s Industrial Research Assistance Program and is the vice-chair of the Ottawa Health Research Institute. He is the vice-chair of the Museum of Nature’s national fund raising campaign.. He is also chairman of the board of directors of BelAir corporation, and executive in residence at Vengrowth Capital Partners Inc.. He is the past chair of the Information Technology Association of Canada board of directors.. He chaired the Ontario Research and Innovation Council from 2006 to 2009. In 2005, he was appointed to the Natural Sciences and Engineering Council of Canada by the Privy Council of Canada.. Subsequently he was also appointed to the board of the Export Development Corporation of Canada by the Privy Council.
