With the motto “Connect, create, and innovate – let’s move West Virginia forward,” the West Virginia Chapter of the International Association of Innovation Professionals (IAOIP) invited the innovators of the Mountain State. The inaugural meeting of the chapter took place on Tuesday, April 16, at the University of Charleston’s Innovation Center. Made in Germany’s Founder/CEO Jens Kiel was invited to state a few observations, these are his remarks:

“Good evening!

In the weeks before today’s meeting, founding members of our chapter got together to define closer what we are setting out to do. One association is still vivid in my mind – comparing InnovationWV to the Explorers Club of New York City.

Hear me out – I understand that the UC Cafeteria didn’t serve up tarantulas tonight and that none of us froze our toes off, crossing the Arctic Circle. As far that I know, that is.

But just like in 1904, when a group of men active in exploration gathered at the request of noted journalist, historian, and explorer Henry Collins Walsh, so do we here tonight. Walsh intended to form an organization to unite explorers in the bonds of good fellowship and to promote the work of exploration by every mean in their power. We are in luck, as the international organization to further innovation is already in existence – and tonight we meet here for the first time as the West Virginia chapter.

Consider it optimism, good faith, or eagerly embracing everybody’s curiosity to do their part to move our Mountain State forward – but I firmly believe that through training, resources, skills, and opportunities in innovation, the people gathered here tonight will gain a different perspective, define the process for change, bring the new, and make their mark.

For my part, I’m glad you followed the call and came here tonight. In the spirit of the Explorer’s Club, defining the accomplishments by their members as ‘Famous Firsts’ – I encourage you to join us and strive for becoming the ‘cutting edge’ of our area of business, development, education, and public service. As Norman Vincent Peale put it, “Turn Problems into Possibilities.”

Thank you!”

Interested individuals can find more info on their Facebook page, or register for free affiliate IAOIP membership at www.innovationwv.com