Calsense CEO A.J. van de Ven Recognized for Leadership in Sustainability and Innovation
January 31, 2025
Calsense CEO A.J. van de Ven Recognized for Leadership in Sustainability and Innovation
Carlsbad, CA – Calsense proudly announces that CEO A.J. van de Ven has been named a 2025 Influential Leader by AACSB International (AACSB), a global organization dedicated to advancing business education. This recognition highlights van de Ven’s leadership in sustainability and his efforts to drive innovation in water conservation.
A graduate of California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) College of Business Administration, van de Ven has led Calsense in pioneering smart irrigation solutions that help organizations optimize water use. His vision has guided the development of Irrigation Management as a Service™ (IMaaS), a subscription model that makes cutting-edge irrigation technology more accessible to a broader range of customers. By eliminating significant upfront costs, this initiative supports municipalities, educational institutions, and other organizations in adopting efficient water management strategies.
In addition to his leadership at Calsense, van de Ven has been actively involved in environmental advocacy. His contributions to ECOLIFE Conservation, where he previously served as board chair, have supported initiatives that promote sustainable practices and benefit both communities and ecosystems. Through efforts like fuel-efficient stoves and sustainable aquaponics farms, he has helped advance responsible resource management.
Within Calsense, van de Ven fosters a culture of continuous improvement. He established the Calsense Innovation Council, a platform for driving forward-thinking strategies, and launched the Champions of Irrigation program to highlight water conservation success stories. These initiatives reflect his commitment to inspiring change and equipping industry leaders with the tools they need to make a lasting impact.
“This recognition from AACSB is truly an honor,” said van de Ven. “At Calsense, we are committed to providing sustainable water solutions that create lasting benefits for communities. I’m grateful to work with a team that shares this mission, and I look forward to continuing our efforts to drive meaningful change.”
AACSB’s Influential Leaders program highlights business school alumni who are shaping the future of business and society. Van de Ven’s selection underscores the power of innovative leadership in addressing environmental challenges.
For more information about A.J. van de Ven’s recognition, visit: https://www.aacsb.edu/about-us/advocacy/member-spotlight/influential-leaders/2025/aj-van-de-ven