Leadership Rooted in Purpose: A.J. van de Ven Named Finalist for CEO of the Year
May 7, 2025
We’re proud to celebrate A.J. van de Ven, CEO of Calsense, for being named a finalist in San Diego Business Journal’s CEO of the Year Awards. This recognition is a testament to A.J.’s extraordinary leadership, commitment to sustainability and tireless work to advance smart irrigation across the U.S.
Since joining Calsense as a software engineer in 2005, A.J. has played a critical role in transforming our company into an industry leader. Under his leadership, Calsense launched the first AI-powered irrigation assistant, expanded into new markets like the Rockies and Southwest, and consistently delivered year-over-year growth, all while keeping sustainability at the heart of the business.
But A.J.’s impact goes far beyond business metrics.
He has served on the boards of ECOLIFE Conservation and the Carlsbad Educational Foundation, where he helped to support educational innovation and environmental conservation. His passion for hands-on learning and community outreach is visible in everything from STEM education events to coastal cleanups, where he leads by example.
At Calsense, A.J. has fostered a culture of accountability, empathy, and innovation. He champions internal leadership, celebrates conservation success stories, and encourages every team member to think beyond products and toward purpose.
Congratulations, A.J., we’re honored to have your leadership guiding our mission of using water as efficiently as possible, every day.
