Hackforge Hosts a Watch Party for the Open Data Awards to Honor Local Data Champions

On March 5, Hackforge Windsor organized a watch party for the 2025 Canadian Open Data Awards, hosted by the Canadian Open Data Society (CODS). Though the awards ceremony took place live from Edmonton, Hackforge infused a local touch by presenting the Windsor-Essex Data Champion 2025 award. This year, Workforce WindsorEssex was honored for its exceptional efforts in making data more accessible and actionable in the community.

Doug Sartori, co-founder of Hackforge, Principal Consultant at Parallel 42, and host of the podcast "Mean, Median, and Moose," presented the award. In his speech, Sartori praised Workforce WindsorEssex’s innovative approaches to data visualization and accessibility. He cited their contributions, such as the WEData ecosystem and census mapping tools, as examples of how data can effectively benefit a community. He remarked, "Their commitment to packaging accurate data in easy-to-consume products is the standard every other not-for-profit organization should compare themselves to."

Justin Falconer, the CEO of Workforce WindsorEssex, accepted the award and expressed his gratitude: "Workforce WindsorEssex appreciates the recognition. We’re proud of our data products, which are used by workforce development boards throughout Ontario and beyond." This statement highlighted the broader impact of their work, emphasizing the role of data in workforce development across the region.

The event was a hybrid format, welcoming both local open data leaders in-person and enthusiasts online via Discord. This setup created an inclusive atmosphere where open data advocates could connect and engage with the content of the award show. The Canadian Open Data Society's ceremony recognized excellence across eight award categories in the field of open data throughout Canada.

Sartori emphasized the significance of such events, stating, "They highlight the power of data to drive informed decision-making, foster transparency, and spark innovation." By simultaneously celebrating both national and local achievements, the event underscored the critical role of open data in shaping communities and empowering decision-makers.

In conclusion, Hackforge's celebration at the watch party not only spotlighted Workforce WindsorEssex’s accomplishments but also reinforced the collective value of open data initiatives. By recognizing local efforts alongside national ones, the event brought to light the transformative potential of data in driving community development, fostering innovation, and enhancing government transparency. This collective acknowledgment of local and national achievements showcases a committed effort to elevate the significance of data within various sectors, ultimately aiming for a more informed and engaged society.