René Drolet was born and raised in a small village on the shores of the St. Lawrence River in Quebec. He is a thirteenth generation settler whose ancestors came to the French colony in 1652. 

He has 35 years experience in environmental management and sustainability, working in the private sector, for the federal government and within the not-for-profit sector.

In 2020 Mr. Drolet was hired by the founding Board of Directors of ICCE to help establish the organization. Since then he has provided strategic advice to the Executive Director regarding governance, finance and administration, as well as internal policies, procedures and various operational matters.

René can be described as a reluctant leader. He is quiet but strong, humble but assertive. While he does not seek the limelight, he will jump in as needed and has often proven to be an anchor for his colleagues, friends and family.

René’s passion for nature has shaped his life, from studying biology and oceanography, to rescuing animals and gardening. He lives on a 15-acre hobby farm in Eastern Ontario with his spouse Régine and many dogs, cats, goats, ducks, geese and chickens.