Franco Mariotti was instrumental in the creation of Science North, from its inception to becoming Northern Ontario’s major tourist attraction. During his 33 years at the centre he was instrumental in developing content for exhibits, public programs and staff training. His entire career has been about interpreting the natural world and the natural sciences to people of all ages.

​

He graduated from Laurentian University with an Honours Bachelor of Science in Biology. He spent a lot of time at the Lake Laurentian Conservation Area as the Biology Society’s office used to be at the BioSki Chalet.

​

He is also the recipient of the 2007 Community Builders Excellence Award-Environment, the 2004 Provincial Award for life achievement in environmental education from the Federation of Ontario Naturalists, is a founding member and Co-chair of the Junction Creek Stewardship Committee, and was board member of the Environment Review Tribunal from 1989 to 2007.

​

Franco is also a world traveler and most recently, added film-making to his CV. Today he remains involved with numerous environmentally-based groups at the community and provincial levels.