Stephen Cohrs

14656 County Rd. 21, Brighton, ON, Canada, K0K 1H0 stephen@cohrs.ca

Professional Summary

Dynamic and experienced entrepreneur and project manager with a diverse background spanning across technology, music, and manufacturing. Founder of Trinity Amps Inc., a renowned boutique amplifier company, with expertise in product innovation, international distribution, and customer relations. Experienced in managing large-scale technology projects in telecommunications, healthcare, and software development. Proven leadership skills in overseeing cross-functional teams, executing complex initiatives, and building strong partnerships. Recognized for driving operational excellence and delivering high-quality results under demanding circumstances.

Business Experience

Trinity Amps Inc. | Founder
March 2004 – October 2021

• Founded Trinity Amps Inc., a Canadian company specializing in handcrafted, boutique guitar amplifiers.
• Developed high-fidelity amplifiers, including models inspired by classic circuits like Vox AC15, Marshall 18-Watt, and Fender Tweed.
• Led product innovation through the design and development of both DIY amplifier kits and fully assembled amplifiers.
• Managed global distribution and customer relations, growing the brand’s reach internationally.
• Oversaw custom amplifier modifications to meet the unique needs of musicians, studios, and professionals.
• Built a reputation for superior craftsmanship using hand-wired turret boards and premium components.
• Developed signature models like the Trinity 18 and Tramp Amp, praised for their vintage tone and modern flexibility.
• Fostered a strong DIY community, providing detailed amplifier kits to help musicians build and understand their equipment.
• Notable clients include Billy F Gibbons, Rob Baker, Prince, Myles Goodwin, and Donna Grantis.

TELUS Mobility | Project Manager – Technology Development (Contract)
June 2004 – June 2013

• Successfully managed and implemented wireless multimedia services such as Multi-Media Messaging and Video Messaging.
• Coordinated the Location Based Services (LBS) project with a budget exceeding $1M, leading cross-functional teams to deliver on time and within scope.
• Managed the integration of Spotnik Wi-Fi, converting 60 fixed wireless sites across Ontario.
• Oversaw a fixed wireless trial in Hot Springs B.C., contributing to network expansions and service optimization.

Cancer Care Ontario | Portfolio Manager
November 2003 – June 2004

• Managed strategic initiatives within a portfolio of $98M focused on improving cancer care in Ontario.
• Led the initiation and planning of the $1.8M Computerized Physician Order Entry (CPOE) system for systemic therapy.
• Facilitated new project management methodologies and mentored staff to ensure alignment with organizational goals.

GE Information Technology Services | Project Manager
February 2002 – November 2003

• Led the Corporate Desktop Project for TD Canada Trust, migrating 8000 clients to Windows 2000 desktops.
• Managed a $4M project with a focus on network and application data analysis, exceeding targets for client discovery and application packaging.
• Directed the development of supporting databases and managed relationships with high-profile client organizations.

724 Solutions Inc. | Director, Shared Development Services
June 2001 – October 2001

• Guided 60 software professionals in the development of wireless Internet applications.
• Managed the integration of stakeholders to improve operational excellence and software delivery.
• Led the restructuring of the company’s development team and delivered high-quality solutions for clients.

Nitidus Technology Inc. | Director, Customer Care
March 1999 – November 1999

• Managed full P&L responsibility for customer support, including pre-sales and post-sales activities.
• Launched a venture-backed e-commerce initiative, contributing to the company’s profitable acquisition by Parametric Technology.

Nortel Networks | Manager, System Development and Operations
March 1982 – March 1999

• Managed a team of developers for public carrier networks, overseeing system development and customer solutions.
• Contributed to the commercialization of PlanEx!, a $20M application, and managed the global order capture program.

Education

Bachelor of Science (Eng.) – Mechanical Engineering
Queen’s University, 1978

• P. Eng. 1980

Certifications

• Process Re-engineering, Rumler-Brache (1991)
• Project Management, Kepner-Tregoe (1990), PMI
• Sales Training: Solution Selling (1999)
• Effective Business Communications (2000)

Key Skills

• Leadership & Team Management
• Product Development & Innovation
• Project Management (PMI)
• Client Relations & Account Management
• Business Strategy & Development
• Budgeting & Financial Planning
• International Distribution & Marketing
• Cross-Functional Team Collaboration

Publications

• US & Canadian Patents: Nortel, Extrusion Apparatus US 4,551,087 and CDN 1,213,857

Awards

• Award of Merit for “Excellent Support” from VP, Operations (Nortel Europe)
• Service Operations Award of Merit for “Excellence” from VP, Nortel Services Operations, USA

Interests

• Vintage Guitar Amplifier Manufacturing
• CNC Machine Processes
• Antique Car Restoration
• Woodworking
• Sailing
• Computing