Gabriel Youtsey is a pioneering leader in agrifood innovation, driving technology commercialization and sustainable growth in agriculture, food, and biotech. As Chief Innovation Officer at UC Agriculture and Natural Resources, he leads statewide efforts to accelerate bio-based solutions, strengthen rural economies, and build a resilient food system. A founder of The UC ANR Office of Innovation, Youtsey has launched major initiatives to
advance AI-driven food systems, regenerative agriculture, controlled environment farming, and workforce development. He is leading the creation of The Plant, a globally competitive agrifood technology and biomanufacturing hub, uniting industry, research, and communities to tackle food security and climate challenges while driving economic growth through bio-based innovation. With a background in technology leadership across academia and the private sector, Youtsey specializes in bridging innovation, entrepreneurship, and public-private collaboration. He works across sectors—including agriculture, AI, biotechnology, and supply chains—to drive transformative impact, ensuring the future of food is sustainable, inclusive, and technologically advanced.