I specialize in converting complex economic data into clear, actionable policy strategy. By bridging the gap between rigorous econometric modeling and modern data engineering, I build the tools and publish the research required to answer critical questions about regional economies, tax policy, and agricultural infrastructure.
Designed a custom Input-Output multiplier engine tailored for the Canadian agricultural sector. Utilizing a rigorous "Verify-Calibrate-Isolate" approach with Statistics Canada Type I and Type II multipliers, this model serves as a highly specialized, programmatic alternative to IMPLAN for assessing output shocks and investment scenarios.
Engineered an automated data pipeline to scrape, index, and analyze bylaws from 444 Ontario municipalities. Utilizing custom Python scanners targeting portals like CivicWeb and eSCRIBE, the data is compiled into Parquet files to power interactive Streamlit mapping applications tracking specific regulatory exemptions.
Developed a production-grade Streamlit application for serious policy analysis. The tool integrates a Hybrid Hierarchical Forecasting Model to project Net Cash Income and Realized Net Income, scaling from commodity-level metrics to an Aggregate Industry Simulator capable of measuring macroeconomic supply shocks.
Conducted a causal evaluation of Canada's 2018 Accelerated Investment Incentive using provincial panel data (2011–2023). Employing fixed-effects models to isolate policy impacts from GDP and farm revenue fluctuations, the research identified an 8.2% annual increase in machinery investment. The findings informed industry lobbying strategies to maintain tax parity with U.S. MACRS and Section 179 depreciation rules.
Authored a comprehensive economic assessment of Ontario's $2.76B fruit and vegetable sector. By integrating Statistics Canada Input-Output multipliers with Labour Force Survey data, the research quantified the specific economic contributions of Temporary Foreign Workers, demonstrating they support over $1.15B in provincial GDP and 12,000 FTE jobs across the supply chain.
Deployed Quasi-Poisson regression models to analyze the relationship between local animal control bylaws and wildlife compensation claims. The statistical modeling revealed that a 10% increase in municipal recognition of Guardian Dogs is associated with a 21% decrease in predation claims. The sliding-scale policy simulations are actively used for targeted municipal outreach.
Available for consulting engagements regarding economic modeling, specialized data engineering, and agricultural policy analysis.
info@benlefort.com