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Carley Jacobson
Professional Background
Carley Jacobson is a highly skilled professional with a robust background in technology, business innovation, and education. With extensive experience as an innovation coach and a deep understanding of corporate innovation processes, Carley has built a career that bridges the worlds of mathematics, computer science, and business design. She currently works as an Innovation Coach at Techstars, where she empowers startups and corporate partners to navigate the complexities of innovation in today's fast-paced market. Her role allows her to leverage her multifaceted expertise to guide entrepreneurs through the challenges of launching new products and services, making significant impacts in the tech industry.
Before her current role at Techstars, Carley held several key positions that reflect her versatility and commitment to fostering innovation. She served as a mentor at Galvanize NYC, where she contributed her knowledge and experience to cultivate the next generation of tech leaders. In addition, Carley was involved with the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center as a mentor, an initiative that aims to support budding entrepreneurs in their business ventures. Such collaborative engagements demonstrate her dedication to mentorship and community building within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Carley’s earlier career experiences include a position as a Strategy Designer at Business Models Inc., where she helped organizations devise effective business models and strategies. Her role as a Senior Account Manager at Free Range Studios further honed her skills in client management and project oversight. Before these, Carley served in various capacities at Instructables, where she was instrumental in fostering community engagement and overseeing projects aimed at innovation and creativity.
Education and Achievements
Carley Jacobson’s academic journey lays a strong foundation for her professional endeavors. She graduated from Union College with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science, where she embraced the dual challenge of mastering complex mathematical theories while also delving into the intricacies of computer programming. This education provided her with the analytical skills and technical knowledge that would prove essential in her career.
Furthering her academic pursuits, Carley obtained a Master of Business Administration in Design from the California College of the Arts. This degree reflects her commitment to merging design thinking with business strategy, enabling her to approach challenges from a unique and holistic perspective. Through her educational experiences, Carley has cultivated a rich understanding of how design, technology, and business intersect, allowing her to create impactful solutions in her work.
Notable Contributions and Initiatives
Throughout her career, Carley has taken on various responsibilities that highlight her leadership and collaborative nature. Her early internships and research assistant positions, such as her role as a Cs Research Assistant at Union College and her work on markerless motion capture research at the University of Rhode Island, provided her with valuable industry exposure and research experience.
Carley's dynamic role at Instructables encapsulates her innovative spirit. As a Contest Manager and Community Relations Manager, she not only managed projects but also fostered user engagement and cultivated a vibrant community of makers and creators. Her experience as a Project Manager and Business Development professional at Autodesk further illustrates her ability to connect technical prowess with market needs, paving the way for groundbreaking projects in technology and design.
A Committed Mentor and Leader
In addition to her professional roles, Carley has consistently volunteered her time and expertise to support others. She has engaged with various organizations to mentor young professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs, demonstrating her belief in the importance of giving back to the community. By sharing her experience and insights, she empowers others to overcome challenges and achieve their goals in the ever-evolving landscape of technology and business.
Carley's achievements reflect a career dedicated to innovation, collaboration, and education. As she continues her journey, she remains a vital asset to the tech and business communities, fostering a spirit of creativity and forward-thinking that inspires those around her.
