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Carley Jacobson
Professional Background
Carley Jacobson boasts a diverse and impactful career in innovation, technology, and education. With a strong foundation in mathematics and computer science paired with a Master of Business Administration in Design, Carley has become a leading figure in fostering growth and change within the tech startup ecosystem. Currently serving as an Innovation Coach at Corporate Innovation at Techstars, Carley is dedicated to guiding startups through their journey, helping them to unlock their potential and thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace.
Prior to this role, Carley gained extensive experience as a mentor in various prestigious programs, including Galvanize NYC and the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center's Milestone Makers program. Her ability to inspire and uplift entrepreneurs has left a lasting mark on many aspiring business leaders. Carley's previous roles in strategy design at Business Models Inc. and as a Senior Account Manager at Free Range Studios showcase her strategic acumen and her knack for crafting innovative solutions tailored to meet client needs.
Carley’s wealth of experience extends to her tenure as Project Manager and Business Development lead at Autodesk’s Instructables, where she not only managed community engagement but also played a pivotal role in developing projects that brought creators and developers together. As a former Community Relations Manager at Instructables, she worked tirelessly to foster relationships within a vibrant maker community, further solidifying her reputation as a connector and innovator.
Education and Achievements
Carley's educational journey began at Barrington High School, where she laid the groundwork for her future studies in mathematics and computer science. She went on to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science at Union College, where she honed her analytical skills and developed a profound understanding of computational methodologies. This rigorous academic environment allowed Carley to strengthen her technical prowess and provided her with a solid foundation for her future career.
Carley further enhanced her educational background by pursuing a Master of Business Administration in Design from the California College of the Arts. This unique combination of technical expertise and business acumen positions her as a thought leader in the innovation space, enabling her to blend creative thinking with practical business strategies effectively.
During her time at Union College, Carley also served as a Computer Science Help Desk Aid, where she supported fellow students in their academic journeys, and as a Research Assistant, where she contributed to significant projects, including her work on markerless motion capture technology at the University of Rhode Island under the NSF REU program. These experiences not only provided her with hands-on technical knowledge but also helped her develop critical problem-solving skills that she applies to her current roles.
Additional Contributions
Carley Jacobson is not only a talented professional but also a committed community member with a passion for giving back. Her involvement with various mentorship programs demonstrates her dedication to fostering the next generation of innovators. At Galvanize NYC, she was pivotal in mentoring numerous startups, helping them navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship and providing invaluable insights from her own experiences in the tech industry.
Her role as a mentor at the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center’s Milestone Makers program further underscores her commitment to supporting diverse entrepreneurs. Carley’s wealth of knowledge in business design and strategy allows her to provide targeted guidance that is both practical and inspiring.
In addition to her mentorship initiatives, Carley's past as a Contest Manager at Instructables highlights her knack for organization and project management. She orchestrated competitions that encouraged creativity and innovation among participants, further adhering to her belief in the power of collaboration and community engagement within the tech and maker spaces.
Carley Jacobson continues to be a remarkable force in the tech industry, merging her talents in mathematics, computer science, and business design. With a commitment to coaching, community engagement, and fostering innovation, Carley's journey is a testament to the impact of inter-disciplinary education and passion for nurturing emerging talents in technology and entrepreneurship.
