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Dave Gardner
CTO at StraighterLine
Dave Gardner is the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at StraighterLine, a position he has held since June 2023. With over 20 years of experience in technology and data leadership, Gardner has a strong background in the education technology sector.
Career Background
Before joining StraighterLine, Gardner served as the Vice President of Technology at General Assembly, where he contributed to the company's growth in providing digital upskilling and career-oriented education. He also held the role of CTO at Legends of Learning, a leading developer of game-based learning experiences for K-12 students, where he was instrumental in creating a comprehensive digital learning platform. His career in education technology began over a decade ago with his first startup in the field.123
Education
Gardner holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Duke University and has completed graduate studies in computer science and artificial intelligence at George Mason University. He is also actively involved in mentoring within the technology and startup community in the National Capital Region, being a member of the DC CTO Club.145
Personal Life
He resides in Arlington, Virginia, with his wife Christina and their three children.12
Highlights
I’m very happy to announce that I am joining StraighterLine as Chief Technology Officer! https://shorturl.at/svEM4
I’ve long admired StraighterLine’s approach and mission, and am honored to join a team of leaders using technology and digital learning to create more efficient and cost-effective pathways to college completion and career development.
Thank you to all of my new StraighterLine colleagues for the warm welcome and onboarding. I know I'm joining a team with a strong foundation, and I can't wait to see what we can build and grow together. This is going to be fun!
Last month I finished an incredible 4-year journey with Legends of Learning. I’m forever grateful for the relationships, opportunities and successes that I found in my time there. It’s near impossible to top the amazing team that I had the privilege to work with at Legends. I’ll be cheering from the front row as they continue to lead the growth of game based learning.
Last week I started my next adventure leading technology for General Assembly, the pioneer in education and career transformation. I have long admired GA’s mission, top-notch instruction and graduate outcomes. I’m excited to be a part of the next chapter of growth for GA, closing the global digital skills gap while helping people move into careers that they love. The first week has been full of great people and great energy. Ready to get to work!
