In this season, we're shining a spotlight on the trailblazers in the tech industry, both established veterans and emerging talents, who are pushing the boundaries of innovation. I'm your host, Ceci Fischer-Benitez, and together, we'll explore their successes, understand the challenges they've faced, and dive into the unique experiences that have guided their tech careers.

This week on the Chicago Techies Podcast, we're excited to introduce Elina Kasman, Vice President of Business Development at Great Lakes Crystal Technologies. Join us as we delve into her remarkable journey, from aspiring teacher and software developer to becoming an accomplished electrical engineer who's pushing boundaries in fabrication and surface preparation.

Elina's story is a testament to the power of adaptability and a commitment to continuous learning. We reflect on our shared experiences in the Chicago Blend fellowship program, explore her interest in venture capital, and learn about her strategic approach to sourcing startups driven by her energy background and insatiable curiosity for cutting-edge tech.

Our conversation takes a deep dive into the revolutionary domain of quantum computing. Together, we explore the potential impact of Quantum technology across various sectors, unravel the complexities of investing in it, and emphasize the importance of continuous learning in navigating this rapidly evolving industry. Tune in to gain insights into the forefront of quantum computing and Elina's inspiring journey.

Connect with Elina:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angiearamayodelcastillo/  

 Resources Mentioned:

Chicago Blend Fellowship Program: https://www.chicagoblend.org/

Innovation DuPage: https://www.innovationdupage.org/ 

CRI https://chainreaction.anl.gov/

DOE LEEP: https://www.energy.gov/eere/ammto/lab-embedded-entrepreneurship-program

Energy I-Corps:  https://www.energy.gov/technologytransitions/energy-i-corps

Intro to VC by Prof. Meadow: https://polsky.uchicago.edu/course-list/introduction-to-venture-capital-a-toolkit-for-analyzing-and-financing-startups/

Simon Sinek "Start with Why" Ted Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4ZoJKF_VuA

DOE SBIR/STTR Programs: https://www.energy.gov/science/sbir/small-business-innovation-research-and-small-business-technology-transfer

Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratory:  https://www.aps.anl.gov/

General explanation of DOE's light sources: https://www.energy.gov/science/doe-explainslight-sources

Science for a Circular Economy initiative at Argonne:  https://www.anl.gov/circular-economy

More on quantum industry https://quantumconsortium.org/publications/

Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:

Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcast

Connect with Ceci:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cfischerbenitez