In this monthly series, Built In Chicago will highlight some of the most important players in our digital ecosystem: the women. From entrepreneurs to technologists, investors to academic leaders, and corporate innovators to developers, women play important and diverse roles in dozens of local organizations. Every month, we'll introduce you to five women worth knowing. Through these exclusive interviews, get to know these women through their likes, experiences, and maybe even their secrets. Here's one of them.
Ellen Carnahan
[ibimage==18169==Original==none==self==ibimage_align-left]
WHAT DO YOU DO?
I am a venture capitalist with my own firm, Machrie Enterprises, a Sr. Advisor to the I2A Fund, a tech investor and I lead tech investing at William Blair Capital Partners.
BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED?
Give back. I've been lucky in my life and career; I am honored to give back to others. You always get back much more than you can ever give.
YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE ON A DAILY BASIS?
Patience. I am so Type A.
YOUR SECRET WEAPON?
Humor. It breaks down barriers and builds connections.
YOUR FIRST JOB?
Babysitting at 50 cents an hour in the late ‘60s. Then counter help at Burger Chef. Makes you feel lucky you can get an education and get on to better jobs!
YOUR ADVICE FOR YOUNGER WOMEN?
Know yourself and be true to yourself. If it is a fit for you, stick with it and focus on getting the job done well—focus outside.
YOUR ROLE MODELS?
Many. I meet people all of the time I learn from and consider role models. Over time, my top list is: Tina Turner, Hillary Clinton, and Madeleine Albright.
Connect with Ellen on Built In Chicago and add her to your network on LinkedIn.
nominate someone
Nominate your favorite woman for future installments of The Women Driving Chicago's Digital Renaissance by emailing Amina Elahi ([email protected]). Include her name, title, organization and a 140-character description of why she deserves to be featured.
