Coworking with Isabella Panagakos

Coworking is a weekly segment where we spotlight Emerging Tech Brew readers who work with emerging technologies. Click here if you’d like a chance to be featured.

How would you describe your job to someone who doesn’t work in tech?

I am a talent partner for startups in industries like robotics, autonomous vehicles, biotech, and clean tech. I help find executives that are rock stars and vital to a startup’s growth. I specialize in DE&In—making sure all are represented in the startup tech world.

What’s your favorite emerging tech project you’ve worked on?

Where to begin? Autonomous parking garages, drones, and products that improve mental health are some of my favorites. But that’s part of what makes my job so meaningful. I’m learning about new technologies every day, and there are so many that have a strong focus on social impact.

What emerging tech are you most optimistic about? Least? And why?

Technology that focuses on reducing our carbon emissions :)

Technology that contributes to more carbon emissions :(

What’s the best piece of tech-related media you’ve read/watched/listened to?

I love the Wall Street Journal’s Tech News Briefing podcast.

One thing we can’t guess from your LinkedIn profile?

I’m part of an improv comedy troupe called the Bit Players. We do short-form improv and music in an hour show and have had Jay Leno open for us in the past.

What do you think about when you’re not thinking about tech?

I love baking and cooking, so I’m a total nerd about digging into what foods can be incorporated into your everyday life to improve your health. I also love learning about other cultures, which usually ties back into food.