Favorite Parts of Working in the Deep Tech Industry as a Talent Principal
Erica, a Talent Principal at a deep tech venture company, enjoys being part of early-stage investments in "biotech or aerospace or semiconductor space or energy," contributing to potentially impactful advancements. The changing dynamics of the venture capital industry, with a shift toward more diverse professionals and mindsets—a change that Erica is excited to be a part of—also contributes to their enjoyment of the career.
Venture Capitalism, Early-Stage Investing, Biotechnology, Diversity and Inclusion, Impact Investing
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Erica Kane
Talent Principal
Deep Tech Venture Company
UCSB
N/A
Anthropology, Sociology
Electronics & Semiconductors, Technology
Human Resources (HR)
Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. Working at early stages of ventures and seeing ideas take off and create influence
2. Being part of a changing industry with more diverse professionals and mindsets
3. Witnessing a shift in the industry and having hope for the future
Transcript
What do you enjoy most about being in your industry?
Ventures provide funding to companies in their very early stages, often based on promising ideas rather than established products. My company, in particular, doesn't focus on direct-to-consumer products. Instead, we aim to advance fields like biotech, aerospace, semiconductors, or energy.
Some of these ideas have the potential to be extremely influential and beneficial, for instance, in addressing environmental concerns or climate change. It's exciting to be a part of that process.
Additionally, as I mentioned regarding the challenge, I'm observing an increase in like-minded individuals who are keen on bringing more diverse professionals and perspectives into the venture capital world. This shift is encouraging, and you can see the change beginning to happen.
There's a transition from what could be described as a "boomer mentality" and the boom of tech, where those individuals are now quite established in their careers. Now, there are others, including myself, who are entering the field and bringing different mindsets. We're not necessarily focused on requiring specific pedigrees from everyone we bring on board.
What I enjoy is seeing this gradual change and growth. While it's not always easy and there are growing pains, I do see progress in a direction that excites me. It's an election year, and things feel a bit mixed up right now.
However, I maintain a general sense of hope. It will likely take time, but I'm eager to see how my company, our investments, and the types of people we attract to venture capital will evolve over the next three to five years.
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