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Triangle Tweener Community Hub
Talent Center

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Candidate Spotlight

Highly-vetted candidates in the RTP area actively seeking opportunities in the RTP startup scene.

A Showcase for Top Talent in RTP!

Step into the spotlight and connect with groundbreaking startups seeking exceptional talent. Our Candidate Spotlight highlights innovative professionals ready to make an impact in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Share your expertise, stand out in the vibrant RTP community, and take the next step in your career with confidence.



Recent Candidate Spotlights


Industry:
Ariel Avila
Industry
Introduction
I’m a versatile global executive with over 15 years of experience scaling and transforming high-growth startups, including Trunk Club, Sonder, and Pilot. I have successfully scaled organizations from Series B through post-IPO, leveraging strategic insights from an MBA at Harvard Business School and several years in investment banking and equity research at J.P. Morgan to bridge strategy and execution seamlessly.
My expertise lies in scaling complex organizations by integrating people, technology, and processes. I’m passionate about delivering exceptional digital and in-person customer experiences while driving profitability, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction. With a proven track record of managing $150M+ P&Ls and leading teams of 200+ across multiple locations (and remote), I thrive in dynamic, high-growth environments. I excel at driving profitability, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
Connect
Connect with Ariel Avila
Neriah Friday
Industry
Introduction
Hi! My name is Neriah, and I am a graduating senior from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I am earning my B.S. in Information Science with minors in Entrepreneurship and Data Science. I specialize in user experience design, graphic design, and web design. Beginning in Fall 2025, I will be pursuing my M.S. in Information Science. I am seeking competitive-paying, flexible opportunities as I launch my career in UX/UI design and information technology.
Connect
Connect with Neriah Friday
Lucy Good
Industry
Introduction
Hello!! I am a current sophomore at UNC-Chapel Hill pursuing degrees in Computer Science and Philosophy and a Spanish for the Business Professions minor. Driven by a love of learning, my academic interests span a variety of disciplines. In my computer science courses, I’m building technical skills that will drive my future growth in tech. My philosophy classes challenge me with thought-provoking debates, and my Spanish courses broaden my ability to connect with others. I’m eager to continue pushing my personal development, especially in tech, where I’m excited to explore opportunities for innovation and growth.
Connect
Connect with Lucy Good
Haoyu Guan
Industry
Introduction
I am Haoyu Guan, a Computer Science Master with a strong foundation in machine learning, data analysis, and software development. I am looking for for data/ML/SDE related roles, and I am also open to game development positions.
Connect
Connect with Haoyu Guan
Paula León
Industry
Introduction
Paula León is a Product Designer, Women's Health Innovator, and Strategist with a Master’s in Industrial Design from NC State. Originally from Bogotá, Colombia, Paula combines her expertise in sustainable development and product design with a human-centered approach. Her passion for creating meaningful, eco-conscious solutions drives her work, especially in the women’s health and medical device sectors. She founded Blean, a company dedicated to promoting safe and sustainable menstrual care through an innovative device that improves the cleaning of menstrual cups and discs in public settings. With a strong background in research, Paula approaches design with an analytical and systemic perspective. Her work is deeply rooted in the belief that successful design is built on thorough research and problem-solving. Beyond her professional pursuits, Paula enjoys an active lifestyle, finding balance in nature through backpacking, yoga, and hiking trips with her family and friends. Her passion for sustainability and health continues to shape her career, as she seeks to improve the connection between human needs and the natural world through thoughtful and impactful design.
Connect
Connect with Paula León
Chris Weatherly
Industry
Introduction
I most recently served as VP of Digital at Capitol Broadcasting Company, where I spent 12+ years scaling our digital business and leading transformative strategic initiatives. In this role, I oversaw full P&L responsibility for a $12M revenue division, led a cross-functional team of over 30 professionals, and managed digital products reaching over four million users monthly. As I explore new leadership opportunities, I’m excited to bring my expertise and experience to a dynamic organization.
Connect
Connect with Chris Weatherly
Dan Zola
Industry
Introduction
Currently leading research sprints at Google, I’ve got 15+ years of UX and product experience, having helped to improve performance for startups, tweeners, and Fortune 500 companies alike. If you’d like to learn more about me and my experience, check me out here:
Connect
Connect with Dan Zola



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