In 2014, Jacob founded Digital NEST—a technology workforce development hub providing youth in rural communities with high-demand technology skills, mentoring and hands-on experience so they can secure well-paying jobs. Prior, he spent nearly ten years running a successful program funded by the National Science Foundation, encouraging underrepresented Latina girls to study computer science. He is a 2020 recipient of The James Irvine Foundation “Leadership Award” and a 2018 Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation “Entrepreneur Fellow.” Jacob currently sits on the board of Santa Cruz Works, Center for Rural Innovation, serves as an External Advisor to the Chancellor of UC Santa Cruz, and is on the advisory council for the Aspen Institute Technology Accountability Coalition.

Shawna Brunson
Shawna Brunson is a seasoned Technology Executive at Wells Fargo, responsible for overseeing all technology channels used by Small Business customers and bankers. Her focus is on ensuring easy access, low-friction


