CIE Student Stories

Zeke Tierkel on how the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship made him a better presenter.

Zeke Tierkel, '20
Internships
Leahy Center for Digital Investigation; Knectar; Workday
Job Experience
Research Assistant; Software Engineer; Application Security Engineer
Best Advice
Find a mentor!
LaunchVT Experience
Through events such as LaunchVT, I have become better at pitching and presenting the stories behind my ideas. I have also had the privilege of working with great people such as Robert Bloch, who helped me flesh out projects and turn tangled ideas into proper proposals. The BYOBiz [now Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship] is a launchpad for great ideas and projects that may one day turn into businesses. It helped me build Pure Investments, a business that I pitched in LaunchVT competitions.
Did you always want to start your own business?
My first real exposure to entrepreneurism was my dad. He founded a successful software startup when I was growing up, so entrepreneurism became second nature to me. In high school, I began building longboards alongside my best friend, Peter Hudlicky. What started as a hobby quickly turned into a business. When I came to Champlain, the BYOBiz* helped me build Pure Investments, a business that I pitched in LaunchVT competitions.
Can you describe the BYOBiz (now Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship) program at Champlain?
BYOBiz* is a growing community of entrepreneurs. The program offers the ability to collaborate with other like-minded individuals on campus, and provide a space for them to work together. At least once a month, a guest speaker-usually a business owner from the Burlington area-will come and talk about their experience in the field of entrepreneurism.
BYOBiz* also hosts events such as the Elevator Pitch and the Champlain branch of LaunchVT.
What does the entrepreneurial mindset mean to you?
An entrepreneurial mindset does not necessarily mean you need to go out, abandon your career, and start a business. The mindset of an entrepreneur can be utilized in a corporate setting just as much as in your own startup. Entrepreneurism within a company is often referred to as "intrapreneurism," and it's just as valuable a skill.
Have you participated in any pitch competitions?
In my sophomore year, I competed in LaunchVT Champlain College and placed first while pitching Pure Investments. My business partner and I then went on to compete in LaunchVT Collegiate and placed third. I also went on to compete in LaunchVT again during my junior year with an idea for a creator-driven stock photo website.
What does the entrepreneurial mindset mean to you?
An entrepreneurial mindset does not necessarily mean you need to go out, abandon your career, and start a business. The mindset of an entrepreneur can be utilized in a corporate setting just as much as in your own startup. Entrepreneurism within a company is often referred to as "intrapreneurism," and it's just as valuable a skill.
What makes Burlington, Vermont a good place for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Burlington has so many resources for young and aspiring entrepreneurs. The entrepreneurial community within Burlington is so strong-places like the Vermont Center for Emerging Technology offer an amazing community of startup and small business owners all in one tight-knit coworking space.
And while people might not know this, Champlain College was originally founded as the Burlington Business School. The entrepreneurial roots here run deep.
*The BYOBiz program was renamed the Center of Innovation & Entrepreneurship in 2020.

Andersen Pinckney on why he joined the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship.
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Andersen Pinckney, '20
Study Abroad
Champlain College Montreal
Job Experience
Lead Instructor
Best Piece Of Advice
It is important to relax but don't over-relax. Sometimes, watch an industry talk or do research instead of looking at a TV show. Push yourself to learn and people will see the efforts you make.
Why I Joined The CIE
I joined the BYOBiz [now Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship] program because I was seeking mentorship to help grow my passion for owning a game studio. I wanted to be able to create my own games and publish them. With guidance and advice from several professionals, I competed in several competitions and won money to fund my passion.
How has the BYOBiz (now Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship) helped you with your business goals?
Since I've joined BYOBiz*, I've had nothing but positive experiences. With guidance and advice from several professionals, I competed in several competitions and won money to fund my passion. I've been able to make connections outside of Champlain College from the help I've received.
What are some benefits you’ve experienced by participating in this program?
Because of BYOBiz*, I have been able to have access to different resources. I've been getting great deals with an IP attorney, I've had a professional help me with a press release, and I've gotten in contact with local businesses. I've been able to foster my abilities and become a more confident presenter; I feel that I can bring my ideas to a table of professionals and have the power to back my stance, and the persuasion to convince people of my opinion.
What are some key learnings from your time in the BYOBiz (now Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship) program?
I have learned how to talk to law professionals, connect with local businesses, give better presentations, and pitch ideas. BYOBiz has helped me find ways of getting funds, and helped establish my LLC. I feel confident that I can take the next steps in my business after Champlain College.
*The BYOBiz program was renamed the Center of Innovation & Entrepreneurship in 2020.

Emily LaPlume shares how her business, Saturday Swimwear, found success.

Emily LaPlume, '17
Study Abroad
Dublin Ireland and New Zealand.
Internships
Fuse Marketing
Favorite Class
Marketing
Work Experience
Founder, Saturday Swimwear
I would not be where I am today if it weren't for your [BYOBiz's*] guidance and support. You have helped set a solid foundation to start building this business and ensure success.
While studying abroad in the South Pacific during her junior year, BYOBiz* student Emily LaPlume, had an inspiration for a type of bikini that would combine comfort and functionality with attractive and fashionable designs for active, athletic women.
Getting Her Business Started
After Emily returned home, she taught herself about clothing design and sewing, then developed and tested her first prototypes. She began developing her brand, Saturday Swimwear, along with a website and social media presence using skills learned from her advanced marketing class. She joined BYOBiz* in the fall of her senior year and worked to complete her launch strategy, including pricing, production and distribution, financial projections, incorporation and IP protection. With encouragement received from BYOBiz, Emily sought and achieved her first retail accounts.
Making Professional Connections
She also competed in the Elevator Pitch, LaunchVT Collegiate, and was a finalist in the nationwide Draper Competition for Collegiate Women Entrepreneurs. Following her graduation, Emily planned to continue developing her business while also working at Fuse Marketing.
*The BYOBiz program was renamed the Center of Innovation & Entrepreneurship in 2020.