Sam Ashley

I consider myself to have a well-rounded, versatile career. I started as an engineer for a defense contractor and quickly moved into program management and eventually becoming an operations manager and digital transformation manager at GE headquarters before business school. In particular, I love working in start-ups and with other entrepreneurs: I have launched my own STEM-education nonproft as well as worked as a co-founder for two technology start-ups (for profit). During my Ross MBA, I worked for a late-stage EdTech start-up as well as interning with BCG San Francisco. I was a dual-degree with a Ford MPP, but I dropped this degree to launch my own VC fund based in Kyiv, Ukraine (after the war/invasion). I was able to raise $1.6M for my first fund. Since then, I went back to BCG San Francisco where I have been working since April 2023 with a focus on TMT, Private Equity and VC, and growth strategies. Additionally, I sit on the board of the local chapter of the Make-A-Wish foundation and work with several local AI start-ups as an advisor and mentor to the founders. 

https://news.umich.edu/from-ambulance-driver-to-investor-u-m-student-cr…

Personally, I live an adventurous lifestyle that has included driving ambulances to the warfront in Ukraine, volunteering for search & rescue after the Turkey earthquakes, and everything else from climbing volcanoes in Indonesia, skiing in Colorado, traveling to interesting and remote parts of the world, and reading and constantly learning. I particularly like to interact with people from different countries outside the US. 

Looking forward to connecting with prospective and current Ross MBA students! I loved my time at Ross and want to help others make the best decisions for themselves and their journey.