Andrew Rape
Senior Program Manager
Hometown: New Sewickley Twp, PA
What makes you the best person for your role?
I am the best person for this role because of my passion to work hands-on with start-up founders to identify innovative strategies for growth. I’ve been fortunate enough to gain experience with start-ups in multiple industry verticals. In the retail sector, I was the CEO of A519 Chocolate through its inception and growth phases. In the biotech and medical device sector, I served as the Director of Research at Lifeware Labs where I was responsible for strategy and execution of the company’s forward-looking product development and growth strategies. In addition to this start-up experience, I developed my passion for biotech development during my postdoctoral fellowship and University of California, Berkeley and my graduate studies at Carnegie Mellon University.
What is your favorite thing about working with startups?
My favorite thing about working with startups is witnessing the passion and drive that they tackle their challenges with. Experiencing the perseverance of the founders is inspiring!
What do you love about living and working in Pittsburgh?
Most of all, I love the people of Pittsburgh — they are so friendly and helpful, even to complete strangers! I love that Pittsburgh has the community feel of a small town, but has the resources and experiences of a much larger city.
Where can we find you outside of work?
Outside of work, you can probably find me enjoying a local park with my kids or out on the roads cycling.