By Gabrielle Chisolm, Communications Intern, a junior majoring in English at the University of Maryland

While attending Syracuse University in 2010, David Kelly was in search of an organization that would not only accelerate his career but also provide incredible networking opportunities. That’s when DLE President Linda Dulye, a fellow Syracuse University alum, introduced him to a remarkable professional development opportunity.

“The DLE was the catalyst that really started my professional career off on the right foot. I landed a great job, thanks to Linda and the DLE volunteers, and found a passion in Product Management–which has led me to running a software business,” he recalls.

And even years later, David finds the diverse network of the DLE to be a safe space to discuss career challenges, ask for advice, and be intentional about career growth. “The DLE has helped accelerate my career from day one,” he beams. “Relationships that I formed 15 years ago with DLE members are still active and influential in my life. I met one of my best friends through the DLE.”

David’s impressive tech career began after graduating in 2010, when he joined News Corp. as a product manager to help grow one of the top 30 most visited web properties in the world, partnering with Microsoft and other companies. His business experiences widened significantly–along with a big geographic move from New York City to San Diego to work as a copywriter and customer/market researcher for startup Ramit Sethi’s I Will Teach You to be Rich and a marketing leader for startup Student Loan Hero.

Along the way, David’s knowledge and network was rapidly expanding in product strategy, marketing, customer service, and operations. Opportunity again knocked and David accepted the position of founding General Manager at AppSumo Originals, the seven-figure SaaS startup with more than 800,000 registered users, including Kevin Durant and Boardroom, Pat Flynn, Toys”R”Us, LEGO, the city of Memphis, Jeff Gordon Racing, Ryan Holiday, and Shane Snow.

A firm believer in sharing his expertise and experiences, David advises startups and coaches young professionals eager to navigate a technology-based job market. He is excited to be guest speaker at the May 30 DLE Career Compass program: Make AI Your Trusted Sidekick in Career Growth. “I’m impressed and inspired by how the DLE is helping multiple generations in their professional development. I’m glad to do my small part in helping those succeed in this new era of jobs,” he says.

Don’t wait to register for this must-attend event. Let David help you shed your AI fears and uncertainties with concrete strategies to use this ever-growing technology to accelerate your career. Reserve your seat by clicking here.