Diane Abruzzini
36 | Chief Operating Officer, Rigorous Technology
Residence: Chittenden
Career highlights you are most proud of.
I am currently engaged in growing Rigorous into a healthy, successful company, but I also take pride in many of the milestones I’ve hit along the way — from sourcing and closing large contracts to creating a network of advisers, mentors, and investors.
Community involvement.
I serve on Vermont Center for Emerging Technology’s Seed Fund Advisory Board and on the finance committee of the National Alliance on Mental Illness Vermont. In prior years, I have served on the board of directors for Intervale Community Farm and the Smugglers Notch Area Chamber of Commerce.
Motivation for living and working in Vermont.
I was working on a farm during my last year at Skidmore College, and I absolutely loved it. I wanted to move to a place with a vibrant, sustainable agriculture scene, mountains, nightlife and young people. So, I moved to Burlington and started making roots and building businesses in Vermont.
Favorite part of your job.
My job is a balance of strategizing, executing, reflecting and iterating. I love taking a deep dive into a focus area, make a breakthrough and then dive in a different direction.
Most inspiring mentor.
Cairn Cross, co-founder and managing director of FreshTracks Capital. I am inspired by his commitment to the Vermont business ecosystem.
Best career advice you have received.
Make more right decisions than wrong ones.
Favorite Vermont escape.
Exploring some of the less-traveled areas around Mount Mansfield.
Favorite smell.
Roasted peanuts, specifically the ones sold by vendors on the streets of New York City.
Song on your playlist you are embarrassed to disclose to your best friend.
The soundtrack to “Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit.“
