Jennifer Lawton facts for kids

Jennifer Lawton, born in 1963, is an American businesswoman and an expert in applied mathematics. She is currently the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Techstars, a company that helps new businesses grow.

Jennifer Lawton's Early Life and School

Jennifer Lawton was born in 1963 in Quantico, Virginia. She grew up in Pennsylvania and finished high school with great grades. In 1985, she earned a degree in Applied Mathematics from Union College. This means she's really good at using math to solve real-world problems. Her first job was helping out at a small consulting company.

Starting a Tech Company: Net Daemons

In 1991, Jennifer helped start her own company called Net Daemons Associates (NDA) in Boston. This company offered computer support and advice. Under Jennifer's leadership, Net Daemons became very successful. It was even named one of the fastest-growing private companies in the U.S. in 1998.

A Change of Pace: Bookstores

After the events of September 11, 2001, Jennifer decided to take a break from the technology world. She opened two bookstores, Just Books and Just Books, and a cafe called Arcadia Cafe in Old Greenwich, Connecticut.

Leading the Way at MakerBot

Later, Jennifer returned to the technology business. She joined MakerBot, a company famous for making 3D printers. First, she was the Chief Strategy Officer. Then, in 2014, she became the CEO of MakerBot.

Under her leadership, MakerBot's 3D printers won many awards. Popular Mechanics named their printer the "Overall Winner" for best 3D printer. Popular Science called it "Product of the Year." Time magazine even listed it as one of the "Best Inventions of 2012." Fast Company also recognized MakerBot as one of the "World's Top 10 Most Innovative Companies in Consumer Electronics."

In 2015, Jennifer left her role as CEO at MakerBot. She took on a new position for a few months before leaving the company entirely.

Honored for Her Work

In 2014, Jennifer Lawton was honored for her achievements in business. She was added to the Connecticut Women's Hall of Fame. This special recognition celebrated her important contributions to the world of business and technology.

What Jennifer Lawton Does Now

In the fall of 2016, Jennifer Lawton became the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Techstars. Techstars is a company that helps new technology businesses get started and grow. It's like an incubator that provides support and guidance for startups.