Collins Andrews named to board of The Venture Center

by Talk Business & Politics staff ([email protected]) 978 views 

Little Rock-based The Venture Center has selected Collins Andrews to join its board of directors.

Andrews joins eight other community leaders guiding the organization in its mission to support entrepreneurs at the Arkansas startup hub through education, collaboration, and acceleration.

“I’ve had the opportunity to work with The Venture Center for the past four years through the fintech accelerators, and I’ve essentially been embedded in its day-to-day operations. I’ve seen firsthand the organization’s impact, not just on the companies participating in the accelerators, but on our entire community. There’s a lot of work to be done and a lot more people who we can help, so I’m proud to work with The Venture Center as it continues to expand,” said Andrews.

Andrews began his 40-year career as an engineer and evolved through technical, management and executive roles to become a significant contributor to some of the country’s fastest-growing companies. He has created a startup manufacturing business and had a long career with a successful information technology company.

He graduated from the Stonier Graduate School of Banking at Rutgers University, earned a master’s degree in industrial administration from Purdue University and a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Vanderbilt. Andrews has also authored a book on mentorship.

“We never stop needing mentors, and I’m fortunate to count Collins Andrews as one of mine,” said Wayne Miller, Executive Director of The Venture Center. “At The Venture Center, we’ve experienced tremendous growth in the past year and as we continue to expand Collins Andrews’ support and guidance will continue to help us achieve our goals. We’re grateful for his willingness to serve in this capacity.”

Collins Andrews is currently a consultant, author, and the Executive-in-Residence for FIS at The Venture Center, where he represents FIS and its banking clients in the selection and mentoring of participating companies for the 12-week residential FIS Fintech Accelerator.