Doug Mitchell
Doug Mitchell brings decades of experience in business development and government affairs, with a proven ability to build partnerships across the public and private sectors. His work has consistently focused on navigating complex systems to drive meaningful outcomes, particularly for education and workforce initiatives. Deeply passionate about expanding access and opportunity, Doug is committed to ensuring underserved individuals and communities are not left behind as new pathways to careers and economic mobility are created.
Co-Founder / CEO
Patrick Fine, Ed.D.
Patrick Fine, Ed.D., is an education leader and product strategist with deep experience designing systems that connect learning to real-world opportunity. After a 32-year career in K–12 education and leadership, he transitioned into building technology platforms over the past several years, applying firsthand insight into how education, workforce, and policy systems intersect. As a co-founder of CareerStart.ai, Patrick brings a mission-driven approach to using data and technology to expand access, improve equity, and help individuals translate skills into meaningful career pathways.
Co-Founder / President
Co-Founder / Business Strategy
Blake Ashby
Blake Ashby brings a strategic operator’s mindset to CareerStart.ai, blending business strategy, product vision, and execution. With experience guiding early-stage ventures through growth, Blake focuses on turning ideas into scalable systems—aligning technology, partnerships, and market needs. His work centers on building sustainable models that help CareerStart.ai connect emerging talent with real opportunities while creating long-term value for schools, employers, and communities.
Our Team
“Our leadership team brings together deep experience in education systems, workforce development, and scalable technology—positioning CareerStart.ai to redefine how talent is discovered and activated.”