Jessica Gonzalez
About Jessica Gonzalez
Jessica Gonzalez is the Founder and CEO of Happen Ventures, where she focuses on sustainable waste management. She has a strong background in technology and innovation, having held leadership roles in various organizations and built extensive networks within the business community.
Work at VendX
Jessica Gonzalez currently serves as Chairman at Experience VendX, a position she has held since 2018. Under her leadership, the organization has focused on innovative solutions in the event technology sector. Her role involves strategic oversight and fostering partnerships that enhance the company's offerings. Gonzalez's experience in this position complements her extensive background in entrepreneurship and technology.
Education and Expertise
Jessica Gonzalez has a solid educational background in design and entrepreneurship. She studied at the Fashion Institute of Technology, earning an Associate's degree in Communication Design and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Advertising. Additionally, she completed an Executive Education program in Entrepreneurial Strategy at Harvard Business School. Her studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology focused on Entrepreneurship, further solidifying her expertise in business innovation and strategy.
Background
Gonzalez has a diverse professional background, having held various leadership roles across multiple organizations. She was a Board Member at TechUnited from 2021 to 2023 and served as Chief Product Officer and Co-Founder at BluLabs for one year. Her involvement with the New Jersey Business & Industry Association as a Board Trustee and the Governor Murphy Restart and Recover Commission highlights her commitment to community and economic development in New Jersey.
Achievements
Jessica Gonzalez has made significant contributions to the fields of business and technology. She founded Happen Ventures in 2022, focusing on sustainable waste management and beneficial reuse. Her efforts led to partnerships with over 3,500 locations and the repurposing of 100,000 tons of items within a year. She successfully pivoted her business strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic, creating Lux Disinfect, which generated substantial revenue before its acquisition in 2021. Gonzalez has received recognition, including nominations for the EY Entrepreneur of the Year and awards such as Women in Business 2021.
Community Involvement
Jessica Gonzalez is actively involved in various organizations that support entrepreneurship and community development. She has been a member of the Entrepreneurs' Organization since 2016, contributing to the New Jersey Chapter. Her role on the Governor Murphy Restart and Recover Commission demonstrates her commitment to guiding New Jersey's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, she has written articles for Forbes, sharing insights on marketing and business strategy.