Jacob Martinez

Jacob Marinez is the executive director of the Digital NEST, a non-profit in Watsonville and Salinas, CA. that connects youth to a skill-building community that transforms them into professionals who can create successful careers, innovative solutions, and prosperous sommunities. Prior to establishing the Digital NEST in 2014, Jacob spent ten years leading innovative computer-based programs in California with particular focus encouraging Latina girls to enter high-tech fields. 

He is a frequent speaker at technology and educational conferences, and has been honored by business, community, and educational institutions for his innovation and leadership. He was a speaker at the first White House Tech Meetup and was named by Tech Crunch as one of the “Top Ten Men in the Country Supporting Women in Tech.” He was named Santa Cruz County Entrepreneur of the Year in 2015. He received his undergraduate degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from UCSC and received his Master’s degree from Cal State University, Monterey Bay.