Can you tell us a little about your responsibilities and accomplishments in your current position?
As one of the 4 owners of Tahoe Mountain Lab, I have helped build the South Shore’s first coworking space and innovation hub, promoting a more diverse economic base for the region through entrepreneurship, remote workers, and freelancers. We’re almost to our four year anniversary since opening the doors to our first location on Ski Run Blvd. and I am so proud to see what “the Lab” has turned into for the community.
What has been your favorite professional moment in the last year?
My favorite professional moment in the last year was planning & hosting the South Shore’s first Startup Weekend. It was amazing to watch a group of strangers come together and form viable companies in just one weekend and for the community to show an outpouring of support for the process. We had participants ranging from 17-year-old high schools students to 60+-year-old retirees, long time locals to those that came just for the event, all working their tails off to launch brand new startups. We were even able to make participating part of the internship program we have with Lake Tahoe Community College (LTCC) and have local college students join in at no cost. The whole thing was awesome.
Do you have a professional/life mantra that you try to live by?
Be kinder than is necessary.
What was your first job?
I worked as an instructional aide in an early childhood special education classroom with the most adorable kids on the planet for the summer when I was in high school. I’ve had the teaching bug ever since.
Why choose Tahoe to make your home and career?
My husband and I wanted a life where we didn’t have to commute or travel for hours to do the things that we enjoyed, and we wanted to raise our children in a community like the one we have here in South Lake Tahoe. We spent so much time here on vacation that we finally decided to figure out a way to build a life here.
Are you active in any volunteer roles or community groups?
I have a hard time saying no, so yes I am. I’m currently on the boards of the Lake Tahoe Community College Foundation, the Barton Foundation, and am a founding cabinet member of the Tahoe Women’s Community Fund. For the past year, I’ve served on the City of South Lake Tahoe Planning Commission. I also act as an advisor to startup companies for Singularity University and enjoy working with local students & companies as well through Tahoe Mountain Lab.
What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
Some people would say all I do is work. Honestly, most of my non-Tahoe Mountain Lab time is spent working on education projects. I love teaching and like to make sure that’s still part of my life here. Last summer, I co-directed the Tahoe STEM Camp through LTCC’s CONNECT program and I’m looking forward to expanding that even more in the coming years. But what I enjoy most that really isn’t work is getting outside and enjoying this amazing place we live in. These days that means hiking for me, and with a baby in a carrier strapped to my chest.
Where are your favorite South Shore stomping grounds?
Verde Mexican Rotisserie, Chimayo Tacos and Tortas, Blue Angel Café, Sidellis Lake Tahoe Brewery and Restaurant, South Lake Brewing Company, Lake Tahoe Aleworx – too many to name!
Get in touch with Jamie today at:
530.600.3447
jamie.f.orr@gmail.com
