While attending Florida Gulf Coast University’s School of Entrepreneur­ship, Connor Firmender launched two startups. While building those enter­prises, Firmender also developed and grew a social startup, WearTheFund, where he managed a sales portfolio of over $1 million and more than 65 nonprofit partners. His latest venture has been the launch of his software solution, Fieldr.

“Fieldr is a web-based software solution delivering career oppor­tunities to students and emerging talent to employers,” he says. “The focus is on bridging the gap in com­munication and career readiness between users through experiential learning and job opportunities.”

When not at work, Firmender sits on the Legacy Leadership Forum, FutureMakers Coalition of SWFL, Career Advisory Board for Lee County High Schools. He also mentors for Collier County Public Schools’ NAF Academy, is a facili­tator for LeaderShape, and he is an Education Ambassador for Junior Achievement.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

“Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.” -T.S. Eliot. And, as I always repeat to myself and others, “Live with purpose, love with passion.”