Founder to Leader

A pragmatic workshop designed to help early-stage founders bridge the gap between running a one-person show and leading a growing team.

Series Description:

Whether you are a student startup with a brand new idea, a small business owner with a side project, or a seasoned business mogul, the Entrepreneur Workshops focus on a variety of topics pertinent to your journey. Sponsored by Pillsbury Law and hosted by the Office of Innovation and Commercialization’s The Basement, these workshops are open to everyone. We invite you to register for as many sessions as you are interested in! Light refreshments will be provided.

Event Description:

Join us for Founder to Leader, a pragmatic workshop designed to help early-stage founders bridge the gap between running a one-person show and leading a growing team. Drawing directly from real-world wins and hard-earned mistakes, this session will give you the actual tools needed to build your company’s foundation. Whether you’re drafting your first financials or preparing to offload your first set of responsibilities, you’ll leave with a practical roadmap for your next stage of growth.

About the Speaker:

Kevin Smoker ‘06 | Entrepreneur-in-Residence, Pillsbury Law | LinkedIn

Kevin Smoker works with founders and high-growth startups at Pillsbury, helping companies navigate the operational and strategic challenges of scaling. With a background as a COO and executive operator, he brings hands-on experience building teams, structuring deals, and translating legal strategy into practical business decisions. Kevin works closely with founders across the technology and life sciences sectors

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Directions to The Basement:

This event is located on the first floor of the Design and Innovation Building (DIB). The entrances are located across from the Structural Materials and Engineering building or next to the UC San Diego Central Campus Station bus and trolley stop.

MTS Trolley

The easiest way to get to the DIB is by taking the MTS trolley UC San Diego Blue Line and getting off at the UC San Diego Central Campus stop. The trolley stop is a short 1 minute walk to the DIB.

Parking

Public transportation is highly recommended as parking is limited on campus. If you plan to drive to campus, please give yourself plenty of time. You can download the ParkMobile app to pay for your space digitally once you find a spot.

• P510 - Pay and Display, Northside of the DIB (Closest)
• Gilman Parking Structure, Southwest side of the DIB (Largest)

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Disclaimer:

Please note that photos and videos may be taken at this event.

By attending this event, you give UC San Diego the right to use photographs, video and/or audio recordings taken of you. These may be used for any purpose, including education, promotion or archives.

Thank you for supporting UC San Diego.