Diane Abruzzini

36 | Chief Operating Officer, Rigorous Technology
Residence: Chittenden

Career highlights you are most proud of:
I am currently engaged in growing Rigorous into a healthy, successful company, but I also take pride in many of the milestones I’ve hit along the way — from sourcing and closing large contracts to creating a network of advisers, mentors, and investors.

Community involvement:
I serve on Vermont Center for Emerging Technology’s Seed Fund Advisory Board and on the finance committee of the National Alliance on Mental Illness Vermont. In prior years, I have served on the board of directors for Intervale Community Farm and the Smugglers Notch Area Chamber of Commerce.

Motivation for living and working in Vermont:
I was working on a farm during my last year at Skidmore College, and I absolutely loved it. I wanted to move to a place with a vibrant, sustainable agriculture scene, mountains, nightlife and young people. So, I moved to Burlington and started making roots and building businesses in Vermont.

Favorite part of your job:
My job is a balance of strategizing, executing, reflecting and iterating. I love taking a deep dive into a focus area, make a breakthrough and then dive in a different direction.

Most inspiring mentor:
Cairn Cross, co-founder and managing director of FreshTracks Capital. I am inspired by his commitment to the Vermont business ecosystem.

Best career advice you have received:
Make more right decisions than wrong ones.

Favorite Vermont escape:
Exploring some of the less-traveled areas around Mount Mansfield.

Favorite smell:
Roasted peanuts, specifically the ones sold by vendors on the streets of New York City.

Song on your playlist you are embarrassed to disclose to your best friend:
The soundtrack to “Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit.“