Linda Elkins

Linda Elkins, an experienced Technical Leader and Innovation Executive, has a successful career spanning over 20 years of leading new product development teams, driving technical project development and resourcing, and obtaining two patents. She holds an MS in Mechanical Engineering and an MS in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Michigan, along with a BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame.

Currently serving as Head of the Gore Innovation Center at W. L. Gore & Associates, Linda is responsible for exploring how Gore's advanced materials can play a unique role in new whitespace areas for the company within sustainability and life sciences. She led the design and creation of the Gore Innovation Center in Silicon Valley and established strong partnerships with startups and expanded areas of exploration, leading its entry into the Silicon Valley ecosystem.

Linda is passionate about mentoring startups and sharing her knowledge of the startup-corporate dynamic. She has also previously served as an Advisory Committee Member at UCLA Magnify Incubator and holds various roles in W. L. Gore & Associates in Process and Quality Engineering, R&D, and Technical Leadership.

With Linda's experience and expertise, she is a valuable asset in driving innovation and building high performing cross-functional teams.