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Trae Vassallo
Technology Executive and Venture Capitalist
Trae Vassallo is currently a leader in Worldwide Operations at Apple, a role she has held since August 2021. She joined Apple after co-founding and serving as a managing director at Defy Partners, a venture capital firm, where she focused on early-stage investments. Vassallo has an extensive background in venture capital, having previously worked as a general partner at Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers for nearly 12 years, where she specialized in consumer internet and greentech investments.145
Education and Early Career
Vassallo earned both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University, followed by an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Her early career included roles at IDEO Product Development and co-founding Good Technology, which provided wireless corporate email solutions and was later acquired by Motorola.123
Contributions and Impact
Throughout her career, Vassallo has been recognized for her contributions to the technology and venture capital sectors, particularly in promoting investments in women and underrepresented groups. She co-hosted the Equity Summit, an event aimed at fostering dialogue and investment in diverse leadership.15 Vassallo holds 13 patents and has been involved in several successful startups, including OPOWER and Nest, both of which were acquired by larger companies.23
Trae Vassallo's leadership at Apple is part of her broader commitment to innovation and operational excellence within the tech industry.
