Blog

Name: Andrew Chatham
Hometown: Wickford, Rhode Island
University: Cornell University ’12
Urbanist, Downtown Project Las Vegas
 
 
What initially attracted you to Venture for America?
The talk Andrew Yang gave at Cornell clearly articulated my frustrations with the job search process as a senior. I was 100% convinced after going to the final round interviews and meeting the candidates, judges, and seeing how thoughtful the selection process was.

What is the best part of being a VFA fellow?
Being able to be a part of the incredible energy and support network of fellows, board members, and mentors. The fact that something so powerful has been developed in such a short time is a testament to the underlying mission of the organization.
What does Downtown Project Las Vegas do?
The Downtown Project does a million things, but they can all be boiled down to trying to create the most community focused city in the world.
What do you do on a typical day at work?
I am currently working with on the Campus Development and Coworking side of the DTP. We are focused on building out the most collaborative workspaces in the world here in Downtown Vegas, as well as taking on a few other development projects that fit into the greater DTP mission. There is no typical day with my team – I find myself doing everything from setting up a meshed wireless network downtown to sitting in on meetings with the general contractors working on the 200,000 square foot Zappos HQ building.
What’s your favorite thing about Las Vegas?
The open and honest nature of the people here is incredible – I was totally unprepared for the community that I found in Downtown Vegas and watching it develop each day has been my favorite thing about moving here.
What do you hope to accomplish in your time with VFA?
Build the skills and connections that will allow me to build my own business in the near future. I want to hire a VFA fellow within 5-7 years!