Passionate about turning knowledge into impact, Chuck is a serial entrepreneur and business leader who helps startups access the tools to accelerate change. His experiences founding, growing, and selling tech companies and his decade working for Apple position him as a person in-the-know. Chuck’s portfolio of startup successes include a digital stock trading system acquired by Reuters and a document management system for large legal firms. He recently sold his cloud services firm to one of the largest managed service providers in the country, and is always on the lookout for another great concept.  Enthusiastic about the innovation pulsing through the region, Chuck is a past two-term Chair of the Howard Technology Council. He serves as a board member for the Downtown Columbia Partnership, the Maryland Business Innovation Association, and the Maryland Small Business Development Center.
As the MIC’s outreach all-star, Tracy develops programs and events to engage people in our offerings. From promoting membership and focus groups to supporting communications strategy, Tracy’s creativity paves the way forward.
Tracy leads with a service-first attitude, which was praised throughout her tenure in Howard County Government. Her commitment to improving access to resources makes her a valued member of our team. Equipped with a background in administration, program coordination, marketing, and technical support, Tracy approaches every challenge with patience and professionalism. She received a BA degree in English with a concentration in Communication from the University of Maryland.
Aphaia is a connector with real charisma. She bridges the gaps between business, education, and government sectors and brings new opportunities to the MIC ecosystem.
Aphaia’s sincerity and skill help her develop client relationships that are value-added for everyone. Taking the lead on sponsor engagement, event management, and marketing across many platforms, Aphaia deepens relationships and expands the MIC’s sphere of influence.
With an eye toward the future, Aphaia administers HCEDA’s student internship program, attracting regional employers seeking young talent. She also co-leads the development of the Gateway Innovation District, helping transform the 900+acre business park into a mixed-use innovation community.
Jillian Joseph, new Client Services Director at the Maryland Innovation Center (MIC), brings with her a wealth of experience in marketing, community development, and client relations. Her passion for delivering outstanding results and supporting local communities will make her an invaluable asset to the MIC’s diverse clientele.
Jillian, who attended St. Mary’s College of Maryland, began her career as an editorial intern before taking on client service and sales director roles with AdvantEdge Workspaces in Washington, DC and Equity Residential in New York City. Her dedication and expertise in customer satisfaction eventually led her to the MIC. Jillian’s most recent extensive work in her native district showcases her commitment to community development. As Executive Director of the Ellicott City Partnership (ECP), she has been instrumental in revitalizing Old Ellicott City through creative promotional campaigns, strategic guidance for small businesses, fundraising, and event planning. She was most passionate about advocating for the Historic District’s resilient business community, and worked tirelessly to steward relationships with stakeholders to stimulate economic activity in the aftermath of two devastating floods and a global pandemic.
Now, as the Client Services Director at the MIC, Jillian will oversee end-to-end management of resident entrepreneurs, ensuring exceptional customer satisfaction through innovative solutions. Her experience in Howard County speaks to her ability to understand the unique needs of businesses and communities, will make her an exemplary resource at the MIC.
Outside of work, Jillian is a devoted and lifelong volunteer with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Mid-Atlantic Chapter. With Jillian at the helm of resident Client Services, the MIC is poised to help our entrepreneurs exceed their goals and drive their businesses forward.
