As SPARK’s talent programs manager, Ben Ernst leads the GEM Entrepreneur-in-Residence effort as part of the Global Epicenter for Mobility initiative. A lifelong Michigander, Ben worked in higher education at the University of Michigan and Adrian College before joining Ann Arbor SPARK. At these institutions, he administered a federal TRIO grant program, connected students with resources to foster their success, and advocated for increased student opportunities. Ben is passionate about strengthening the bridge between Michigan’s immense pool of young talent and our state’s innovative companies.
Ben holds a Bachelor of German Language and Literature as well as a Master of Higher Education from the University of Michigan.