Matthew Friedel is transforming the way Wisconsin thinks about innovation. As teaching faculty at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and co-founder of its Disruptive Technologies Lab, Friedel’s work bridges academia and industry, empowering students and local technology startups to thrive.
“I would describe myself as three things: educator, entrepreneur and investor,” Friedel said. “My job is to help people become who they’re going to become.”
Bridging academic and industry
Friedel began his career in engineering, with degrees from UWM and Marquette University. But after working for industry giants like Harley-Davison, his entrepreneurial instincts led him to angel investing and teaching. He found his passion for helping startups and students succeed.