Startups from the Ground Up FIG Instructor and Assistant

Hi, I'm Phil Colbert, a Computer Science instructor and your FIG guide to learning more about startups and becoming an entrepreneur. In addition to teaching at the University of Oregon, I'm also co-founder of several companies. Academically, I have an MS in Computer Science, and a BS in Physical Science. Why Physical Science? For over 20 years I've been a consultant and entrepreneur combining my computer skills with my passion for the sciences to research, develop, and sell software, and sometimes hardware, solutions. I could list my accomplishments, but I'd rather discuss your goals, and encourage you to try, and as often happens with software and with business, fail; failure is often the best teacher, so I strive to never give up! Let's try, succeed, fail, and learn together! 

Email: pcolbert@uoregon.edu

Hello! My name is Quinn and I will be your FIG Assistant for Startups from the Ground Up this upcoming fall term. I was in a FIG in the fall of my Freshman year and loved it so much I decided to become a FIG Assistant (FA). I’m a Senior double majoring in Political Science and Accounting, and this will be my fourth year as an FA. I’m looking forward to discussing some really interesting topics with you all this term! 

I was born and raised in Eugene, so in a way, I’ve always been a Duck. I grew up watching Duck football games at Autzen, hiking Spencer's Butte and going to the Saturday Market. If you ever have any questions about Eugene or want to find some cool spots, I’d be happy to show you around.

In Startups from the Ground Up, we plan to explore how startups are founded, developed, and launched. Startups can look like anything: a clothing sports clothing brand, an AI-integrated note-taking app, a concierge-style medical spa, a digital design consulting service, an artisan hot sauce—whatever fuels your passion you can build it! In this FIG we plan to teach you the tools to get started. 

Don’t have an idea for a startup? No problem! This FIG is welcome to everyone, whether you’ve already founded your own business or you haven't given it much thought. This FIG is for students interested in business and technology that want to take their creativity to the next level. 

I’m excited to work with everyone this fall as you begin your journey at the University of Oregon. I had such a great experience through the FIG program and want to help create a wonderful experience for everyone who registers for Startups from the Ground Up. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. See you in the fall!

Want to connect with your FA? Email figs@uoregon.edu to get connected!