About me
Dr. Ximena Gates-Hartsock is a serial tech entrepreneur, co-founder, and Chief Executive Officer of BuildWithin, a venture-backed technology company based in Washington, DC. BuildWithin's innovative skills technology simplifies the process for organizations to implement effective workforce development solutions.
Previously, Ximena founded Phone2Action, a successful venture that was acquired in 2019. She is a researcher, philanthropist, and the author of two software patents. Her extensive career in public service includes roles as a school principal, Assistant Superintendent of DC Public Schools, and Director of Parks and Recreation in Washington, DC.
Ximena is an Executive Board Member of the Consumer Technology Association (CES), the Washington Economic Club, and the Northern Virginia Technology Council. She also holds advisory positions with the Center for Innovative Technology of Virginia, the Migration Policy Institute, and the Gender and Policy (GAP) Center at George Mason University. Her leadership and work have been recognized in leading publications such as Fortune, Forbes, The Washington Post, and The New York Times.
In addition, she was named one of the Top Women in Tech by Forbes, and her company, BuildWithin, was recognized as one of the Top 10 Startups in Washington, DC.
In March 2024, Ximena was featured in the TV documentary 10 Chilean Women Changing the World. Her 90-minute episode shares her inspiring journey of resilience and hard work, embodying the spirit of the American Dream. A native of Chile, Ximena holds degrees in Linguistics and Philosophy from Chile, and a Doctorate in Administration and Policy from George Washington University.