Emily Heintz Takes the Helm as Executive Director of Curiosity Lab for Strategic Growth
Curiosity Lab Welcomes Emily Heintz as Executive Director
Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners has recently announced the appointment of Emily Heintz as its Executive Director. This leadership change marks a significant point for the lab, which focuses on smart city innovations and advanced technologies. Heintz brings over 15 years of experience in the fields of technology, venture capital, and economic development, making her exceptionally qualified to lead the organization as it embarks on its next phase of growth.
Heintz’s impressive background has earned her a reputation as a leader in various sectors, including high-growth startups and public-private collaborations. Before joining Curiosity Lab, she served as the Director of Business Intelligence at SkySpecs, where she successfully directed strategic initiatives that informed executive decision-making. Her previous roles encompass senior positions in organizations such as the Michigan Venture Capital Association and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, further solidifying her credentials in fostering partnerships that stimulate innovation.
In her new role, Emily will be responsible for overseeing strategic partnerships, guiding campus expansion initiatives, and nurturing relationships within the current innovation community. She is poised to enhance Curiosity Lab's global presence, positioning it as a key player in the smart city technology arena. As she stated, "Curiosity Lab is at a remarkable point in its evolution, and I am honored to join the team at such an energizing time."
The city of Peachtree Corners, where Curiosity Lab is located, offers a unique environment for technology companies. It allows for real-world testing of smart city technologies, empowering startups and corporations to develop solutions that improve urban living. Under Heintz's leadership, Curiosity Lab aims to accelerate the expansion of its capabilities and broaden its horizon in attracting even more innovators.
"Emily's mix of executive experience and strategic insight is crucial for our next growth phase,” commented Brian Johnson, City Manager of Peachtree Corners and a board member of Curiosity Lab. “Her understanding of how innovation can be scaled in real-world environments will significantly enhance our partnerships and our role in the global context of smart city technologies.”
Since its inception in 2019, Curiosity Lab has fostered collaborations with over 180 companies, ranging from early-stage startups to established global players. The lab functions as a 5G-enabled living laboratory, featuring a three-mile test lane for autonomous and connected vehicles, intelligent traffic signals, and smart streetlights, among other tech infrastructures. This unique setup provides an unparalleled platform for companies to innovate and trial their cutting-edge technologies safely and effectively.
In her vision for the future, Heintz plans to build on the existing foundations at Curiosity Lab, expanding partnerships and supporting the growth of smart city technologies. By doing so, she hopes to ensure that Peachtree Corners remains at the forefront of innovation, setting an example for smart city implementations worldwide.
As a pivotal player in the growing ecosystem of smart city technology in the Atlanta region, Curiosity Lab under Heintz’s stewardship is likely to become an even more significant force in shaping how cities harness technology to enhance urban living. It’s an exciting time for both Heintz and the City of Peachtree Corners, as they embrace the burgeoning era of smart cities fueled by collaboration, innovation, and strategic development.
In summary, Emily Heintz’s appointment as Executive Director of Curiosity Lab highlights a commitment to advancing smart city technology and cultivating an environment ripe for innovation. With her leadership, Curiosity Lab is set to thrive during this transformative phase, promising a vibrant future for Peachtree Corners and beyond.