Who We Are

Our Executive Team

Since its inception in 1998, the Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council has sought to educate, inform, grow and unite the region’s growing technology community. We seek to better the technology industry by actively connecting and enabling the community, by supporting our region’s technology companies, and by actively pursuing positive changes in our community. To accomplish these goals, the RBTC executive team, board of directors, and advisors guide the organization toward the fulfillment of its mission. With the support and guidance of these individuals, the RBTC is the primary catalyst for connecting, growing, and leading our technology community.

ERIN BURCHAM

Executive Director, RBTC

Erin Burcham is the President of Verge and Executive Director of the Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council. She’s spearheaded initiatives for technology, innovation, and talent development in the region including multiple GO Virginia projects throughout her career. Previously, she served as the director of talent solutions for the Roanoke Regional Partnership. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of South Carolina and a master’s degree in leadership with a focus on economic development from Virginia Tech.

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TAYLOR SPELLMAN

Director, RBTC

Taylor Spellman comes to the RBTC with a rich background in marketing, media relations and project management for a variety of small businesses, startups and non-profit organizations. Her portfolio showcases a successful track record of launching and scaling new programs for success. As the former Director of Public Relations for Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, Taylor worked with hundreds of media and news publications around the globe promoting placemaking for the regional tourism organization. Prior to that, Taylor helped the development and marketing efforts to launch Roanoke’s first coworking space, CoLab. She has held many volunteer roles for local organizations and is a co-founder for Experience, dedicated to attracting and retaining talent in the Roanoke Region. Spellman serves on the Virginia Recreational Facilities Authority Board for Virginia’s Explore Park, originally appointed by former Virginia Governor McAuliffe. She is a graduate of Radford University and loves exploring new places and supporting local with her husband Tommy, their three young children and German Shorthaired Pointer Bo.

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JASON CLAYTON

Technology Talent Strategist

Jason brings over 20 years of experience in talent and leadership development expertise to the Roanoke-Blacksburg innovation ecosystem. Jason plans to use his higher education experience in career and talent development to work with various collaborative partners. His goals include attracting and retaining tech and biotech talent for the region to bolster the impressive innovation happening here. Prior to joining RBTC, Jason helped develop internship and work-based learning initiatives at multiple universities throughout the Southeast and upper Midwest, spanning both private and public institutions. A first-generation college graduate, Jason holds degrees from Eastern Michigan University and Clemson University. When not leveraging his skills on behalf of his passion to help people flourish and achieve their goals, Jason enjoys spending time with his family and exploring the outdoors and the arts scene in the New River Valley.

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