Aaron joined NEA in 2011 and currently partners with founders innovating in AI/ML, developer tools, cloud/data/app infrastructure, cybersecurity, and robotics. Prior to joining NEA, Aaron spent two years in M&A advisory at Qatalyst Partners, in San Francisco. Aaron graduated summa cum laude from the Jerome Fisher Program in Management & Technology at the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned dual bachelor of science degrees in economics and electrical engineering, and carried a minor in math.
How do you want your founders to describe you?
Trustworthy, analytical, and responsive. I want them to think of me as a true partner who can jump in at any time to collaborate and problem-solve from first principles. I want them to be able to lean on me as needed, whether it be for industry expertise, company-building help, or emotional support.
What motivates you as an investor?
Making an impact and exercising my intellectual curiosity. I find it rewarding to help founders transform their visions into generational, world-changing companies. And I’m lucky that this process also indulges my curiosity and keeps me learning about what’s next on the technology horizon.
What personal values do you share with NEA?
I believe in doing the right thing, even when it’s the hard thing. This is very much the same ethos under which NEA operates. As a firm, we’re always striving to have a clean karmic balance sheet, so doing the right thing for the long-term success of our limited partners, founders, and their companies is always prioritized over shorter term gains.
You’ve been with NEA for over 12 years. What’s kept you here that long?
Two things. First, entrepreneurs face stacked odds, and the scale of NEA—from our capital base to our expertise to our network—allows us to put real weight behind our founders to, hopefully, tip the scale in their favor. Second, the people here. Whether it’s my partners or founders, they continue to be my source of inspiration, learning, and fun.
What’s your favorite inspirational quote?
“Try not to become a man of success but rather try to become a man of value”—Albert Einstein. Life is about the positive impact you leave on those around you rather than the accomplishments you’re known for.
What’s been the most helpful career advice you’ve received?
Don’t overthink it.
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“I believe in doing the right thing, even when it’s the hard thing. This is very much the same ethos under which NEA operates.”
