From Apple to Entrepreneur: Surviving COVID, Closing the Digital Divide & Leading with Empathy
June 1, 2026
Founder of Aeras Technologies and Aeras Foundation Details the Secrets to Building a Winning Team and Company
David Collins, CEO of Aeras Technologies and Aeras Foundation, a 26-year veteran of the software and telecom industry and a former Apple executive who helped launch the original iPhone into the carrier market, joined the B Student podcast for a deep conversation on the lessons he learned leaving big corporate to launch his own tech business.
David shares the behind-the-scenes story of leaving a successful corporate career to start his own company—only to launch it three months before the global pandemic. Instead of retreating, David and his team leaned into the chaos with a simple philosophy: “We weren’t selling. We were helping.”
From navigating crises to building a company culture rooted in empathy and service, David explains how resilience, relationships, and values-driven leadership have shaped his entrepreneurial journey.
1. The Mindset That Kept His Business Afloat During Pandemic
Launching a business during the Covid pandemic was an immense challenge. "It really went back to helping, not selling.” This mindset changed everything and kept Aeras Technologies alive during a global pandemic.
2. Being Able to Adapt to the Unexpected Is Your Edge in Business
Being prepared for every imaginable scenario and leading with strategy is only the start of success. Being able to adapt and react to the unexpected is what gives you an edge to succeed.
3. Leading with Empathy
Tech customers rarely call with praise, only when there is a problem. “No one calls to tell me I’m doing a great job.” So Aeras Technologies adopted a company-wide policy of leading with empathy, every time to deliver top customer service and satisfaction.
4. Bridging the Digital Divide
If you don't have a device, you can't access the services designed to help you get back on your feet. Since 2020, the Aeras Foundation has collected 17,000 pieces of technology - refurbishing 10,000 of them and putting devices directly into the hands of students, families and nonprofits in need across Central Florida and beyond, helping bridge the Digital Divide.
5. What Being a Girld Dad Taught Him About Business
David Collins didn't just learn entrepreneurship from boardrooms and IT crises. Raising daughters shaped who he is as a leader - and he'll tell you they taught him just as much as he taught them. Turns out the best leadership lessons aren't always learned at work.
Watch the full episode of the B Student podcast with guest David Collins to build strategy into your business practices and learn more about his journey to success by leading with empathy.