Erik Trautman has extensive experience in entrepreneurship, leadership, and technology. Currently a Contributor at NEAR Protocol since August 2018, Erik previously served as Chairman and Interim CEO at Satori Technologies Inc. from July 2022 to March 2024, and as CEO of NEAR Foundation from 2019 to 2021. Erik also held the position of Head of Operations at Near Inc. from 2018 to 2019. In addition, Erik founded Viking Education, which was acquired by Thinkful in 2017, and The Odin Project, which Erik initially developed and launched. Other roles include Team Lead at Tech for Campaigns in 2017, President of the Coding School Alumni Association from 2013 to 2015, and Developer and Doer of Everything at App Academy in 2013. Erik holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics from the University of Pennsylvania and attended Phillips Academy and the Stockholm School of Entrepreneurship.