Tyler Cole
Senior, University of Tampa | Marketing Major | Graduating May 2025
My passion for business was sparked by watching my father, the President of his own insurance agency, as he demonstrated the dedication and hard work required to succeed. This experience instilled in me the importance of continuous learning and commitment to growth.
Previously, I played college football as a slot receiver during my freshman year at Endicott College before transferring to the University of Tampa. After stepping away from varsity sports, I sought a new outlet for my competitive nature and discovered a passion for sales. The dynamic and goal-oriented nature of sales and entrepreneurship appeals to me as it offers both a continuous challenge and endless opportunities to develop my skills.
My Passion
Building Connections
Building connections means everything to me because it’s about forming genuine, lasting relationships that go beyond just a handshake or a business card. Growing up, I watched my dad thrive in his career, not because he had the best product or the lowest prices, but because he built trust with people who knew they could rely on him. That approach inspired me to value relationships in a similar way. In business, I’ve come to see how strong connections open doors, spark new ideas, and create opportunities you’d never see coming on your own. For me, connecting with others isn’t just a strategy; it’s a way to make a real impact, to support and be supported, and to be part of something bigger than myself. That’s why building connections is more than just a skill—it’s the heart of how I approach every professional interaction. It doesn’t have to be a professional interaction either! I enjoy meeting and learning from new people in general.
In the future, I can use my connections not only to grow my own business but to support and uplift others by fostering a network of mutual benefit. By introducing clients, colleagues, or partners to people who complement their strengths or offer resources they need, I can create a community that thrives on shared growth and collaboration. Organizing networking events, facilitating partnerships, or creating a platform where businesses can exchange services or ideas would strengthen these relationships while highlighting my role as a connector. This approach not only builds trust and goodwill but positions my business as a cornerstone in a network of thriving enterprises, ultimately creating an environment where everyone benefits and grows together.
My Goals
Have a Positive Effect on as Many People as Possible!
Having a positive impact on people is important to me because I believe true success in business is about more than just profits—it’s about helping others. I’ve seen how small gestures, like offering support or sharing knowledge, can make a lasting difference, and I want my work to reflect that. Building strong, trusting relationships with clients and colleagues leads to more meaningful connections and a lasting sense of fulfillment. By focusing on making a positive difference, I’m creating a legacy that goes beyond business transactions; it’s about leaving people better off, which motivates me every day.
I want to be my own boss later on in my career, learning from others who have been very successful before me. After growing up watching my father run his business I knew this route was meant for me once I knew I wasn’t going to be an NBA point guard for my occupation. CEO is a title that absolutely keeps me hungry to learn more and more so that I can pass on more and more to positively affect others.