Thank You For Being Such A Vital Part Of Our Team, Jignesh Patel! We Look Forward To Sharing More About You So Others Can Get To Know You Better!
Tell us a bit about your backstory and what lead you down your current life path.
Born in India, I built a 25+ year tech career in cybersecurity and risk, leading initiatives at Charles Schwab. Driven to create lasting impact, I launched ventures like Jotexa (AI) and Potbelly franchises in Texas. These businesses foster community, jobs, and leadership. I also serve on the board of Transcendent Parenting and volunteer for youth and family causes. At the core of my journey is a passion for service, impact, and meaningful connection.
What or who inspired you to pursue your career?
My career has been shaped by purpose and people, starting with my father’s example of disciplined, values-based leadership. Mentors in risk and cybersecurity taught me the importance of clarity, structure, and accountability under pressure. These lessons guide my leadership in high-stakes environments. What inspires me most, though, is the impact on communities—through tech, job creation, and local connection.
I believe business should be a force for good, and that belief drives everything I do.
What is one thing you are proud of achieving in your life?
One of the things I’m most proud of is building a meaningful life that bridges business success with community impact. Professionally, I’ve led major cybersecurity and risk programs at a national financial institution, work that protects millions of people and helps build trust in the financial system. At the same time, I’ve grown a multi-unit franchise business from the ground up, creating jobs and opportunities across Central Texas. But beyond titles and milestones, what truly makes me proud is that I’ve used these platforms to give back, whether that’s mentoring young professionals, launching an AI firm to empower local businesses, or serving on the board of Transcendent Parenting to support families in crisis. Being able to balance ambition with purpose, and make a difference along the way, is something I carry with deep pride.
What keeps you motivated? What maintains your passion for and commitment to the work you are doing?
My work—whether in cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, or community service, has real, lasting impact. In my professional life, I’m driven by the challenge of solving complex problems and protecting organizations from risk. Every new regulation, breach, or innovation is an opportunity to think differently and lead smarter. That constant evolution keeps me sharp and engaged. There’s something incredibly rewarding about turning vision into value, especially when it uplifts others. And at the heart of it all is service. I’m passionate about giving back, whether through nonprofit work, mentoring, or supporting underserved families. It reminds me why I do what I do. That combination of purpose, challenge, and impact is what fuels me every day.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story?
I owe my journey to my parents, who showed me resilience, work ethic, and quiet strength. My father ran a small shop in India, working long hours for family and community. My mother taught me patience and compassion amid uncertainty. When I moved to the U.S. for my master’s, they sacrificed financially and emotionally, selling belongings to support me. Their belief sparked a fire that drives everything I do—in leadership, business, and service. Their example guides me through tough decisions and inspires me to dream bigger, work harder, and give back.
Tell about an amazing trip you took. Where did you go and what did you enjoy most?
One of my most memorable trips was with my family to Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks in Utah. We love escaping into nature—no distractions, just open skies and trails. We hiked canyons, admired towering rocks, and watched stunning sunsets. More than the scenery, I treasured unplugging and connecting with family—laughing, challenging ourselves, and sharing quiet moments. Exploring national parks has become our grounding tradition: no Wi-Fi, no rush, just family, fresh air, and renewed appreciation for life and each other.
If you were granted three wishes, what would they be and why?
If granted three wishes, I’d focus on lasting impact for family, community, and the world. First, I’d wish for health and happiness for my loved ones—nothing matters more. Second, I’d wish for equal access to education and mentorship for all children, unlocking hidden potential. Third, I’d wish to keep growing, learning, and giving back throughout life, continuing to make a difference through service and innovation. These wishes reflect what I value most: family, fairness, and purpose.
Is there something exciting you are working on now? What is it and why did you choose to start it?
I’m excited to lead Jotexa, an AI-driven firm helping small and mid-sized businesses access advanced tech once reserved for large enterprises. We build smart, human-centered tools—like chatbot agents and voice AI—for industries such as auto, therapy, law, and healthcare. Our focus is on creating seamless, meaningful experiences, not just bots. Jotexa simplifies AI adoption with a strong foundation in ethics, security, and usability. This venture is about empowering businesses, unlocking talent, and making innovation truly accessible.
Is there a particular book that made a significant impact on you? What is it and why did it resonate with you?
One book that deeply impacted me is Gandhi’s “The Story of My Experiments with Truth.” It’s more than a memoir—it’s a life philosophy rooted in integrity, humility, and fearless self-reflection. Gandhi’s dedication to truth and service, even against adversity, inspires me. His leadership focused on uplifting others and living with purpose. This message guides my work in finance, AI, and mentoring. Like him, I believe leadership begins with character, empathy, and choosing impact over ego. Success is about who you become, not just what you build.
Describe a time when you sought out someone else’s idea or feedback and how you incorporated that insight to yield a better result.
Early in my career, a manager told me, “Don’t just bring problems—bring thought.” That advice shaped my leadership style into one rooted in solutions, empathy, and initiative. I began approaching every challenge with options, context, and a people-first mindset. Whether in cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, or coaching, this approach built stronger teams. It’s a lesson I still live by—and share with others—to this day.
Share one professional development goal and one personal goal you have for the upcoming year.
Professionally, my goal is to scale Jotexa by launching automation solutions in five new industries, starting with healthcare and law. I focus on building ethical, secure, and user-friendly AI tools for small and mid-sized businesses. I’m also forming partnerships to expand nationally. Personally, I’m committed to supporting my son’s military journey and creating more intentional family time through national park adventures. These experiences keep me grounded and motivated.
The road to success is difficult and requires tremendous dedication. What advice would you give to a young person who aspires to follow in your footsteps and emulate your success?
My biggest advice: don’t wait to be ready—start now, stay curious, and lead with integrity. Success comes from learning, failing, and getting back up stronger. I built my career by showing up with effort, humility, and a growth mindset, not a perfect plan. Surround yourself with challengers and mentors, listen more, and trust your values—they matter more than your resume. Consistency beats leaps; steady steps shape your story. Above all, care deeply for your team, customers, and community—trust grows from genuine care.
Describe a time that you failed and how you responded to that situation.
In 2006, being laid off from a job I loved felt like failure and brought uncertainty. Over time, I saw it as a turning point that made me reflect on my true passions and goals. That setback pushed me to take risks, learn new skills, and start ventures like my AI consulting firm and franchise business. It taught me resilience, adaptability, and finding clarity through discomfort. Looking back, the layoff was a valuable lesson—failure can redirect you to your true potential.
What are you most passionate about? Can you share a story?
I’m passionate about creating impact through people and purpose—whether building businesses, mentoring youth, or guiding my own children. Helping my son pursue a military path, from ROTC prep to leadership training, has been a deeply rewarding experience that reflects my core values: service, discipline, and growth. That same drive fuels my work—whether leading risk strategy, developing AI tools, or supporting nonprofits. For me, true success means using my strengths to lift others up and make a meaningful difference.
You are a person of great influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good for the greatest number of people, what would that be?
If I could inspire a movement, it would focus on “Access to Purpose-Driven Technology and Mentorship for All.” I envision a platform where underserved students and small businesses gain AI-powered tools and real human guidance—making innovation inclusive, ethical, and empowering. It’s about bridging the digital divide, making mentorship a daily habit, and unlocking potential across communities. When people feel supported, they uplift others. That’s the legacy I aim to build: impact rooted in access, purpose, and humanity.
Please share your favorite life lesson quote. How is it relevant to your life?
One of my favorite quotes is Gandhi’s: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” This has guided me personally, professionally, and as a parent. Whether leading risk strategy, growing businesses, coaching football, or supporting cheer, fulfillment comes from serving others with purpose and humility. During challenges like being laid off, it pushed me to focus on how I could help and create value. Service isn’t a side mission—it’s the mission.
Is there a person in the world with whom you would love to have a private lunch and why? He/she might just see this! 🙂
If I could have lunch with anyone, it would be Satya Nadella. His blend of empathy, vision, and humility in leading Microsoft is deeply inspiring. As someone building an AI firm focused on accessible, human-centered tech, I’d love to learn how he balances innovation with inclusivity. His journey—from personal challenges to transforming Microsoft’s culture—offers powerful lessons. A conversation with him could spark ideas that shape more ethical, compassionate futures.
Why did you choose to be a Committee Member of Educate. Radiate. Elevate.?
I joined Educate. Radiate. Elevate. because its mission of equity, empowerment, and purposeful education aligns with my values. I’ve seen how access to resources and mentorship can transform lives—I’ve lived it, mentored it, and want to help scale it. E.R.E. takes real action to close opportunity gaps, matching my approach to lead with impact and lift others. Coming from modest beginnings and leading diverse ventures, I’m committed to using my experience to serve the next generation. This committee role is my way to pay it forward and advance a future where talent knows no limits.
What about the Educate. Radiate. Elevate.’s Purpose, Mission, and Core Values speaks most to you and why?
What resonates most with me about Educate. Radiate. Elevate. is its commitment to empowering under-resourced youth through education, equity, and encouragement. I’ve always believed talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not—and E.R.E. works to change that by building both skills and confidence. Their values—kindness, respect, authenticity, and justice—align deeply with my own. This mission isn’t just meaningful; it’s personal. It reflects the world I strive to help build, where every student feels seen and supported.
What are the essential skills one must have to grow and scale a nonprofit like Educate. Radiate.Elevate.? What qualities do you value the most when building out teams and resources?
To grow a nonprofit like Educate. Radiate. Elevate., key skills include strategic clarity, community-centered leadership, and operational discipline. Success requires leaders who connect purpose with metrics and passion with execution. Fundraising, storytelling, partnerships, and data-driven impact matter most when paired with empathy and transparency. I value team members who are authentic, collaborative, resilient, proactive, and deeply aligned with the mission. From my experience, the strongest organizations blend emotional intelligence with practical action, always focused on those they serve
Share any other relevant details you feel might be helpful in us getting to know you.
At my core, I’m a builder who believes business, technology, and community should work together to improve lives. I lead third-party risk at a major financial firm, run an AI consulting business, and own several Potbelly franchises in Texas. Though different, all these roles reflect my values of ownership, impact, and people-first leadership. Outside work, I’m a hands-on dad—coaching football, supporting cheer, and helping my oldest son pursue a military career. My family loves unplugging on nature hikes, recharging and focusing on what matters. Whether building businesses or mentoring, I’m driven by the belief that legacy is what you create while here.
