Vanessa Perez
Board Member
Vanessa Machin Perez is a dynamic and accomplished professional with a wealth of experience across diverse industries, bringing a unique blend of expertise to every endeavor. January 2025 kicked off her latest venture as the President of MakeUtah—an exciting new project to create a dynamic space that connects engineers, daydreamers and industry to collaborate and transform ideas into tangible products that make a significant economic impact.
She recently traded-in her corporate career to follow her passion for entrepreneurship. With six years of experience in senior leadership roles with semiconductor manufacturing giants such as IM Flash, Micron, and Texas Instruments, Vanessa excels in navigating high-tech environments. This technical acumen is complemented by 23 years of distinguished service in the Australian Army, including 19 years in Special Operations Command during a high-tempo wartime environment, where strategic decision-making and decisive action was paramount.
Transitioning seamlessly across industries, Vanessa excelled in her 15-year career as an executive leader in Australia’s east coast, long distance passenger rail service. She gained unparalleled expertise in railway operations, safety, transportation management, customer service and operational efficiency, managing a diverse team of 350 direct reports. This versatility extends to a decade-long engagement in the fast-paced Australian film and television industry, where creativity and innovation took center stage.
A ‘gritty’ entrepreneur and inventor, Vanessa is a designer and manufacturer and is proud to have brought one invention to ‘market’. Her passion for building professional brands and empowering individuals through career readiness, she has coached and trained over 3,000 people with a major focus on military-to civilian career transitions. A recognized LinkedIn power-user, Vanessa leverages the platform to foster professional growth and community building. With over 15 years of board and committee service, she is deeply committed to philanthropy and creating a meaningful impact in communities.
A chronic do-gooder with an eye for detail, Vanessa has a life-long fascination with graphology and finds joy painting and interior design. A multiple marathon completer, she embodies determination and resilience, continuously striving to inspire and lead in every pursuit. Ask her about the first time she ever flew in a plane!