Suzanne Carlson is a passionate advocate for expanding K-5 computer science education nationwide. As the Director of Business Development at BootUp PD, she drives strategic partnerships that empower educators with the tools, training, and resources needed to bring coding and computational thinking into every classroom.

With over a decade of experience in education, sales, marketing, and non-profit leadership, Suzanne seamlessly blends her expertise to create impactful opportunities for schools and districts. She began her career in broadcast promotions and marketing, developing strategic campaigns for the Kansas City Chiefs Radio Network—an experience that sparked her lifelong enthusiasm for the team. She later transitioned into education, spending more than 10 years as a classroom teacher. From teaching high school marketing to designing a comprehensive K-8 computer science curriculum, Suzanne has been a dedicated champion of student learning and innovation.

Her career has since evolved into education-focused sales and business development, where she thrives on forging relationships that drive meaningful change. At BootUp PD, Suzanne leverages her deep understanding of education and technology to expand access to high-quality, equity-driven professional development, ensuring all students—regardless of background—have the opportunity to develop essential digital skills.

Suzanne has also dedicated more than 10 years to the non-profit sector, designing programs that equip students with career development and financial literacy skills. She holds a double major in Marketing and Business Education from Southern New Hampshire University and a Master’s degree in Business Education with a minor in Marketing Research from the University of Nebraska.

Outside of work, Suzanne enjoys cooking, traveling, and spending time with her family. With three grown children—one in Wisconsin, one in Austin, Texas and one in St. Cloud, Minnesota. She is the proud grandmama to two little boys and a little girl due in June —she loves making memories with loved ones while continuing to cheer on her beloved Kansas City Chiefs.