Building Connections
Kassandra Pike ’12 has had many titles over the years: entrepreneur, student, manager, triplet, coach, dog mom and, most recently, CEO. Alongside her twin sister, Courtney Pike ’12, Kassandra co-founded Fliptable Plus, a digital platform and mobile app, helping to enhance the hiring experience for both employers and job seekers in the restaurant and hospitality industry. Having both worked in restaurants, Kassandra and Courtney were well-versed in the common issues facing many within the industry, which often come back to staffing. Fliptable Plus uses proprietary algorithms to match restaurants with restaurant talent, helping to streamline the process of hiring and job hunting. The company continues to grow, adding point-of-sale and payment software to the platform.
In reflecting on her journey, Kassandra shared, "The strategy and challenges involved with creating a piece of technology that one can share with the world is extremely rewarding and gratifying. I have always been drawn to the more complex path. There’s no personal growth in being comfortable. Nothing wrong with being comfortable, I’m just not ready to sit down in my life yet."
Kassandra said the skills and knowledge she gained at Colby-Sawyer College have played a crucial role in her success. Colby-Sawyer helped to give her confidence to follow her skills and interests while also being open to many different paths to success. She also acknowledged the generous support network and highly respected alumni at CSC, expressing her commitment to carrying that same message of support for fellow alumni.
When asked about the impact of specific professors, Kassandra highlighted the influence of Robin Burroughs Davis, Eric Boyer and Craig Greenman.
"There simply is not enough time or words to express the impact these professors have on my professional career and personal growth,” she said. “I would like to think I’m thanking them every day and showing my respect by being a successful human being who wants to continue to support their efforts and by supporting other alumni and their personal or professional pursuits. Paying it forward."
The biggest influence in Kassandra’s life has been a mentor she met while working in the Office of Presidential Correspondence in The White House. They taught her ways to be able to make decisions not just for herself but for the greater good. They inspired Kassandra to think in ways bigger than she had ever imagined. She was motivated to always find ways to improve and excel while also sharing the knowledge and experience she learns along the way with others. “I never felt I had to hide myself or my skills or what I had to bring to the table as a human being, a teammate, or a colleague,” Kassandra added. “I was seen as an equal and someone who had a lot to offer to myself and to the world — and so much I had yet to uncover about my future ahead. There is so much power that comes from having the right people and their energy as part of your network and your circle. I’m grateful for true human connections and having a strong circle.”
Outside the office, Kassandra enjoys the company of her labradors, traveling, attending community events, savoring a good bottle of red wine, reading and indulging in stand-up comedy. Looking to the future, she envisions leading successful startups, building strong relationships and giving back to her community.