iTTU Mentor

Michael Starr

Functional Expertise

• Startup Formation

• VC/Angel Funding

• Pitch Training

Industry Expertise

• Social/Non-profit

• Government

• Aerospace

Michael Bob Starr is the Executive Director of The Paradox Lab, a venture studio based in Abilene focused on building advanced energy startups that improve energy resilience, reliability, affordability, and abundance. He is also an active angel investor and serves as Regional Director of the Central Texas Angel Network chapter in Abilene, where he works to strengthen the startup ecosystem across West Texas and connect founders with capital, mentorship, and strategic networks.

Before launching The Paradox Lab, Michael Bob served 23 years in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Colonel after commanding Dyess Air Force Base, where he was responsible for over 4,000 personnel and 23 B-1 bombers. A combat pilot with more than 600 combat hours in five aircraft, he also served on General David Petraeus’s staff in Baghdad during the Iraq surge. Throughout his military career, he became known for building high-performing teams, leading through complexity, and championing innovation inside large organizations.

Michael Bob now applies that leadership experience to entrepreneurship, venture building, and ecosystem development. His interests include founder development, energy innovation, regional economic growth, and helping first-time founders navigate the challenges of building venture-scale companies. He is especially passionate about unlocking overlooked talent and opportunities in emerging startup ecosystems.