NDSU alum builds connections in a global startup environment

Since graduating in May 2024 with a degree in finance and a certificate in professional sales, Corey Wilmer has stepped into a fast-paced, global role as creator partnerships lead at Whop in New York City.

In his position, Wilmer manages client relationships and drives growth for digital businesses, working with partners across the world from Dubai to the Netherlands. His days are filled with meetings, onboarding new clients and helping businesses evaluate financial solutions like payment processing, cost structures and revenue impact.

“What I enjoy most is the people,” Wilmer shared. “I’m surrounded by young entrepreneurs who are all focused on building and growing something. It’s a really energizing environment and it’s taken me all over the world.”

Wilmer credits his time at the College of Business with giving him the foundation to succeed in a client-facing, fast-moving role. His finance background helps him quickly analyze data and confidently navigate detailed conversations with clients.

One of his most impactful experiences came through the student-led Pathway Ventures, where he evaluated startup pitches and engaged directly with founders. “That experience really sparked my interest in startups,” he said. “It made me want to be part of a team that’s fully invested in building something meaningful.”

He also points to the influence of faculty mentors who helped shape his path.

“The two people I will always highlight as having the largest impact on my career at NDSU are Dr. Oudom Hean and Eric Gjerdevig,” Wilmer said. “Dr. Hean served as my mentor throughout the professional program. Being his research assistant helped me get out of the day-to-day classwork and into research, writing and even publishing. Some of my favorite moments were ideating about my future career path. He made post-grad feel less daunting and more like a decision I could make for myself. Eric’s program offered so many hands-on experiences — live pitching, in-person interview practice, the sales career fair and more. His stories and personal insights gave me the confidence to pursue a career in sales, and I couldn’t be happier I did.”

Those who worked closely with Wilmer saw the same qualities he credits in his mentors: curiosity, engagement and a willingness to connect with others.

Eric Gjerdevig, director of NDSU’s Sales Center shared, “Corey Wilmer was an engaged and high-impact student at NDSU who combined strong work ethic with a great attitude. He’s the kind of person people want on their team.”

“Corey is an approachable person who is always willing to put himself out there and connect with others,” said Oudom Hean, assistant professor of finance. “He was well-liked by everyone, so I am not surprised by the success he has achieved today.”

For current students, Wilmer offers a clear piece of advice: focus on experiences that set you apart. “Your degree opens the door, but what you’ve done outside the classroom is what helps you walk through it,” he said. “If you had an interview today, what would you talk about?”

With a strong start in the startup world, Wilmer is focused on continuing to learn what it takes to build and scale a business, keeping an eye on a future return to venture capital.