Elizabeth Kissane

Class of 2025-2026

University of Michigan, 2025
Industrial Engineering

Capstone Project Abstract:

Flagship Management is a technology-enabled equipment services company that offers a turnkey solution to customers in physical therapy, hospital, urgent care, research laboratory, and luxury home fitness markets, managing equipment across the full lifecycle from sale and delivery through preventative maintenance and repair. Since its founding in 2015, Flagship has grown from a regional provider in Philadelphia to a national player servicing thousands of rehab, medical, and research facilities across the U.S.

As the company enters its next growth phase, Flagship is building a tech-enabled M&A platform to accelerate, streamline, and automate the acquisition of field service businesses. These businesses, often run by retiring owner-operators, face significant challenges navigating the complex and emotionally charged sale process. Flagship’s proposed solution will leverage AI and data science to simplify and optimize acquisition workflows: including sourcing, diligence, valuation, underwriting, and integration. The student's work on this capstone project focuses on customer discovery, MVP definition, competitive analysis, and go-to-market strategy to help Flagship scale its acquisition engine while preserving the legacy of the businesses it acquires.

Why did you choose ESTEEM?

I chose ESTEEM because I wanted a hands-on, fast-paced program that would let me help me connect my technical background in engineering to the world entrepreneurship. With my background in Industrial and Operations Engineering, I was drawn to ESTEEM’s focus on applying technical skills to real-world innovation challenges, especially in startups and early-stage ventures. The opportunity to take ownership of a capstone project with direct impact while building business, strategy, and product thinking skills helped guide me to ESTEEM.

What do you hope to do after ESTEEM?

After ESTEEM, I hope to pursue a career at the intersection of technology, innovation, and intellectual property. My long-term goal is to attend law school and specialize in patent law, where I can use my engineering background and product development experience to support inventors, startups, and R&D-driven companies in protecting their ideas.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Outside of school, I enjoy staying active through strength training, running, golfing, and [solidcore] classes. I also enjoy following Pittsburgh sports, spending time with friends, and taking any opportunity to explore a new city.