In honor of #IWD2021, we sat down with Hashtag’s CEO, Jerina Pillert, to get a glimpse into what it’s been like leading a business in Washington’s Cannabis Industry. 

Why did you choose the cannabis industry?

Most days it feels like the cannabis industry chose me as I kind of fell into it. I trained as an engineer and, as I was working on my PhD in biomedical engineering, I started helping to open Hashtag Cannabis on Stone Way by fighting for and acquiring a bank account, setting up back end processes, establishing deadlines and finishing up construction.

I quickly fell in love with the unique challenges and rewards of working to not only establish a small business but also one in an entirely new industry with its own particular issues and potential. Over five years later, my side project has turned into a full time job that has become the most rewarding career I could have ever hoped for. 

If you could change or improve one thing in the cannabis industry, what would you choose? / How are you hoping to see the cannabis industry evolve and/or grow? / What direction do you hope to see the industry evolve towards? Any organizations you want to mention that are doing the work you want to see flourish?

I would love to see the industry actively work to retain women and minorities in all areas - product creation, ownership, sales, manufacturing, management and leadership positions to name just a few.

Five years ago, there were more opportunities for everyone and I have witnessed the gradual closing of these opportunities as the industry has matured.

Additionally, I would like to see the barrier to entry decrease so that more people with diverse backgrounds can enter the industry and become small business owners and creators. I am actively looking for organizations that are promoting this vision.

Anything you would like to promote? Anything you're looking forward to in the near future?

I am very proud of the productive and innovative teams we have built at Hashtag and I am looking forward to not only establishing more Hashtag’s, but also ancillary businesses such as our Cafe and hempCBD shop with all of you.

As we build our organization, I would like to branch out and continue to learn how to create and establish successful and sustainable small businesses in multiple sectors.

Along the way, I hope to provide as many opportunities to as many talented and hardworking team members as possible.