Kim Chotkowski
Kimberly (Chotkowski) Philipp is a dynamic and strategic leader with extensive experience in advanced technology product management, research and development, and global business operations. Over the course of her career, she has driven performance and growth in challenging environments, spearheaded acquisitions and structural transformations, and secured capital funding to advance technology companies on the international stage. Known for her collaborative approach and positive energy, she builds trust, develops high-performing teams, and advises corporate boards on strategic initiatives.
Currently serving as Chief Strategic Initiatives and Chief Litigation Counsel at Access Advance LLC, Kim brings a wealth of expertise in licensing strategy, intellectual property, and global technology markets. She also leads Brandywine Ventures LLC and serves as CEO of the Licensing Executives Society (U.S.A. and Canada), Inc., where she contributes to industry thought leadership and policy discussions, including delivering congressional testimony on international trade and IP policy.
Kim holds a BSEE in Engineering and further studies in Electrical Engineering and Humanities from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Her career is marked by a consistent commitment to mentoring teams, conceptualizing creative solutions, and influencing the advancement of technology on a global scale, making her a respected voice in the intersection of engineering, business strategy, and innovation.
• Certified Licensing Professional (CLP)
• Worcester Polytechnic Institute- B.S.E.E.
• UNH Franklin Pierce School of Law- J.D.
• Sacred Heart University- M.B.A.
• Toys for Tots
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a lifelong curiosity in how things work, nurtured from childhood through early ventures like my own business, and built on a foundation in electrical engineering. Along the way, mentors, networks, and hands-on experience in negotiating and protecting technology taught me patience, leverage, and the value of empathy—lessons that have been just as critical as any degree or certification.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to be brave and proactive in building real-world connections—many of the opportunities that shaped my career came from conversations at conferences, networking events, or even chance encounters, not just from boardrooms or emails. Don’t underestimate the power of face-to-face networking and putting yourself out there.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is that intellectual property, especially in complex technologies, is increasingly litigated overseas, highlighting the need for stronger U.S. strategies. At the same time, being a woman in a male-dominated field presents both a challenge and an opportunity—to not only succeed but to mentor and uplift the next generation of women in engineering and IP.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are elevating others—especially women in male-dominated fields—through mentorship, building genuine relationships, and lifelong learning. I also champion fairness, transparency, and the courage to advocate for both technology and the people behind it.