Caleb Smith is a Triangle native who after graduating high school, decided to head overseas to play soccer in Germany. After a few years he returned to the United States and opened up the Triangle Esports Academy in Cary, NC. Opening a brick and mortar business in October 2020 during the pandemic and having limited options, Caleb was forced to make many vital pivots which led to the success of the company. The main pivot being transition from an entertainment to an EdTech company. Triangle Esports Academy were the winners for the 2022 Cary Chamber of Commerce Innovation in Business Award. In April 2022 Caleb was awarded the 2022 TBJ 40 under 40 Award. Triangle Esports Academy core focus is on education in innovative tech industries and workforce development. Caleb has led Triangle Esports Academy to be engaged with the community through participating with K-12 schools, colleges, and nonprofits. In November 2022 Caleb was awarded the Forbes 30 under 30 for the Education category.