Do I pursue a career in PE or consulting before starting a fund?

I wouldn't start a fund.

Like Tom, I did both and think there's pros to each. I think PE could use a lot of the skills that consulting taught me about best practices, using consulting frameworks, see the same problems 50 different ways, etc. I worked for tech companies (software, cyber security, medical devices, etc.) in Finance Strategy, which is helpful for me as I am looking in the tech space. PE is actual boots on the ground in a specific role for a long-time. You'll see the long-term impact of what you do and learn lessons that way, but to counter other opinions here, don't discount the consulting exp.!