Technology used to be a tool. Today, technology is a social force and it structures the way we interact with the world around us. It watches on every street corner. It scans license plates on the toll road. It recognizes faces at the airport. Until recently, the way we interact with the world around us was structured by laws and policies. The history of the world could be rewritten in the context of the right to control the rules under which we live. Now, what is not explicitly set in law is structured in code, in the technology you use, and in the services that rely on technology. Rules set in computer code are meant to structure interactions between humans for the economic or social benefit of their producers. There are many everyday interactions formerly structured by social institutions that are now literally codified in… well, code. Competition in this evolving digital world means you will need the right kind of tools. Having the right kind of tools means you are someone who is thinking about technology.
Tim – Technology
Born in the heartland of the United States just before the last manned flight to the Moon. Taught that when you speak, you say what you mean; when you give your word, you keep it; you never betray a friend and most importantly, you always stand up to bullies. Childhood was a steady diet of Star Wars, Batman, X-Men, John Mellencamp, and bumper stickers that declared, “Better Dead than Red”. Believes that technology and old-fashioned American ingenuity will free us from drudgery, starvation, and decrepitude. Worked for the big names in technology, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing as a Management Consultant, Enterprise Architect, and Director of Technology.
Jon – Engineering
The original maker. Grew up in the woods of the Ozarks where “hitting things with sticks” was a local sport. Not a weekend passed without crafting a sword, crossbow, or grappling hook. Tested the limits of Stretch Armstrong, crafted jets from Balsa Wood and Bottle Rockets, and made Q-Tips and Sewing pins into painful (if not deadly) weapons of Ninja Stealth. Believes that you measure twice and cut once, anything worth doing is worth doing right, and “by Grayskull, I have the Power!”. Worked in the Air Force as a Crew Chief on the F-16 and F-117 “Stealth Fighter” and in telecommunications as an award-winning Manager.
Carmen – Business
Grew up in the mountains of Northern California where everyday was punctuated by clean air, mountain vistas, and natural beauty. Walked to school uphill in the snow both ways and loved it! Radio and Television Pop Culture was something for the big city; days and nights were spent with friends and family. Believes each day is an opportunity for outdoor activity and every chance to hike, bike, or run should be embraced with gusto. Worked as a Research Manager for public schools and universities, and in manufacturing as a Business Manager.