WLA/WHS Scholarly Series: Innovation, Disruption, Revolution: The Impact of Technological Advancement — John Kao

The Future of Innovation — John Kao, Turing Fellow at Yale’s Digital Media Center

In the 17th year of Wilton Library and Wilton Historical Society’s collaboration, the scholarly lecture series focuses on the theme of “Innovation, Disruption, Revolution: The Impact of Technological Advancement.” In this lecture, John Kao presents a contemporary view of what innovation is, where it is going, and how advanced technology is reshaping its foundations.

The current state of innovation does not, for the most part, fit new business and societal realities. Innovation remains essential, especially in these turbulent times. But, to remain relevant, evolution is necessary. Its very definition needs clarification and reimagination. The future of innovation is intimately entwined with the rapid advance of technology. Artificial Intelligence and ChatGPT, innovation marketplaces, and augmented reality are only some of the influences that will shape future innovation practices. And, they raise the central question of how humans and machines will renegotiate the trade space for creativity, entrepreneurship…and innovation.

For the past 25 years, Kao worked with the ideas of innovation, creativity, entrepreneurship and leadership. Dubbed “Mr. Creativity” by The Economist, his work is varied. This includes 14 years at Harvard Business School, visiting appointments at the MIT Media Lab and attendance at the US Naval Postgraduate School, among others. He also graced Hollywood, Broadway, the music industry, politics and national security and Silicon Valley with his expertise.

Kao is currently the Turing Fellow at Yale’s Digital Media Center, a Visiting Fellow at Yale Engineering School and a Yale entrepreneur-in-residence. He co-founded and is Chairman Emeritus of ThayerMahan, Inc., a leader in maritime intelligence. With a BA and MD from Yale and a Harvard MBA, Kao is also the author of Jamming and Innovation Nation: How America Is Losing Its Innovation Edge, Why It Matters and What We Can Do To Get It Back.

This series is sponsored by Laureen Mody. The moderator is Max Gabrielson. A reception follows the talk and there is no charge to attend, but donations are welcome. Visit the Wilton Library website for required registration as well as additional dates, topics, and speaker details. Call to register at 203.762.6334.