CXO Magazine – June 2023 – Inspiring CXOs of the Year – 2023

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THE POWER OF INSPIRING LEADERS AT THE HELM OF A BUSINESS

Great leaders understand the significance of personal and professional growth, not only for themselves but also for their teams. They invest in their employees' development by providing training opportunities, mentorship, and resources necessary for advancement. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, inspiring leaders empower their team members to expand their skill sets, take on new challenges, and reach their full potential. This commitment to growth cultivates a motivated workforce and strengthens the organization as a whole.

In fact, having an inspiring leader at the top of a business can make a remarkable difference in the organization's success, culture, and overall performance. Their ability to set a clear vision, motivate employees, encourage growth, nurture innovation, build trust, and foster resilience creates an environment where individuals thrive, and organizations flourish. As businesses strive to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing world, investing in inspiring leadership becomes increasingly crucial. By embracing and nurturing inspiring leaders, organizations can unlock their true potential and pave the way for a prosperous future.

In this issue, we introduce a group of truly inspiring business leaders who have made remarkable contributions to their respective industries. Their stories, experiences, and accomplishments serve as a testament to their exceptional leadership and entrepreneurial acumen. On the cover, we feature Oliver Chapman, who is the founder and CEO of OCI, a leading supply chain specialist company. In a conversation with CXO Magazine, Oliver delves into his experiences, insights, and the principles that underpin his approach to trading and supply chain management. Enjoy Reading.

Sarath Shyam

OLIVER CHAPMAN

REINVENTING SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT

Founder and CEO, OCI

28

Serghei Busmachiu, CEO of Utilities One

A Leader's Vision in Shaping the Future of American Infrastructure

40 Suzanne Alfano, Executive Director, Canadian Fire Alarm Association

Leading the Way in Fire Safety and Advocacy

Nick Suwyn, Founder & CEO, Promineo Tech

Michael B. Horn, Thought Leader, Author, & Speaker

Mirna Mneimneh, Co-Founder & COO, Elggo Leveraging Innovation to Empower Students & Making a Meaningful Impact

OPINIONS

Prof. Cristian Randieri, Scientist & Professor, eCampus University & Founder, Intellisystem Technologies

The Synergy of Science, Art, and Innovation: Exploring the Role of Scientific Research and Art Creativity in Fostering New Business Ideas

Tell us a little bit about your education and life as a student. What lessons have you learned in your childhood/college days that helped you become the leader you are today?

Since the age of 15, I have been engaged in trading, importing, and exporting products. Even

during family vacations, I would return with local products or unique finds from market stores and sell them to friends, not always for profit. This mindset continued throughout my teenage years, when I imported electrical products from China and sold them within schools. During my time at university, I

ventured into importing cosmetics from the USA, which were highly sought-after here but not readily accessible to customers. At the time, I believed I was merely making a few pounds here and there, but looking back, those early endeavors laid the foundation for the career I have today.

As I progressed beyond university, I expanded my trading activities to encompass larger-scale operations, including containerized shipments. Sustainability became an area of focus for me early on, and I prioritized the trade of recyclable materials. I would load containers with tires, selling them to African and South American countries, and importing them to the UK. I vividly remember physically loading those containers myself, as I didn't have the luxury of a team back then.

I recall a particular day when I attempted to be resourceful by going to Italy, where one of my suppliers was located. I had arranged for container pickups at 10 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm, all at different locations around Milan. I thought I could manage to load those containers single-handedly. The reality

I foster an ideas meritocracy within the organization, where every individual, regardless of their position, has a voice

hit me hard: each container held 12.5 tonnes, equivalent to 1,300 tires. The cost implications of making a mistake with that shipment would have resulted in substantial penalties, amounting to hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds. There was no option but to handle it myself. I remember reaching a physical breaking point and telling myself, "Never again." That experience instilled in me the grit and determination to get the job done, as I had no other choice. I operate OCI with the same mindset—to never forget my roots or where I come from.

How do you describe your leadership style?

At OCI, my leadership style is predominantly democratic. I foster an ideas meritocracy within the organization, where every individual, regardless of their position, has a voice. Depending on the specific topic, the validity of ideas can come from any staff member, whether junior or senior.

In hierarchical organizations, blind spots often emerge, particularly when junior staff members possess more informed opinions on certain matters than their senior counterparts. Unfortunately, these junior staff members may feel hesitant to speak up. It could be a simple issue like paperwork not being completed on time, which falls under the responsibility of a senior staff member, but a junior team member recognizes the underlying bottleneck. At OCI, we actively encourage and remind our team that we operate on an ideas meritocracy. We value and listen to everyone's ideas. Similarly, it is the collective responsibility of all team members to speak up and contribute their insights to the decision-making process.

No business is perfect, and there will always be changes and deviations from the plan, so you must be agile as a leader

What does innovation mean to you? What has been the most rewarding part of your role as an innovative business leader?

To me, innovation is about transforming how a business, or the potential for a business, operates to generate growth and bring new directions to a market. The most rewarding aspect of being an innovative business leader is witnessing the success that comes from implementing something new. It's the gratification of creating a fresh market, disrupting an existing one, or introducing a concept that has never been seen before. It is not an easy feat, often requiring extensive education to help people understand the unique offerings of your business.

Consider the example of selling ice cream from an ice cream van—a straightforward and well-established business. If you sell more ice cream than any other vendor in the market, people will recognize your success and trust your brand. However, when you venture into changing or creating a market, it becomes significantly more challenging.

For OCI, seeing our clients thrive and prosper from our innovative products and services is immensely rewarding. We have witnessed the growth of companies from inception, starting with zero turnover and reaching €200 million in the first year of operation. Achieving such milestones is truly fulfilling.

Similarly, empowering clients by demonstrating the potential impact of our offerings, providing them with comprehensive supply chain support, and witnessing their growth from a £30 million to a £350 million turnover company within nine

months is incredibly satisfying. These clients not only achieve their own growth and success but also drive positive outcomes for other businesses. In a way, OCI serves as an incubator for unicorns.

What values are important to you as a leader?

No business is perfect, and there will always be changes and deviations from the plan, so you must be agile as a leader. You need to be able to deal with adversity and model agility. If something

goes wrong, you must pick yourself up and have resilience. There is a good analogy here with the supply chain itself, which must also demonstrate resilience.

What was the hardest decision you have taken as a leader? What helped you to prompt the best course of action?

The hardest decision I faced as a leader, like many others, revolved around adapting our business to the reality of COVID-19. The

supply chain came to a standstill when the world closed, ports shut down, and ships ceased to sail. Navigating OCI through that challenging period proved to be a formidable task. However, OCI thrives under pressure, and the pandemic turned out to be an exceptionally successful time for us.

When it comes to decision-making, my compass combines instinct with the strength of the exceptional team around me. Our collective experience in navigating difficult

situations and consistently finding innovative solutions is an integral part of our business.

How has been the growth of the global supply chain industry? How is OCI positioned in this dynamic market?

Global supply chains experienced disruptions when the U.S. and China initially imposed trade tariffs, resulting in global chip shortages. Then, the advent of COVID-19 served as more than the final straw, causing widespread breakdowns in supply chains that have yet to be fully resolved. Consequently, the global supply chain market has faced significant turmoil.

Amidst this challenging landscape, OCI stands out as an expert in the field, uniquely positioned to provide support to large procurement outsourcing corporates in resolving their supply chain issues. Despite the upheaval, OCI has thrived during this period and will continue to do so as the market undergoes further transformations.

Tell us a bit about the founding story of OCI.

I have been involved in trading since the age of 15, and my focus on sustainability started during my university years. I specialized in trading environmentally-friendly products, such as recycled rubbers and plastics, as well as providing alternative fuels. Sustainability became a central pillar in my approach to business, with its importance emphasized through the three 'Ss': Sustainability, Sustainability, and Sustainability.

Over time, the company underwent a strategic pivot approximately seven years ago. I came to understand that to truly excel, it is necessary to add value to the supply chain rather than simply engaging in product trading, which lacks

Sustainability became a central pillar in my approach to business, with its importance emphasized through the three 'Ss': Sustainability, Sustainability, and Sustainability

inherent value addition. This realization has been instrumental in shaping OCI into the supply chain partner it is today. We focus on adding value to core aspects of the supply chain, going beyond mere buying and selling of products.

Tell us about the products and services OCI offers now for its clients. How does the company intend to stand out from the crowd? What are the key benefits OCI partners get?

OCI specializes in offering a comprehensive supply chain solution, encompassing three core pillars to meet the procurement needs of organizations:

Sourcing - Our expertise lies in locating, negotiating, and managing contracts and suppliers on behalf of our clients.

Logistics - We provide logistical solutions, facilitating the transportation of cargoes from point A to B through various modes including road, sea, rail, and air. Our reach extends to multiple warehouses worldwide.

Flexible financing - Our unique selling point is our ability to offer flexible financing options tailored to our clients' specific requirements.

In essence, we serve as an outsourcing procurement partner, assuming responsibility for your entire supply chain and providing the necessary financing so that your organization doesn't have to bear the costs. Imagine the increased business potential and opportunities that can arise from such a partnership.

At OCI, how are you trying to drive employee engagement and keep up the positive spirit?

As a business that values inclusivity, we strive to ensure that all voices and opinions are heard and respected within OCI. We believe in creating an environment where our employees feel valued and appreciated for their contributions. Cultivating a sense of buy-in is also crucial to us. We aim for all our employees to genuinely believe in and support the mission and values of OCI. By fostering this sense of alignment and shared purpose, we can work together towards our collective goals and drive success.

How do you stimulate innovation within the organization?

As entrepreneurs, our constant drive is to make things bigger, faster, and better. At OCI, we actively foster innovation in everything we do as a business, particularly in the realm of redesigning

supply chains. Our solutions are never off the shelf; they are always tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. We encourage and challenge each other to think creatively and question conventional practices. Innovation is deeply ingrained in our DNA, fueling our passion to push boundaries and pave the way for transformative advancements in the industry.

What are the opportunities OCI sees in the global market? Tell us about your expansion plans. Currently, we are witnessing significant shifts in trade dynamics between India and China. Additionally, it is crucial to recognize the emerging trend of 'near-shoring,' where businesses are relocating their operations from countries like Poland to Western Europe or from Mexico to the U.S. In order to navigate these geopolitical trends successfully, agility is paramount. We must remain adaptable and

At OCI, we actively foster innovation in everything we do as a business, particularly in the realm of redesigning supply chains

I embrace the mindset of taking ownership of my own success and actively working towards building a life that aligns with my personal fulfillment and aspirations

responsive to the changing landscape, enabling us to seize new opportunities and effectively address the challenges that arise. By staying attuned to these shifts, we can proactively position ourselves to provide valuable support and solutions to our clients in this evolving global business environment.

What does your typical working day look like? How do you handle pressure and stay calm all day, and how do you unplug from work?

I start my day with a personal training session in the morning to prioritize my wellbeing. Following that, I eagerly engage in a team call, connecting with my colleagues to discuss and align on our objectives for the day. I thoroughly enjoy meeting new people and fostering meaningful connections.

In my free time, I find listening to podcasts to be a great source of inspiration and knowledge. Currently, I am tuned in to 'Founders,' hosted by David Senra, where he reads autobiographies and shares the valuable lessons learned from notable individuals. It's an efficient way to gain insights about fascinating personalities within a short span of time. This podcast provides me with a wealth of information and inspiration to fuel my own personal and professional growth.

Do you have any thoughts you would like to share about being a leader or advice for individuals looking for a successful life?

In society, the conventional belief is that individuals should follow a predetermined

path of education and employment to achieve success. This societal structure often leads people to believe that it is the right and only way to secure a prosperous future.

However, my perspective on business is different. I firmly believe that each day presents an opportunity for me to contribute to my own success. I view the notion of dedicating one's life to a job that brings no personal fulfillment as a contribution to the success of others rather than to one's own. It is disheartening to witness individuals spending 45 years of their lives solely dedicated to a business owned by someone else. I believe that many people unknowingly squander a significant portion of their lives by dedicating it solely to the benefit of others rather than pursuing their own passions and dreams.

I embrace the mindset of taking ownership of my own success and actively working towards building a life that aligns with my personal fulfillment and aspirations. By doing so, I can make the most of the precious gift of life and contribute to my own journey of achievement and happiness.

What projects or goals are you working on or leading currently?

We are currently working on some exciting projects in the education technology sector. This field is of great interest to us because technology provides a means to reach students, especially those in emerging countries who may not have easy access to schools in their vicinity. Additionally, we have been increasing our charitable contributions to make a positive impact on society.

Leveraging Innovation to Empower Students & Making a Meaningful Impact

Mirna Mneimneh is a self-driven and motivated entrepreneur with over 14 years of experience in various industries, including education, not-for-profit, and technology. She has a proven track record of success and significant achievements from ideation to scaling and implementation, as well as a passion for Web 3.0, education, and mental health. In 2020, she co-founded Elggo, a comprehensive and evidence-based AI-powered well-being platform for K-12 schools.

Recently, in an exclusive interview with CXO Magazine, Mirna shared her insights on the key role technologies are playing in accelerating innovation in the education industry, her career trajectory, the inspiration behind establishing Elggo, her vision, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

Mirna Mneimneh

Co-Founder & COO, Elggo

How can new technologies like AI, IoT, Blockchain technology, and chatbots play a key role in accelerating innovation in the education industry?

AI-powered adaptive learning systems can provide a personalized learning experience to students based on their individual needs and abilities. Real-time feedback and customized guidance can be given to students through AI-based tutoring systems, helping them to learn more effectively. IoTenabled devices can also enable remote access to educational resources, allowing students to learn anywhere and anytime. Blockchain technology can ensure the security and tamper-proof records of students' academic achievements, making it easier for them to share their credentials with potential employers. Chatbots can also provide students an interactive and engaging learning experience by answering questions, giving feedback, and guiding them through complex topics. These technologies can potentially transform the education industry by improving learning outcomes, increasing access to education, and providing new opportunities for students and educators.

Mirna, can you tell us about your professional background and areas of interest?

I grew up in an entrepreneurial family and even ran our family’s lingerie manufacturing business in Lebanon for several years, where I learned the value of hard work and adaptability. When political and economic crises hit, we had to close down - but that experience taught me resilience in adversity.

While business has always been familiar, my heart has drawn me to causes that uplift humanity. I’ve worked with Alzheimer’s patients, refugees, and initiatives improving waste management. But I sought to maximize my impact, leading to technology and emerging fields like Web 3.0. There, I found my passion for leveraging innovation to empower and enable access for all.

As a disruptor, I always seek forwardthinking partners ready to push boundaries and reimagine solutions for our fastchanging world. I bring diverse experience across sectors, which has endowed me with unexpected skills for navigating uncertainty and driving transformation.

Now, I’m embarking on a new journey as a co-founder of Elggo - a platform focused on

nurturing well-being and building resilience. I believe mental health is essential, especially in youth, and that our initiative can make a meaningful difference in communities.

You come from an entrepreneurial family and have witnessed the successes and setbacks that come with the territory. What values and lessons have you learned from these experiences, and how have they shaped you into the successful business leader you are today?

Growing up in an entrepreneurial family has instilled several values and lessons in me that have shaped my leadership:

• Resilience and adaptability. I witnessed first-hand the ups and downs of business,

As a disruptor, I always seek forwardthinking partners ready to push boundaries and reimagine solutions for our fast-changing world

What sets us apart is our AI and tech, we also have a holistic approach to well-being where we involve all stakeholders from parents, counsellors, teachers and community to make sure our kids get the right awareness and intervention when needed

including facing economic crises that required persistence and the ability to pivot. This taught me that challenges and failures are inevitable, but success comes from learning to navigate them with flexibility and determination.

• Hard work and grit. Successful entrepreneurship requires dedication, long hours, and the motivation to overcome obstacles. My family modelled the work ethic and passion needed to build something from the ground up.

• Resourcefulness and problem-solving. As an entrepreneur, you often have limited resources and must find creative solutions to issues that arise. Growing up around constant

innovation and figuring things out with what we had cultivated my ability to think on my feet and devise new solutions.

These are some in addition to building a solid network of like-minded people and having the right vision and ambition to achieve and build what you want.

What was the inspiration behind establishing your company, Elggo? What sets it apart from other market competitors?

Elggo was born out of the pressing need for youth in the MENA region post-covid. More

Successful entrepreneurship requires dedication, long hours, and the motivation to overcome obstacles

and more young children are facing a lot of mental challenges and it is not being addressed in the right way. What sets us apart is our AI and tech, we also have a holistic approach to wellbeing where we involve all stakeholders from parents, counsellors, teachers and community to make sure our kids get the right awareness and intervention when needed. We are also culturally compatibility and relevant to the region.

As the Co-Founder & COO at Elggo, what challenges do you face, and how do you overcome them?

The main challenges I face are related to the limited resources available specifically when it comes to raising funds.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

In 5 years, I see myself leading Elggo with my co-founder to become the biggest wellbeing platform for youth worldwide.

After a busy working day, how do you unwind?

Usually after a busy day I either go for a run, spend time with my family, or unwind watching a series or movie.

What makes you offbeat, engaging, and different from the rest?

I have a quirky sense of humor and I don’t take things too seriously. I also have diverse interests in both new things and even people, it fuels my curiosity and hones my skills.

What would you like it to be if you could have one superpower?

The power I would choose is the ability to heal emotional pain. This superpower would enable me to heal deep emotional wounds, trauma, and suffering that people carry within them. It would allow me to provide solace, comfort, and support to those who are struggling with emotional burdens.

What piece of advice would you give to aspiring female entrepreneurs?

Believe in yourself, seek mentorship, embrace your unique voice, be resilient in the face of failure, build a supportive team, continuously learn, and prioritize work-life balance. These key pieces of advice are crucial for aspiring female entrepreneurs as they navigate their entrepreneurial journey with confidence, authenticity, and perseverance.

Serghei Busmachiu CEO of Utilities One

A Leader's Vision in Shaping the Future of American Infrastructure

The landscape of telecommunications and utility sectors has been everevolving. One pioneer who has expertly navigated these shifting sands is Serghei Busmachiu, CEO of Utilities One, an innovative powerhouse in infrastructure solutions.

The Utilities One Phenomenon

Utilities One is more than just a company. It's an idea, a commitment to pushing boundaries and adapting to the ever-evolving industry requirements. With a rich portfolio of services encompassing engineering and construction, they are dedicated to the telecommunications and

utility sectors. "We constantly push boundaries, harnessing cutting-edge technologies to deliver exceptional infrastructure solutions," Serghei explains with the passion and commitment of a true industry leader.

Adapt, Overcome, and Innovate

No company can become a leader without embracing change. Over the years, Utilities

One has embodied this principle, expanding its services to the wireline, wireless, electric, gas, and renewable energy sectors. "We have broadened our expertise across these sectors, enabling us to provide comprehensive solutions that align with industry advancements," Serghei proudly shares.

A Leader Shaping Culture

When you meet Serghei, you encounter a unique blend of wisdom, innovation, and tenacity. His leadership style nurtures growth, empowers team members, and encourages shared vision and excellence. "I believe in empowering our talented team members and fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement," he says.

Creating an Innovation Hotbed Innovation doesn't happen by accident. At Utilities One, it's the result of a strategic approach. "We encourage a collaborative environment that nurtures creative thinking, open communication, and exploration of emerging technologies," says Serghei. The commitment to innovation includes investing in research and development, participating in pilot projects, and building partnerships with technology leaders.

Overcoming Challenges with Resilience

As with any dynamic industry, there are challenges. Serghei admits, "Utilities One has encountered various challenges inherent to the industry's dynamic nature." But he views these not as obstacles but as opportunities for growth. The company leverages its expertise, swiftly adapts to changing market conditions, and prioritizes effective communication to emerge stronger from every challenge.

Exceeding Industry Benchmarks

What’s the secret behind Utilities One’s highquality services? "We achieve the highest quality through the meticulous selection of skilled professionals, adherence to stringent industry

I believe in empowering our talented team members and fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement

standards, and implementation of rigorous quality control processes," explains Serghei.

Maintenance: The Key to Long-lasting Solutions

When it comes to maintenance services, Utilities One is meticulous. With their combination of

proactive measures, advanced technologies, and skilled personnel, they ensure the reliability and longevity of their infrastructure solutions.

Celebrating Milestones

Under Serghei’s leadership, Utilities One has seen impressive growth. From establishing itself

Steered by Serghei's visionary leadership, Utilities One is truly reshaping the future of the telecom and utility sectors

as a nationwide telecom service provider to expanding operations to include renewable energy solutions, the company has achieved significant milestones. But Serghei is quick to attribute these successes to his team. "These milestones reflect our commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction. They’re a testament to the dedication and expertise of our talented team."

Cultivating Strong Client Relationships

At Utilities One, the customer is king. Serghei shares, "We actively listen to our clients, understand their unique needs, challenges, and goals. We foster open and transparent communication channels, ensuring that our clients are kept informed throughout the project lifecycle." This customer-centric approach is what has kept Utilities One ahead in the game.

The Future Beckons

Looking to the future, Serghei has clear growth plans. "We aim to expand our geographic presence, both domestically and internationally, to tap into new markets and leverage emerging opportunities," he says. He also plans to focus on embracing new technologies and prioritizing initiatives that contribute to environmental stewardship, energy efficiency, and carbon reduction.

Steered by Serghei's visionary leadership, Utilities One is truly reshaping the future of the telecom and utility sectors. In his words, "By aligning our growth plans with these strategic focuses, we aim to position Utilities One as a leader in the industry, delivering sustainable, innovative, and transformative infrastructure solutions."

The Synergy of Science, Art, and Innovation: Exploring the Role of Scientific Research and Art Creativity in Fostering New Business Ideas

Prof. Cristian Randieri is a proactive, visionary, and knowledgeable individual passionate about technical topics. He has over 15 years of research experience in experimental Nuclear Physics and has published over 250 scientific and technical papers. He founded Intellisystem Technologies, a research and development company committed to innovative solutions. He serves as an external reviewer for NASA and is a member of various technical and scientific organizations. He is also a professor at eCampus University, teaching computer vision, database, and human-machine interfaces. Prof. Randieri is an official member of the Forbes Technology Council and is the group leader of the Scientific Research & Business group.

Prof. Cristian Randieri

Scientist & Professor, eCampus University & Founder, Intellisystem Technologies

In the rapidly evolving landscape of modern business, the once clearly defined boundaries between science, art, and innovation are steadily fading away. As we explore the intricate relationship between scientific research and artistic creativity, we begin to comprehend their indispensable role in fostering novel business ideas. By delving into the transformative potential that arises from combining these seemingly distinct fields, we unravel a profound synergy that propels entrepreneurial success and unlocks unprecedented opportunities. Through a comprehensive examination of real-world examples and an in-depth analysis of the underlying mechanisms, we can shed light on the indispensable role that scientific research and artistic creativity play in inspiring innovation and nurturing the development of groundbreaking business concepts.

To fully immerse me in these ideas and put them to the test, I actively participated in the futuristic science section of the renowned "The Virtual Catalog of Contemporary Arts," a visionary project conceptualized by the esteemed Italian Art Critic and Honorary Artistic Director and President of the Giotto Prize, Melinda Miceli. Participating in this trailblazing initiative gave me a unique opportunity to explore the intricate intersection of science and art, pushing the boundaries of creativity and research to unprecedented heights. This remarkable experience offered a captivating platform where the fusion of scientific concepts and artistic expression could be showcased, thereby contributing to the advancement of both fields.

Acknowledging the immense power that scientific research wields in constructing innovative ideas is imperative. Scientific inquiry lays the foundation upon which groundbreaking

The implications of the remarkable synergy between scientific research and artistic creativity hold immense promise for future business endeavors

elaborate concepts provide a systematic and evidence-based approach to comprehending the world around us. Using quantitative and qualitative analyses, extensive market research, and diligent trend examination, scientific inquiry unearths invaluable insights, identifies unmet needs, and explores emerging trends. Entrepreneurs who wisely leverage the potent force of research can genuinely grasp the intricacies of their target markets, discern gaps that require filling, and unearth extraordinary opportunities that pave the way for pioneering business concepts.

Equally paramount in the process of ideation and innovation is the indispensable role played by artistic creativity. Within the realms of creative disciplines, we find the key traits defining successful entrepreneurs – the ability to think beyond conventional boundaries, embrace ambiguity, and envision possibilities yet to be discovered. The realms of visual arts, music, literature, and the performing arts, alongside many other artistic expressions, serve as an incredibly fertile ground where inspiration flourishes and innovative thinking blossoms. Entrepreneurs who tap into the boundless creative realms of art can infuse their business ideas with unique aesthetics, emotional resonance, and captivating storytelling, thereby captivating audiences and carving out a distinctive position in the market.

However, in the harmonious integration of scientific research and artistic creativity, we witness the birth of a truly formidable force that propels entrepreneurial breakthroughs. The collaboration between scientists and artists brings together complementary perspectives, methodologies, and approaches,

thereby generating a synergy that surpasses the limitations of traditional thinking. While scientists provide a rigorous analytical framework rooted in empirical evidence, artists bring an intuitive and imaginative lens through which entrepreneurs can envision novel possibilities. This dynamic collaboration inevitably leads to the creation of disruptive innovations that transcend the confines of conventional thought. By bridging the perceived gap between science and art, entrepreneurs can leverage this profound synergy, revolutionizing entire industries and forging entirely new market spaces.

To nurture a culture of innovation within organizations is imperative to cultivate an environment that wholeheartedly embraces scientific research and artistic creativity. Such an environment thrives on curiosity, encourages experimentation, and embraces calculated risktaking. Cross-functional collaboration brings together researchers, creatives, and business professionals, allowing them to join forces, gain invaluable insights, and explore novel ideas. Organizations must also allocate substantial resources to support research and creative initiatives and wholeheartedly embrace technological advancements that enhance the capabilities of both research and creative processes.

When we turn our attention to real-world exemplifications, we find that successful companies and individuals have masterfully harnessed the power of the synergy between science, art, and innovation to generate groundbreaking business ideas. The smartphone industry is a prime testament to the harmonious marriage between technology and design, where scientific advancements in mobile

technology are seamlessly intertwined with artistic aesthetics to create innovative and usercentric devices. In the realm of immersive entertainment experiences, the fusion of art and technology has birthed captivating applications in virtual and augmented reality that captivate audiences and redefine the very nature of entertainment. Furthermore, companies that have successfully incorporated

scientific research into their business practices serve as beacons of inspiration, showcasing how environmental concerns and innovative solutions can coexist harmoniously to achieve commercial success.

The implications of the remarkable synergy between scientific research and artistic creativity hold immense promise for future business endeavors. Continued investment in research capabilities and creative capacities, coupled with interdisciplinary collaborations, will foster an environment that thrives on ongoing innovation. Moreover, integrating emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and data analytics into art and science will undoubtedly unlock uncharted frontiers for entrepreneurship. By embracing this synergy, entrepreneurs position themselves to navigate the intricate complexities of the modern business landscape and make an indelible impact on society.

In conclusion, this article has comprehensively explored the indispensable role of scientific research and artistic creativity in nurturing novel business ideas. It has underscored the transformative opportunities that arise from recognizing the immense power of research, embracing the boundless realms of creative expression, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. The interplay between science, art, and innovation serves as a robust framework that inspires innovation and shapes the future of entrepreneurship. In an era of increasing convergence between scientific research and artistic creativity, the once-distinct boundaries between these domains continue to blur, giving birth to the fertile ground where unprecedented business ideas and societal advancements flourish.

To nurture a culture of innovation within organizations is imperative to cultivate an environment that wholeheartedly embraces scientific research and artistic creativity

Suzanne Alfano

Executive Director, Canadian Fire Alarm Association

Leading the Way in Fire Safety and Advocacy

In the realm of fire safety and alarm systems, few individuals have made a lasting impact, quite like Suzanne Alfano, the Executive Director of the Canadian Fire Alarm Association (CFAA). With an extensive background in electrical engineering technology and a Master's degree in Business Administration, Suzanne has dedicated over 35 years of her career to the non-profit sector, emerging as a leading figure in technical management, consulting, and advocacy roles.

“I was first introduced to the fire and life safety industry during my tenure with the National Electrical Manufacturers’ Association (NEMA) in Washington, DC. I then returned to Canada in 2020 to take on the role of Executive Director

with the Canadian Fire Alarm Association. I feel privileged to lead an Association involved in fire protection and life safety,” shares Suzanne.

Suzanne's career has been defined by her commitment to improving safety codes and standards. Her advocacy work and leadership roles in various associations have shaped the industry. She tirelessly promotes legislative requirements that support industry and public safety, earning her respect as a trusted voice. At the CFAA, Suzanne leads the mission to maximize the effectiveness of fire alarm systems in Canada. Her visionary approach and collaboration with key stakeholders drive innovation and elevate fire safety standards. Under her guidance, the CFAA has become a driving force in the field.

“At CFAA, I am responsible for creating business plans, overseeing day-to-day activities, improving the Association's overall performance, advocating on the interests of members with various stakeholder groups, supervising staff, financial management, and directing organizational strategy,” explains Suzanne. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Suzanne's infectious enthusiasm and dedication have inspired countless individuals in the field. She serves as a mentor and role model, empowering aspiring professionals to make a difference and contribute to the industry's growth. Suzanne's passion for safety is contagious, and her ability to rally stakeholders around a shared vision has yielded transformative results.

Protecting the Life and Property in Canada

Ensuring the safety and security of life and property is at the forefront of the Canadian

Fire Alarm Association's (CFAA) mission. Since its inception in 1973, this esteemed not-for-profit organization, founded by industry experts, has been dedicated to this noble cause. Today, boasting a membership of over 400 organizations and encompassing nine Chapters across the country, the CFAA stands as a pivotal force in maximizing the effectiveness and utilization of fire alarm systems in safeguarding both life and property. With a primary focus on education, training, and support for more than 3,500 registered fire alarm technicians nationwide, the CFAA strives to be the definitive national resource for all things fire alarm-related in Canada.

"Our members play integral roles in the design, manufacturing, installation, testing, inspection, monitoring and maintenance of fire protection systems throughout the country. Our core objective is to ensure that fire alarm systems are optimized to their fullest potential in protecting life and property,

Suzanne's career has been defined by her commitment to improving safety codes and standards. Her advocacy work and leadership roles in various associations have shaped the industry

placing fire safety as a paramount concern in our nation," emphasizes Suzanne, speaking on behalf of the CFAA. Fire alarm systems have become indispensable in almost every building across Canada, be it commercial establishments, institutional structures, or the multitude of dwellings spanning the nation. They serve as crucial mechanisms for promptly alerting occupants, building owners, and fire departments during fire emergencies, facilitating timely response, and minimizing potential deaths, injuries and property damage.

Suzanne also sheds light on the evolution of fire alarm systems over time. "As fire alarm systems have advanced, Canada's National Fire Code, established in 1963, mandated the upkeep of life safety systems and occupant evacuation training during emergencies," she shares. The introduction of addressable fire alarm systems in the 1980s revolutionized the field, offering improved technology and enhanced reliability by precisely identifying fire locations through interconnected devices and with remote monitoring. Residential smoke alarms have likewise witnessed significant advancements, incorporating interconnectivity features and refined sensing technology to help mitigate false alarms. Suzanne elaborates, "New smoke alarms can now offer seamless interconnectivity throughout your home, capable of sending alerts directly to your cell phone and service providers that monitor your system remotely and can notify the fire department in the event of a fire. They also employ cuttingedge smoke sensing technology, ensuring greater precision in detecting real threats while minimizing false alarms."

Through its unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation, the CFAA plays an instrumental role in shaping and upholding fire safety standards across the nation. By fostering collaboration, disseminating knowledge, and advocating for the continual improvement of fire alarm systems, the Association reinforces its position as a trusted leader in the field, dedicated to safeguarding the well-being of Canadians and their valued assets.

Embracing the Digital Era

Before Suzanne took the helm as Executive Director, CFAA heavily relied on in-person training events and meetings throughout Canada. However, when the pandemic hit, the organization swiftly recognized the need to undergo a rapid digital transformation. Suzanne reflects on this pivotal moment: "One of our most significant achievements has been successfully transitioning our operations to the digital realm. I joined the CFAA in January 2020, just before the pandemic unfolded."

Under Suzanne's visionary leadership, the CFAA revitalized its online core courses and exams, introducing new and engaging online continuing education training content. This proactive approach ensured that the Association could adapt to the changing circumstances while continuing to provide essential training opportunities for fire alarm technicians, fire authorities, building owners, property managers, engineering firms, insurance companies, and other stakeholders.

However, the CFAA's digital transformation extended far beyond training alone. In 2021, they unveiled a brand-new website and a customized customer relationship management (CRM)

Through its unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation, the CFAA plays an instrumental role in shaping and upholding fire safety standards across the nation

system meticulously designed to enhance the user experience and streamline operations. This investment in digital infrastructure proved invaluable in their mission to better serve their members and the wider fire safety community. Suzanne proudly states, "In 2022, we witnessed tremendous engagement, with participants logging over 18,000 hours of CFAA Continuing Education training." Moreover, introducing hybrid events, offering the flexibility for attendees to choose between in-person and online participation, further amplified engagement and accessibility.

By wholeheartedly embracing the digital era, the CFAA successfully navigated through challenging times, emerging with renewed strength and resilience. Their unwavering commitment to innovation and adaptability ensures that the Association remains at the forefront of the fire alarm industry, continuously providing invaluable resources and training to promote safety and excellence across Canada. Suzanne and the entire CFAA team are beacons of progress, tirelessly working to uphold the Association's mission despite adversity.

Driving CFAA's Growth

Over the past two years, the Canadian Fire Alarm Association (CFAA) has actively engaged stakeholders in shaping its strategic direction and refining its technical training programs. Through a variety of means, including stakeholder surveys, interviews, and feedback from key industry players such as fire alarm equipment manufacturers, service companies, technicians, fire authorities, engineering firms, and building owner/operators, the CFAA is updating their

Strategic Plan and tailored training initiatives that address the evolving needs of the industry.

Suzanne highlights the crucial collaboration between the CFAA and fire authorities, emphasizing that they consult extensively with these entities to ensure that the content and requirements of the CFAA Fire Alarm Technology Program align with industry demands. This program, which has been in place for over four decades, stands as the sole national initiative in Canada focused on training and registering fire alarm technicians to work on fire alarm systems. By actively involving fire authorities in the development and review process, the CFAA ensures that its training programs remain up-todate and in accordance with industry standards.

To oversee the Association's governance, a dedicated Board of Directors, comprising 40 esteemed members representing diverse expertise from the fire protection industry, plays a pivotal role. These directors serve on various committees, bringing invaluable knowledge and experience to the table. Their voluntary service is instrumental in keeping the CFAA attuned to emerging trends and technologies, ultimately enabling the Association to maintain its status as an industry leader.

Furthermore, Suzanne personally attends fire safety conferences in North America, recognizing the immense value of expanding her own knowledge and network. These conferences provide unparalleled opportunities for learning, staying informed about the latest industry developments, and fostering connections with fellow professionals. The insights gained from these events further enrich the CFAA's ability to provide top-notch resources and training to the fire safety community in Canada, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of industry advancements.

Suzanne believes in the power of collaboration, adaptability, and personal growth. She advises aspiring leaders, "Invest in yourself. Develop and nurture your confidence as a leader. Never stop learning."

By actively engaging with stakeholders, leveraging the expertise of their Board of Directors, and staying abreast of industry trends through conference attendance, the CFAA continues to strengthen its position as a leading authority in fire alarm systems and technical training. Their commitment to collaboration, constant learning, and knowledge sharing ensures that the Association remains agile, responsive, and effective in meeting the evolving needs of the fire protection industry in Canada.

Navigating Gender Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry

Being a woman leader in a traditionally maledominated industry presents its own set of challenges, although the landscape is gradually evolving as women gain more equity in the workplace. "I consider myself fortunate to have begun my career with a progressive Canadian Non-Profit Association that prioritized womens' equality in the workplace. Working there for twenty years during my early twenties shaped my attitude, values, and confidence as a woman leader," shares Suzanne, highlighting the positive impact of her early experiences.

Throughout her professional path, Suzanne has worked with strong women leaders who served as mentors. She says, "Their mentorship has played a vital role in my professional growth." She also acknowledges the support of exceptional male mentors, recognizing that mentorship from both women and men has been instrumental in her development.

Recalling a challenging incident of sexual harassment, she faced years ago, Suzanne shares her courageous response, stating, "I took the brave step of reporting the harassment to

my employer, who took my complaints seriously and conducted a thorough investigation. The individual responsible was ultimately terminated." She expresses immense respect for the woman president of the company who stood by her and made the difficult but necessary decision, acknowledging the rarity of such decisive action against sexual harassment at the time.

Despite the challenges, Suzanne remains optimistic about the progress made in promoting gender equality within the industry. She highlights the growing awareness and commitment to address gender disparities, stating, "We are seeing positive changes that are enabling more women to pursue leadership roles and contribute their unique perspectives." Suzanne's dedication to supporting and empowering other women in the industry reflects her commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for all.

Creating Effective Collaborations and Adapting to Unforeseen Challenges

Suzanne believes that the best decisions are made through consultation with stakeholders and staff. Reflecting on her leadership style, Suzanne shares, "I am a collaborative and inclusive leader, and I firmly believe that the input of stakeholders is invaluable. We are at our best when we serve their needs versus our own."

With over 35 years of experience working for Non-Profit Associations, Suzanne's journey has shaped her values and approach to leadership. She explains, "As association leaders, we are taught and expected to value the input of others. It is through this collective effort that we can make meaningful progress and serve our members effectively."

Honesty, hard work, respect, and kindness are the guiding principles that Suzanne values. She emphasizes the significance of kindness in the workplace, stating, "Kindness may seem underrated, but it can go a long way towards achieving company goals, fostering happy employees, and nurturing a thriving membership."

Navigating the challenges brought by the Covid-19 pandemic proved to be one of the toughest experiences for Suzanne. Recalling those times, she shares, "I was only two months into this new role as Executive Director when Covid hit and changed almost all operations within the Association." The situation demanded swift action, with the office closing and the staff transitioning to remote work. Suzanne faced the challenge headon: "We had to develop contingency plans and flip all our meetings and events online. Despite limited prior online capabilities, we were determined to keep our events going and provide uninterrupted service to our members."

Amidst the uncertainty, Suzanne's leadership and dedication shone through. She proudly states, "I am proud to say that we never canceled one event; in fact, we offered even more events. Our online training has been a huge success, resulting in an almost 30% increase in Association revenue since 2020." These achievements were made possible by the collective efforts and resilience of Suzanne's team and our volunteers, as she acknowledges, "It was a true team effort, and I am grateful for the commitment and adaptability demonstrated by our staff and dedicated volunteers."

Suzanne believes in the power of collaboration, adaptability, and personal growth.

She advises aspiring leaders, "Invest in yourself. Develop and nurture your confidence as a leader. Never stop learning."

Suzanne encourages embracing new opportunities and challenges, saying "yes" to projects that push you out of your comfort zone. She also emphasizes the importance of finding mentors and seeking guidance from those you admire in your field.

Advancing Fire Protection and Life Safety

As the Canadian Fire Alarm Association (CFAA) celebrates its 50th anniversary, Suzanne expresses her excitement for the future. Recognizing the opportunities and challenges ahead, Suzanne shares her vision: "I am excited about the future of the CFFA and our fire protection and life safety industry." With a commitment to keeping Canadians safe, the CFAA aims to make a difference in reducing deaths, injuries, and property damage across the country. Advocacy plays a crucial role in achieving this goal. Suzanne affirms, "We will continue to advocate for the effective use of fire alarm systems for the protection of life and property." Among their goals, the CFAA aims to attain accreditation for the CFAA Fire Alarm Technology Program to certify fire alarm technicians by the Standards Council of Canada. This recognition will further enhance the program's credibility and ensure its alignment with industry standards.

Another focus is developing a tiered certification program that acknowledges the education and experience of fire alarm technicians as they progress in their careers. By recognizing and promoting their expertise,

As the CFAA looks towards the future, Suzanne and her team are dedicated to advancing fire protection and life safety in Canada

the CFAA aims to elevate professionalism and competence within the industry.

Addressing the shortage of qualified technicians is a pressing concern for the CFAA. They are actively working to bridge this gap and ensure a sufficient workforce throughout Canada to meet the fire protection and life safety needs of communities. Furthermore, the CFAA advocates for harmonizing and timely adoption of the latest National Building and Fire Codes by all provinces and territories. This effort aims to enhance fire and

life safety outcomes, creating a standardized framework that promotes consistency and best practices nationwide.

As the CFAA looks towards the future, Suzanne and her team are dedicated to advancing fire protection and life safety in Canada. By pursuing accreditation, developing a tiered certification program, addressing workforce shortages, and advocating for code harmonization, they are committed to making a positive impact and safeguarding the wellbeing of Canadians.

Helping Increase Access to Life-Changing Tech Education

An educator, engineer, entrepreneur, and community leader, Nick Suwyn started his software development journey at age ten building computer games. As a child, he developed a love for music and after high school began sharing his passion by teaching after-school music programs at elementary schools. He attended DeVry University and graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Computer Information Systems. After a few years in software development and technical education, Nick founded Promineo Tech with a mission to increase access to technology education. Today, Promineo Tech is the leading provider of coding bootcamps to community colleges.

Recently, in an exclusive interview with CXO Magazine, Mr. Suwyn shared his insights on the role of technology in higher education, the inspiration behind establishing Promineo Tech, lessons learnt from past experiences, pearls of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

Nick Suwyn

Founder & CEO, Promineo Tech

What are your thoughts on the current state of higher education and technology’s role in education?

There is a lot of opportunity for improvement in higher education. The student debt crisis is commonplace conversation in today’s world, and the need to re-evaluate how education

used to be a single, standard method to deliver education, and it came with a physical room and a full-time instructor. With technology, these days are long gone and the options that exist to experiment with more efficient education delivery are endless. Marketing, content delivery, instruction, and wraparound services can all be improved through technology to drive down the costs to students and increase access to life-changing education.

Nick, can you tell us about your professional background and areas of interest?

My professional background mainly consists of software engineering with some early music education at the beginning of my career. I eventually was recruited to combine those two skills and teach software engineering at a coding bootcamp in Scottsdale, Arizona. From that experience, I developed a passion for higher education in technology and helping increase affordability and access to what I believe is life-changing education. In 2018, I launched Promineo Tech with that focus as our mission and have grown the organization to be the number one provider of coding bootcamps to community colleges.

What’s a super brief history of coding in light of the current coding frenzy?

is delivered has never been more prevalent. More institutions need to focus on Education Delivery Optimization – a process to increase the affordability of education while maintaining quality through operational efficiencies. Technology plays a major role in this. There

Coding has been around since the early 1840’s and started out as feeding symbols into a machine that could be used to solve various math problems. It’s seen a lot of advancement since then, but the fundamental concept is still the same – writing instructions for a computer to follow to automate various processes. Today,

Marketing, content delivery, instruction, and wraparound services can all be improved through technology to drive down the costs to students and increase access to lifechanging education

the most commonly recognizable products of coding include websites, mobile apps, and other forms of software.

What’s your take on student skills, workforce gap, employer needs –and coding?

When we consider the workforce gap that exists specifically in technology, the main contributing factor is the lack of truly accessible and affordable education. The demand for software developers far outweighs the number of qualified candidates to fill these roles, and the reason for this is that not enough people have access to the training necessary to become qualified. That doesn’t mean there is a shortage of organizations trying to address this, but we’re all trying to keep up with the pace of progress. Another problem is simply the messaging around these technical skills. Too many think that if they aren’t good at math or didn’t excel in school, then a career in technology is out of reach for them, and that is just not the case. In fact, the connotation that you must be a genius to approach these skills may be the largest barrier to accessible tech education. The truth is, if you enjoy solving problems or creating things, there is a high probability you can acquire these skills, such as coding, and participate in a strong career based on a very real skills gap and constant advancement.

What prompted you to establish your organization— Promineo Tech—what problem are you trying to solve?

A recruiter saw that I had both teaching and software development experience on my resume and asked if I’d be interested in teaching at a local coding bootcamp. To me, that sounded like a dream job. So, I took it. I ended up spending 12

to 13 hours at work a day because of how much I enjoyed what I was doing, and I fell in love with alternative education. However, I realized that while the bootcamp industry was a step in the right direction, the price point was still too high to be truly accessible to everyone. My family and I had been blessed because of the tech skills I acquired, and I wanted everyone else to have similar opportunities. After making the impact I could at the local coding bootcamp, I eventually left to create the model of optimized education delivery that could enable quality tech education to be delivered at a fraction of the cost. This

mission resulted in creating Promineo Tech with the purpose of increasing access to life-changing tech education.

How have you managed and led through the last couple years—what purpose has driven you forward—what’s been the key?

I’m still figuring out my management and leadership philosophy, and I’m sure I’ll always be in this boat as I find myself adapting when I learn something new, or the situation requires it. However, one common thread I’ve tried to keep consistent in how I manage is to be kind and

empathetic. I want things to be done the right way but tend to be very forgiving at mistakes and focus on either fixing mistakes or moving forward in the right direction. I care a lot about our team members, and I believe that resonates through to our students.

Congrats on your big win in the Inno Madness competition! What does an honor like this mean for you and your team?

Thank you! The Inno Madness win was great exposure for our team and helped more people

If you enjoy solving problems or creating things, there is a high probability you can acquire these skills, such as coding, and participate in a strong career based on a very real skills gap and constant advancement

learn about our mission to increase access to life-changing tech education. However, I believe the real value was that it allowed our team an opportunity to work together and dig deep to accomplish something that we wouldn’t have been able to if every single person wasn’t giving their all. It was a very tough competition, and we thought we had it won, but woke up on the weekend down 12%. It was a real “Rocky” moment for our team to see what they were made of, and I hope that lesson sticks when any one of our team members feels like they’re falling behind in life.

What key lessons from your past inform your current success and your vision forward into the future?

What comes to mind when I hear this question is the different experiences I’ve had with various employers. Some employers cultivated an amazing culture, and it shone through the work of the employees and reflected in the customer experience. Other employers, the opposite was true. My experience with companies on both sides of the spectrum have helped me decide that I want Promineo Tech to be a place people love to work, where they are passionate about the lives, they change every day and feel like they are treated well. Experiencing good and poor company cultures has informed our success and vision into the future.

How do you empower the people you are leading?

One of the most empowering things I’ve ever experienced at a job was my leader trusting me to truly own my department or line of work

and letting me run with it. I try to do the same with my team members; I let them know that their department is their domain, they should treat it like their own business, and I am here to help consult them and share my thoughts, but I trust that they will succeed. When I was on the receiving end of this model, I grew a lot in a short period of time. I strive to give my team that same opportunity.

What are your passions, and how do you unplug from work?

Some of my hobbies and passions include spending time with my wife and three children, writing/playing music, skateboarding, water sports, chess, art, and finding new culinary experiences. I believe my number one hobby is finding new hobbies and developing additional skills.

What advice would you give to aspiring edtech professionals?

While it is extremely important to solve a problem in education, it is equally important to figure out how to monetize the solution and make it sustainable so it can ultimately change more lives. That may sound like common sense, but education is a space field with people who want to change the world within major concern for money – which is a good thing! However, making money to expand impact is more altruistic than developing the most innovative EdTech solution that doesn’t reach enough people because there is no sustainable model to back it. You have to focus on the Solution and the Business, without sacrificing either for the other; they must be symbiotic to create impact.

Creating a World in which All Individuals can Build their Passions & Fulfil their Potential

Michael B. Horn strives to create a world in which all individuals can build their passions and fulfil their potential through his writing, speaking, and work with a portfolio of education organizations. He is the author of several books, including the recently released From Reopen to Reinvent: (Re)creating School for Every Child; the award-winning Disrupting Class: How Disruptive Innovation Will Change the Way the World Learns; Blended: Using Disruptive Innovation to Improve Schools; Choosing College; and Goodnight Box, a children’s story.

Michael is the co-founder of and a distinguished fellow at the Clayton Christensen Institute for Disruptive Innovation, a non-profit think tank and an adjunct lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. He also serves on the board and advisory boards of a range of education organizations, including Imagine Worldwide, Minerva University, the LearnLaunch Institute, and Guild Education, and is a venture partner at NextGen Venture Partners.

Recently, in an exclusive interview with CXO Magazine, Mr. Horn shared his insights on the transformation of K12 education landscape over the years, his professional background, the inspiration behind his books, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

Michael B. Horn

Thought Leader, Author, & Speaker

My thought leadership has built on a set of innovation theories that make the process of innovation, which has been typically characterized as chaotic and unpredictable, far more predictably successful

How has the K12 education landscape transformed over the last five years and where is it heading now?

Coming out of the pandemic, there’s no question that digital learning has become far more widespread. Millions and millions of children all over the world learn through technology as part of their day. The question of course is has the adoption of technology made learning more learner-centered. My sense of the answer to that question is ‘not really’ in most parts of our formal education systems. But there are pockets. We see many more microschools and other small, community-driven education efforts that are really putting students at the center and pushing the bounds of what we think schools and education might look like—and I hope our formal education systems will learn from what they have done.

Michael, can you tell us about your professional background and areas of interest?

A: My personal mission over nearly two decades has been how do we build a world in which all individuals can build their passions and fulfil their human potential. My goal is to help bring about that change through my thought leadership—in the form of books, podcasts, speaking, and the like—as well as advising organizations to help usher in a world that prioritizes each student’s learning. My thought leadership has built on a set of innovation theories that make the process of innovation, which has been typically characterized as chaotic and unpredictable, far more predictably successful.

I got into this work by co-authoring a book with Clayton Christensen, the father of disruptive

innovation theory, who was an incredible mentor. We cofounded the Clayton Christensen Institute, and since then I wake up every morning thinking about how to advance this vision for individuals around the world.

In your opinion, what is the need for and importance of competency-based learning? Tell us about some of its key benefits.

The dominant education system in the world is built around learning being the constant and each student’s learning being variable. Take Vietnam for example. They have intricate systems for making sure that in every school in the country, every single teacher in any given grade span is teaching the exact same lesson. But the reality is that in their classrooms, many children aren’t ready for those lessons. Many others have undoubtedly mastered the material already and are growing bored by the lesson and tuning out to school. Few are learning in their sweet spot. Worse still, in the traditional system, at the end of the unit, everyone moves on to the next unit regardless of their learning and mastery of the subject material. We know that no one learns at the same rate, yet we are literally embedding learning loss into the school by design.

If the goal is developing all students, what if we instead guaranteed mastery? That is, we made time the variable, but said that a student can’t fully leave a concept until they demonstrate mastery of it. That’s competency-based learning. If we’re serious about all students building mastery of core knowledge and skills—in addition to developing habits of success like perseverance, growth mindset, metacognition, executive function skills, agency, and more—then we need to move to this model.

What was the inspiration behind writing your latest book, “Reopen to Reinvent: (Re)Creating School for Every Child’? Please brief us about the main takeaways from this book.

Amid the disaster that has ensued since the start of the COVID pandemic—the assault on society and schools over multiple school years—there is an opportunity to rebuild better by altering the fundamental assumptions undergirding our present-day schooling model. The book is about what educators and schooling communities choose to build out of this devastation. And it’s equal part recommendations of what schools should do—embracing mastery- or competencybased learning; developing each and every child’s knowledge, skills, habits of success, social and emotional wellbeing and the like; embracing team-teaching models; harnessing the energy of parents; and the like—as well as how schools can innovate regardless of their focus—with advice on how to think about managing change when people don’t agree; the wisdom of using separate areas to innovate; and the like.

Your book, “Disrupting Class: How Disruptive Innovation Will Change the Way the World Learns” is considered to be changing the future of education. What kind of research did you do, and how long did you spend researching before beginning this book?

First, thank you. Our hope has always been to really have impact on the ground and benefit students and inspire educators and entrepreneurs, not just write a nice-sounding book. Second, the story behind Disrupting Class is a long one. When Clay’s first book, The Innovator’s Dilemma, came

Amid the disaster that has ensued since the start of the COVID pandemic—the assault on society and schools over multiple school years—there is an opportunity to rebuild better by altering the fundamental assumptions undergirding our presentday schooling model

out in 1997, shortly thereafter people from a variety of fields began coming to him and telling him, “You know, your insights apply to this field here as well.” And he would learn from them. A group of educators did the same, and around 1999 or so Clay started learning about and researching the challenges of education and how his ideas around innovation could shed some light on them. That research continued until I joined him in 2006, and I dove deep into both all the work he had been doing, but also a bunch of new research to try to understand a bunch of phenomena more deeply and how Clay’s theories would shed light on the challenges and opportunities. So a lot went into that book!

The book ‘Blended’ sheds light on using disruptive innovation to improve schools. Can you please brief us about this book?

After we wrote Disrupting Class, it became increasingly clear that online learning was the big disruptive innovation emerging in education—broadly speaking. And that in K–12 schools, this phenomenon would largely be a “blended” one, meaning that most students would still go to physical schools but they would learn online for part of their day. My co-author, Heather Staker, and I started doing a lot of research starting in 2010 to define what exactly blended learning was and to work with the field to categorize the different kinds of blended learning. And then Blended brought that work together along with a design guide to empower educators on the ground with designing more robust models that would actually focus on improving student outcomes.

Tell us about your role as the Co-founder and Distinguished Fellow at Clayton Christensen Institute.

So, when Clay and I were writing Disrupting Class and Clay was also writing a book on health care with one

of my classmates at the Harvard Business School, Jason Hwang, he expressed an interest on creating a non-profit so that the books we were writing would actually have impact on the ground. And so Jason and I founded the Clayton Christensen Institute as a non-profit think tank in 2007. I ran the education team for nearly a decade, and then in 2015 when my children were a year old, I stepped aside to do a range of other things in education, but I remain on the board and a distinguished fellow who contributes actively with my research and writing and mentoring of the other team members. The work we do I think really helps illuminate opportunities in a range of spaces for innovation—education, health care, and global prosperity—to help more people live better lives and make progress. It’s a tremendous place with wonderfully talented people.

You are the Future of Learning Advisory Board Chair and Senior Advisor at Guild Education. Please tell us about this organization and your role in it. Guild is a phenomenal organization that helps large companies upskill their employees and move and grow into other roles over time, which in turn not only helps the individuals, but also helps the companies fill their talent pipelines and have more success. For two years I had the opportunity to work on daily basis with the team at Guild during the pandemic, and I remain a big fan and advisor.

What does literary success look like to you?

Great question! To me, success is ultimately does the writing help have an impact on the ground in terms of really moving the needle for more individuals able to build their passions and fulfil

their human potential. I’ve even written a children’s book (with a couple others in draft form) with the goal of helping children and families be healthier and fitter and able to seize their most daring dreams.

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

Once you know me, you’ll know that I hate long-term plans and thinking out that far. Just too much changes. I’m really happy at-present getting to do the thought leadership work I do on my own and have the flexibility to both work on projects and with organizations where there is lots of opportunity for meaningful impact and to be able to spend meaningful time with my children as they grow up. If I wasn’t helping them lead a life where they could build their passions and fulfil their own human potential, I don’t think anything I wrote would be terribly credible!

One piece of advice you would like to share with the aspiring authors. Carve out meaningful time to do your writing. It’s very hard to write if you have 30 minutes here and 30 minutes there. I find to write well, I really need to carve out large chunks of time—a whole day a week plus a few other blocks of uninterrupted time where I’m not taking calls. The reason is you never know when your bursts of writing will occur, and you need the freedom to honestly pace around the room, stare at the ceiling absent-mindedly, and then have a thought gel and rapidly write it down. And don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good. You can always revise—especially with tools like ChatGPT there now to help you!