James Villarrubia
James Villarrubia
James is an accomplished CTO and applied AI expert. As the former Presidential Innovation Fellow for NASA Aeronautics, James led the development of sustainable, next-generation aviation and AI solutions. On behalf of NASA, he also co-hosted the Ecosystemic Futures podcast which delves into technological advancements poised to shape the future of society. Prior to his role at NASA, James served as a tech executive and advisor for various startups, spanning healthcare, cryptography, workplace equity, and online education. His educational AI venture advanced to the semi-finals of the global IBM AI X-Prize Competition. James also brings a wealth of experience in policy and strategy, having worked in Washington, DC at the White House, DOJ, and DOD across three administrations. He holds multiple cryptography patents, a Master’s in Public Policy and a BS in Systems Engineering from the University of Virginia, and an MBA from MIT.
11 AM Technology Panel:
Cybersecurity Isn’t Optional: Real Talk on Cyber Threats and Smart Protection
Get ready for a no-fluff conversation packed with practical wisdom and hard-learned lessons on staying safe online. This panel will empower you with the tools to protect what matters most—your business and your peace of mind.
Location: Jewett Theater
1 PM Technology Keynote Session:
Thinking Sideways: Curiosity in the Age of AI
In an era of rapid AI disruption, organizations and individuals are scrambling to innovate and stay ahead of the curve. In this keynote, James Villarrubia explores how curiosity - especially about strange, overlooked stories from history, science, fiction, and film - can reveal powerful insights about humanity and technology. By thinking sideways, we uncover the hidden patterns that help us make sense of change, spark innovation, and build a more thoughtful, resilient future in the age of AI.
