CTO Summit Panel Discussion • Josh Graham, Nicola Nye, Cat Swetel & Dave Coombes • YOW! 2019

Explore the transformative role of the CTO in today's rapidly changing technology landscape, where leaders must balance technical expertise with empathy, ethics and business acumen to drive innovation and create a more sustainable future.

Key takeaways
  • The pace of technological change is accelerating, and it’s essential to plan for the future.
  • The inability to recognize and adapt to change can lead to stagnation and decreased innovation.
  • Empathy and understanding of the people you work with are crucial in building a successful team.
  • Technical expertise is not enough; leaders need to understand the domain they’re operating in and the impact of their decisions.
  • The increasing importance of ethics in technology means that leaders must prioritize ethical considerations in their decision-making.
  • The divide between technology and sociology is growing, and leaders must find ways to bridge this gap to create a more sustainable future.
  • Companies need to recognize the value of diversity and inclusion and make a concerted effort to create a more inclusive environment.
  • The role of the CTO is evolving, and leaders must be able to balance technical expertise with business acumen and empathy.
  • The future of technology is uncertain, and leaders must be willing to adapt and pivot in response to changing circumstances.
  • The importance of building trust with peers and stakeholders cannot be overstated.
  • The need for continuous learning and self-improvement is essential for leaders to stay ahead of the curve.
  • The role of leaders is to empower others and create an environment that allows people to thrive.
  • The importance of understanding the impact of decisions on customers and stakeholders cannot be overstated.
  • The future of technology is not just about the technology itself, but about the people and society it affects.