Meet esteemed Global Director of Consumer Technology at UL Solutions, Ibrahim Jilani. He has an impressive career spanning over 18 years with the company. As the industry leader for Consumer Technology, Ibrahim leads UL Solutions endeavors in pioneering new technology and innovation across a diverse spectrum of manufacturers.

2. Imagination knows
no bounds in the realm
of Virtual Reality.

4. Ed or's
Note
Ed or's
Note
Ed or's
Note

5. Victors Trailblazing
AR & VR
T
he landscape of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) is being
shaped by influential leaders who are driving innovation, pushing
boundaries, and shaping the future of these transformative technologies.
These leaders come from diverse backgrounds, spanning tech giants, startups,
research institutions, and academia. They are visionaries who understand the
potential of AR and VR to revolutionize industries, enhance human experiences,
and reshape the way we interact with the world.
Their contributions extend beyond mere technological advancements; they are
also champions of collaboration, driving partnerships, and ecosystem
development to accelerate the adoption of AR and VR on a global scale. Through
their leadership, they inspire creativity, foster talent, and cultivate a culture of
innovation that fuels progress and propels the industry forward.
From groundbreaking hardware advancements to pioneering software solutions,
these leaders are at the forefront of development, constantly pushing the
boundaries of what is possible. Their influence extends beyond their respective
organizations, shaping industry trends, setting standards, and charting the course
for the future of AR and VR.
Through the latest edition of The 10 Influential Leaders Shaping AR/VR in 2024,
we recognize the contributions of these influential leaders who continue to drive
the industry forward, shaping a future where the boundaries between the
physical and digital worlds blur, and immersive experiences become an integral
part of our everyday lives.

6. C
O
V
E
R
S
T
O
R
Y
08

7. How Augmented and Virtual Reality are Shaping
Remote Collabora on
Articles
Unlocking the Potential
How Augmented Reality is Revolu onizing Industries
30
The Future of Work
16
CXO
20
The Digital Leader’s
Changing Skillset for All Industries
Ibrahim Jilani
A Tech Luminary Shaping Consumer Technology
Pioneering Tampere’s Journey to the Ethically Safe Metaverse
Profiles
Ken Hubbell
Redefining Educa on Through Technology-Driven Solu ons
26
Teppo Rantanen
22

8. May, 2024
Pooja M Bansal
CONTENT
DESIGN
SALES
TECHNICAL
FOLLOW US ON
WE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE ON
CONTACT US ON
Editor-in-Chief
sales@ciolook.com
SME-SMO

9. Brief
Company Name
Barry Prewitt
Design Services
Process Manager
Barry is an experienced Project/Process Manager with a
demonstrated history of managing software development
projects.
Anton Ebert
Senior Key Expert
XR technologies
Anton has passion for digitalizing education, developing
VR services, communicating to lots of interesting people
and a "slight" adiction to technology.
Siemens Healthineers
www.siemens-healthineers.com
Stryker
www.stryker.com
Alicja Jaworska
Partner
Executive Search
& Interim Manage
Executive Partner Chair & NED at Neumann Executive
certificated in Coaching and Mentoring at Cambridge
Management and Leadership School/ member of the
Association for Coaching and Healthcare & Ethics
Committee VRARA.
Neumann Executive
www.neumannexecutive.com
Drew Holbrook
Manager - Extended
Realities (XR)
Drew works for Gulfstream Aerospace in the Business
Technology organization’s Extended Realities (XR)
group. He has a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from N.C.
State University and currently in 16th year with
Gulfstream Aerospace.
Gulfstream Aerospace
www.gulfstream.com
Erika Flowers
Erika Flowers
Erica is a strategist and design leader with a drive for creative
productivity. 25 years experience in hands-on contribution,
10 years of strategic experience leadership in organizations
across the entire innovation, product, and service capability
maturity spectrum.
NASA - National
Aeronautics and
Space Administration
www.nasa.gov
Featured Person
Ken Hubbell
Chief Executive
Officer
With over 20 years of experience in the EdTech industry,
Ken is a pragmatic futurist who designs for tomorrow and
builds for today.
Ibrahim Jilani
Global Director of
Consumer technology
Ibrahim is a Global team builder and business leader. He
specializes in developing new services/products, opening
new customer segments, increasing customer loyalty,
growing top line revenue and profitability.
UL Solutions
www.ul.com/solutions
Soffos Inc.
www.soffos.ai
Haydar Vural
Chief Digital Officer
(CDO)
Haydar is CDO of Karsan Automotive, producing for the
world's leading automotive companies, including its own
brand, in its state-of-the-art facilities in the commercial
vehicle segment.
Karsan Automotive
www.karsan.com
Roman Axelrod
Founder
Roman is the founder of XPANCEO, a multidisciplinary
team of almost 50 world - class scientists, engineers, and
accomplished executive leaders ready to disrupt the
conventional reign of silicon era technologies and propel
humanity towards the next generation of computing.
XPANCEO
www.xpanceo.com
Teppo Rantanen
Executive Director
Teppo, from TMT focused partner specializing in
Digitilization and Internet of Things, especially from the point
of view of Value Creation and New Ecosystems into public
sector implementing Smart cities and digitilization activities.
Tampereen
kaupunki - City of Tampere
www.tampere.fi

11. Ibrahim Jilani
A Tech Luminary Shaping Consumer Technology
With a rich history spanning 130 years, UL Solu ons
has developed a robust process for risk
management, priori zing employee safety and the
development of innova ve services.”
Cover
Story
“

12. eet the esteemed Global Director of
MConsumer Technology at UL Solutions,
Ibrahim Jilani. He has an impressive career
spanning over 18 years with the company. As the
industry leader for Consumer Technology, Ibrahim
leads UL Solutions endeavors in pioneering new
technology and innovation across a diverse spectrum
of manufacturers.
Ibrahim's expertise includes a wide range of sectors,
including AR/VR/MR equipment, Audio/Video,
Batteries, Consumer Electronics, Robotics, Data
Centers, and more. Ibrahim's leadership extends
beyond mere management; he plays a pivotal role in
shaping UL Solutions mission to address global
industry challenges through product evaluation,
testing, and certification.
Ibrahim is a recognized leader in his field. He
represents UL Solutions in various industry trade
groups and serves as a key liaison for manufacturers,
regulators, and retailers worldwide. His dedication to
excellence has earned him the prestigious Mark of
Excellence—a UL Solutions program that recognizes
employees who exceed expectations—award on five
occasions, a testament to his unwavering
commitment to driving positive change and
mitigating risks in product safety and regulatory
compliance.
With a master's degree in computer engineering
from the University of Illinois and certification as a
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, Ibrahim brings a wealth of
knowledge and expertise to his role at UL Solutions.
His contributions have not only elevated the
company's standing in the industry but have also
made a lasting impact on global safety standards and
technological innovation.
Early Exposure to Engineering
Engineering has been a significant part of Ibrahim's
life since childhood, influenced by his mechanical
engineer father, who holds several patents in various
products, including home lighting. Ibrahim was
actively involved in learning about his father's
innovations, participating in construction reviews
and testing of designs. This early exposure fueled his
desire to study computer engineering and be part of
consumer technology advancements.

13. Ibrahim believes that innova on is the catalyst
for significant transforma on, as it
meets and redefines consumer needs,
crea ng opportuni es
for mass adop on.
Upon joining UL Solutions in 2005 as
a project engineer in appliances, Ibrahim
embarked on a career journey that led him to support
the latest innovations in industrial, commercial, and
consumer electronics. His role has involved ensuring
that these innovations reach the market in safe and
reliable ways, mirroring his childhood experiences
aiding his father with product launches.
Addressing Industry Needs Post-Service Delivery
Ibrahim underlines the importance of customer
satisfaction, ease of doing business, and loyalty at UL
Solutions. The company is dedicated to providing an
exceptional customer experience by treating both new
and existing customers with respect, ensuring
expeditious service delivery, and maintaining timely
and relevant communication.
Post-service delivery, UL Solutions remains available to
address industry needs, fostering ongoing growth and
advancement in consumer and commercial technology
markets.
Key performance indicators, including customer
surveys, delivery times, and effective communication,
are closely monitored to gauge customer satisfaction
and identify areas for improvement.
UL Solutions continuously enhances its software and
websites to facilitate easier customer engagement, and
engineers and technicians undergo training to become
proficient in customer service. By prioritizing initiatives
aimed at increasing customer loyalty and enhancing the
overall consumer experience, UL Solutions remains
committed to meeting and exceeding customer
expectations.
Commitment to Safety, Security, and Sustainability
As a third-party entity, UL Solutions supports integrity
and impartiality in assisting manufacturers worldwide
as they introduce their latest innovative products to
market. Ibrahim emphasizes the company's
commitment to ensuring safety, security, and
sustainability in consumer technology by collaborating
with manufacturers before product launches. UL
Solutions, alongside its parent standard development
company, UL Standards & Engagement, evaluates the
need for new standards and certification programs to
safeguard public safety.
One significant example of this proactive approach is in
the field of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR),
and mixed reality (MR) equipment, collectively known
as XR Equipment. Market research data and customer
requests indicated a shift towards mainstream
commercial and enterprise use of XR equipment in
recent years. This raised concerns about potential
health and safety effects on users and the safety of
various components and system design of XR
equipment.
Recognizing the need for safety standards, UL
Standards & Engagement and UL Solutions announced
plans to develop a safety standard at the end of 2019.
Stakeholders, including manufacturers, research firms,
and hospitals, were invited to contribute to the
development process. A technical committee
comprising over 30 organizations worked on the safety
standard from 2020 onwards. In April 2023, the first
edition of UL 8400, the world's first accredited
consensus Standard for AR, VR, and MR Equipment,
was published.
A significant milestone occurred in January 2024 when
the United States Occupational Safety & Health
Administration (OSHA) added UL 8400 to the
workplace safety standards list. This underscores the
“

14. team members whose primary language is not English,
ensuring comprehension and buy-in.
Ibrahim highlights the significance of being mindful of
cultural differences regarding holidays, workplace
norms, and the time of year. Understanding these
factors contributes to more effective communication
and fosters a harmonious work environment across
regions and cultures.
Emphasis on Continuous Improvement
As one of UL Solutions' first certified Lean Six Sigma
Black Belts since 2010, Ibrahim spearheaded
companywide initiatives from 2008 to 2011, focusing
on improving response times to customers through
effective project management. This involved
consistently tracking key deliverables, communications,
and promoting best practices across the global
engineering workforce. Continuous improvement was
emphasized to ensure optimal project delivery
efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Transitioning to business leadership roles from 2012
onwards, Ibrahim concentrated on enhancing processes
and measuring results within innovation initiatives.
Acknowledging the importance of allowing innovation
to develop, he emphasized monitoring market research
data, aligning it with technology trends, and utilizing
available data to anticipate future safety, security, and
sustainability risks proactively. These efforts were
aimed at maintaining UL Solutions' commitment to
excellence and staying ahead in the ever-evolving
landscape of consumer technology.
Listening to Customers for Product Roadmaps
As a tech leader, Ibrahim shares the importance of
continuous learning and staying informed about
emerging trends and technologies at UL Solutions. This
involves a multifaceted approach, including:
Ÿ Listening to customers: Gathering insights from
customers about their product roadmaps and future
technology launches.
Ÿ Attending trade events and industry symposiums:
Participating in events to stay updated on industry
developments and network with professionals.
Ÿ Involvement in standards and industry groups:
Participating in working groups for various
standards and industry publications to stay
informed about regulatory requirements and
importance for CIOs and IT executives to ensure XR
equipment provided to employees is certified to UL
8400 to meet OSHA requirements, that can help to
mitigate workplace risks and protect employees, UL
Solutions is the first OSHA-approved National
Recognized Testing Laboratory for UL 8400 Safety
Certification and can assist manufacturers in achieving
this certification.
Welcoming Feedback and Diverse Ideas
When building and leading global teams to ensure
cohesion, collaboration, and effective communication
across different regions and cultures, Ibrahim
emphasizes several key strategies. At UL Solutions,
where the work has a global impact, collaboration with
professionals worldwide is essential. To facilitate this
effectively, Ibrahim underscores the importance of
respecting all cultures, welcoming feedback, and being
open to diverse ideas. Clear articulation and reiteration
of messages are crucial, especially when working with

15. industry trends.
Ÿ Engagement in trade associations: Involvement in
manufacturing, retail, safety, and technology-
related trade associations to stay connected with
industry peers and gather insights.
Ÿ Reading market research reports: Absorbing
information from numerous market research
reports and studies to understand market trends
and industry preferences.
This comprehensive approach ensures that UL
Solutions remains abreast of the latest developments in
consumer technology. In cases where emerging
technologies present new challenges, such as artificial
intelligence, UL Solutions engages with industry
stakeholders to formulate hypotheses about safety
requirements and validate these hypotheses through
feedback and collaboration. This information informs
strategic planning and decision-making processes,
enabling UL Solutions to offer services that address
market needs effectively and competitively. Ultimately,
the goal is to provide safety, security, and sustainability
services that align with market demands and contribute
to the advancement of consumer technology.
The Crucial Role of Third-Party Evaluation and
Certification
Ibrahim believes that innovation is the catalyst for
significant transformation, as it meets and redefines
consumer needs, creating opportunities for mass
adoption. As a third-party entity, UL Solutions aligns its
innovation with market and regulatory demands. When
new technologies require trust or face safety concerns,
the role of third-party evaluation, testing, and
certification becomes crucial.
Ibrahim underscores that innovation should never
compromise safety, security, or sustainability. UL
Solutions prioritizes transparency, demonstrating that
customer innovations are safe, secure, and sustainable.
To foster innovation, UL Solutions cultivates a culture
of growth among its teams, seeking individuals who are
naturally curious, creative, and continuous learners.
This environment encourages exploration and
discovery of new technologies, with the aim of
enhancing transparency and trust in products,
software, and systems. Ultimately, this approach allows
UL Solutions to support innovation while ensuring
consumer safety and confidence.
A Legacy of Safety
With a rich history spanning 130 years, UL Solutions
has developed a robust process for risk management,
prioritizing employee safety and the development of
innovative services. As a third-party entity, UL
Solutions plays a crucial role in reducing the risk
associated with its customers' products, thereby
facilitating the launch of safe new products into the
market.
As an example, in the case of XR equipment, UL
Solutions aims to minimize the risk associated with
prolonged use. By leveraging accredited safety
standards like UL 8400 and collaborating with CIOs
and technology executives who prioritize safety
certification, UL Solutions helps ensure that innovative
products enter the market safely and at scale. This
approach aligns with the company's commitment to
promoting safety and mitigating risks associated with
emerging technologies.
Ensuring Effective Execution
Ibrahim mentions the importance of regular
communication and check-ins with various leaders
and internal stakeholders to align on long-range
planning at UL Solutions. The company
employs rigorous and robust ongoing
To facilitate this
effec vely, Ibrahim
underscores the
importance of
respec ng all
cultures, welcoming
feedback, and being
open to diverse ideas.
“

16. and annual review processes to stay on task, pursue
long-term strategic goals, and deliver on yearly budgets
effectively.
Regular presentations, to educate the market, end-
users and staff, internally and externally, are conducted
by Ibrahim to share his vision for the future of
consumer technology. Feedback from both the
organization and external partners is actively sought to
ensure that UL Solutions remains on the right track.
This collaborative approach helps in maintaining
alignment and guiding the company in the direction
that best serves its goals and objectives.
Guidance from an Expert
In offering advice to aspiring leaders, Ibrahim says it is
important to maintain mental agility and continuous
learning. He encourages aspiring leaders to actively
engage in executing projects and commitments while
consistently expanding their knowledge base. Ibrahim
suggests focusing on technical subjects and becoming
an expert in one or two areas, alongside developing
public speaking skills and overcoming personal doubts.
Ibrahim suggests aspiring leaders to find their voice and
contribute to addressing industry challenges by
leveraging their expertise. Ibrahim emphasizes the
need to balance technical leadership with business
acumen, ensuring alignment with company and
industry needs. By serving as a bridge builder between
technological innovation and market demands, aspiring
leaders can contribute to the advancement and safety,
security, and sustainability of the world's products,
software, and systems.
At UL Solu ons, where
the work has a
global impact,
we strive to reduce risk
that could
cause loss of life, injury,
or property damage.
“

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Today

18. Unlocking the Potential
n the not-so-distant past, the concept of interacting
Iwith virtual objects superimposed onto our real-world
environment seemed like something out of a science
fiction novel. However, with the advent of augmented
reality (AR), this futuristic vision has become a tangible
reality, poised to revolutionize various industries in
profound ways. From enhancing customer experiences to
streamlining complex industrial processes, AR is unlocking
a world of potential across multiple sectors.
Augmented Reality Defined
Before delving into its revolutionary impact, let's first
understand what augmented reality entails. Unlike virtual
reality (VR), which immerses users in a completely digital
environment, AR overlays digital content onto the real
world, enhancing our perception of reality. This
augmentation is typically experienced through devices
such as smartphones, tablets, or specialized AR glasses,
which blend virtual elements seamlessly with the user's
physical surroundings.
Transforming Retail and E-Commerce
One of the most noticeable areas where AR is making
waves is in retail and e-commerce. Traditionally,
consumers relied on static images or descriptions when
making purchasing decisions online. However, AR is
changing the game by allowing shoppers to visualize
products in their own space before buying. From trying on
virtual clothes to previewing furniture placements in their
homes, AR is enhancing the online shopping experience,
reducing returns, and increasing customer satisfaction.
www.ciolook.com | May 2024 |
16
How
Augmented Reality
Industries
is Revolutionizing

19. www.ciolook.com | May 2024 |
17

20. Revolutionizing Education and Training
In the realm of education and training, AR is
revolutionizing the way we learn and acquire new skills.
By overlaying educational content onto real-world
objects or environments, AR brings learning to life in a
highly engaging manner. Students can dissect virtual
anatomy models, explore historical sites from their
classrooms, or conduct virtual science experiments—all
within the comfort of their learning environment.
Similarly, in fields such as healthcare and aviation, AR is
facilitating hands-on training simulations, allowing
professionals to hone their skills in a safe and
controlled setting.
Enhancing Field Service and Maintenance
For industries reliant on field service and maintenance,
AR is proving to be a game-changer. By providing
technicians with AR-enabled smart glasses or mobile
devices, companies can deliver real-time assistance and
guidance, reducing downtime and improving
operational efficiency. Technicians can access relevant
information, such as schematics or repair instructions,
overlaid onto their field of view, enabling them to
perform tasks with greater accuracy and speed. This
not only saves time and resources but also minimizes
the risk of errors, ultimately leading to higher customer
satisfaction.
Optimizing Manufacturing and Design
In the realm of manufacturing and design, AR is
streamlining processes and driving innovation.
Designers and engineers can use AR to visualize
prototypes and make real-time adjustments, speeding
up the product development cycle. By overlaying digital
models onto physical objects, manufacturers can assess
design feasibility, detect potential flaws, and optimize
production workflows. Furthermore, AR-powered
assembly instructions assist workers in complex
manufacturing tasks, reducing errors and ensuring
consistency across production lines.
Reviving the Entertainment Industry
Entertainment is another sector witnessing a
renaissance thanks to AR technology. From immersive
AR gaming experiences to interactive museum exhibits,
AR is breathing new life into traditional forms of
entertainment. Theme parks are incorporating AR-
enhanced attractions, blurring the lines between
fantasy and reality. Moreover, live events and concerts
are leveraging AR to deliver captivating visual
spectacles, creating unforgettable experiences for
attendees.
Fostering Remote Collaboration
In an increasingly interconnected world, AR is fostering
remote collaboration like never before. Whether it's
virtual meetings or collaborative design sessions, AR
platforms enable geographically dispersed teams to
work together seamlessly. By sharing a common
augmented environment, team members can visualize
concepts, annotate objects, and brainstorm ideas in
real-time, regardless of their physical location. This not
only enhances productivity but also promotes
inclusivity and diversity within teams.
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead
While the potential of AR is vast, it's not without its
challenges. Technical limitations, privacy concerns, and
adoption barriers pose significant hurdles that need to
be addressed. However, as technology continues to
evolve and become more accessible, the benefits of AR
will likely outweigh these challenges.
Looking ahead, the future of augmented reality appears
promising. As advancements in hardware, software,
and connectivity continue to accelerate, AR will
become increasingly integrated into our daily lives,
reshaping the way we work, learn, and interact with the
world around us. By unlocking its full potential,
augmented reality is poised to revolutionize industries
across the globe, ushering in a new era of innovation
and possibilities.
www.ciolook.com | May 2024 |
18

21. "Virtual reality is the rst step in
a grand adventure into the
landscape of the imagination."
- Frank Biocca

22. The Digital Leader’s
Changing Skillset for All Industries
e are now in an era of end-to-end
Wdigitalization globally in all industries.
Whenever we deep-dive into an industry to
find new ways to gain competitive advantage, digital
leaders and their contributions become vital for
success. So, this era has set a new role for digital
leaders, which is pioneering technology for
corporations in all aspects.
Finding the right technology solution and adding it to
your technology stack is no longer sufficient. It is not
easy to fulfil this role unless you focus on your skillset
and add some new ones. If a brief list of new skills is
prepared, one on the list would be the negotiation with
the ecosystem.
If the definition of the digital ecosystem was asked by
professionals 30 years ago, the most common answers
would be technology providers, system integrators,
universities, and research centers. These answers are
still essential, but new ones, like start-ups and talented
individuals, emerged quickly. The new entrants have
different rules of games and establishing a mutual
benefit with them needs understanding their rules. The
previous list strongly understands the corporate world
and its expectations. The new ones do not want to be
bound by the tight rules of the corporate business
environment.
Freedom and self-decision-making are at the top of
their priority list. This is different from the well-
organized previous cooperation, and it is open to
varying discussions. Digital leaders must learn how to
negotiate with start-ups and talented individuals in the
corporate world. This is like balancing a scale.
Providing freedom to the ecosystem must be balanced
with corporate risk mitigation and innovation. This is
not so easy if big companies are still seen as more
powerful in this game. Innovation coming from a start-
up or individual may generate unprecedented revenues
in a short while, and start-ups and individuals are aware
of this power.
The scale, history, and reputation of any party in the
ecosystem must be discarded, and negotiation must be
done based on potential outcomes.
If we continue the list of ecosystem-related skills, being
a brand ambassador is another one. Finding the right
talent is extremely competitive, and hiring a few
recruiter companies will not guarantee that. Whenever
a talent is contacted for cooperation, most of the time,
the key question is with whom they would be working.
Digital leaders must invest in advance to be well-known
in the ecosystem and visible to prospective employees.
Their understanding of the technology and vision for
the future are some key facts to impress the candidates.
The universities, student clubs and academies need
more care, and the digital leaders must spend time to
have connections with them. Offering the highest
salary or being the biggest in your industry will not
provide the same level of brand awareness when it is
compared with pre-established word of mouth based
on communication.
The lifetime learner is a common subject when the
profiles of most executives are read. To fulfill it, too
much time and energy is needed, and it is a must for a
new leadership style. The rapid change of technologies
and emerging new ones made the digital world too
complicated. Just to give an example, generative AI was
not on most of our agenda three years ago. Now, there
are companies which totally implement their core
strategies or business operations with the support of
generative AI.
A leader without the knowledge of underlying
technology will avoid from its full benefit to companies.
The overrated technologies sometimes lead decision-
makers to invest massive amounts, and technology
teams are the only ones that may prevent it. Technology
is not easy to follow for non-technical decision-makers,
and the illusion coming from the buzzwords may make
them confused easily. The right mix of technology and
investment cannot be achieved unless a digital leader
comprehensively understands the technology, explains
www.ciolook.com | May 2024 |
20

23. About the
Author
Haydar Vural is the Chief Digital Officer of Karsan
Automo ve. He has built digital strategy and
implemented technology in different industries
for over 20 years. He observed how successful
digital strategy shaped corporate with business
outcomes and believes that this is the key to
sustainable profitability.
it to business stakeholders, and even drops some from
the business agenda,
Lifetime learning also puts another burden on digital
leader’s shoulders, teaching it to the rest. The efficiency
and profit coming from digital technologies force
companies to learn new ones quickly and adopt them
before their competitors. The individuals are very
willing to learn and try them by themselves. Letting
employees understand and implement them
unharmonized and unaligned with a corporate strategy
may not be a helpful solution. Consider this with an
orchestra playing a classical music piece.
Each instrument is like a technology and when they are
played at the right time and with the right skill, the
perfect music piece may be performed. It takes years to
master an instrument, but people have a few years or
sometimes months to use technology in the digital
world. Choosing them, building the strategy and
implementing the technical skill development
processes are key items in digital leader agendas.
Finally, the last item on our list will be the AI-master
digital leader. AI is the top answer to questions when it
is asked in different industries about what will change
the industry in the upcoming years. The options
available in the market are enormous, and the right mix
CXO
of solutions, partners, training, and investments gives
you the maximum benefit. Just to give an example, if the
number of data and data transformation tools available
in the market are compared with ten years ago, the
current list contains 3-4 times more options. If the AI
solution providers list is compared in the same way, it is
20-30 times. The digital leaders must build the
mechanisms to listen to them, understand their
differences than competitors, be able to initiate
investment to start-up and develop sector specific
products together. If digital leaders do not spend time
on learning AI fundamentals and applications, they will
lose their competitive advantage.
www.ciolook.com | May 2024 |
21

24. If you want to
make an impact
in the EdTech
space, take time
to understand
K-12 and adult
learning
principles.
Ken Hubbell
CEO
Soffos Inc.
www.ciolook.com | May 2024 |
22

25. Redefining Education Through Technology-Driven Solutions
he Educational Technology (EdTech) domain
Tthrives on innovation. This constant push for
advancements leads to the development of
transformative tools that reshape learning experiences.
Personalized learning platforms cater to individual
needs while interactive simulations and digital
resources make complex concepts more engaging.
EdTech pioneers use technology to empower students,
fostering collaboration and equipping them with the
skills needed to succeed at the same pace as the world
around them.
Ken Hubbell is a visionary leader with over two
decades of experience at the forefront of EdTech
innovation. With a keen eye for the future and a
pragmatic approach to design, Ken is a quintessential
futurist who navigates the complexities of tomorrow
while building solutions for today. As the CEO of Soffos
Inc.—a pioneering generative AI/ML company, Ken
spearheads the development of low-code solutions that
revolutionize knowledge management, learning,
assessment, course content creation, and performance
support systems.
Ken's passion lies in crafting engaging and innovative
products that harness the power of cutting-edge
technologies like AR/VR/XR, AI, prompt engineering,
and serious games and simulations. His track record
speaks volumes, having collaborated with global giants
such as Tom Clancy, Michael Crichton, the United
Nations, NASA, and the FAA, to deliver award-winning
projects that redefine learning, performance, and
impact.
Outside his role as a CEO, Ken is a mentor, coach,
writer, and international speaker, dedicated to sharing
his knowledge and giving back to the eLearning
community. His journey exemplifies leadership in
EdTech and a commitment to driving meaningful
change and pushing the boundaries of what's possible
in education.
Join in on a narrative of revolutionizing the future of
education with cutting-edge EdTech innovations!
What initially sparked your interest in the field of
EdTech, and how did you first become involved in the
industry?
With a background in industrial design from NC State
University, I quickly found my niche in EdTech, moving
from animation and production design to creating
engaging explainer videos for EPA site cleanups.
My journey took me from visualizing textile mechanical
processes and building interactive training programs to
developing cutting-edge 3D web tools with Virtus
Corporation, partnering with giants like Intel and
Adobe. I've built simulators for Caterpillar and the FAA,
collaborated with NASA, and presently lead a team
leveraging Generative AI to revolutionize EdTech,
enhancing educator efficiency and program
effectiveness.
As the CEO, what excites you most about leading a
company at the forefront of generative AI and
machine learning?
As the CEO of Soffos Inc., I work with some of the
brightest and most innovative product designers,
business developers, and programmers on the planet.
We are taking revolutionary technology and applying it
in a way that will transform the lives of teachers,
students, instructional designers, employees, and
organizations in ways that are just now starting to
come to life. I have been speaking on talent disruption
and the new workforce for over a decade. Last year I
released my book, ‘There is AI in Team: The Future of
Human, Augmented Human, and Non-human
Collaboration’ on Amazon. Now I get to see this all
emerge, and my team is making it possible.
How do you define success in the context of
developing advanced tools and applications for
knowledge management and learning?
My definition of success for EdTech is when it becomes
invisible to the user. It will be so integrated into the
workflow and educational process that the employee or
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26. student doesn’t see it as a separate piece, but rather a
smooth transition from one type of learning to another.
I also measure the success of these tools and
applications by their ease of use, reduction of time to
create new content and minimization of cost to ensure
access for all.
Ultimately, it comes down to how effective is the
solution.
Ÿ Did it reduce the time to competency?
Ÿ Did it improve the capability of the employee or
team?
Ÿ Did it increase the confidence of the individual?
Ÿ And did all this result in better employee and
customer experiences, and improve the financial
position of the organization?
These are the goals we have for our platform.
What are some of the key challenges you've faced in
integrating cutting-edge technologies like AR/VR/XR
and AI into educational solutions, and how have you
addressed them?
Over the years, I have faced my share of challenges in
EdTech:
Ÿ While developing a customer empathy virtual
reality training program for Wells Fargo, the world
experienced the COVID-19 epidemic. The training
was well-received by the employees. However, HR
forced us to halt deployment due to the sanitary
restrictions on the headset devices.
Ÿ Changing well-entrenched educational and training
industry techniques forced us to discover we
needed to talk less about technology and more
about its impact. In the case of Soffos, our platform
is a force multiplier for teachers, administrators, and
EdTech developers. Based on benchmarking
research we conducted with one of our partners this
year, the study showed a 40% reduction in time and
cost to develop new courses. We let the data tell the
story of how instructional designers can meet the
demand for new courses with the time and budget
provided by their organizations.
Ÿ The biggest and most invigorating challenge for the
Soffos team has been the relentless drive to keep up
with and exceed the pace of the AI technology itself.
We have been fortunate to lead in several areas
including retrieval augmented generation (RAG),
document chunking, and long-term session memory,
but with the scale of OpenAI, Meta, Google, and
What motivates you to continue pushing the
boundaries of innovation in EdTech, even after two
decades in the industry?
After over two decades in the field of learning and
development, and more specifically EdTech, many have
asked me what drives me to keep pushing the
boundaries of innovation. My answer is simple, we have
others, staying at the forefront is definitely a race.
Fortunately, our focus is on creating a maintainable
and useful platform for EdTech and, in this regard, we
are well positioned.
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27. now reached many of the goals I set years ago. We have
achieved automated content production. We are in the
Metaverse. Augmented reality is a cost-effective
training solution. And, access to learning is almost
universal, at least in regards to technology.
My ultimate dream is to have an AI-enhanced system of
continuous feedback and seamless performance
support, and on the job training continuously
augmenting my capabilities and enabling me to be the
best I can be and helping others reach their full
potential.
How do you approach mentorship and coaching within
your organization and the wider eLearning
community?
At Soffos Inc. my team is always learning—it’s a part of
being in a leading-edge company. More than that
though, we are a small company and wear many hats. As
a leader, it is my job to ensure every one of my
employees has the tools and training to perform at their
best. This often means just listening to what is
happening in their lives, understanding when we are
stretching our boundaries (technically as well as
physically; sometimes I must coach them to sleep), and
supplying the tools they need to be successful. I also
ask, ‘What do you want to be?’ Most importantly, I have a
virtual open-door policy for them to provide me with
feedback so I can be a better leader for the company.
In your opinion, what are the most crucial qualities for
a leader in the field of EdTech to possess?
The field of EdTech is constantly changing, sometimes
for the good and sometimes not so good. As a leader in
this field, it is easy to fall prey to ‘shiny object syndrome’
as relates to other people’s technologies as well as your
own. The key is to recognize when you have the
syndrome. In most cases, this comes from lots of trial
and error, heavy emphasis on the error.
Another vital quality is having a mind open to
possibilities. The possibility there may be a better way.
The possibility it may not be a training issue (it might be
a process). The possibility EdTech is not the answer (a
2-page job aid might do the trick).
An EdTech leader must learn how to communicate with
non-EdTech leaders and employees. In many cases, they
just want to understand how you can improve their
situation, not how you are going to create the solution.
The most important quality is cultivating an
environment where your team knows what they can
expect from you and what you expect of them. And you
ensure everyone is respected for the qualities they
bring to the team.
How do you prioritize staying abreast of emerging
trends and developments in technology and
education?
With so many emerging technologies and trends in
EdTech, it is easy to become overwhelmed. I manage my
load in two ways. First, I use aggregators like Gartner
and Edutopia along with LinkedIn to pull research and
data from a broad spectrum of sources.
Second, I use the Soffos platform to summarize larger
articles and research papers into a manageable pile. I
also apply content filters to focus and sort these piles
and then capture smaller pieces into One Note for
future reference.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs
looking to make an impact in the EdTech space?
My philosophy is to design for tomorrow and build for
today. If you want to make an impact in the EdTech
space, take time to understand K-12 and adult learning
principles. Experiment and determine what truly
affects behavioral change and builds skills.
Find an area of technology you have a passion for -
software development, hardware design, or content
creation - and immerse yourself in it. Discover how it
can improve the learning experience for
students/employees and course developers including
teachers and instructional designers. Finally, dream big
and act on your dreams.
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29. Teppo Rantanen
Pioneering Tampere’s Journey to the Ethically Safe Metaverse
mart cities are reimagining urban life by
Sintegrating technology for efficiency,
sustainability and citizen well-being. Digital
transformation fuels this growth, with data analytics,
connected infrastructure and innovative solutions.
Here, the expertise of a seasoned professional is
invaluable. Leaders in this space champion a clear
vision, fostering collaboration between tech experts,
urban planners and citizens to navigate the
complexities of smart city development and digital
transformation.
Teppo Rantanen is one such professional who brings a
wealth of experience and a visionary outlook to the
table. With a robust background spanning over three
decades in consulting, Teppo honed his expertise,
notably during his tenure at Deloitte, where he served
as both the CEO of Finland and a pivotal member of the
global Telecom Media Technology unit’s international
leadership team.
His journey in consulting, particularly in the realms of
Digitization and the Internet of Things (IoT), instilled in
him a deep understanding of value creation and the
emergence of new ecosystems. Teppo’s proficiency in
navigating the intricacies of the TMT sector positioned
him as a strategic partner for corporations seeking to
embrace the digital age.
However, it was his innate curiosity about smart city
themes that prompted Teppo to embark on a disruptive
journey back to his roots in Tampere, his hometown. In
his current role as Executive Director at Tampereen
kaupunki - City of Tampere, Teppo leverages his
extensive experience to spearhead initiatives aimed at
implementing smart city solutions and driving
digitalization activities within the public sector.
Teppo now stands at the nexus of innovation, bridging
the gap between the private and public sectors to
shape the future of urban living. His collaborative
approach has garnered attention on a global scale, as he
works closely with major cities and corporations
worldwide to co-create and develop the blueprint for
future cities.
Driving Urban Innovation
As Executive Director, Teppo heads pivotal
responsibilities centered around shaping strategic
economic policy. His role extends to overseeing
comprehensive city-wide development programs, with
a particular focus on initiatives like the Data-Driven
City for Citizens. Furthermore, Teppo’s purview
encompasses international operations, event
management and advocacy efforts, all aimed at
advancing the city’s interests on a global scale.
Vision for Future Cities
Teppo’s journey as a consultant was marked by a
dedicated focus on commercializing cutting-edge
technologies including the Internet of Things (IoT), with
cities being a key target demographic. This early
involvement with the smart city theme laid a solid
foundation for his current endeavors. Throughout his
consulting career, international engagement was a
facet but it turned into the cornerstone of his work
soon.
Fast forward to his role in city operations, Teppo’s team
has recognized the indispensable role of international
collaboration in smart city development. They actively
foster partnerships with cities, research institutions
and companies worldwide recognizing the value of
shared expertise and mutual learning. Indeed,
internationality emerges as a central tenet in their
approach, reflecting its significance for the future
evolution of cities.
Metaverse Manifest
Since 2016, Teppo has been at the forefront of
pioneering initiatives such as the Smart Tampere
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30. program, followed by the Data-Driven City for Citizens
development program. Teppo shares, “Recent
developments in this field have led us toward the concept of
a metaverse city.”
Under his leadership, these programs have catalyzed a
multitude of projects exemplified by the extensive
scope of Smart Tampere. These encompassed an
impressive array of 150 distinct initiatives. Presently,
the Data-Driven City for Citizens program is structured
around five flagship initiatives, each meticulously
designed to embody the essence of a forward-thinking
and human-centric smart city:
Ÿ A City of Business Growth
Ÿ An International and Inclusive City
Ÿ A City of Growth and Learning
Ÿ Safe Pedestrian City
Ÿ Sustainable City
Within each flagship initiative lie multiple projects,
collectively propelling the agenda of smart city
development and digitalization forward with a
profound focus on the well-being and needs of the
citizens.
The Data Economy
Under Teppo’s stewardship, the Smart Tampere
program undertook a groundbreaking turn towards
fostering a robust ecosystem-based approach. This
ambitious endeavor saw the active involvement of a
diverse array of stakeholders including over 400
companies, universities, research institutions,
government units, and non-governmental organizations.
Central to this initiative was the meticulous crafting of
value propositions tailored to meet the distinct needs of
various ecosystem participants. This concerted effort
facilitated collaboration and laid the groundwork for
mutually beneficial partnerships.
Currently, the focus has shifted towards grappling with
data economy issues with a keen emphasis on exploring
avenues for value creation through data both for the
city and its businesses. As they focus on this domain,
Teppo and his team are poised to reveal new frontiers in
smart city development driven by data-driven insights
and innovative solutions.
International Engagement
International collaboration lies at the core of their
strategic approach. Tampere’s engagement on the global
stage is a deliberate and integral aspect of their
endeavors. One noteworthy example of this
commitment is the establishment of the Nordic Smart
City network in 2017—a collaborative effort involving
Tampere and 10 other Nordic cities. Furthermore, their
footprint extends across Europe, with deep-seated
partnerships forged with cities like Rotterdam and
Barcelona alongside fruitful collaborations with
counterparts in the United States.
Tampere boasts affiliations with industry giants such as
Microsoft, Nokia and Cisco reflecting their prowess in
cultivating strategic partnerships with global players. A
crowning achievement in their international
engagement was Tampere’s recognition at the
Barcelona Smart City World Expo Congress where they
clinched the enabling technologies category award. This
accolade celebrated Tampere’s innovative utilization of
IoT platforms, setting a benchmark for cities worldwide.
The ripple effect of this triumph has been palpable,
sparking heightened collaboration and fostering
dialogue with municipalities and enterprises alike.
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31. However, this triumph recognizes Tampere’s enduring
commitment to long-term cooperation and its
extensive global networks, which continue to drive
innovation and excellence on the international stage
under Teppo’s leadership.
Imagining the Future
Teppo holds a forward-looking perspective on the
transformative potential of extended reality (XR)
technologies within the context of the metaverse city.
Embracing the broader term ‘XR,’ Teppo highlights its
pivotal role in shaping the future urban landscape,
particularly in driving the experience economy forward.
In line with this vision, Teppo champions XR
development particularly focusing on its applications in
enhancing the city-dwelling experience. From
immersive XR experiences enriching cultural offerings
like museum exhibitions to the practical utility of XR
applications in city modeling through digital twins, the
potential for XR to revolutionize everyday urban life is
immense.
Anticipating future trends, Teppo foresees a
pronounced emphasis on experiential elements,
mirroring the growing trend evident in sectors such as
museum and exhibition activities. Moreover, he
predicts significant strides in healthcare through
technological advancements facilitated by XR,
alongside the added value it brings to urban
development and urban planning initiatives.
To delve deeper into these themes and explore the
burgeoning possibilities of the metaverse, Teppo
announces the ‘ ’ event scheduled
Imagine the Metaverse
th
to take place in Tampere next summer, on June 11 and
th
12 .
This gathering will serve as a nexus for inquisitive
minds hailing from diverse sectors, including industry,
experience economy, smart city development, and the
business sphere. At this event, the future trajectories
and emerging trends within the XR field will
undoubtedly take center stage, paving the way for a
bold new era of urban innovation.
Innovating Urban Futures
The metaverse city and how smart technologies will
increasingly enable seamlessness between the physical
and virtual worlds, adding value to citizens’ everyday
lives, are undoubtedly among the opportunities.
Teppo acknowledges that despite the impressive array
of technologies currently available, a significant hurdle
lies in the absence of tailor-made solutions for the
metaverse world. Specifically, the dearth of affordable
and user-friendly technology remains a notable
challenge. He envisions a future where VR/XR glasses
seamlessly integrate into daily life, offering intuitive
usability coupled with robust connectivity, ideally
facilitated by advancements like 6G. Addressing these
technological barriers holds the key to unlocking a
myriad of new use cases with profound implications for
urban environments.
Here, innovative solutions related to transportation
and mobility could revolutionize urban mobility
systems while efficient data utilization powered by
these advanced technologies ensures safety and
security in data handling. By surmounting these
challenges and harnessing the potential of cutting-edge
technology, Teppo anticipates a paradigm shift in urban
development, characterized by a wealth of new
possibilities and transformative applications that
enhance the quality of life for city residents.
Towards a Seamless Integration
In the future, the metaverse will emerge. The goal of all
this is to guide the city toward a metaverse world
where digital twins, XR, AI (especially Gen AI) and
connectivity intersect in a way that allows us to create
a genuine connection between the real world and the
virtual world. At the center of it all remains the human
being—the ethically safe metaverse city aims to help
citizens find practical ways to operate using new
technology.
Teppo states, “We have developed a 2040 vision of the
metaverse for the city of Tampere in collaboration with the
London-based Metaverse Institute. We continue to refine
this vision into specific areas, seeking a path toward
realizing the vision and creating a future human-centric
city.”
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32. The Future of Work
How Augmented and
are Shaping Remote
Virtual Reality
Collaboration
n the wake of the digital age, the landscape of
Iwork is undergoing a profound transformation.
The rise of remote work, accelerated by global
events and advancements in technology, has
revolutionized how teams collaborate and
communicate. Among the myriad tools reshaping this
landscape, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality
(VR) stand out as transformative forces, offering
immersive solutions to bridge the gap between
physical distance and virtual connectivity. As
organizations navigate the complexities of remote
collaboration, AR and VR technologies are emerging
as indispensable tools, heralding a new era of work
defined by enhanced engagement, productivity, and
connectivity.
The Evolution of Remote Collaboration
Remote collaboration is not a new concept, but its
widespread adoption has surged in recent years,
driven by factors such as technological
advancements, changing work cultures, and the need
for flexibility. Traditional communication tools like
email, video conferencing, and project management
platforms laid the foundation for remote work,
enabling teams to connect across geographical
boundaries. However, these tools often fall short of
replicating the immersive, interactive experience of
face-to-face interactions.
Enter Augmented and Virtual Reality
Augmented and virtual reality technologies offer a
compelling solution to the limitations of conventional
remote collaboration tools. AR overlays digital
content onto the real world, enriching our physical
environment with virtual elements, while VR
immerses users in entirely virtual environments,
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34. creating a sense of presence and immersion. By
leveraging these technologies, remote teams can
transcend the constraints of distance and collaborate in
ways that were previously unimaginable.
Enhancing Engagement and Interaction
One of the key advantages of AR and VR in remote
collaboration is their ability to enhance engagement
and interaction. Traditional video conferencing
platforms provide a visual and auditory connection, but
they often lack the immersive experience of face-to-
face meetings. AR and VR, on the other hand, enable
participants to interact with virtual objects and
environments in real time, fostering a sense of presence
and engagement that transcends physical distance.
Facilitating Spatial Collaboration
Spatial collaboration, the ability to interact with digital
content in a shared virtual space, lies at the heart of AR
and VR-based remote collaboration. In a virtual
meeting room or workspace, team members can
manipulate virtual objects, annotate documents, and
brainstorm ideas collaboratively, regardless of their
physical location. This spatial awareness fosters
creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork, leading to
more innovative outcomes and solutions.
Breaking Down Communication Barriers
Effective communication is essential for successful
collaboration, especially in remote work environments
where non-verbal cues can be easily overlooked. AR
and VR technologies address this challenge by
providing more immersive communication channels. In
VR environments, for example, participants can use
gestures, body language, and spatial audio to convey
information and emotions, fostering more natural and
intuitive interactions.
Transforming Training and Onboarding
Remote collaboration extends beyond meetings and
project management—it also encompasses training,
onboarding, and skill development. AR and VR offer
immersive training simulations that replicate real-
world scenarios, allowing employees to learn new skills
and procedures in a safe and controlled environment.
Whether it's virtual team-building exercises, interactive
onboarding sessions, or hands-on technical training, AR
and VR technologies are revolutionizing the way
organizations educate and empower their workforce.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the potential of AR and VR in remote
collaboration is undeniable, challenges remain.
Technical limitations, accessibility issues, and concerns
about privacy and security are among the hurdles that
organizations must address. Moreover, the upfront
costs of implementing AR and VR solutions can be
prohibitive for some businesses. However, as
technology continues to evolve and become more
affordable, the barriers to adoption are expected to
diminish, unlocking new opportunities for remote
collaboration.
The Future of Work
As we look ahead, the future of work is increasingly
defined by remote collaboration augmented and
enabled by AR and VR technologies. From virtual team
meetings and collaborative design sessions to
immersive training experiences and remote customer
support, the possibilities are limitless. As organizations
embrace these technologies and integrate them into
their workflows, they will not only enhance
productivity and efficiency but also foster a more
connected, inclusive, and innovative work culture.
In conclusion, augmented and virtual reality are
reshaping the landscape of remote collaboration,
ushering in a new era of work defined by immersive
experiences, enhanced engagement, and limitless
possibilities. As organizations navigate the challenges
and opportunities of this digital transformation, the
true potential of AR and VR in remote collaboration is
yet to be fully realized, but the journey promises to be
nothing short of transformative.
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35. "AR and VR are just the beginning of
a new era of digital transformation."