The Convergence of Technology and Social Good with Yael Swerdlow

Yael Swerdlow, CEO and Founder of Maestro Games is a steadfast champion of women's empowerment. Swedlow shares insights from her diverse career—from the frontlines of photojournalism to pioneering roles in game development and advocacy for social change. This 360° Pulse episode explores how immersive technologies can not only enhance gaming experiences but also serve as powerful tools for education, emergency response, and promoting gender equality. Swedlow's unique perspective sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for innovators eager to make a meaningful impact.

This episode features an interview between 360° Pulse podcast host Jennifer Sertl and Mike Pomerantz, a full-time faculty member at Monroe Community College’s nationally recognized Optics Systems Technology Program. This program bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring that the next generation of optical technicians are job ready.

Dr. Charbel Rizk, Founder, CEO, and CTO of Oculi, spearheads the groundbreaking commercialization of a novel artificial vision architecture blending biological efficiency with machine speed. His tenure at Johns Hopkins as an Associate Research Professor in ECE and Principal Professional Staff at APL showcased his multifaceted expertise, marked by significant roles in systems engineering, innovation, and as a recognized thought leader. Renowned for pioneering work in UAV/drone technology, he led the pioneering development of the first quad-rotor drone system in the early 90s. A luminary in signal processing, machine vision, robotics, and systems engineering, he fostered innovative R&D models resulting in pioneering concepts and technologies. Dr. Charbel Rizk's collaborative ethos extends across academia, industry, and government sectors, showcasing effective technical leadership and mentorship, complemented by key contributions at renowned aerospace entities like Rockwell Aerospace, McDonnell Douglas, and Boeing. An esteemed member of IEEE, AIAA, AUVSI, and OSA, his legacy remains synonymous with innovation, strategic foresight, and impactful contributions in cutting-edge technologies.

Tom Bishop is Chief Technology Officer at Glass Imaging. He is an algorithms expert with 15 years experience in AI/Deep Learning, Computer Vision, Computational Photography and Image Processing. From 2013-2018, Tom developed core technology at Apple powering the iPhone’s Portrait Mode. Enjoy his insights on future trends and his perspective of bias.

Strengthening foresight is an important skill for our dynamic technology landscape. In this #360Pulse Mattia Crespi shares his perspective on actions we can take to build stronger scenarios. For over twenty years, Crespi has been a dynamic force in innovation and digital technologies, making significant strides both within Silicon Valley and on the international stage. His entrepreneurial spirit is evident in his co-founding of prominent tech startups, like Qbit Technologies, each marking advancements in VR/AR and blockchain. At the Institute for the Future in Palo Alto, Crespi's role as a Research Affiliate since 2010 has been instrumental, where he significantly contributes to the pioneering research and initiatives mapping the future of immersive and internet technologies.

In this inspiring 360° Pulse episode, Jennifer Sertl of Circle Optics delves into the leadership odyssey of Jacqueline Blackburn. From commanding teams in the Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal Community in critical Middle East and African missions to shaping J.P. Morgan's early-stage tech initiatives, Blackburn's journey illustrates the seamless blend of military precision with commercial innovation. Jacqueline Blackburn is Principle at Decisive Point.

Former U.S. Army Veteran and Pulsar Founder & CEO, David Ryan Bonelli, shares his approach to innovation. After working with Rokid, Osterhout Design Group, and KFS Industries, Bonelli is helping create solutions impacting everyday life in the metaverse with his AR and VR solutions that blend hardware, neuroscience, and optical expertise.

From the cosmic to the microscopic, Imaging Science is everywhere. In discussion with Jennifer Sertl, Dr. Emmett Ientilucci shares his pathway to success, the importance of staying curious and provides a glimpse of how Imaging Science impacts our daily lives. Dr. Ientilucci is an Associate Professor and Graduate Admissions Chair in the Digital Image and Remote Sensing (DIRS) Lab at the Center for Imaging Science (CIS) at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), in Rochester, New York.

Jennifer Sertl and Omniboost's Head of Brand Rob Napoli discuss power of social engagement. In order to scale, you need a reliable product, you need a distribution network and you need a great story. All three are required. Often technical founders focus on product and supply chain without as much design in the story telling aspects. Napoli is a brand expert who generously shares some best practices and easy ways to amplify your story, your technology and your team.

Jennifer Sertl and Loren Penman, Co-Chair, Autism Nature Trail (The ANT) at Letchworth State Park discuss the history of The ANT and the design principles that went into creating the mile-long trail. The level of expertise that went into creating the eight stations along the loop is a masterclass in the user-experience. Reminding all of us in innovation to ensure that we design our services and products with the end user all along the way.