Joshua Ness profile image

Demystifying AI & Emerging Tech for Executive Leaders.
I make digital transformation clear, actionable, and exciting. My goal is to equip your leadership team with the confidence and knowledge to turn cutting-edge technology into a competitive advantage.

For Senior Executives Navigating a World of Disruption

The pace of technology can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. I specialize in translating complex, often intimidating technologies like AI into tangible strategies for your business. My approach is rooted in clarity and real-world application, helping C-level leaders and teams:

  • Make Sense of the Noise: Cut through the hype and understand how technologies like AI and next-gen connectivity (6G, edge computing) truly apply to your business objectives. The goal is to move beyond theory and into practical, data-driven projects.

  • Build an Actionable Roadmap: Collaborate on comprehensive technology roadmaps that aren't just visionary, but also executable and aligned with your business's strategic goals.

  • Create a Culture of Innovation: Facilitate workshops and discussions that inspire confidence and show how technology can be a tool for both equity and excellence.

 

Separating Signal from Noise in the Innovation Landscape

I serve as a bridge between imagination and execution, helping organizations figure out what's real, what's useful, and what is worth turning into something tangible. My role combines two complementary functions:

Evaluating Emerging Technologies: I assess breakthrough innovations — particularly AI and its evolving applications — to determine their genuine value versus marketing hype. In an era where everyone wants to put AI on everything, I help answer the critical questions:

  • Is this true innovation, or just a wrapper around existing software?
  • Is AI truly embedded in the product and making meaningful decisions?
  • Or is it just a badge that says "powered by AI"?

Turning Innovation into Practice: Like a treasure hunt, I investigate bold claims from startups and emerging companies to find out if X really marks the spot, or if it's just empty promises. My goal is to test whether innovations are real or just hot air, helping organizations stay ahead of the market by identifying what's actually meaningful and impactful.

The question I help leaders answer isn't simply "does AI work?" We've passed that point. The real questions are: Can you use AI for the right task, for the right purpose, and in the right conditions? What is the true value of AI in your specific context? Sometimes there's no need to put AI on something where a well-designed software solution may be more appropriate. I help you make those distinctions with clarity and confidence.

 

Working with Startups on the Front Lines of Innovation

I'm also an Executive Director with Startup Grind, the world’s largest community of startups, founders, and innovators. With a global network of startups, I've built relationships with successful entrepreneurs and VCs, as well as forward-thinking enterprises who are eager to explore new frontiers. I lead a team that:

  • hosts high-quality events each month for founders and investors
  • curates relevant content that reflects emerging trends, innovative technologies, and market insights
  • facilitates meaningful connections between entrepreneurs, investors, tech talent, and corporate innovators.
  • stays on top of the latest trends and developments in the venture capital space, especially within the technology sector

 

Experience Across Every Sector and Vertical

Previously, I spent six years as a leader on Verizon's 5G Labs team, developing solutions across enterprise sectors for industries like healthcare, manufacturing and retail, as well as consumer areas like gaming, sports, and media.

Here are a few examples of how I've helped turn ideas into reality:

  • Sourced and selected 125 startups from 1,500+ to develop high-impact products, leading to commercial outputs and two patents.

  • Negotiated term sheets for corporate venture capital partnerships, ensuring strategic alignment and value.

  • Partnered with NGOs and Fortune 100s to create research-driven strategies and deploy social impact technologies.

  • Built and led a team to design & execute product accelerators delivering commercial outputs

 

Beyond the Boardroom

I believe a truly innovative approach comes from a wide range of experiences. Outside of my consulting work, I'm also...

 

Ready to turn disruption into opportunity? Let's discuss how we can bring clarity and confidence to your technology strategy. Reach out at joshua.ness@ieee.org