Engineers have always been at the forefront of technological breakthroughs. Today, however, creating great technology is no longer enough. The world's most pressing challenges—from climate change and healthcare to artificial intelligence and industrial competitiveness—require engineers who can also mobilize people, organizations, and entire innovation ecosystems.
This plenary presentation explores the ingredients that make innovation ecosystems thrive and the pivotal role engineers can play as innovation leaders. Drawing on examples from industry and entrepreneurial ecosystems, the presentation will examine how successful innovation can emerge when a particular series of ingredients are assembled, including a good dose of collaboration and visionary leadership and much, rather than technology alone.