020 8914 8966
020 8914 8966
Tom Gruber is the rare practitioner who can lucidly explain how things work - and what they mean for us. His understanding of the social impacts of digital innovation is built from the ground up and he brings to the stage an unusual insight into AI and a strong sense of how designers and engineers can change digital systems to better confront the ethical challenges that this new age poses. A passionate and profound observer of digital life, Tom is the first rank of public speakers on emerging technologies and how humans can manage them for maximum benefit.
Mark, Editor & Publisher, Willamette Week, Founder, TechfestNW
Tom Gruber – Founder of Humanistic AI & Co-founder of Siri Inc.
Tom Gruber is a leading figure in artificial intelligence and human-computer interaction. He co-founded Siri Inc., creating the voice assistant technology that gained global recognition as a key feature of the iPhone. In the 1990s, he developed HyperMail, a tool for converting email archives into web pages. Gruber served as Chief Technology Officer of Intraspect Software, advancing collaboration technology, and is a board member of the International Journal of Human-Computer Studies. His work has had a lasting influence on how people interact with machines, shaping both academic research and everyday digital experiences.
Speaking Topics:
- AI and Humanity Today: The Promise and Problems of Generative AI
- How to Build the Future: Practical Principles for Startup Founders
- AI, Big Data, and Humanity: Risks and Opportunities
- The Generation That Will Save The Ocean
- Colourful Lives: Photographic Stories from the Ocean
- Superhuman Potential: The Promise of Humanistic AI
- Semantic Computing: It’s Actually Here. What Will You Do With It?
Credentials and Impact
Tom is a distinguished innovator whose career has significantly shaped the fields of artificial intelligence and technology. Beginning as a Research Associate at the Knowledge Systems Laboratory of the Computer Science Department at Stanford University, he went on to become a Senior Project Leader in 1994. Early in his career, he designed a computer-assisted instruction system now widely used in the Psychology department and developed an intelligent communication prosthesis assistant that enabled disabled individuals to express themselves naturally. His PhD research critically examined AI and computer assistants, laying the groundwork for many of his later innovations.
Beyond academia, he contributed to several media projects, including the educational programme How Things Work. In the industry, his leadership roles have been equally influential. He currently serves as Chief AI Strategy Officer at Sherpa.ai, guiding the ethical and practical development of AI. In addition, he is the Founder of Humanistic AI and an AI Advisor at Gold AI, championing the responsible application of artificial intelligence to enhance human capabilities. Through his research, technological creations and strategic vision, Tom Gruber has left an enduring mark on the AI and technology sectors, bridging the gap between advanced computation and meaningful human experience.
Publications and Media
Tom Gruber has made influential contributions to artificial intelligence and technology through his publications and public speaking. He authored several works, including the 1989 book ‘The Acquisition of Strategic Knowledge‘, and has written respected journal articles. Renowned for his expertise in computing, he captivates audiences with his insights. His thought leadership was recognised when he was invited to speak at an episode of the Chief Executive Summit.
Why Book Tom?
Tom is a highly sought-after AI and technology speaker whose insights inspire and inform audiences worldwide. His TED Talk, ‘How Can AI Enhance Our Memory, Work and Social Lives‘, has been viewed over two million times, reflecting his global influence. In this talk, he described the current moment as a renaissance in AI, where every time a machine gets smarter, humans benefit too. With a deep understanding of the digital landscape, Tom equips corporate audiences with transformative ideas to unlock their potential. His engaging style, expertise and passion make complex concepts accessible and relevant. Beyond public speaking, he has contributed to several media projects, including the educational programme How Things Work, further demonstrating his ability to communicate technology’s impact in practical and inspiring ways.
