As a preteen, Richard Yonck started learning to program computers the same year futurist Alvin Toffler’s book Future Shock was published. All of this fed his fascination with the future and the transformational changes it routinely brings about. With early careers producing science education programs and in computer science, he had a front-row seat to the digital convergence taking place in the 1980s and 1990s.
His mission is provide organizations and individuals with insights that spark imagination, reduce risk exposure and effectively connect the dots towards a preferred future.
While this was an exciting time, it also allowed him to witness the very real and disruptive impact that progress can have on people’s lives. All of this contributed to his passion for futures work, for understanding the impact of emerging technologies and the positive difference foresight strategy can make in building a better and more inclusive tomorrow.
Richard Yonck explores short- to long-range futures with an eye to how this knowledge can bring about the kind of real change that helps clients advance their strategic goals and realize their preferred futures. A sought-after keynote speaker, he has energized and excited audiences all over the world.
The former computing/AI contributing editor for The Futurist magazine, Richard Yonck has written for Scientific American, World Future Review, Fast Company, GeekWire, Salon, American Cinematographer and many others.
He has been interviewed and quoted in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Wired, BBC News, Forbes, Puget Sound Business Journal, Investor’s Business Daily, Singularity Hub and numerous podcasts and radio programs.
In addition, he is bestselling author of “Heart of the Machine”, where he explores the next giant step in the symbiotic relationship between humans and technology: Emotion AI, the ability of computers to recognize, respond to and interact with our emotions.
Audiences across the globe have called Richard’s keynote presentations, workshops and seminars “awe-inspiring”, “passionate” and “mind-blowing.” An international keynote speaker, Richard focuses on emerging trends and technologies, along with the many issues these will create for tomorrow’s world. With his unique perspective on the future, Richard is an avid guide to the changes and challenges we’ll face in the decades ahead.
