John Maeda is a prominent figure in the realms of design and technology, currently serving as the Vice President of Design and Artificial Intelligence at Microsoft. His career is marked by a unique blend of artistic vision and technical expertise, which he has harnessed to explore the intersection of business, design, and technology. Maeda’s innovative approach has positioned him as a leading advocate for the “humanist technologist,” emphasizing the importance of human-centered design in technological advancements.

Before joining Microsoft, Maeda held the role of Chief Technology Officer at Everbridge from October 2020 to October 2022. His leadership at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) from June 2008 to December 2013 was transformative, as he guided the institution to global recognition while championing the STEAM movement, which integrates arts into STEM education. His tenure at RISD was marked by resilience, surviving a vote of no confidence and ultimately enhancing the school’s reputation in the design community.

Maeda’s academic contributions are equally impressive, having spent 12 years at the MIT Media Lab where he led initiatives in computational design and inclusion. He was instrumental in developing the Aesthetics + Computation Group and the Physical Language Workshop, fostering a new generation of designers who could code. His efforts in education have been recognized with multiple honorary doctorates and prestigious awards, including the National Design Award for Communication Design.

In addition to his roles in academia and corporate leadership, Maeda has made significant contributions to the design community through his publications, including the influential “Design in Tech Report.” His work has been celebrated globally, with exhibitions in major cities and pieces held in esteemed collections such as the Museum of Modern Art. Maeda continues to inspire through his commitment to simplifying technology and enhancing human experiences in the digital age.