Kristian Simsarian

Kristian Simsarian is a technology wizard, educator, and innovation consultant dedicated to crafting a compassionate future where all life can flourish. With a background in robotics and AI, he pioneered technologies in machine learning, virtual/augmented reality, speech interfaces, interactive storytelling tools, and autonomous agents. His distaste for building war machinery led him to IDEO, where he co-founded and led the software design business unit, training Fortune 500 companies in humanist design and innovation. His work earned him patents, press accolades, and recognition as a distinguished IDEO fellow.

As an educational innovator, Kristian founded both the BFA and Master’s programs in technology design at California College of the Arts. He now guides future leaders as Professor Emeritus at CCA and as a faculty member at UC Berkeley’s Jacobs Innovation Center. His teaching philosophy integrates depth psychology and a trauma-informed approach, creating safe and transformative learning environments that nurture the whole person.

Kristian’s work spans investment, corporate innovation, classroom instruction, and laboratory research, fostering environments and shared narratives where individuals and groups can bring forth their best selves and visions to steward a thriving future. He believes in the power of collective healing and innovation to drive meaningful change.

His commitment to social issues and compassionate innovation is evident in his strategic guidance to startups, co-ops, and nonprofits, including Zebras Unite, Long-Term Stock Exchange, Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center, Skeptic’s Path, Center for Humane Tech, and Humans for AI.