Ted SCHMITT

Ted Schmitt is the Senior Director of Conservation at the Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence (Ai2). He leads partner engagement for the OlmoEarth program, an open-source AI platform that delivers AI-powered planetary intelligence to accelerate action towards Nature-based Solutions. Ted has led programs, including EarthRanger and Skylight, to bring fit-for-purpose technology solutions to various terrestrial and marine Conservation issues at Ai2 and its predecessor for over 15 years. He has worked extensively in Africa with field organizations applying technology to secure and manage protected areas. Before joining Ai2, Ted was a Senior Program Officer for the Computer Science and Telecommunications Board at the United States National Academies of Science. He served as Business Development Director at several technology start-ups in Germany, Sweden, and the United States, leading the application of technology for impact on a range of issues. He started his career as a software engineer for IBM, earning patents and several technical achievement awards. Ted holds a Master of Arts in International Science and Technology Policy from George Washington University, a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, and a Bachelor of Arts in German from Purdue University. He serves as Chair of the Purdue School of Language and Culture Advisory Board and is a member of the advisory boards for several organizations.