Hi, I'm Bob MacDonald - x-Google Technical Program Manager focused on AI and data
I'm driven by leveraging AI and large-scale data to solve complex enterprise challenges and drive innovation, especially within AI and cleantech. I thrive when connecting with founders and leaders to contribute strategic insights to cutting-edge ventures.
At a glance
Curated signals on strengths, focus areas, and how they can help.
Pioneered AI applications at Google across speech, medical imaging, and sensor data, managing technical requirements for large datasets.
Founded and scaled multiple technology companies, including leading one to a successful IPO, and commercialized industry-first solar products.
Can help others by providing strategic guidance on AI/data product development and mentoring early-stage startups in scaling business strategy.
🚀 Career trajectory
Foundational Entrepreneurship
Built a high-growth division in an optics company, leading to a successful IPO in 2000. Co-founded a telecommunications equipment company, sold in 2004.
✦ IPO
✦ M&A
✦ Telecommunications
✦ Optics
Solar Startup Innovation
Founded a startup that commercialized the solar industry's lowest-cost product with capital-efficient manufacturing.
✦ Solar Energy
✦ Cleantech
✦ Manufacturing
✦ Venture Capital
Google AI & Data Leadership
Technical Program Manager at Google, focusing on AI applications and large-scale data systems, including speech and medical imaging.
✦ AI
✦ Machine Learning
✦ Big Data
✦ Technical Program Management
Strategic Advisory & Mentorship
Currently serving on Advisory Boards and as a Business Mentor, guiding new ventures and impact-focused organizations.
✦ Advisory Board
✦ Business Mentorship
✦ Impact Investing
✦ Global Development
💪🏻 Superpowers
AI & Data Innovation Architect
Translating complex data into actionable AI solutions
✦ Pioneered AI applications across speech, medical imaging, and sensor data.
✦ Managed technical requirements and data quality (curation, annotation, QA/QC) for large datasets.
✦ Developed and launched novel AI-driven products and services.
Entrepreneurial Growth Catalyst
Building businesses from concept to successful exit
✦ Founded and scaled multiple technology companies, including one leading to an IPO.
✦ Spearheaded new business development and product management initiatives.
✦ Secured funding and navigated commercial terms for new ventures.
Technical Operations Leader
Designing and leading hardware/software systems at scale
✦ Led engineering and operations teams at Google for data collection systems (e.g., StreetView).
✦ Expertise in designing scalable hardware and software for data capture.
✦ Managed complex projects involving cross-functional teams and diverse technical challenges.
I'm excited about
✦ Discovering emerging AI trends and potential applications for societal impact.
✦ Connecting with innovative founders and leaders in the AI and cleantech spaces.
✦ Exploring opportunities to contribute strategic insights to cutting-edge ventures.
I can help with
✦ Providing strategic guidance on AI and data product development.
✦ Mentoring early-stage startups in scaling operations and business strategy.
✦ Advising on navigating complex technical and commercial challenges in new ventures.
I would love your help on
✦ Identifying potential co-founders with deep technical expertise in novel AI fields.
✦ Finding opportunities for strategic partnerships with established corporations.
✦ Connecting with investors focused on AI for social good and sustainable technologies.