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Rising Stars: Meet Brian Thomas of Kansas City Area

Today we’d like to introduce you to Brian Thomas.

Hi Brian, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
From my early career in technology to eventually becoming a technology executive and influencer is a 25 year story. As I mentioned, I’m a known tech influencer that served in various technology leadership positions for the past 25 years, to include Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer. I have been featured in and/or contributed to several magazines and publications to include – Harvard Business Review, CIO, IDG, BOSS Magazine, GovCIO, Profile Magazine, and many others. I also made the list of Global 100 Top Chief Technology Information Officers, coming in at #43. Additionally, I have delivered keynote addresses and have coached and mentored hundreds of people during my career. I recently obtained my Chief AI Officer credential, and speak on matters of AI, Future of AI, AI Governance, Blockchain, and emerging technologies.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Anything worth doing is never easy. After doing a 4-year service stint in the U.S. Marines, I put myself through college, then immediately into a masters program while working a high-stress technology job. It seemed there was a good-sized challenge every so often that set you back temporarily. However, when you envision your goals and dreams daily, you will eventually get what you set out after.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I have always loved sci-fi and technology. In fact, I still have an opportunity to work with emerging technologies like AI in my current tech career. This is rewarding when you get to work at something you really love.
I am proud of all the things that I have accomplished in life and career. From having a beautiful and supportive family, to moving up a challenging yet fulfilling career ladder as a technology executive. I believe hard work, tenacity, and empathy with others makes me stand apart from my peers. A lot of this was having great parents that taught you a hard-work ethic, and being kind to others, especially those less fortunate.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
As I mentioned previously, my amazing family has been so supportive in everything I have done, especially in my career. I can’t thank enough all my great mentors, previous bosses, and some great staff along the way. This was certainly a team effort as far as my success. Everybody had a part in my blueprint, I just worked hard at the plan the whole way. It was rewarding and fulfilling.

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