Ian Kilpatrick

CRO, AssetLogic; Chair, Tech Channel Ambassadors

What's the most surprising lesson 2024 has taught you so far?

That despite the IT channel being greater than £100billion a year industry that we have minimal effective strategic visibility, or impact, as an industry with gov, and education. And excluding some organisations delivering best practice, almost no visibility as a career opportunity for all the children from year 7 onwards. They effectively self-select to not consider us through ignorance of our existence.

If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?

Admiral Grace Hopper to discuss where we are on the vision that she recognised and set for us all in modern computing. It was her practical leadership and determination that led to compliers, COBOL, standardisation and much more over a 40 year career in a male dominated industry – somewhat tellingly confirmed when she won the first computer science MAN of the year by the DPM assoc in ’69. A colossus.

Which tech or channel figurehead has impressed you the most this year, and why?

Hayley Roberts for her energy, determination and impact. Alongside running Distology she has been a key cofounder in the Tech Channel Ambassadors community, and a mentor to many and a driver in educating schools about opportunities.

What technology trend do you think is being overhyped, and why?

AI – while there are many applications for AI there is a huge overhype, a marketing depts dream come true. With the base of the pyramid filled with applications using some comparatively trivial elements. Or worse based on poorly understood algorithms and based on skewed data feeds.

If you were stranded on a deserted island but could have one piece of tech with you, what would it be?

A fully loaded iPod 256Gb loaded with a breadth of podcasts.

What's your go-to productivity hack that keeps you on track during a busy day?

Deadlines – nothing drives me like a deadline!

If you had the time to learn one new skill, what would it be?

Snowboarding so I could share some ”air” time with my teenager.