Irvine’s exceptional talent pool and coveted quality of life have made it one of America’s strongest hubs for innovative industries, including medtech, gaming and electric vehicles. Leaders want to expand on that success, with plans to create thousands of new jobs by 2030. We talk to trailblazers and future innovators and check out Irvine’s history as a place where ideas come to life.
1. KATIE SZYMAN
CEO, Masimo
Szyman became CEO of Masimo in February this year, bringing over 35 years of experience in the medical device industry. Irvine-based Masimo is known for its innovative, noninvasive monitoring technologies, including pulse oximetry and patient monitoring solutions used in hospitals worldwide. Prior to Masimo, Szyman held leadership roles at BD and Edwards Lifesciences. IN THE NEWS: Under Szyman’s leadership, Masimo has partnered with Cleveland Clinic to enhance hospital-based remote patient monitoring, integrating AI and predictive analytics to improve cardiac care. IN HER WORDS: “I have long admired Masimo as an innovation leader, and I could not be more excited about the opportunity to grow the business and deliver improved outcomes for millions more patients around the world.”
2. ROGER SHERRARD
President, Aerospace Group, Parker Hannifin
Sherrard oversees Parker Hannifin’s Aerospace Group, driving significant growth through strategic acquisitions and technological advancements. IN THE NEWS: Parker Hannifin’s acquisition of Meggitt PLC has doubled the size of its aerospace operations, enhancing its global capabilities. IN HIS WORDS: “We are committed to being a responsible steward of Meggitt and continuing to innovate in key markets that are vital to our industry’s growth.”
3. ALI SINA
CEO, STEALTH Ventures
Sina is an AI visionary reshaping the future of work, education and innovation. As CEO of STEALTH Ventures, he has launched over 300 AI startups across education technology, clean energy and digital intelligence. IN THE NEWS: STEALTH Ventures recently surpassed 300 startups, with Forkaia disrupting education and Insolar revolutionizing solar energy adoption. IN HIS WORDS: “AI isn’t just about automation – it’s about rethinking what’s possible and pushing humanity forward.”
4. MICHAEL MORHAIME
CEO & Cofounder, Dreamhaven
Morhaime, cofounder of Blizzard Entertainment, and his wife, Amy, established Dreamhaven to create a supportive environment for game developers with a focus on creativity and player experience. IN THE NEWS: This year Dreamhaven will release Sunderfolk, a game that uses a two-screen experience to provide a fresh spin on an immersive shared experience. IN HIS WORDS: “I stay here because I don’t think there’s a better place in the world to live. Being close to UCI is a great benefit. We’ve been able to do various things with the university, and we get a lot of applicants from the university, which is nice. We have no desire to leave.”
5. STACY BRANHAM
Assistant Professor of Informatics, UC Irvine
Branham is redefining digital accessibility, ensuring that technology serves everyone – especially blind and visually impaired people. She develops assistive technologies like Jaime, a voice assistant that helps blind travelers in complex spaces, and ReadWithUs, an app that enables blind parents to read picture books with their children. IN THE NEWS: In December 2024, Branham co-led a project that secured a $5.6 million National Science Foundation grant to expand AccessComputing, which aims to increase participation of people with disabilities in computing fields. IN HER WORDS: “People who are blind have a unique perspective that drives innovation. Technologies like audiobooks and optical character recognition were pioneered by and for the blind community, benefiting us all.”
6. STUART MCCLURE
CEO, Wethos AI, NumberOne AI and Qwiet AI
After 35 years in cybersecurity, McClure now leads three companies at the intersection of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and human behavior. A pioneer in the field, he founded Cylance, acquired by BlackBerry for $1.4 billion in 2019. His latest venture, Wethos AI, aims to revolutionize Human+AI synergy in the workplace. IN THE NEWS: In 2024, McClure raised $8 million from GFT Ventures to advance Wethos AI’s mission of preventing workforce extinction in the age of AI. IN HIS WORDS: “Lack of critical thinking will end humans long before AI will.”
7. MING-I HUANG
CEO & Cofounder, Aracari Biosciences
Huang co-founded Aracari Biosciences in 2019 to commercialize vascular biotechnology innovations. IN THE NEWS: In June 2024, Aracari launched the GO-Chip, a ready-to-use in vitro model for drug development that enhances research efficiency by eliminating complex tissue culturing. IN HER WORDS: “Blood vessels are critical for the development, growth and function of tissues, and as such, no in vitro model is complete without them. The GO-Chip provides an ideal platform to study drug delivery and action, as it closely mirrors the mode of drug delivery in the body.”
8. JOHANNA FARIES
President, Blizzard Entertainment
Faries oversees Blizzard’s iconic franchises – such as World of Warcraft, Overwatch and Diablo – driving innovation and player engagement from the company’s headquarters in Irvine. She joined Blizzard after a 12-year career in the NFL and a leadership role with Call of Duty, where she developed strategies to expand competitive gaming and foster vibrant player communities. IN THE NEWS: Blizzard has announced the return of BlizzCon in September 2026 at the Anaheim Convention Center, marking its 15th iteration after a hiatus since 2023. IN HER WORDS: “BlizzCon is an entertainment platform and an opportunity to create a different kind of gathering well for gamers.”
9. KARIN KOCH
President of Koch Advisory
Koch’s varied career as a leader in tech-based economic development has included stints as business manager for Lancome, an administrative manager for the County of Orange and other leading posts. IN THE NEWS: Most recently, Koch has been advising the city of Irvine as leaders strategize to take Irvine’s innovation economy to the next level. IN HER WORDS: “Building new high-wage jobs and homes so people can afford to work, live and play in Irvine will have a trickle-down effect for all the businesses that support that, which will be a win-win for everyone.”
10. ANTHONY KATZ
Founder, Hyperice
Katz founded Hyperice to develop innovative recovery and movement enhancement technology for athletes and active individuals. The company’s products are used by professional sports teams and have gained widespread recognition for their effectiveness. IN THE NEWS: Hyperice launched its latest line of percussion massage and cryotherapy devices, expanding its reach in the wellness market. IN HIS WORDS: “Our mission is to help people move better, live better and achieve their full potential through innovative recovery and movement enhancement technology.”
11. ANDREA KLEIN
Founder & CEO, Rand Technology
Klein founded Rand Technology more than 30 years ago, creating a global supply chain company supporting Fortune 500 clients across five continents. She’s known for her commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. IN THE NEWS: Rand Technology has recently expanded its global operations, reinforcing its role in the tech supply chain industry. IN HER WORDS: “We prioritize integrity and reliability. Our team is trained to decline business if we can’t guarantee the delivery of high-quality, dependable products.”
12. SHANNON HENNESSY
CEO, The Habit Burger Grill
Hennessy has been instrumental in driving growth and digital transformation at The Habit Burger Grill since becoming CEO in 2023. She’s focused on expanding the brand’s footprint and enhancing operational efficiency. IN THE NEWS: Under her leadership, The Habit has introduced new menu items and expanded into new markets, positioning itself as a key player. Its Double Char was named the nation’s best burger last year in a poll by USA Today. IN HER WORDS: “We want to be the category leader in the better burger space, which is this exciting, fast-growth category.”
13. LYN WOODWARD
Senior Editor, Video, Kelley Blue Book
Woodward is modernizing automotive journalism, taking Kelley Blue Book beyond its traditional origins as a car valuation guide into the digital age. As a senior editor and video host, she delivers unbiased, consumer-friendly car reviews, simplifying complex details with engaging content. IN THE NEWS: Kelley Blue Book has evolved into a leading digital resource, with Woodward at the forefront of accessible automotive journalism. IN HER WORDS: “Buying a car is a big decision: My goal is to help people make sense of their options. Whether through video or new digital platforms, I want to meet people where they are.”
14. BENJAMIN PARK
Founder & Chief Technology Officer, Enevate
Park, a UC Irvine alum, leads Enevate’s efforts in developing advanced lithium-ion battery technology, focusing on ultra-fast charging and high energy density solutions. His work addresses key challenges in electric vehicle adoption, aiming to make EVs more convenient and accessible. IN THE NEWS: Enevate recently partnered with major automakers to integrate its ultrafast charging battery technology into future EV models. IN HIS WORDS: “Our technology aims to break down the barriers to electric vehicle adoption by addressing the key challenges of charging time and range.”
15. ERROL ARKILIC
Chief Innovation Officer, UC Irvine
Arkilic is ardent about helping entrepreneurs navigate the complex journey from discovery to market – a path so perilous for many startups that founders refer to it as the “Valley of Death.” IN THE NEWS: “Proof of Product,” Arkilic’s flagship program at UCI’s Beall Applied Innovation center, aims to make the journey safer. Using philanthropic funds, it provides selected researchers with input from industry insiders and grants of up to $100,000. IN HIS WORDS: “We have tons of these projects, primarily in artificial intelligence, medical devices and health innovations. Many are ventures that can make a big difference in Irvine and the world.”
16. KURT BUSCH
Founder and CEO, Syntiant
Busch leads Syntiant in developing ultra-low-power semiconductors for deep learning, enabling voice as a primary interface for technology. Under his guidance, Syntiant’s Neural Decision Processors power next-gen voice and sensor applications across consumer and industrial devices, earning widespread recognition for innovation in edge AI. IN THE NEWS: Syntiant recently acquired Knowles Corp.’s Consumer MEMS Microphones division for $150 million, expanding its offerings to integrate advanced microphones with AI solutions. This strategic move strengthens the company’s foothold in the always-on audio market. IN HIS WORDS: “Our goal is to be a public company by 2027.”
17. DR. KENNETH CHANG
James & Pamela Muzzy Executive Medical Director Endowed Chair in GI Cancer, Hoag Digestive Health Institute
Chang is a pioneering figure in digestive health, bringing over 30 years of experience from UCI, where he built the Comprehensive Digestive Disease Center. His innovations include technologies for diagnosing and treating GI cancers, GERD and liver diseases. IN THE NEWS: At Hoag, he’s advancing endoscopic treatments and leading efforts to eliminate esophageal and colon cancers in Orange County. IN HIS WORDS: “The future of digestive health care is on the horizon, and Hoag is at the forefront of research and innovation. My dream is to make Orange County esophagus and colon cancer-free.”
18. IAN O. WILLIAMSON
Dean, UC Irvine Paul Merage School of Business
Williamson is a globally recognized expert in human resource management and leadership development. With experience across six continents, he has advised executives in more than 20 countries on talent management, innovation and organizational growth. IN THE NEWS: He has hosted the Future of Work event at UCI and led the launch of the school’s metaversity, a digital twin enhancing business education through immersive technology. IN HIS WORDS: “I believe education should empower individuals to shape their future and make meaningful contributions to their communities.”
19. SANDRA MILLER
Executive Director, University Lab Partners
Miller leads University Lab Partners, which supports the growth of innovative life science companies by providing resources and a collaborative environment. Her efforts focus on fostering entrepreneurship and accelerating the development of new technologies in the life sciences sector. IN THE NEWS: University Lab Partners recently expanded its facilities, providing additional resources for biotech startups. IN HER WORDS: “Irvine really has the perfect mix when it comes to life sciences innovation. With top-notch universities, high-quality hospitals, a thriving community of biotech and medical companies and a steady pipeline of talented grads, Irvine is a go-to spot to find breakthroughs in health care and science.”
20. MICHAEL CANNAVO
Cofounder & Co-CEO, Super73
Cannavo was a 25-year-old marketing specialist when he and friends raised funds on Kickstarter for a new e-bike company in 2016. His expertise in viral marketing has propelled the brand to global fame, and Super73 has since sold hundreds of thousands of bikes and attracted celebrity fans, even making an appearance in the movie “Barbie.” IN THE NEWS: The success has been an only-in-Irvine story, says Cannavo, citing the city’s advantageous location and weather. The company has a store in Park Place, and Cannavo is seeking an Irvine site for Super73’s first community center. IN HIS WORDS: “We’ll always have our heart in Irvine.”
