Jerry Kaplan Keynote Speaker

Jerry Kaplan, a distinguished technologist and entrepreneur, has profoundly impacted the fields of artificial intelligence and computer science. His expertise make him a highly sought-after speaker, engaging corporates and conferences on topics such as AI ethics, and Artificial Intelligence.

Kaplan graduated from the University of Chicago with a Bachelor’s Degree in History and Philosophy of Science in 1972, he furthered his studies at the University of Pennsylvania, earning a Doctorate in Computer and Information Science in 1979. His innovative contributions span from pioneering digital musical instruments to shaping the early days of AI-driven software.

Kaplan’s career began at the University of Pennsylvania, where he developed software for the Synergy, the first all-digital keyboard instrument, which was utilized by Wendy Carlos in the composition of “Digital Moonscapes.” Post-graduation, he joined Stanford University’s computer science department as a research associate (1979-1981). At Stanford, he created the database backend for the first personal computer natural language query system, which evolved into Symantec’s initial product, Q&A.

In 1981, Kaplan co-founded Teknowledge, Inc., a pioneering artificial intelligence company. He later joined Lotus Development Corporation as the principal technologist, where he co-developed Lotus Agenda, an early personal information manager, alongside Ed Belove and Mitchell Kapor. A conversation with Kapor during a plane ride sparked the idea for a new venture, leading to the founding of GO Corporation in 1987. GO Corporation’s innovative work in pen computing technology, particularly the PenPoint operating system, was a precursor to modern portable devices like the Apple Newton and iPad. The company’s technology also contributed to the development of AT&T’s EO Personal Communicator, the first smartphone.

Kaplan authored “Startup: A Silicon Valley Adventure,” recounting his experiences with GO Corporation and the broader tech industry. The book was acclaimed by Businessweek as one of the Top Ten Business Books of the Year and translated into multiple languages. In 1994, Kaplan co-founded OnSale, an online auction website that launched five months before eBay. OnSale quickly became one of the busiest sites of its time, attracting significant daily traffic and eventually being sold to Egghead Software for $400 million in 1999.

In 2004, Kaplan ventured into social gaming with the launch of Winster, Inc., a platform promoting cooperative gameplay. Winster received substantial funding, highlighting its innovative approach to online gaming communities. Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Kaplan remains engaged with Stanford University, where he is a Fellow at The Stanford Center for Legal Informatics and teaches the History and Philosophy of Artificial Intelligence.

Kaplan’s personal life reflects his diverse interests and philanthropy. He and his sister Amy are depicted in a 1964 painting by Wayne Thiebaud, commissioned by their mother. Kaplan has made significant charitable contributions, including a $250,000 donation to The Robert and Mary Montgomery Armory Art Center and a $500,000 gift to the University of Pennsylvania. He resides with his wife, Michelle, and their four daughters.

Jerry Kaplan, a trailblazer in AI and tech entrepreneurship, has made significant contributions from developing pioneering software to authoring insightful books. His ventures have shaped the evolution of digital instruments, AI, and online auctions. Currently, he continues to influence the tech world through teaching and innovative projects.