Jason Vazzano is president, CEO and co-founder of Vectorform in Royal Oak. Vectorform is a digital experience studio that develops digital products and experiences with a focus on mobile and emerging technology solutions. The company has a history of developing emerging technology. In 2008 Microsoft hired Vectorform to help develop the first version of the multi-touch Surface application. Vectorform also did some early work on Xbox Kinect. More recently, the firm developed Toolbox for Windows 8, which has more than 850,000 downloads and is the No. 1 productivity app on the Windows Store. Vectorform works with such brands as BMW, American Express, Disney, and Red Bull. Vazzano has established the decade–old company as a leader in emerging strategy, design, and technology solutions. He manages five offices in Seattle, Detroit, New York, Munich, and Hyderabad. Previously Vazzano worked for Daimler Chrysler as a business analyst. He was recognized by DBusiness magazine in 2013 as one of the Top 30 in Their 30s. Vazzano serves on the board of Crossroads for Youth, a nonprofit organization that focuses on giving children the tools and skills required to lead productive and happy lives. He received his bachelor’s degree in business administration and information systems from the University of Detroit Mercy.

Where Born

“Detroit.”

Most Influential Persons:

“My father. He really pushed me to get broad experience and really understand what it takes to run a large–scale professional service company.”

Last Book Read:

“The Department of Mad Scientists: Inside DARPA, the Path–Breaking Government Agency You’ve Never Heard Of by Michael Belfiore.”

Words that describe me:

“Energetic, fast, highly motivated, opportunistic, ambitious.”

Where my field/industry is headed:

“People are becoming more comfortable with advanced technology. They’re willing to bring more technology into their lives, and we’re here to help facilitate that. Areas that we’re starting to see are smarter vehicles, wearable technology, and computing and smart homes – the idea of the connected lifestyle to integrate home, vehicle, and lifestyles into a connected experience.”

Favorite technological gadget:

“Google Glass.”

Favorite place:

“Hawaii.”

Favorite hobbies:

“Photography, home automation, Legos.”

Favorite food:

“Pasta.”

My Hidden Talent:

“I can see the future.”

How I want to be remembered:

“As someone who’s willing to push the envelope.”

Originally published by CBS Detroit and Laurence Technical University