Ken Washington

Dr. Kenneth Washington began his tenure as Chief Technology Officer of Ford Motor Company in 2017. In this role, Washington was instrumental in leading Ford’s worldwide research organization, overseeing the development and implementation of the company’s technology strategy and plans, and playing a pivotal role in the company’s expansion into emerging mobility opportunities. Washington's leadership role at Ford Motor Company also entailed the identification of new materials, propulsion, automation, and manufacturing systems.

Before becoming a part of Ford, he held the position of Vice President of the Advanced Technology Center at Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company. Here, Washington was responsible for leading a team of scientists and engineers in performing space science research and related R&D. Additionally, he took on significant leadership roles at Lockheed Martin, including Chief Technology Officer and Vice President at the Advanced Technology Center.

Washington's career trajectory then led him to Amazon, where he initially served as Vice President of Software Engineering. In this capacity, Washington spearheaded the development of new devices and services, including the development of "Astro," Amazon's first household robot. He later became Vice President and General Manager of Consumer Robotics at Amazon, further establishing his expertise in technology development across robotics and consumer products.

In 2023, Washington transitioned as the Senior Vice President and Chief Technology and Innovation Officer at Medtronic. His rich professional background in technology development across robotics, consumer products, automotive, and space systems significantly contributes to his current role.

Over the course of his career, Washington has been acknowledged for his contributions and leadership in the field of engineering and technology. He received the Black Engineer of the Year Award in 2012 for Research Leadership and again in 2023. In addition to this, he was inducted into the National Academy of Engineering in 2020 and the Black Engineer Hall of Fame in 2023. Then in 2022, Texas A&M University College of Engineering honored him as an Outstanding Alumnus.

Today, Washington continues to influence the field of technology and innovation as an internationally recognized thought leader. Apart from his professional commitments, he serves on the board of the McKesson Corporation, a global leader in healthcare supply chain management solutions, retail pharmacy, healthcare technology, community oncology, and specialty care. He holds a bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degree in Nuclear Engineering from Texas A&M University and is a fellow of the MIT Seminar XXI program on International Relations.