Co-Founder David Mindell leads Unless’s thought leadership across the platform, including the Unless Collective of Experts. A Professor of Aerospace Engineering at MIT, David is an expert on robotic navigation and human interactions with autonomous systems in air, sea, and space.

As Dibner Professor of the History of Engineering and Manufacturing, David is a leading authority on generations of inventors, engineers, and entrepreneurs  within the great arcs of technological change that make them successful. He has led or participated in more than 25 oceanographic expeditions, written seven books, and holds thirty-four patents in RF navigation, autonomous systems, and AI-assisted piloting. He also spent five years as a Department Head at MIT. David co-Chaired MIT’s Task Force on the Work of the Future. He is also the Founder and Executive Chair of Humatics Corporation, which develops technologies to transform how robots and autonomous systems work in human environments. David holds undergraduate degrees from Yale and a Ph.D. from MIT. His latest book, The New Industrialism: Lessons from the Lunar Society will be published by MIT Press in early 2025.

With a keen focus on emerging trends such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and sustainable energy, David prioritizes investments in companies that drive positive change while remaining tech-forward and innovative. This strategic approach involves fostering strategic partnerships and supporting ventures that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices, ultimately aiming to make a lasting impact on industries and communities worldwide.