Michael Kratsios is a prime example of how the Greek diaspora continues to influence global developments – this time from the heart of the United States’ technology strategy. With roots from Kalamata, the young and dynamic Kratsios served as the U.S. Chief Technology Officer (CTO), shaping critical policies on artificial intelligence, robotics, 5G and defense innovation.
From Princeton to the White House
Born and raised in South Carolina, USA, to parents of Greek descent, Michael Kratsios attended Princeton University, where he studied Political Science and Greek Philosophy – a combination that would later prove decisive for his later career: high strategy with an ethical background. He started his career in the private sector, working at Thiel Capital, the investment firm of billionaire Peter Thiel, and took on the role of senior advisor for innovation and technology. His track record impressed the US political leadership, leading to his appointment to the White House in 2017, initially as Deputy CTO, and in 2019 he officially became Chief Technology Officer of the United States – the youngest person ever to hold that role.
The architect of US technology policy
During his tenure, Kratsios was instrumental in shaping U.S. strategy on AI, enhancing national security through technology, advancing research funding, and integrating ethical frameworks into emerging technologies. He was a key author of the National AI Strategy and the Trusted 5G Technologies Initiative, representing the US in international forums such as the G7 and G20. Along the way, he secured billions of dollars in funding for federal research and support for academic innovation, and promoted stronger collaboration between government, universities, and private technology companies.
His Greek identity and roots
Despite being at the centre of the global superpower’s technology policy, Michael Kratsios never forgot his origins. He has spoken publicly about his pride in being Greek, about the values passed down to him by his grandparents – honesty, ambition and a sense of duty. In fact, in 2020, he had planned a visit to Greece and contact with Greek scientific institutions in the context of US-Greece collaborations in the field of innovation and digital transition.
After the White House, on the cutting edge of defence technology
After his tenure at the White House, Kratsios became Chief Strategy Officer at Scale AI, one of the fastest growing AI companies in the world, specializing in artificial intelligence for military and government applications. He remains active in think tanks and advisory bodies on innovation and national security, making him one of the most knowledgeable and visible young leaders in the technology space.
