The CNBC Technology Executive Council Advisory Board consists of highly accomplished experts hailing from all corners of the tech world, cutting across a variety of industries and the public sector, with a significant technology pedigree. These thought leaders offer perspective on the most pressing technology issues and aid in the formation of the CNBC Technology Executive Council.
Technology Executive Council Advisory Board

Helen Greiner

WATCH LIVE
Helen Greiner, Co-founder iRobot & Founder CyPhy Works.
Helen Greiner

Helen Greiner is known not only for her innovation but also her business strategy in the field of robotics. Co-founding iRobot in 1990, Greiner served as president until 2004 and chairman until 2008. During her tenure, Greiner guided iRobot into its position as a global leader with the release of the Roomba, the PackBot and SUGV Military Robots.

Greiner built a culture of practical innovation and delivery that led to the deployment of more than 6,000 tactical robots with our troops and over 15 million home robots worldwide. In addition, Greiner led iRobot's financing efforts, raising $35M in venture capital for a $75M initial public offering. Greiner is the founder of CyPhy Works, a drone company that delivered aerial platforms to defense and commercial markets.

Greiner holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and a master's degree in computer science, both from MIT. She also holds an honorary degrees from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and Clarkson University.

Selected accolades

  • Member, National Academy of Engineering, recognized for leadership in the design, development, and application of practical robots.
  • Named one of America's Best Leaders by the Harvard Kennedy School in conjunction with U.S. News and World Report
  • "Innovator for the Next Century" by The Review magazine
  • Global Leader of Tomorrow and Young Global Leader by World Economic Forum
  • Pioneer Award from the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International
  • DEMO God Award and DEMO Lifetime Achievement Award
  • New England Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst and Young
  • Inducted in the Women in Technology International Hall of Fame
  • Springboard Winner's Circle NorthStar Serial Entrepreneur

Selected Service

  • Visiting committee member, MIT Media Lab
  • Presidential advisor for Global Entrepreneurship for President Barack Obama and Secretary of Commerce 2014-2016
  • Trustee Boston Museum of Science (MOS) 2008-present
  • Trustee MIT 2007-2013
  • Founding president of the Robotics Technology Consortium, now called National Ground Vehicle Consortium 2008-2012
  • Trustee of the National Defense Industrial Association
  • Board of Visitors of the U.S. Army War College 2010-2013
  • Army Science Board 2007-2013