Yolanta Gill

CEO, European Electronique

What's the most surprising lesson 2024 has taught you so far?

Outside tech I think global politics has kept us all bewildered!

As for technology it has developed so much in 2024, faster than any other year in my career so far. I’m surprised by how much we’ve already adopted gen AI in our day-to-day work, and I think this is just the beginning. It is both incredibly exciting if not a touch daunting!

The concern with this however is the speed at which cyber threats continue to evolve, with the number of breaches ever increasing. The key lesson is the importance of cyber security, especially when on the cusp of an AI boom!

If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?

I’m a big history buff, so the list is as long as my arm! I’d love to have dinner with Ada Lovelace or Alan Turing to get their opinion on recent technological advancements. For example, do they think we’re taking the right approach with AI? And how they would view the extent to which it is fast becoming incorporated into our daily lives.

Which tech or channel figurehead has impressed you the most this year, and why?

There are a few people who have captured my attention, Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, being one, having started experimenting with ChatGPT last year has become a useful work tool. The speed with which such tools have become an integral part of our lives is quite incredible.

Also, the late Mike Lynch. I was saddened to hear about his death earlier this year. His journey as a tech entrepreneur, pushing the boundaries of what's possible with AI was very impressive. We need more of this entrepreneurship in the UK and Europe if we are to compete with the rest of the world!

What technology trend do you think is being overhyped, and why?

Blockchain, particularly cryptocurrency. We’ve seen huge investment in crypto since the election of Donald Trump, but I’m yet to be convinced that there are many real-world applications. I’m happy to be proved wrong though!

If you were stranded on a deserted island but could have one piece of tech with you, what would it be?

Am I allowed my iPhone with doggie cam? I’d definitely miss my Labrador/pointer cross and would want to keep an eye on her while she destroys my house, providing of course I have a signal! Though having said that, a solar powered satellite phone with built-in GPS might be more useful.

What's your go-to productivity hack that keeps you on track during a busy day?

Direct communication with an upfront apology seems to work a treat!! I also try to utilise my time effectively while I’m on the move, dictating messages and emails to my phone helps me maximise my time.

If you had the time to learn one new skill, what would it be?

If I had the time to spare developing cyber security skills would be very interesting. Also I’d love to be a fly on the wall when we take on apprentices and learn alongside them. This way, I could pick up new skills and see how young people view the world. They are the future after all.