Rod Smith, IBM

Rod Smith is an IBM Fellow and vice president of Emerging Internet Technologies, Software Group. He is a recognized technical leader, both within IBM's software business, as well as across the industry. His team's technological innovations and cross-industry collaborations have enabled the rapid adoption of technologies such as Web services, XML, Linux®, J2EE, and next-generation rich user collaboration technology and wireless applications. He enjoys a sustained - and unparalleled - record of achievement in the software business due to his ability to identify key emerging technologies well before they become mainstream. He is often sought out to provide guidance in helping customers establish their own future technical strategies and directions. IBM has honored him with numerous awards, including the Thomas J. Watson, Jr. Design Excellence Award. He has co-authored a U.S. Senate Report and has written numerous articles for the IBM Systems Journal.