Chris Wlezien
External advisor at McKinsey
"I’ve sketched out over a hundred product concepts over the years—some I’ve launched, others remain scribbles in a notebook, waiting for the right moment. A few years ago, I was exploring a compact fusion reactor design that showed real promise. Still, electric field modeling and plasma confinement simulations were too complex, and I lacked the tools and computational power to push forward. That idea sat dormant until now. With today’s advances in generative simulation, digital twins, and AI-driven design, I can finally see a path to re-engage. As we’ve discussed, acceleration is one of AI’s most significant powers. For me, this is where that acceleration matters most: helping unlock ambitious ideas that could redefine what’s possible. And maybe—just maybe—what once felt like a thought experiment might become something real."
Chris Wlezien
Chris Wlezien is a Product Design & Innovation leader with over 15 years of experience bringing groundbreaking ideas from sketch to launch. With 30+ patents, $500M+ in cost savings, and recognition as an XPrize finalist, he has guided the creation of products across industries—from consumer goods to advanced technology systems. Formerly a Senior Director at McKinsey & Company, Chris now leads Eureka Partners, helping startups and established companies alike accelerate product development at the intersection of design, engineering, and business strategy.




