Book Keynote
DOMINIK BÖSL Logo

Speaker & Author,
Futurist & Techno-Optimist,
Innomancer & Professor,
Father & Geek

Dominik Boesl

  • “
    Our grandchildren will grow up as robotic and AI natives—and the future demands we prepare them!
    Our grandchildren will grow up with AI and intelligent machines as part of everyday life. As Robotic Natives—Generation R—they will learn to work with these systems, coordinate them and decide how to use them. What still feels unfamiliar to us will be ordinary to them. That freedom will shape how they live, learn and work in ways we are only beginning to imagine.
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  • “
    Every technology pioneer has a duty: explain or be irrelevant!
    Technology should benefit everyone, not just the people who understand how it works. That gives researchers and developers a responsibility to make their work understandable. Clear explanations help the public, decision-makers and future generations make informed choices and use technology responsibly. If we want everyone to have a say in technological progress, we need to make it possible for everyone to join the conversation.
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DOMINIK BOESL
@Congress Lower Saxony | ‘Industry 4.0’
Futurist
TechNo-optimist
Innomancer
The future cannot be predicted with certainty. But systematic foresight gives us ways to explore how our world, its markets and its technologies are likely to evolve. Futures research and innovation management have been central to my work for many years.

A sound scientific foundation matters to me—in research, publications and on stage. As Professor and Chair of Applied Robotics and Intelligent Automation (ARIA) and Founding Director of the Center for Robotics at the Munich University of Digital Technologies & Applied Sciences (MUDT), I am equally committed to research and teaching.

What makes this work especially rewarding is seeing my ideas and findings form the basis for corporate strategies and government plans, or seeing them taken up by other initiatives and research groups. That includes the United Nations, the European Parliament and the White House.
At twelve, I received my first computer and knew what I wanted to become: a computer scientist. Decades later, that curiosity is still there—and so is the urge to share it. Helping people understand new technology, discover its possibilities, and work through their concerns is one of the most rewarding parts of my work.

A keynote starts with the people in the room: their interests, concerns, and the decisions they face. I tailor each talk to that audience, combining clear explanations with technical depth. If technological progress is meant to benefit everyone, everyone deserves a say in how we use it.

The way Guy Kawasaki describes evangelism resonates with me: qualifications and experience matter, but so does genuine enthusiasm for the cause. Sharing that enthusiasm is what draws me to the stage. I want audiences to leave with new perspectives and questions worth exploring.

My techno-optimism goes hand in hand with critical thinking. Whether the subject is AI ethics, Robotic Governance, or technological innovation, I take the risks as seriously as the opportunities. I also distinguish clearly between evidence, forecasts, and personal convictions.

Used responsibly, technology can make the world a better place. In my view, robotics, AI, and automation have the potential to free up 35% of humanity’s time. That makes the choices ahead all the more important. Will we use that time for social, political, and cultural progress—or just watch more cat videos?
Explaining new technology and getting others excited about its possibilities have always been part of my work. For years, the idea of the technology evangelist felt like a good fit. But I also want to do more than describe what is changing. Through my research, studies, and ideas, I want to help make innovation happen.

That is where Innomancer comes in. Think of it as an “innovation summoner”—a name with a nod to my love of games, fantasy, and science fiction. A geek? A nerd? Fair enough. The metaphor is playful; the work behind it is serious.

Innovation takes curiosity, critical thinking, and sustained effort. It means testing assumptions, connecting people and ideas, and creating the conditions for something new to emerge. Foresight, technology assessment, and innovation culture are all part of that work.

Innomancer is also the name of my company, Innomancer GmbH. It provides the business framework for my consulting, services, and many of my projects. It is also a think tank: a place to work with like-minded people, develop ideas and studies, publish papers, and move projects forward.

Have a question, a project, or a challenge in mind? I’d be glad to hear from you.
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About me

At twelve, I received my first computer and knew what I wanted to become: a computer scientist. I went on to earn a Diplom in Computer Science with distinction from the University of Augsburg, followed by a Master of Business Administration (MBA) as a joint degree from the University of Augsburg and the University of Pittsburgh.

Turning research into practical innovation has been a constant thread in my career, connecting academia and industry. At KUKA, I developed my expertise in robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence through roles in strategy, innovation, and technology management.

In 2011, I was Head of Corporate Strategy and a member of the executive management team at KUKA Laboratories, responsible for innovation and technology management. Later, as Principal Corporate Innovation Manager at KUKA AG, I reported directly to the Management Board.

As Vice President Consumer Driven Robotics, I put my vision for consumer robotics into practice and drove innovation projects across the KUKA Group. In my role as one of eleven Technology Owners—comparable to Technical Fellows or Distinguished Engineers—I defined KUKA’s digitalization strategy and held Group-wide responsibility for Industry 4.0, cloud, and IoT.

At Festo AG & Co. KG, I led the robotics division as Vice President & Head of Robotic Futures and defined its automation strategy.
Since October 2026, I have been Professor and Chair of Applied Robotics and Intelligent Automation (ARIA) and Founding Director of the Center for Robotics at the Munich University of Digital Technologies & Applied Sciences (MUDT). I am also an Adjunct Professor at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and CEO of Innomancer GmbH.

From fall 2019 to September 2026, I was Professor of Digital Sciences, Automation, and Leadership at Hochschule der Bayerischen Wirtschaft (HDBW) in Munich. I taught Business Informatics and coordinated the BMBF-funded APOLLO research project (www.project-apollo.de), among other activities.

Research and teaching have remained part of my work throughout my industrial career. Lectures and academic events at TUM, Stanford, and universities in Budapest, Pisa, and Tokyo have provided opportunities for international exchange. I also write technical and scientific publications.

My research examines what robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence mean for people and society: their ethical and moral implications, and their social, cultural, political, and economic effects. Through Robotic & AI Governance, I work to advance interdisciplinary discussion and develop a framework for voluntary self-regulation in the use of disruptive technologies.

You can explore this work through the initiative and discussion platform at www.roboticgovernance.com and the ongoing Robot Manifesto at www.robotmanifesto.org.
Talks and keynotes
Give your audience a fresh perspective on what comes next—and the inspiration to help shape it. My keynotes bring robotics, artificial intelligence, innovation, futures research, and technology trends to life, connecting scientific insight with hands-on experience from industry. I’m regularly invited to speak at conferences, company events, and universities, where I turn complex developments into engaging conversations about the future.

Sharing knowledge is one of the things I enjoy most. So is exchanging ideas with people who see the world from different perspectives. Together, we can explore how innovations and technological advances will shape our world—and what those changes could mean for your organization, your audience, and society.

Some call me an evangelist. I prefer Innomancer—an innovation summoner. That name reflects a practical ambition: not just to talk about innovation, but to help bring it about. My aim is to inspire people to embrace technological progress, drive it forward, and actively accelerate it.

If you’re planning an event, let’s talk about the questions that matter to your audience.
›350
Keynotes delivered
21K
MIN
Presentation time
300K
Audience members inspired
›1.6K
Events

SAMPLE SPEAKING TOPICS

  • Artificial Intelligence – Cutting Through the Hype with Ethical Clarity

    Artificial intelligence comes with sweeping promises—and unsettling predictions. What can the technology actually do, where does it fall short, and what could it mean for your organization and society? In this keynote, I make AI and machine learning understandable, explain how they work, and explore what responsible, ethical use looks like in practice. Real-world applications, from healthcare diagnostics to supply chain optimization, bring the possibilities into focus. We’ll also examine the difficult questions: algorithmic bias, effects on work—including job displacement—and the debate about existential risks. How can we interact with and learn from AI without giving up our autonomy or the values that guide us? Whether you lead an organization or simply want to understand AI, the aim is an informed, critical perspective on its opportunities and limitations—a sounder basis for making decisions, without being led by hype, exaggerated promises, or fear.
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    Robotics & Automation – Redefining Human Potential

    As robots become more capable, versatile, and autonomous, a deeply human question comes into focus: what kind of future do we want to build with them? This keynote explores how robotics and automation could reshape work, life at home, and mobility. Collaborative robots offer one starting point for examining the opportunities and risks of human–robot collaboration. Case studies from my work at KUKA and Festo bring these questions to life—from productivity gains and the potential to take on dangerous or repetitive tasks to the ethical, social, and legal implications of increasing autonomy. Use Case Driven Robotics puts real needs at the center of that discussion. We’ll look at how governance frameworks can support responsible deployment and help these technologies serve people and the planet. For leaders and anyone curious about the future, the aim is a grounded, inspiring perspective on how to recognize opportunities, prepare for change, and help shape it responsibly.
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    Strategic Foresight – Mastering Megatrends

    How do you prepare for a future that refuses to stand still? Strategic foresight starts with better questions, not a crystal ball. This keynote explores the megatrends reshaping technology, markets, and society—and how to spot weak signals and identify the changes that matter to your organization. We’ll look at scenario planning as a way to explore and assess different possible futures, rather than predict a single outcome. From climate migration and labor markets to quantum computing and global finance, concrete questions make the wider forces tangible. What could they mean for your business model, products, and customers? Drawing on my work in futures research and innovation management, I share practical approaches to strengthening your capacity to innovate, creating real value, and building an agile, learning organization. For leaders and teams, the aim is to recognize opportunities, prepare for uncertainty, and make better-informed choices—so you can help shape the future instead of simply reacting to it.
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  • Industry 4.0 – Digital Transformation for Real Businesses

    Digital transformation should make your business work better—not simply give it more technology. For small and medium-sized businesses, this keynote puts Industry 4.0 into practical perspective: where to begin, what deserves investment, and how to avoid getting lost in technical detail. Drawing on many years of experience as an entrepreneur, consultant, and lecturer in robotics, artificial intelligence, and technology, I share pragmatic approaches and proven methods for turning digital opportunities into business value. We’ll explore the trends that matter, identify promising opportunities for automation, and consider how to choose the right partners, tools, and cost-effective IoT solutions. Real-world examples from manufacturing and other industries show how digitalization, machine learning, and AI have improved productivity. We’ll also look at how technology can support the craftsmanship and expertise that make your business distinctive. Just as important is bringing employees and customers along: building skills, managing change, and limiting disruption. The goal is not simply a smarter factory, but a business—and a workforce—better equipped for what comes next.
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    Tech Ethics – Building Guardrails for Progress

    The hardest questions about technology rarely stop at what it can do. They begin with what we should allow it to do—and who gets to decide. From facial recognition and its implications for privacy and civil liberties to decisions made by autonomous vehicles, this keynote explores the ethical, legal, and societal choices behind robotics and artificial intelligence. Drawing on my research in ethics, law, and technology and my work as an expert with the United Nations, the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the German Bundestag, I share practical tools and insights from helping shape global standards for responsible innovation. We’ll examine how to define, implement, and review ethical standards that reflect your values, including AI audits and transparent data practices. How can you reduce risks, make the most of opportunities, and earn the trust of customers, employees, partners, and the wider public? For anyone navigating digital transformation, the aim is a practical perspective on technology ethics, regulation, and Robotic & AI Governance—one that helps you build acceptance, turn compliance into a source of competitive strength, and anticipate reputational risks.
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    Pragmatic Innovation – From Ideation to Impact

    An idea can be brilliant and still go nowhere. Turning it into something people value takes judgment, experimentation, and the resolve to see it through. This keynote explores how pragmatic technology and innovation management can support digital transformation—with an approach tailored to your goals, resources, and stakeholders. Drawing on 25 years of experience across industries, from blockchain pilots to robotics and artificial intelligence projects, I share practical lessons and tools for working with disruptive technologies. We’ll look at how to validate ideas quickly, align R&D with customer needs, improve processes, motivate teams, and develop solutions that win customers over. How can you use new technologies to strengthen competitiveness while managing the risks? The Innomancer spirit brings creative thinking and disciplined implementation together: building a culture that learns from setbacks, moving ideas toward market-ready solutions, and reducing unnecessary bureaucracy. For leaders and innovation teams, the aim is a practical perspective on turning promising ideas into meaningful impact—and creating the conditions for innovation to take hold.
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The right talk starts with the people in the room. A management team weighing its next strategic move has different questions from an innovation department developing new products – or an audience of hundreds or thousands at a customer event. Whether you’re a technology company or an organization exploring what robotics, AI, and emerging technologies could mean for your business, I shape the presentation around your audience, your priorities, and the decisions ahead. The aim is to make the future engaging and understandable, while connecting technological developments to your strategy and product offering.

Talks are available in English and German, with formats ranging from a 45-minute keynote to half-day, full-day, and multi-day courses and workshops. You can choose a concise introduction to a current topic, a deep dive into a particular subject, or longer-term support through a consulting project.

Whichever format you choose, we’ll explore how cutting-edge technology can help move your business forward – and why innovation can be so compelling. Tell me who you’re bringing together and what you want them to take away; let’s find the topic and format that fit.

What others say

  • “
    Prof. Bösl was the highlight of our event. The audience was thrilled. His presentation was pure inspiration and excitement. A top-notch speaker who exceeded all our expectations.
    AFAG Messen und Ausstellungen GmbH
    “
    As keynote speaker, Prof. Bösl took the participants of our Engineers' Chamber Day on a journey through the history of innovation. We’d like to thank him for this entertaining and inspiring talk!
    Attorney Nils Koschtial · Managing Director, Chamber of Engineers of Saxony
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    Our clients were thrilled by Mr. Bösl: practical, engaging – we could’ve listened to him for hours. Many thanks for the great presentation!
    Markus Novak · Director EMEA Client Group · AllianceBernstein
  • “
    Dominik delivered a captivating presentation at our conference. With the perfect blend of wit and insight, he compellingly highlighted both the potential opportunities and inherent risks of artificial intelligence. The audience was both entertained and enlightened, making it a truly memorable experience.
    Rohit Pant · Chief Digital Officer · Schuler Group GmbH
    “
    We invited Mr. Bösl as the keynote speaker for an event focused on SMEs, where topics like digital transformation and AI took center stage. In his compelling keynote, "Artificial Intelligence and Robotics – Between Hype, Curse and Blessing", he demonstrated how companies can anticipate, manage, and leverage the development of disruptive technologies…

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    He succeeded in engaging the audience with hands-on examples, providing the perfect opening and a solid thematic foundation for the rest of the event. Mr. Bösl impressed with his stage presence and outstanding rhetoric, quickly captivating and inspiring the audience.

    The feedback from our participants was consistently positive, and in a follow-up online survey, Mr. Bösl’s keynote ranked as the most popular part of the entire program. We sincerely thank him for this thoroughly successful keynote – we’d be happy to work with him again anytime!
    Jennifer Jung · Head of Press and Public Relations at the Mittelstand-Digital Zentrum Ländliche Regionen
    “
    We – the Brandenburg Chamber of Engineers (BBIK) – had the pleasure of welcoming Prof. Boesl as a keynote speaker at the 2024 Engineers' Chamber Day on the topic "Shaping the Future – When AI Meets Construction." The audience was impressed by his expertise and eloquence …

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    He succeeded in presenting artificial intelligence in a clear and engaging way, even sparking enthusiasm for the topic among those new to the field.

    As a speaker, BBIK can wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Boesl. We’re confident that he will be a valuable asset to any event.
    Anja Schellhorn · Managing director · BBIK
DOMINIK BOESL
@AZURE Saturday | cologne 2019

Trusted by leading companies

On Stage

UNIDO AIM Global Action Forum 2026
AI for industry & sustainable development
NOVEMBER 25–26, 2026
VIENNA · VIENNA INTERNATIONAL CENTRE (VIC)
STARTS NOVEMBER 25, 9:00 AM (VIENNA TIME)
Keynote for Allianz
OCTOBER 8, 2026
Keynote at Modus Consult
OCTOBER 1, 2026
GÜTERSLOH
UN Digital Cooperation Day
SEPTEMBER 21, 2026
NEW YORK

READY TO IGNITE YOUR NEXT EVENT?

Technology changes what is possible. The more interesting question is what we choose to do with it. My “Innovating for Impact” approach has encouraged tens of thousands of people around the world to embrace change and think ahead.

I’d be delighted to bring that perspective to your next event, helping your audience explore the future, emerging technologies, and their impact on society.

Let’s talk about your event – and the questions you want your audience to leave thinking about.
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Tech Trends & Thoughts

25. July 2026

4 Robotic Revolutions: 10 Years On

4 Robotic Revolutions: 10 Years On First published: 11 August 2024 (German original); this English version was published on 25 July 2026. Factual corrections and update: 4 October 2026. Update, 4 October 2026: The following market data and FAQs reflect the July version. In World Robotics 2026, IFR reports a worldwide stock of five million […]
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2. July 2026

UN Independent Scientific Panel AI - Report Analysis 2026

Update, 4 October 2026: The first Global Dialogue on AI Governance took place in Geneva on 6–7 July 2026. On 21 September, the Panel published its first thematic brief on AI agents, misalignment and the risk of losing human control, as an advance unedited version. The second Dialogue is scheduled for 3–4 May 2027 in […]
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23. June 2026

EU AI Act August 2026: What Really Takes Effect

EU AI Act August 2026: What Really Takes Effect Update, 4 October 2026: This article records the assessment from June 2026; its outlook and FAQs remain readable as a historical account. The political omnibus agreement has since become amending law: Regulation (EU) 2026/1744 entered into force on 27 July 2026. The main high-risk dates are […]
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