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Cyndi Coon

Lab Founder and Applied Futurist

Cyndi Coon is the Founder and Producing Director of the Applied Futures Lab, where she specializes as an Applied Futurist. Her work focuses on using data and science to explore future possibilities across various domains, including aerospace, AI, bio-health, and social issues like gender equality and misinformation. Coon is known for her innovative approach, often described as a "time traveler and rule-bender," which emphasizes storytelling and creative methodologies in her practice.13

At the Applied Futures Lab, Coon leads initiatives that help organizations envision potential futures and develop actionable strategies to achieve desired outcomes while mitigating undesirable scenarios. The lab employs techniques such as Futurecasting and Threatcasting, collaborating with a diverse array of clients including government agencies, NGOs, and academic institutions.126

In addition to her role at the Applied Futures Lab, Coon is also the founder of Laboratory5 Inc. and has been involved in various projects that leverage foresight tools to address complex challenges. Her expertise has made her a sought-after speaker and facilitator in the field of strategic foresight.456

Highlights

Aug 21 · linkedin

I am hearing from a lot of people who are feeling the need for navigation ideas around market volatility. My advice is - it requires more than just reacting to the latest swings!

I spend my days Threatcasting with organizations who anticipate future disruptions, identify early warning signs, and develop proactive strategies not just to survive but to thrive during wild times like this.

Shape the future rather than being shaped by it!

#MarketVolatility #Threatcasting #StrategicResilience #FutureThinking #appliedfutures #Futurecasting

Aug 18 · linkedin

The Future of AI: Keeping Humanity at the Center  As AI advances, it’s more crucial than ever to ensure that humans remain at the heart of this transformation. AI is like a tidal wave—powerful and overwhelming—and many may find themselves struggling to stay afloat. But there’s hope.

By building "rafts" of knowledge, empathy, and creativity, we can help others navigate this new landscape. These rafts are safe spaces where we share our insights and support those who feel overwhelmed by the pace of change. It’s not just about surviving; it’s about thriving together.

AI, despite its capabilities, does not function autonomously in the most impactful ways—it requires human imagination, direction, and creativity. AI tools, no matter how advanced, need human collaboration to create meaningful outcomes. Whether it’s creating art with AI tools like Midjourney or developing complex algorithms for business solutions, the human element remains irreplaceable.

I’m committed to bridging the digital equity gap, making AI accessible to all, and ensuring that no one is left behind.

For a deeper dive, check out the full article on Medium. Let’s shape a future where AI enhances human potential!  #AI #HumanCenteredAI #DigitalEquity #FutureOfWork #Innovation #humancentric #future

Related Questions

What are some notable projects Cyndi Coon has led at Applied Futures Lab?
How does Cyndi Coon's approach to futurecasting differ from traditional forecasting methods?
What inspired Cyndi Coon to start Applied Futures Lab?
Can you provide examples of creative prototypes developed by Applied Futures Lab?
How does Cyndi Coon integrate storytelling into her futurecasting work?
Cyndi Coon
Cyndi Coon, photo 1
Cyndi Coon, photo 2
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Experience

Lab Founder / Applied Futurist at Applied Futures Lab (2021 - Present)
CEO and Founder at Laboratory5 Inc. (September 2001 - Present)

Education

Masters of Fine Art in Social Practice from Arizona State University (1997 - 2000), Bachelors of Fine Art with a minor in Art History from Kendall College of Art and Design (1992 - 1997)

Location

United States