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Vicky Smalley
CTO at FundamentalVR
Professional Background
Vicky Smalley is a distinguished technology leader with a robust background in the realms of artificial intelligence, software engineering, and medical innovation. Currently serving as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at FundamentalVR, Vicky plays an instrumental role in pioneering advancements in medical virtual reality (VR) simulations. FundamentalVR is acclaimed for its cutting-edge platform that integrates virtual reality and haptic feedback to craft immersive training environments for surgeons. Launched in May 2018, the core SaaS product, Fundamental Surgery, has effectively transformed how surgeons develop, refine, and hone their surgical skills in a safe, measurable, and repeatable manner, thereby enhancing surgical education globally.
Before her strategic leadership at FundamentalVR, Vicky held various noteworthy positions in several innovative companies. She was the CTO at Small Jelly, where she contributed her extensive expertise in software development and AI technologies. Vicky also served as the CTO at If You Can, and beforehand had notable tenures as Lead Programmer at Kuato Studios and Senior Software Engineer at Mindshapes. Her experience is further enriched by her time as Contract Programmer at prestigious firms like Climax and as Senior AI Programmer at Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, a pivotal position that revolved around leveraging AI capabilities to improve gaming experiences.
Vicky’s multifaceted skill set extends beyond her technical prowess; her leadership ability and vision are vital to driving cutting-edge solutions and advancing technology within the medical and entertainment sectors. Her significant contributions have paved the way for new standards in both industries, ensuring they are equipped to tackle the challenges and opportunities of the modern era.
Education and Achievements
Vicky's academic journey laid a strong foundation for her illustrious career in technology. She earned her MSc in Artificial Intelligence from the University of Sussex, a program renowned for its focus on advanced machine learning, AI methodologies, and innovative problem-solving techniques. This qualification equipped her with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel in AI-focused roles in both the gaming and healthcare industries.
Prior to her master's degree, Vicky completed her BSc Honours in Psychology at the University of Birmingham, where she gained a deep understanding of human behavior and cognitive processes. This knowledge has not only enhanced her analytical thinking but has also informed her approach to creating user-centered technologies, particularly in medical applications where understanding the user's perspective is crucial.
Vicky's educational background, coupled with over a decade of experience in various technology roles, underlines her commitment to fostering innovation and advancing technology across multiple sectors. Her impressive portfolio displays a proven track record of leading teams to bring cutting-edge solutions to fruition, driving significant technological advancements, and enhancing user experience through empathetic design and development.
Notable Achievements
Vicky's influence in the tech industry is accentuated by her hands-on experience across a diverse array of organizations, significantly within the gaming and healthcare technology sectors. At FundamentalVR, she has been central to the development of VR haptic simulators that serve to reshape surgical training and education. The achievement of launching Fundamental Surgery marks a significant milestone not only for the company but for the evolution of surgical education worldwide, demonstrating her commitment to improving patient outcomes through innovative training solutions.
Additionally, her former roles have seen her contribute to various award-winning projects and products. For instance, during her tenure as Lead Programmer, Vicky helped develop engaging educational games at Kuato Studios, enhancing interactive learning experiences for children and young adults. Her work at Sony Computer Entertainment Europe significantly advanced the integration of AI into gaming, enhancing realism and depth, contributing to the overall evolution of the gaming landscape.
With her expertise spanning across various prominent companies and sectors, Vicky Smalley stands out not only as a tech pioneer but as a passionate advocate for meaningful innovation. She is dedicated to not just the progress of technology, but ensuring it aligns with human-centric design principles that prioritize user experience and safety. Vicky’s career trajectory is a compelling testament to the transformative power of technology when guided by skilled and visionary leadership.
