Introduction to Linnar Viik
Linnar Viik is an Estonian information technology scientist, entrepreneur, and IT visionary. He has been a key figure in shaping Estonia's information society since the 1990s. As of 2022, Viik's work focuses on digital governance, artificial intelligence, and education. He is involved in various organizations and initiatives, including the Estonian e-Governance Academy, the AI Leap Foundation, and the NATO Advisory Group on Emerging and Disruptive Technologies.
Background and Education
Linnar Viik was born on February 26, 1965, in Tallinn, Estonia. He has held various positions in academia and research, including working as a researcher at the Helsinki University of Technology. This background in research and academia has likely influenced his approach to IT and governance.
Career Highlights
Viik's career spans multiple industries and roles. He has advised governments on digital strategy, institutional capacity, and digital transformation through the Estonian e-Governance Academy. He has also worked as a development director at Skype, held an executive role at Fortumo, and cofounded the mobile banking company Pocopay. In addition, he has served on the boards of several organizations, including EIT Digital, the Open Estonia Foundation, and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology.
Digital Governance and AI
As a key figure in Estonia's digital governance, Viik has been instrumental in shaping the country's IT landscape. He has advised governments on digital strategy and institutional capacity, and has worked on digital transformation projects. In the realm of AI, Viik is a member of the Eesti.ai Advisory Board and a cofounder of the AI Leap Foundation. These initiatives demonstrate his commitment to AI research and development.
Education and Lectureships
Viik has held various lectureships and teaching positions, including visiting lecturer at the University of Tartu, the Estonian Academy of Arts, and Tallinn University. He has also lectured at the Estonian IT College and served on its board. In 2010, he was appointed acting rector of the Estonian IT College.
Awards and Appointments
Viik has been appointed to several high-profile positions, including the Digital Council of the President of Estonia in 2022. He has also served as a member of the Research and Development Council of Estonia and the Supervisory Board of SEI Tallinn.
Key Facts
- Born on February 26, 1965, in Tallinn, Estonia
- Involved in shaping Estonia's information society since the 1990s
- Cofounder and Programme Director of Smart Governance at the Estonian e-Governance Academy
- Member of the Eesti.ai Advisory Board and cofounder of the AI Leap Foundation
- Appointed to the Digital Council of the President of Estonia in 2022
FAQ
What is Linnar Viik's primary focus? Linnar Viik's current work focuses on digital governance, artificial intelligence, and education.
What is the significance of Linnar Viik's involvement in Estonia's information society? Viik has been a key figure in shaping Estonia's information society since the 1990s, contributing to the country's digital governance and IT landscape.
How is Linnar Viik involved in AI research and development? Viik is a member of the Eesti.ai Advisory Board and a cofounder of the AI Leap Foundation, demonstrating his commitment to AI research and development.
What is the purpose of the Estonian e-Governance Academy? The Estonian e-Governance Academy advises governments on digital strategy, institutional capacity, and digital transformation.
What is the role of the AI Leap Foundation? The AI Leap Foundation is involved in AI research and development, with Viik as a cofounder.