This week, we have Kenneth C. Kleissl, Group Technology Director at COWI, in the Spotlight. Kenneth focuses on the practical side of innovation, turning emerging technologies like AI into scalable capabilities that work for a global engineering organization.
Kenneth shares his perspective on moving from individual AI experiments to enterprise-wide knowledge, why the human element is often the real challenge in digital transformation, and the Nordic region’s potential to lead in ethical AI. He offers a grounded approach to rethinking old ways of working to ensure technology creates genuine, long-term value.\
Hyperight.com: What’s the best way to describe your job to someone outside tech?
Kenneth C. Kleissl: I usually say that I help a large engineering company make smarter use of technology, without letting the technology take over. My job isn’t really about systems; it’s about making sure people, processes, and tools move in the same direction so we can work better, faster, and with higher quality. In practice, that means helping the organisation stay adaptable in a world that changes quickly.
To do that, I focus on encouraging experimental learning, embracing emerging technologies like AI, and rethinking old ways of working so we can create long‑term value.
Hyperight.com: What originally sparked your interest in AI/data, and what keeps you inspired today?
Kenneth C. Kleissl: Curiosity, first and foremost. I’ve always been interested in how complex systems behave and how data can reveal patterns we don’t see otherwise. What keeps me inspired today is seeing AI move from experimentation to something that radically augments knowledge work. I’m especially motivated by the opportunity to challenge the status quo – by questioning old assumptions, rethinking how we work, and exploring where AI can help us do things in smarter and more meaningful ways.
Hyperight.com: What is one challenge you’re trying to solve, and why does it matter?
Kenneth C. Kleissl: Breaking out of individual GenAI learning journeys and moving to enterprise‑wide skills and knowledge bases. This should allow the AI B‑team to benefit from the A‑team’s lead and higher learning rate. Real impact only happens when capabilities compound across the organisation.
Hyperight.com: A tool you can’t live without (tech or not)?
Kenneth C. Kleissl: A tool I can’t live without is my digital notebook. It’s where ideas, fragments, and questions land before they turn into something useful. It gives me space to think, connect thoughts, and spot patterns that aren’t obvious at first glance. It’s less about storing notes and more about shaping and synthesising ideas.
Hyperight.com: What trend in data or AI do you think will shape the Nordic region the most?
Kenneth C. Kleissl: The Nordics are well positioned to lead with responsible and trustworthy AI – combining strong digital maturity with high standards for ethics, data protection, and societal impact. But securing our future competitiveness will require much more digital innovation and bolder investments than what we see today.
Hyperight.com: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to others entering the data and AI field?
Kenneth C. Kleissl: Don’t overfocus on technology. Technology is always ready before people are and is rarely the real barrier. It’s a trap that we technology leaders regularly need to remind ourselves and those around us of.
