Tom Olick

Professionally, I am a Staff Software Engineer and Technical Lead with over two decades of experience architecting and launching high-impact products across AI, Cloud Services, eCommerce, and FinTech. I have a proven track record of leading large, multi-regional engineering teams at Google and Oracle, guiding them from greenfield to global scale. Highlights include:

• TL for Google's Language Learning platform "Google Speak"
• Backend TL for Google A120's Gen-Z social app "Shoelace"
• TL for mulitple Google Cloud IoT teams; receiving a security patent
• Led a Fintech design and integration between Google Shopping and multiple banks.

I hold a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering from Caltech, with a focus on Digital Signal Processing and Cryptography.

When I'm not architecting complex software systems, you'll likely find me exploring the globe - getting lost on a motorbike, eating dubious street food, or wondering how I ended up "here" 📍. I've traveled to over 50 countries, taking several sabbaticals to dive deep into international waters. Most recently, I was found exploring Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. I'm an avid hiker 🥾, with the beautiful landscapes of Patagonia 🏔 remaining my favorite. I balance that outdoor exploration with a dedicated exercise routine while making valiant attempts at eating healthy.

Beyond travel and fitness, I'm passionate about art, community, and culture. I've spent many years participating in Burning Man 🔥, collaborating to build and organize immersive community camps. I'm an enthusiastic collector of vintage clothes 👕, always on the hunt for unique pieces. I'm also a passionate reader 📖 — I most recently finished Demon Copperfield (5 stars!) and I'm a massive fan of imaginative authors like Neil Gaiman, Haruki Murakami, and David Mitchell. Oh, and I'm a huge Seattle Seahawks fan 🏈. Go Hawks!