As president of Technology, Product, Xperience for Comcast, Tony Werner knows what it takes to be at the forefront of innovation and taking a leadership position on shaping the future. Werner recently visited the Twin Cities to participate in the 2018 Tekne Awards, and share insights with students at Dakota County Technical College (DCTC) on the expanding opportunities in today’s workforce.
Werner was raised in the Twin Cities, and started his career with Rogers Cable in Minneapolis in the early 1980’s. The industry was on the doorstep of a major nationwide expansion, and Werner found himself in a position to grow along with it, supervising an engineering team of nearly 500 by the age of 30.
Werner also presented the Innovation Toast at the 2018 Tekne Awards, presented by the Minnesota High Tech Association. With a workforce of more than 15,000 technology and software professionals under his guidance, Werner is motivated to hire the best people and provide them the space to dream and take risks.
“I spend a lot of time thinking about how to maintain and cultivate the entrepreneurial spirit that has always been the key to Comcast’s success. I encourage my teams to operate like startups, spinning up new technologies and features at a pace that’s only possible when employees feel empowered to pursue their innovative vision.”
Werner continued, “Innovation is the currency that modern businesses rely on. It drives us all to imagine the future, shape the world in new ways, and see opportunities where others haven’t. The drive to be innovative challenges us to be our very best.”
When it comes to paying it forward, Werner is grateful for the many opportunities he’s had and is enthusiastic with his advice for learners of all ages.
“Find something you like, hitch your wagon to it, dedicate yourself to learning as much as you can, be passionate, and develop – and keep – relationships.”
“Serendipity is real,” Werner added. “Once you start moving, things happen!”
View highlights of Tony Werner’s comments at Dakota County Technical College, and to learn more about Comcast Career opportunities, go to https://comca.st/2RPjYxc.