Esko Mertsalmi

I am a builder–operator minded person, working at the intersection of deep technology, ownership, and scalable impact. My background spans founding and scaling technology companies, board-level governance, and driving growth in demanding domains such as automotive, intelligent machines, networks, cybersecurity, AI, and defense. I am particularly interested in scaling “positive tech” — technologies that strengthen resilience, security, and competitiveness in Europe. My research focus explores how Finland and the Nordic region can build globally relevant capabilities in AI, autonomy, and dual-use systems.