What lessons can a 47-year career in tech reveal about the intersection of innovation and education? How do we create tools that not only solve problems but also inspire meaningful connections and learning?

Today’s guest is Jim McMaster, a technology veteran with a career spanning nearly five decades. From graduating from MIT in 1977 to working at companies like Google, where he was a foundational member of the team that created Google Drive, Jim has been at the forefront of technological advancements that have reshaped the way we live and work. Now retired, Jim reflects on his journey and the profound shifts he has witnessed in tech and education.

In this episode, Jim shares his incredible journey from working on mainframe computers to developing tools that millions of people use daily. He offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of Google Drive and the pivotal moments that shaped his career, from navigating the early days of computer science education to the transformative power of collaboration in tech.

We also explore the broader implications of technology in education, discussing how tools like AI could revolutionize personalized learning while grappling with challenges like misinformation and the ethical use of technology. Jim’s reflections on his career highlight the importance of finding intellectual engagement in work and balancing it with diverse interests, such as music and travel, to sustain long-term creativity and passion.

This conversation is a thoughtful exploration of how technology has evolved, where it’s headed, and how we can approach its future with both curiosity and caution. Whether you’re a technologist, educator, or lifelong learner, this episode offers insights into building meaningful innovations and careers.