Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Jan Pflueger is a highly experienced startup mentor, creative technologist, and expert in augmented and virtual reality (XR) methods. With a diverse background spanning roles in consulting, software development, and academic research, he brings a unique interdisciplinary perspective to his work. Pflueger is currently focused on advising early-stage startups, developing innovative XR solutions, and driving advancements in the field of immersive technologies.
Experience Summary
Current Roles
Founder & Advisor, advisXR (2019-present)
- Provides strategic guidance and technical expertise to help early-stage startups develop and commercialize XR technologies
- Serves as a member of the SXSW Pitch Advisory Board, contributing to the evaluation and selection of promising startups for the annual SXSW Pitch competition
- Mentors entrepreneurs at Startup Wise Guys, a leading European accelerator program, helping them refine their business models and expand their market presence
- Counsels and curates the RealTime Community, a collaborative platform for XR professionals and enthusiasts
Creative Technologist / XR Method Development, Audi Design, AUDI AG (2020-present)
- Develops innovative XR-based design and prototyping methodologies to enhance Audi's product development processes
- Collaborates with cross-functional teams to explore the integration of immersive technologies into the company's design workflows
Career Progression
Pflueger's career trajectory has been marked by a steady progression through various roles in the technology and design industries. He began his career as a research associate at the University of Applied Sciences and Art, where he specialized in interface design and virtual reality. He then transitioned into a leadership position at Realtime Technology AG, where he served as the Head of Software Services.
Pflueger's expertise in XR technologies and his passion for startup development led him to take on consulting roles at AUDI AG, where he first coordinated the company's augmented and virtual reality initiatives and later transitioned into a creative technologist position within the design department. Throughout his career, Pflueger has demonstrated a strong ability to bridge the gap between technical innovation and practical business applications.
Academic Background
Pflueger holds a degree in Computer Science from the University of Applied Sciences and Art, Northwestern Switzerland, where he also served as a university lecturer and research associate. His academic background has provided him with a solid foundation in technology, design, and research methodologies, which he has leveraged to great effect in his professional roles.
Areas of Expertise
- Augmented and virtual reality (XR) technologies
- Immersive design and prototyping methodologies
- Startup mentorship and advisory services
- Cross-functional collaboration and interdisciplinary problem-solving
- Academic research and technology transfer
Professional Impact
Throughout his career, Pflueger has made significant contributions to the fields of XR and startup development. As a founder and advisor at advisXR, he has helped numerous early-stage companies navigate the challenges of building and scaling their XR-based solutions. His work on the SXSW Pitch Advisory Board has enabled him to identify and support some of the most promising startups in the industry.
Within AUDI AG, Pflueger has played a pivotal role in advancing the company's adoption of XR technologies, developing innovative design and prototyping workflows that have enhanced the organization's product development processes. His interdisciplinary approach and ability to bridge technical and business considerations have been instrumental in driving these initiatives forward.
Conclusion
With his diverse background, deep expertise in XR technologies, and proven track record of guiding startups and enterprises, Jan Pflueger is a highly sought-after mentor and advisor in the immersive technology space. As he continues to shape the future of XR through his work with startups, design organizations, and industry communities, Pflueger remains committed to driving innovation and fostering the next generation of leaders in this rapidly evolving field.
