Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Matt Hershenson is an accomplished technology executive and entrepreneur with deep expertise in hardware engineering, product development, and strategic leadership. As the Co-Founder of Playground Global, he leverages his extensive industry experience to drive innovation and support the growth of cutting-edge hardware and software startups.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Co-Founder of Playground Global, Matt Hershenson is responsible for identifying and investing in transformative technology companies across a range of industries, including robotics, AI, and advanced manufacturing. He works closely with the portfolio companies to provide strategic guidance, technical expertise, and hands-on support to help them scale their operations and achieve their business objectives.
Career Progression
Matt's professional journey has been marked by a rich tapestry of experience in the technology industry. He co-founded Danger, a pioneering mobile device company, and later served as the Director of Android Hardware at Google, where he played a pivotal role in the development and growth of the Android ecosystem. Prior to that, he held leadership positions at Microsoft and NXP Semiconductors (formerly Philips Semiconductors), contributing his expertise in hardware engineering and system architecture.
Throughout his career, Matt has demonstrated a keen eye for emerging technologies and a commitment to fostering innovation. He has served on the boards of several technology companies, including Insamo, Inscopix, Sparta Science, Skydio, Outpace Bio, RightHand Robotics, and Ayar Labs, providing strategic guidance and oversight to drive their success.
Academic Background
Matt holds a strong educational foundation, having earned a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley.
Areas of Expertise
- Hardware engineering and system architecture
- Product development and commercialization
- Strategic leadership and investment management
- Identifying and nurturing disruptive technologies
- Building and scaling high-performing teams
Professional Impact
Matt's contributions to the technology industry have been far-reaching. He has played a pivotal role in the development and growth of the Android ecosystem, and his work at Playground Global has helped to accelerate the success of numerous innovative startups. Through his service on the boards of various companies, he has leveraged his deep industry knowledge and strategic acumen to drive positive outcomes and shape the future of emerging technologies.
Conclusion
With a proven track record of success and a passion for driving technological progress, Matt Hershenson is a respected leader in the technology industry. As the Co-Founder of Playground Global, he continues to make a significant impact by identifying, investing in, and supporting the growth of transformative hardware and software companies that are shaping the future of technology.
