Helios Interactive Technologies co-founder Michael Schaiman BA '98 studied political science and history as an undergraduate at UCSB and marketing for his graduate degree at Pepperdine University, but his role models were in technology and law. The first inspiration for the San Carlos, CA native was his father, a criminal defense attorney. "My dad's ability to persuade a jury definitely played a part in influencing my career," he recalls. "Growing up, I remember going to watch him try cases in front of large groups of people and trying to sway them to his cause. I think that must have carried over into my own career and overall direction . . . presenting to large groups and being a part of the sales process has always been something I've enjoyed. As an entrepreneur, you're selling all day, every day- whether to clients, vendors, partners, investors, or even prospective employees."

 

Today, Helios is part of Freeman, the world's largest brand experience company and Schaiman, is its Managing Director and CEO. The company develops interactive experiences for consumers in the retail and events sectors. Among the technologies Helios employs are touch, gesture, augmented reality, and virtual reality. Its clients include iconic brands from McDonald's and Target to VISA and YouTube. 

 

While Schaiman remains a marketer, the names he cites as inspirations today are associated are primarily associated with engineering and technology. When he kicks off Silicon Valley Gaucho Networking Night with a talk at the University Club of Palo Alto on December 4, Schaiman will share experiences from the worlds of business and technology. His goal is "to give folks some insight into potential pitfalls they may encounter in their own entrepreneurial journeys, as well as information on AR, VR, AI, and other tech and how that could impact individuals personal and professional lives."