Tony Materna is a pioneer in the field of neural networks, with a notable role as the Co-Founder of HNC Software, the world's first neural network AI computer company. In addition, he co- founded the International Joint Conference on Neural Networks (IJCNN).

He is a serial entrepreneur who has enjoyed a 35-year career in high technology and is the veteran of a dozen start-ups, two of which have gone on to be $100 million successes. A degreed engineer (U.C Berkely), he has held marketing, sales, senior management, and CEO positions with companies in AI, electronics, computers, test equipment, aerospace, video gaming, crypto, consumer products, packaging, solar power, biotech, and digital outdoor signage.

He is also currently the Vice President of the Space Tourism Society. His hobbies include sailing, reading and motorcycling.