Ned Curic Calls for Greater Focus on Lifelong Learning in an Era of Rapid Technological Change

Technology leader Ned Curic of the United States is encouraging professionals to embrace continuous learning as artificial intelligence, software, and connected technologies reshape industries around the world.

NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 2, 2026 / Ned Curic, a longtime technology and product development executive whose career has spanned aerospace, software, artificial intelligence, and the automotive industry, is raising awareness about the growing importance of lifelong learning as technology continues to transform the workplace.

Drawing on nearly three decades of experience across companies including Northrop Grumman, Microsoft, Toyota, Amazon, and Stellantis, Curic believes that one of the most important skills people can develop today is the willingness to keep learning.

"Technology never stands still," said Curic. "If you want to stay relevant, you have to keep learning."

His message comes at a time when technological change is accelerating across nearly every sector of the economy. According to the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025, employers expect 39% of workers' core skills to change by 2030, while 59% of the global workforce is expected to require additional training to meet future job demands. The report also found that skill gaps are now considered the top barrier to business transformation by 63% of employers worldwide.

For Curic, these statistics reflect a challenge that extends far beyond any single industry.

"Technology is most powerful when it solves real problems for real people," Curic said. "That means people need opportunities to understand it, work with it, and continue building new skills throughout their careers."

Curic began his career in Engineering Systems at Northrop Grumman in 1996 before moving into roles across consulting, product development, security, and advisory services at Microsoft. He later entered the automotive industry as Group Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Toyota Motor North America and went on to co-found Toyota Connected. In 2017, he joined Amazon as Vice President of Alexa Automotive before taking on leadership responsibilities for Product Development & Technology as part of the Stellantis Leadership Team.

Throughout that journey, Curic has witnessed multiple waves of technological disruption firsthand.

"Complex systems only work when every piece works together," he said. "That principle applies whether you're building software, vehicles, or entire organizations."

Industry research suggests that the pace of change is unlikely to slow. The World Economic Forum reports that more than 1,000 global employers representing over 14 million workers expect advances in artificial intelligence, digital access, automation, and information processing to significantly reshape the workforce over the next five years.

While conversations about emerging technologies often focus on technical innovation, Curic believes the human side of the equation deserves equal attention.

"The best technology often feels invisible," Curic said. "It works naturally and helps people accomplish what they need without getting in the way."

Rather than viewing technological change as something to fear, Curic encourages individuals to approach it with curiosity. He points to the value of developing both technical knowledge and broader skills such as adaptability, critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving.

"You have to think beyond today's technology," Curic said. "The real challenge is preparing for what customers, employees, and communities will expect years from now."

A Call to Action

Curic is encouraging professionals, students, and lifelong learners to take personal ownership of their development by:

Setting aside time each week to learn a new skill.

Exploring emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and nano-materials.

Taking advantage of online courses, certifications, and educational resources.

Developing both technical, business and human-centered skills.

Staying curious about how technology affects everyday life and work.

Read a book or two every month

"Technology alone is not the goal," Curic said. "Creating value for people is the goal."

He believes that by embracing continuous learning and adaptability, individuals can better prepare themselves for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

To read the full interview, visit the website here.

About Ned Curic

Ned Curic is a technology and product development leader with experience spanning aerospace, software, artificial intelligence, connected vehicles, and mobility technology. He is responsible for Product Development & Technology and serves as a member of the Stellantis Leadership Team. Throughout his career, he has held leadership roles at Northrop Grumman, Microsoft, Toyota Motor North America, Toyota Connected, and Amazon, helping drive innovation at the intersection of technology and real-world applications.

Contact:

[email protected]

SOURCE: Ned Curic