The 39th edition of GITEX Technology Week has kicked off today with a keynote session from internationally renowned whistleblower Tyler Shultz, who exposed fraud at blood-testing startup Theranos.
Making his GITEX debut, keynote speaker and Theranos whistleblower Tyler Shultz recapped his experience at the company that was once tipped to be the next big thing to come out of Silicon Valley. Drawn to the vision of founder Elizabeth Holmes, Shultz recalled instances where colleagues who raised concerns about the business were immediately fired. Theranos’ devices were meant to save lives, but instead put people’s health at risk.
As he spent more time in the company, Shultz discovered numerous issues with the blood-testing technology and the failing promise of a grand ambition. Shultz confronted Theranos’s leadership about the various issues he foresaw but was consistently brushed aside. Risking legal fees of up to $500,000, Shultz knew he was potentially jeopardising his career and future by going public against the well-funded startup.
He highlighted the need for employees to demand transparency and said that whistleblowers will play an important role in the technology industry. The inability of businesses to recognise challenges will lead to more Theranos-like scenarios, he said. Employees must also be protected and encouraged to speak up as that will truly help businesses.
Shultz is now the subject of an internationally acclaimed documentary, “The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley.”
Discussion about this post