Austin Speaks

Austin Thompson

Speaks

Helping leaders create a culture of learning and innovation for inclusive workforce and economic transformation

Austin Thompson is an innovation consultant to mission-driven organizations and philanthropic initiatives, a technology educator, and a foundation board trustee who is passionate about fostering inclusive innovation and economic equity across diverse communities. He founded Community Dynamix in 2021, a consulting practice that helps build and sustain organizational capacity and growth for mission-driven organizations. He works with clients from various sectors, including funders, nonprofits, and technology providers, to achieve their mission and vision.

With an MBA from Duke University and a global perspective, Austin has extensive experience in strategy consulting and forecasting, finance, operations, and digital technology. He was previously at SpaceX, where he supported the supply chain operations for Starlink, a satellite internet system that aims to connect the world. He also led a philanthropic effort to raise over $10M and provide high-speed internet access to hundreds of schools in rural and remote locations. Austin has a deep commitment to empowering young people and emerging leaders, and has served as the Executive Director of the Youth Engagement Fund and a program consultant for the Technology and Media Innovation Initiative at the Four Freedoms Fund. He has also taught, studied, and worked in various countries, such as Senegal, India, Ecuador, and Brazil.

Austin brings extensive experience in labor and workforce development, having led major initiatives at the Service Employees International Union, and facilitated place-based community and labor alliances. He has helped frontline communities leverage millions in federal funding for high-speed internet connectivity and quality jobs in the clean energy sector.