Innovation isn’t always found in a new device or app; it’s found in how we use them to make life better.
Brett Salakas didn’t set out to become a global voice in education and edtech. He started by trying to do right by his students, one in particular.
A young learner with autism was struggling. Traditional writing wasn’t working. So Brett tried something new: voice-to-text. That simple act of support helped unlock the student’s ability to share their ideas and sparked Brett’s belief that innovation is about human outcomes, not digital ones.
That moment defined his philosophy: real innovation removes barriers and helps people thrive.
What Makes Innovation Authentic?
For Brett Salakas, people-first innovation means designing with empathy, not just efficiency. It’s about improving real lives, not ticking boxes.
During his time as an Education Ambassador for HP, Brett was introduced to the HP Way, a founding culture based on ethics, long-term thinking, and walking away from deals that compromise integrity. It’s a philosophy that’s as relevant in classrooms as it is in boardrooms.
“When you value your integrity, your ethics, what you stand for, you actually have long-term gain. You become the voice in the room people turn to when they want to do real business.”
Let People Play
Learning doesn’t happen by watching. It happens by doing and sometimes failing.
As a former surf lifesaver, Brett draws a parallel between innovation and riding a jet ski. You can’t learn to steer by reading a manual. You need to get on the machine and give it a go.
“If you don’t let people play and explore, how will they handle the waves when things get tough?”
That’s true in education, but it applies to teams too. If you want your staff to embrace new tools or strategies, give them permission to explore. Innovation grows in the space between structure and freedom.
Focus on Value, Not Hype
Not every shiny tool leads to a meaningful impact. During the episode, Brett challenges the obsession with tech fads like drones and VR. They might look impressive, but often don’t scale well or improve outcomes in real classrooms.
The lesson?
Focus on what makes work better right now. That’s the kind of innovation that spreads, because it’s simple, meaningful, and human.
How to Build a People-First Innovation Culture
No matter your sector or role, Brett’s approach offers a helpful filter. Before you launch something “innovative,” ask yourself:
- Will this make life easier or better for the people I serve?
- Am I modelling transparency, experimentation, and integrity?
- Am I building something that lasts, or just chasing trends?
True innovation isn’t just new, it’s better. And better starts with people.
🎧 Listen to the full episode of Innovator Insights to hear Brett Salakas’ full story, from the power of inclusion to the lessons he’s learned working with global teams and edtech founders.
