From the heart of live theatre in Australia to the innovative pulse of Silicon Valley's tech scene, Troy Kelly's journey is a remarkable blend of technological innovation and theatrical flair.

Troy's journey began with a modem in high school. His fascination with connected computing sparked a lifelong passion for technology. This early venture into running a bulletin board system was just the prologue to a story rich in diverse experiences​​.

Simultaneously, the Tivoli Theatre in Brisbane became Troy's gateway into the world of theatre. Starting as a follow-spot operator, he rapidly ascended to Production Manager, mastering the intricacies of venue operations and the art of managing people and processes. This period wasn't just about theatre; it was about learning the importance of human connections, from staff management to appreciating those who did the often unseen but vital tasks​​.

Troy's career is a tapestry of varied experiences. He travelled the world as a production manager and then producer for theatrical shows, including a stint on Broadway. His work on shows where technology and artistry entwined – dancers draped in sensors creating music is a vivid example of his innovative spirit​​. His tenure as CTO of The X Studio and delivering the world's first media-agnostic broadcast studios in Sydney further emphasised his ability to marry technology with entertainment, hosting notable personalities and broadcasting on innovative platforms​​.

A profoundly personal chapter reshaped Troy's path, his mother's diagnosis of Frontotemporal Dementia. This intimate moment became a catalyst for delving into machine learning, leading to the development of "Really," a tool for detecting early signs of neurodegeneration through language analysis. His three years in Silicon Valley were much more than just technological advancement. It ingrained in Troy the importance of human empathy and the quest for meaningful solutions​​.

In recent years, Troy's focus has shifted to revolutionising stage and screen storytelling through technology. As CTO at the Australian Film Television and Radio School, leading the team at AFTRS in deploying an LED Volume stage and later his work designing venues described as "the future of live theatre," highlights his continued commitment to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in entertainment technology​​.

Troy Kelly's story is not just about the milestones and achievements; it's about a relentless pursuit of innovation, a deep understanding of human connections, and a unique ability to blend the realms of technology and storytelling into something truly extraordinary.