David Johnston

Chief Data & AI Scientist | AI & Data Platform Leader | Former Thoughtworks Principal

Greater Boston

About

I lead platform initiatives and advise organizations on building and scaling data and AI platforms that actually make it into production. Over the last decade, I’ve led large, complex data and AI initiatives across many industries including robotics, manufacturing, finance, healthcare, energy, and government; helping organizations move from experimentation to durable, production-grade platforms. Most recently, I’ve served as Chief Data & AI Scientist with Navalia, advising and leading delivery for clients tackling platform-scale AI challenges. My background spans advanced statistics, machine learning, software systems, and cloud platforms, with a strong emphasis on end-to-end delivery; from architecture and algorithms through operational systems and organizational adoption. I’ve led teams, advised executive stakeholders, and helped shape data and AI strategy in environments where scale, reliability, and real-world impact matter. Previously, I was a Principal Data Scientist at Thoughtworks and a founding member of its Data & AI practice. Earlier in my career, I worked in astrophysics and cosmology at institutions including NASA/JPL, Princeton, Fermilab, and Northwestern, before transitioning full-time into industry. I’m a co-creator of CD4ML (Continuous Delivery for Machine Learning), co-author of Navalia Pulse Vol. 1: Building Evolutionary Platforms, and author of open-source Python libraries including trendfilter and BrunoDB. I regularly write and speak on AI, data platforms, and the realities of delivering AI at scale. Currently exploring senior leadership roles focused on AI and data platforms (Head of AI/Data Platforms, CDAO/CAIO, Principal/Distinguished Engineer).

Experience