Bryant Walker Smith Biography

Bryant Walker Smith is an engineer and lawyer helping the world operate all that is “newly possible.” Emerging technologies such as robots, self-driving cars and drones are scary and exciting at the same time. They have the possibility to transform the economy, governance, culture and society along with other innovations that are yet to capture the public’s interests and imagination. This transformation is full of uncertainty which raises questions of responsibility, authority and risk. According to Smith, self-driving vehicles illustrate the promise and danger of today’s innovation. He has earned a global reputation as an expert on the law of these vehicles as an assistant professor of law and (by courtesy) engineering at the University of South Carolina. The first-ever course on the topic was taught by him, he is consulted regularly by media, industry and government and published an influential analysis of the legality of automated driving. As chair of the Emerging Technology Law Committee of the Transportation Research Board of the National Academies and an affiliate scholar at Stanford’s Center for Internet and Society, Smith also looks beyond any single innovation to understand the larger relationship between technology and law. In “Proximity-Driven Liability,” he argues that over-the-air updates, customer tracking, and end-user license agreements could increase the liability of manufacturers and other sellers. Other meaningful publications by Smith can be viewed at newlypossible.org. At Stanford University, Smith led the legal aspects of automated driving program before he joined the University of South Carolina and then at the United States Court of International Trade where he clerked for the Hon. Evan J. Wallach, and also worked at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development as a fellow. Smith holds a B.S. in civil engineering from the University of Wisconsin, and as a member of the New York Bar; he holds both an LL.M. in International Legal Studies and a J.D. (cum laude) from New York University School of Law. Smith also worked as a transportation engineer before his legal career began.

As a renowned expert and highly sought-after speaker, Bryant Walker Smith's expertise is in high demand. To book Bryant Walker Smith for your next event, conference, or workshop, please contact our speaker booking agency. Our experienced team will work closely with you to understand your specific needs and help secure Bryant Walker Smith's participation. With our professional guidance and seamless booking process, you can ensure a memorable and impactful experience for your audience. Don't miss the opportunity to engage your audience with Bryant Walker Smith's compelling insights and inspire positive change within your organization. Fill out the booking request form to take the first step in securing Bryant Walker Smith for your next speaking engagement.