About The Interop
Weekly insights at the intersection of AI, business transformation, and emerging technology—from the frontlines of real-world implementation.
Visit alton.tech for all projects & pressWhat is The Interop?
The Interop is where I share what I am learning from the trenches of AI implementation. This is not academic theory or research paper summaries—it is practical insights from building and deploying AI systems for real organizations with real constraints.
The name reflects my core belief: the future belongs to those who can make different systems, ideas, and technologies work together. Interoperability is not just a technical challenge—it is a business imperative.
Whether you are a founder evaluating AI investment, a builder architecting agent systems, or a leader navigating digital transformation, you will find actionable insights here.
About Jesse Alton
I am a founder, AI strategist, and builder operating at the intersection of AI and business transformation. Based in Annapolis, Maryland, I work with organizations—from startups to government agencies—to implement AI solutions that actually ship.
My approach is pragmatic: start with real problems, build iteratively, and measure ruthlessly. I have seen too many AI projects fail from over-ambition and under-execution. The organizations that win are not the ones with the biggest budgets—they are the ones that treat AI as a business capability, not a science experiment.
While I spend time every day coding, building, and selling, my entrepreneurial journey started over a decade ago. From the early days featured in the Capital Gazette to speaking at TEDCO's 2025 Entrepreneur Expo on AI strategy, I have always been driven by the desire to build things that matter.
Beyond the Screen
Outside of being an entrepreneur and technologist, I believe life is best lived with balance. Here's what keeps me grounded:
Archery & Bowmaking
Avid archer, fletcher, and bowyer. My real passion is working on traditional bows and wooden arrows—there's something deeply satisfying about the craftsmanship.
Family
Husband and new father. Nothing matters more than time with family, especially getting out into nature together.
Wilderness & Adventure
Triathlete and yogi who spends as much time in the wilderness as possible. Hiking, trail running, and exploring the outdoors keeps me grounded.
Daily Dog Walks
My three dogs get a daily hike—rain or shine. It's the best way to start the day and clear the mind before diving into code.
Engaging with the Annapolis, Maryland community is where it all comes together—building, connecting, and making a difference locally.
Current Work
Community & Volunteering
I take great pride in the Maryland tech ecosystem and volunteer regularly with organizations that support entrepreneurs and developers.
Maryland Tech Council (MTC)
Chesapeake Regional Chapter
Co-creator of the Chesapitch and Hackathon series, helping foster innovation in the Maryland tech ecosystem.
TEDCO
LENA Executive Network Advisor
Active advisor in TEDCO's Leadership, Education, Networking & Accountability program supporting Maryland entrepreneurs.
GDG Annapolis
Co-organizer & Contributor
Google Developer Group Annapolis - building community around Google technologies and developer education.
UMD Blockchain Accelerator
Mentor
Supporting early-stage blockchain and Web3 ventures at the University of Maryland.
AACC
Former Ratcliffe Scholar
Supporting various entrepreneurship events annually at Anne Arundel Community College.
Previous Startups
In the Press
View all coverage →“Entrepreneurship is what wakes me up. I don't regret any of the money I lost. All of it was a learning opportunity and all it's going to do is make me into a better entrepreneur.”
— Capital Gazette, November 2014
Let's Connect
Have a project in mind, want to discuss AI strategy, or just want to say hello? I am always happy to chat.