Mike Ross was awarded the ‘Excellence in Education, Future Forward Education (2025) for his significant contributions to education and learning. Raised in New England, his formative years were shaped by a Center for Technology that fostered his interests in art, design, and technology. Overcoming challenges related to autism and learning difficulties, he thrived in hands-on, interactive learning environments, which ignited his passion for creativity. Relocating to California in 2010, Mike pursued further education and career opportunities. Since then, he has worked with Los Angeles County, developed youth-focused learning apps, and founded a nonprofit to benefit education and society.
Mike, a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Project Awardee (2019) and Yellow Belt Certificate holder (2016), earned recognition for his work improving processes at Los Angeles County’s Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk. With a passion for design and technology since high school, he blended visual design with practical applications, creating projects that integrated programming and web design. After relocating to California, he established a business offering web and app development services. Driven by social impact, Mike founded a nonprofit focused on education, using his expertise to address societal challenges such as poverty and homelessness, and empowering youth through innovative learning solutions.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly influenced Mike’s professional trajectory, driving a shift towards digital solutions. His nonprofit, focused on classroom solutions, adapted seamlessly to support both physical and digital access, thanks to early prototypes. With much of Mike’s creative work already digital, disruptions were minimal. The pandemic heightened his awareness of societal issues, inspiring new ideas for social impact in areas such as healthcare, education, and technology. Emphasizing a growth mindset, Mike continues to innovate and adapt, while working on improving his large-scale communication skills. His leadership philosophy centers on collaboration, perseverance, and fostering inclusive, mission-driven environments for sustainable impact.
Recognized by Insights Success as The Most Impactful and Visionary Personality to Look for in 2025, Mike’s professional journey is a testament to the power of adaptability, perseverance, and a growth mindset.
