Luke Wu leads The GEAR by Kajima, an innovation-focused business unit of Kajima that works with startups, researchers, and industry partners to bring new technology into the built environment. 

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👋🏼  How would you explain your job to someone outside tech?

I run one of Kajima's innovation-focused business units where we work with startups, tech partners, and researchers to turn cutting-edge technology into real solutions for the built environment sector. 

We have both an outside-in (opening innovation) and an inside-out function (tech transfer).

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🧐  What's something about you or your job that would surprise us?

One of my responsibilities is to oversee facilities management of The GEAR building, our regional HQ and global R&D hub. 

I handle everything from janitorial services to processing of personal data collected from our dense network of sensors to experimenting on new ways to improve occupant satisfaction. 

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‍🏆  What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?

I didn’t come from the built environment sector, so finding my way into this industry has been a real curveball, but in the best way. 

Getting to play a part in shaping how we build for the future has been both unexpected and incredibly rewarding.

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🔍  What's a startup trend or space you're watching this year?

I’m really interested in how buildings can actively support the people inside them, not just with good air or lighting but by reducing stress and improving focus. 

As buildings get smarter, AI can help shift things from just collecting data to actually creating more human, responsive spaces.

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💼  What advice would you give someone starting out in your industry? 

This applies to any industry, and honestly, still to me today. Build broad skills but go deep in one area so you can actually solve real problems. Get some fast-paced startup experience early. 

It teaches you to move quickly and adapt. It also helps to sharpen your commercial instincts, because even the best ideas need to make business sense to survive.

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🗣  What's one thing you can keep talking about for hours? 

Sports, food, and drink!

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🎥  What's your favorite movie/TV show? 

Modern Family.

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🍨  What's your go-to ice cream flavor?

Twister.