AI Without
the Noise
We're an AI agency built on a simple belief: that advanced artificial intelligence should be accessible to organizations of every size. We partner with businesses to unlock the transformative potential of AI through consulting, education, design, and implementation.
Our Mission
Pioneering AI, Empowering Businesses
The pace of AI innovation is unprecedented. New models, tools, and capabilities are emerging every week -- and for many organizations, keeping up feels impossible. That's where Synthminds comes in.
We act as your AI partner, translating the complexity of the AI landscape into clear strategy, practical skills, and working solutions. Whether you're just beginning to explore AI or looking to scale existing capabilities, we meet you where you are.
Leadership
Meet the Founder
William "Wes" Shields
Founder & Principal, Synthminds
With more than 17 years developing business and implementing AI-based solutions that increase efficiency, Wes is an Artificial Intelligence Executive, Strategist, and Speaker. He was one of the first 18 freelancers listed as an "OpenAI Expert" on Upwork's AI hub in partnership with OpenAI.
As founder of Synthminds, he specializes in helping businesses implement AI solutions to optimize operations and enhance customer experiences. Clients include NVIDIA, HP, KraftHeinz, PwC, Upwork, GE Healthcare, Make.com, HubSpot, and Sony.
Wes is also co-founder of the Practical AI Institute (PAII), focused on exploring artificial intelligence with a vibrant community and promoting the science of informed decision making through leveraging data analytics and AI technologies. PAII courses are among the top two highest rated AI courses on Uplimit.com.
Education
MS, Operations Research
Naval Postgraduate School
MBA
College of William and Mary
BS, Economics
United States Naval Academy
Certifications
LOGTECH IDB Advanced Program
UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School
Network Science Certificate
Naval Postgraduate School
Certified AI Scientist
United States AI Institute
Speaking & Publications
GovAI Summit
2023Empowering the Public Sector — Generative AI in Organizational Learning
CodeForward
2023Agentic Organization for Productivity and Alignment
Voice & AI
2023AI for Educators — Understanding and Embracing Generative AI in the Classroom
TribeWorks Summit
2023How to Talk AI — Explorations into the World of Artificial Intelligence
MA Jobs & Workforce Summit
2023Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work
Publications
Building a Reliable, Dynamic and Temporal Synthetic Model of the World Trade Web
2022CompleNet
Simulating Consumable Order Fulfillment Via Additive Manufacturing Technologies
2021Naval Postgraduate School
What We Believe
Unified by Purpose
Purpose-Driven
Every solution we build is aligned with your core business mission. Technology serves purpose, not the other way around.
People First
We believe in empowering teams, not replacing them. Our education and consulting put people at the center of AI transformation.
Practical Innovation
We cut through the hype to deliver AI solutions that work in the real world -- measurable, scalable, and grounded in results.
Accessible Expertise
Advanced AI shouldn't be reserved for the largest companies. We make world-class AI strategy and education available to all.
Ready to work together?
Let's explore how Synthminds can support your AI journey -- from strategy to execution.
Get in Touch