In this episode of Behind Numbers, host Alessandro Cozzi sits down with Tim Bean, an engineer and founder whose unconventional career journey led him into the world of autonomous defense technology and AI-driven systems — not through a lifelong plan, but through pivotal moments and real-world opportunity.The conversation begins with 9/11, a defining global event that reshaped Tim’s perspective and ultimately redirected his career. Rather than “following his dreams,” Tim explains how he followed important problems, learning along the way and building technology where accountability, ethics, and leadership truly matter.Together, Alessandro and Tim discuss:• How global events can shape leadership paths and career decisions• Why many successful founders never planned their end destination• The difference between ambition and obsession — and why obsession can become dangerous• What it takes to build autonomous systems and defense technology in high-stakes environments• How AI, robotics, and autonomy intersect with ethics and responsibility• Why proximity to meaningful problems matters more than titles or credentials• How strong judgment and values define long-term leadership successThis episode goes beyond technology and AI trends. It’s a deep conversation about leadership, decision-making under uncertainty, career growth, and building impactful technology without a traditional roadmap.If you’re interested in founder stories, leadership development, autonomous systems, AI in defense, engineering careers, or unconventional paths to success, this episode offers rare insight into how meaningful work is built — one decision at a time.