For more than 25 years, Josh Dirks has been at the forefront of digital marketing, technology, and AI. From launching early Google AdWords campaigns to working in artificial intelligence over the last four years, Josh has consistently shaped the evolution of online engagement. His unparalleled experience gives him a unique perspective on where the industry has been—and where it’s headed.
 

As the co-founder and CEO of Project Bionic, Josh has built a leading social media creative agency that helps brands across the globe achieve measurable business outcomes through strategic storytelling, authentic community building, and cutting-edge digital strategies. Since 2009, Project Bionic has served clients like Amazon, Nalgene, MidAmerican Energy, glassybaby, Almond Roca, Taco Time NW, CoinMe, and countless others, crafting campaigns that turn audiences into advocates. The agency's foundation was inspired by the principles of narrowcasting outlined in Google’s influential white paper, "Zero Moment of Truth" (ZMOT), as well as insights from the book Socialnomics, which highlighted the transformative power of social media in driving business success.
 

Josh’s passion lies in empowering consumers to connect with brands through meaningful, timely experiences. His “Access, Create, Transform” (ACT) framework has driven success for a diverse roster of organizations, leveraging data, narrowcasting, and high-quality content to inspire action. A staunch advocate for first-party data, Josh likens it to steel in the Industrial Revolution—a transformative force shaping the future of business.

At the heart of Josh’s work is his core mission: the stewardship of human capital. He is deeply committed to building the next generation of better humans through teaching, mentorship, and life coaching. As a mentor to the University of Washington MBA program on Entrepreneurship and a guest lecturer at Central Washington University, the Seattle School of Visual Concepts, and the University of Washington, Josh fosters growth, leadership, and innovation in others.

Beyond his professional expertise, Josh is deeply passionate about history, which he draws upon to contextualize technological advances as part of the broader story of human innovation. This understanding allows him to connect new technologies, like AI and first-party data, to other transformative leaps in human history, offering unique insights to clients and audiences.

Before launching Project Bionic, Josh held pivotal roles in the digital space. He served as Director of Digital at Entercom Communications, partner at PinPoint Marketing, and SEO Evangelist at 10X Marketing, working with global brands to optimize their online presence. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Josh actively contributes to non-profit boards and continues to explore new ventures that push the boundaries of online marketing and AI.

Josh is a father, outdoors enthusiast, cooking and food nut, sports fanatic, and proud geek who exists at the crossroads of Gen X and Millennials. His love for technology, media, and culture fuels his passion for helping others navigate an ever-evolving digital landscape. With his trademark wit and wisdom (and a beard to match), Josh is a sought-after speaker who captivates audiences with his insights on AI, new media trends, storytelling, and the future of marketing.