🔄AI Startup Thinking Machines Experiences High Turnover
Co-founder's rollercoaster ride between OpenAI and Google
TL;DR
Thinking Machines sees high turnover, with a co-founder leaving OpenAI to join and then return, only to leave again for Google. This reflects the volatile nature of the AI industry.
Co-founder of AI startup Thinking Machines left OpenAI in October 2024 to join the company, only to return to OpenAI five months later. The co-founder then left OpenAI again in June to take a VP role at Google's Gemini department. This rapid movement highlights the high turnover in the AI industry, especially at OpenAI, which has lost key executives over the past eight months. The co-founder's expertise in RL and post-training adds to the intrigue, suggesting a talent war in AI.
Key Points
Co-founder left OpenAI in October 2024 to join Thinking Machines.
Co-founder returned to OpenAI in January 2025, lasting only five months.
Co-founder left OpenAI again in June 2025 for Google's Gemini department.
Co-founder's expertise includes RL and post-training, critical for AI advancements.
High turnover at OpenAI over the last eight months, including COO and data center exec.
Why It Matters
This rapid movement of talent reflects the intense competition in the AI space. For teams relying on cutting-edge AI research, the instability at major players like OpenAI and Google means that staying ahead requires constant adaptation and vigilance. The co-founder's expertise in RL and post-training underscores the importance of these areas in the ongoing AI race.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does this matter?
This rapid movement of talent reflects the intense competition in the AI space. For teams relying on cutting-edge AI research, the instability at major players like OpenAI and Google means that staying ahead requires constant adaptation and vigilance. The co-founder's expertise in RL and post-training underscores the importance of these areas in the ongoing AI race.
What happened?
Thinking Machines sees high turnover, with a co-founder leaving OpenAI to join and then return, only to leave again for Google. This reflects the volatile nature of the AI industry.
Comments
Be the first to comment
Enjoyed this article?
Get it daily. 7am. Free. Reads in 5 minutes.
Join 3,376 builders reading daily.