Driven by a passion for growth, adaptability, and service, Daniel Sommer has navigated a diverse professional landscape, each step informing and enriching his journey.
Daniel began his professional journey as a classical musician in New York City, where he honed his collaborative and communication skills. Further cultivating his understanding of language, he served on faculty at the Manhattan School of Music and Mannes School of Music (The New School) teaching lyric pronunciation to singers, pianists, and conductors. These formative experiences not only fostered his appreciation for group success but also deepened his grasp of linguistic nuances.
In a quest for new experiences, he transitioned to the accessibility services sector. Providing real-time transcription services for English and German high school and undergraduate courses, Daniel played a part in promoting inclusivity, simultaneously gaining insights into the varying needs of others.
He then ventured into the sphere of technology and project management. Here, his collaborative spirit and understanding of technology found a home. He contributed to the development of web, mobile, and desktop applications by global teams, focusing on user experiences and diverse needs.
The co-founding of Empire Caption Solutions in 2019 signified a culmination of Daniel’s experiences. As the Chief Operating Officer, he tapped into his appreciation for language, education, and accessibility, blending it with an understanding of artificial intelligence’s potential. This approach has driven the company to enhance their video accessibility services, connecting more users with essential information.
Daniel’s commitment to universal design and AI’s potential to democratize information access permeates his work beyond Empire Caption Solutions. Collaborating with organizations across the accessibility industry, he seeks to employ AI for impactful changes across different sectors. Supported by his technical knowledge and dedication to inclusivity, Daniel’s overarching aim is to create improvements that resonate meaningfully in the daily lives of people all over the world.