The core team of EmberLabs®
 Chris Sprucefield | C.O | R&D
Chris Sprucefield works at the intersection of hardware, software, and applied AI, with a particular focus on reconfigurable computing and practical IoT systems. Over the years, he has built a career around taking ideas that sound good on paper and turning them into working tools, boards, and systems that people can actually use. He started out as a software engineer and gradually moved into broader roles as projects demanded more than just code—databases, DevOps, embedded work, electronics, and the kind of integration work that ties all of those together. That mix eventually led him deeper into hardware R&D, especially where adaptable compute and AI workloads meet. His interest in reconfigurable designs comes from a simple place: flexibility matters, and purpose-built hardware shouldn’t have to be rebuilt every time requirements shift. Chris helped start EmberLabs® in 2018, and since then his work has covered everything from embedded devices to backend systems to hands-on prototyping. His approach has stayed consistent: understand the real problem, build only what’s needed, and keep things as straightforward as possible. That mindset shows up in both the technical work and the way he supports teams. He’s known for breaking down complicated ideas into something people can actually reason about, whether it’s a hardware bottleneck, an architecture decision, or an AI workflow. While he enjoys hard technical challenges, he’s equally focused on making sure the environment around him works well—open communication, shared understanding, and steady improvement over time. Outside of work, Chris divides his time between exploring new tech, keeping up with science developments, and reading. When he’s not doing that, he’s usually out flying drones or working on commercial and artistic AV projects. The mix of engineering, creativity, and hands-on experimentation suits him well. His curiosity tends to spill into everything he does, which is probably why he gravitates toward fields that move fast and reward constant learning. He doesn’t see himself as a “visionary” so much as someone who likes solving problems and learning along the way. But for the people who’ve worked with him, that steady mix of practicality, curiosity, and technical depth is exactly what makes him stand out. |
 Susan Sprucefield | CHRO & Legal
Susan Sprucefield is a seasoned Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO)and Legal with a solid reputation for fostering vibrant corporate cultures and developing dynamic talent management strategies. A strategic partner and trusted advisor, Susan has spent more than two decades serving fortune-500 companies, aligning people strategy with business objectives to drive growth and innovation. Beginning her career in the HR department of a prominent retail company, Susan’s exceptional ability to understand people’s motivations and strengths quickly propelled her into leadership roles. In 2018, she joined forces with her co-founder, Chris Sprucefield, to establish EmberLabs®. Known for her human-centric approach to HR, Susan has implemented innovative talent development programs, strategic recruitment plans, and effective employee engagement initiatives. Her exceptional ability to bridge the gap between individuals and the organization’s objectives has significantly contributed to the success of EmberLabs®. Under Susan’s leadership, the HR department has evolved into a strategic partner that not only addresses immediate human resource needs but also anticipates and plans for future growth. Her expertise in areas such as workforce planning, employee relations, compensation and benefits, employment and contract law, and organizational development has been pivotal in shaping a collective talent that is aligned, motivated, and high-performing. Susan Sprucefield is more than a CHRO; she’s a visionary leader who understands the importance of human capital in creating a successful and innovative organization. |