Rodney Adkins (Rod) is Chairman of Avnet, Inc., a position he has held since 2018. Avnet is one of the world’s largest distributors of electronic components and technology solutions. He is also the author of 'Curiosity Redefines the Limits(opens in new tab)', a book that explores how curiosity can become a powerful competitive advantage—fueling continuous innovation, strengthening leadership effectiveness, and accelerating career and personal growth. As a 'ForbesBooks Featured Author(opens in new tab)', he shares thought leadership and expertise across a range of topics spanning innovation, leadership, and professional development. In addition, he is a Partner at 3RAM Group LLC, a privately held company specializing in capital investments, business consulting, and property management. Previously, Mr. Adkins was Senior Vice President of IBM, serving in that position from 2007 until 2014. Over his 33-year career with IBM, Mr. Adkins has held several operational and executive management roles spanning strategy, technology, systems, and supply chain.

Mr. Adkins’ work has spanned the world of technology and computing. He has been a leading innovator in solutions ranging from mobile devices to the world’s largest supercomputers. His significant contributions include helping to advance the Personal Computer industry, leading IBM’s POWER business to become the market leader in the UNIX market, and pioneering what became IBM’s portfolio of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions.