Cristian Patachia-Sultanoiu is a digital innovation strategist with extensive experience in 5G, IoT, AI/ML, cybersecurity, and EU-funded research projects. He has led major innovation initiatives in Romania, including startup acceleration programmes, Smart City projects, and the development of Orange Romania’s first 5G Lab, while fostering collaboration between industry, academia, and emerging tech ecosystems. As a mentor in the Orange 5G Lab @ AIRi@UTCN, he supports TUCN students in Communications and Artificial Intelligence through Orange’s internship programme.