Picture of Erik Laubacher, Empathos' COO

Erik Laubacher, PMP

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Visionary Servant Leader, Transformation Strategist, and Operational Catalyst.

Visionary Servant Leader, Transformation Strategist, and Operational Catalyst.
Erik brings nearly 20 years of experience driving innovation, digital transformation, and operational efficiency across complex, regulated enterprises. As COO of Empathos, he ensures operational excellence and scalable impact, helping clients translate strategy into execution.

Expertise

• Organizational Effectiveness
• Project & Program Leadership
• Technology Strategy
• Innovation Management

About Erik Laubacher

Erik Laubacher has built his career at the intersection of technology, transformation, and leadership. Most recently serving as Technical Product Owner at Duke Energy, he led modernization of customer platforms, enterprise architecture, and AI pilot programs while helping the utility deliver on its mission of a smarter energy future. His collaborative, servant-leadership style has enabled him to partner with nearly every business unit—aligning technology with business needs, improving resilience, and supporting customers through major operational challenges.

Previously, Erik held senior leadership and program management roles with VMware, SYNEXXUS, GridPoint, and Avectra, where he managed enterprise technology portfolios, defense innovation initiatives, and national-scale energy management programs. As Vice President of Technology for PMI’s Washington DC Chapter, he contributed to advancing global project management practices. Across industries, Erik has consistently delivered transformative results—reducing costs, improving operational agility, and enabling organizations to thrive in rapidly evolving environments.

Education, Certifications & Credentials

  • M.S., Technology Management — Georgetown University
    Additional coursework in Business Administration & Corporate Finance

  • B.A., Global Studies — University of Toledo
    Additional coursework in Aerospace Engineering (Mechanical Engineering specialization) & Math minor

  • Certifications

    • PMP – Project Management Professional (PMI)

    • PMI-ACP – Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI)

    • SSGB – Six Sigma Green Belt (6 Sigma Study)

Empathos Brings Deep Experience to Solve Your Most Complex Challenges

FEATURED THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

Forging Emotionally Intelligent Leaders in the Age of AI

Our founder’s book, Forging Emotionally Intelligent Leaders in the Age of AI, serves as the foundation for our approach. Drawing from academic research and real-world practice, the book outlines why Power Skills are the ultimate differentiator in an era defined by technology. At Empathos, we translate these insights into practical coaching, labs, and enterprise programs—ensuring that leaders don’t just adapt to disruption, but thrive in it.