Alan Trefler

Alan Trefler '77

Biography

Founder and CEO, Pegasystems

Alan Trefler is the founder and CEO of Pegasystems, pioneering the future of enterprise AI transformation. A visionary leader who combines strategic innovation with practical execution, Trefler has guided Pega from its founding to its position as a global leader in AI-powered enterprise solutions. His unique journey from chess master to tech pioneer began with tying for first place in the 1975 World Open Chess Championship. His strategic mindset, combined with software engineering expertise from Dartmouth, led to his developing early AI systems that taught computers to play chess and laid the foundation for Pega's innovative approach to enterprise technology. 

Trefler's contributions to technology and business have earned him numerous accolades, and his best-selling book, Build for Change, reflects his vision for business transformation in the digital age.

Together with his wife Pam, Trefler extends his transformative vision through the Trefler Foundation, which creates lasting positive change through initiatives in education, workforce development, and community health, particularly in underserved communities.