Eric Schmidt, the man who steered Google through its formative years and into tech behemoth status, could have easily traded boardrooms for beaches in 2020. At 65, retirement beckoned. Yet, here he is, past 70, not just active, but seemingly energized, launching Bolt Data Energy, a venture aimed at building power and data center campuses in the heart of West Texas. What fuels this continued drive? The answer, according to Schmidt himself, lies in the enduring influence of an unlikely mentor: Henry Kissinger.

Schmidt's post-Google career is a testament to his belief in the power of meaningful work. He's not merely dabbling; he's diving headfirst into solving complex problems. Bolt Data Energy, for example, tackles the ever-growing demand for data processing power, a demand inextricably linked to the rise of artificial intelligence. These data centers, the physical infrastructure underpinning the digital world, require massive amounts of energy, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity for innovation.

"Meaningful work keeps you engaged and energized," Schmidt told Fortune in an email, highlighting the driving force behind his continued endeavors. But it was his relationship with Kissinger that truly shaped his perspective. "Henry Kissinger was my best friend and mentor, and he worked every day well past the age of 100. He believed that periods of major change demand responsibility and action, not detachment."

This philosophy is particularly relevant in the age of AI. Schmidt, alongside Kissinger, recognized the transformative potential – and potential pitfalls – of artificial intelligence long before the current wave of generative AI tools like ChatGPT swept the globe. Their collaboration culminated in the 2021 book, "The Age of AI: And Our Human Future," a prescient exploration of the technology's implications for society, governance, and international relations.

The genesis of this partnership was unexpected. Early in Schmidt's tenure as Google CEO, he invited Kissinger to the company's headquarters. Kissinger, known for his sharp intellect and strategic thinking, didn't mince words. He reportedly told Google employees that the company, with its unprecedented access to information and its ability to shape narratives, represented a significant threat. This initial confrontation sparked a dialogue that evolved into a deep friendship and intellectual partnership.

Kissinger's influence on Schmidt extends beyond the theoretical. It's a call to action, a belief that those with the knowledge and resources have a responsibility to guide technological advancements toward the public good. This is evident in Schmidt's active involvement in shaping the AI landscape, ensuring that its development aligns with ethical considerations and societal needs.

The collaboration between Schmidt and Kissinger highlights the importance of cross-disciplinary thinking in navigating the complexities of the modern world. Kissinger, the seasoned diplomat and strategist, brought a historical perspective and a deep understanding of geopolitics to the table. Schmidt, the tech visionary, provided insights into the inner workings of artificial intelligence and its potential applications. Together, they offered a nuanced and comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

While Kissinger's passing in 2023 marked the end of an era, his influence on Schmidt remains profound. Schmidt's continued dedication to tackling complex challenges, from energy infrastructure to AI governance, is a testament to Kissinger's enduring legacy. He is driven by a sense of responsibility, a belief that inaction is not an option in the face of transformative technological change. As AI continues to evolve at an exponential pace, Schmidt's commitment to guiding its development for the benefit of humanity serves as a powerful example of leadership and foresight. He is not just building data centers; he is building a future where technology serves humanity, a future shaped by the wisdom of the past and the possibilities of the present.