In TechCrunch’s Women in AI series, Sophia Velastegui shares her insights on the rapid pace of artificial intelligence (AI) advancement. As a member of the National Science Foundation’s AI advisory committee and former chief AI officer at Microsoft, Velastegui’s journey in the tech industry sheds light on the importance of women’s contributions in this field.
AI-forward Career
Velastegui’s career in AI took off unexpectedly after her fascination with AI-powered apps during her time at Apple. She worked on groundbreaking projects like MacBook Air, iPad, and CarPlay, eventually leading AI initiatives at Microsoft. Despite initial doubts about Microsoft’s AI capabilities, Velastegui’s tenure there proved to be a rewarding experience.
Navigating the Industry
In a male-dominated industry, Velastegui emphasizes the need for women to support each other and for men to advocate for gender equality. She encourages women to take on AI responsibilities and participate in AI communities to ensure diverse perspectives are represented in AI development.
Balancing Innovation and Safety
Velastegui acknowledges the challenges of the fast-paced AI industry and advocates for a human-centered approach to AI development. She stresses the importance of creating diverse AI councils to oversee ethical issues and prioritize user well-being in AI product development.
As AI continues to shape the future, Velastegui’s insights highlight the crucial role women play in driving innovation and ensuring ethical AI practices. Join the conversation and be part of shaping the industry’s future with a diverse and inclusive approach to AI development.
