Investor’s Guide: Responsible AI Practices for Women in AI
In the world of artificial intelligence (AI), women often go unrecognized for their remarkable contributions to the field. To shed light on their work and give them the spotlight they deserve, TechCrunch is launching a series of interviews that focus on women who have made significant contributions to the AI revolution. Throughout the year, TechCrunch will publish several pieces highlighting the key work of these women, as the AI boom continues.
One remarkable woman who has made a name for herself in the field of AI is Brandie Nonnecke. As the founding director of the CITRIS Policy Lab at UC Berkeley, Nonnecke is at the forefront of interdisciplinary research that addresses the role of regulation in promoting innovation. She also co-directs the Berkeley Center for Law and Technology and leads projects on AI, platforms, and society. Additionally, Nonnecke heads the UC Berkeley AI Policy Hub, an initiative that aims to train researchers in developing effective AI governance and policy frameworks.
But Nonnecke’s involvement in AI doesn’t stop there. In her spare time, she hosts a video and podcast series called TecHype. This series analyzes emerging tech policies, regulations, and laws, providing insights into the benefits and risks associated with these technologies. Nonnecke’s goal is to identify strategies to harness tech for good.
So how did Nonnecke get her start in AI? Well, she has been working in responsible AI governance for nearly a decade. Her background in technology, public policy, and their intersection with societal impacts drew her into the field. She recognized that AI is already pervasive and profoundly impactful in our lives, so she wanted to contribute to society’s ability to harness this technology for good.
Nonnecke is particularly proud of two accomplishments in the AI field. Firstly, she played a crucial role in establishing responsible AI principles and a governance structure at the University of California. As co-chair of the UC Presidential Working Group on AI and subsequent permanent AI Council, she gained firsthand experience in operationalizing responsible AI principles to safeguard faculty, staff, students, and the broader communities they serve. Secondly, she launched TecHype to demystify emerging technologies and provide guidance on effective technical and policy interventions. Nonnecke believes that it’s critical for the public to understand the real benefits and risks of these technologies.
As a woman navigating the male-dominated tech industry, Nonnecke has faced her fair share of challenges. However, she has found that being curious, persistent, and undeterred by imposter syndrome is crucial. Building inclusive communities in tech has also been powerful for sharing experiences, advice, and encouragement. Nonnecke emphasizes the importance of seeking out mentors who support diversity and inclusion and offering the same support to others entering the field.
For women seeking to enter the AI field, Nonnecke has threefold advice. First, seek knowledge relentlessly as AI is a rapidly evolving field. Second, embrace networking as connections can open doors to opportunities and provide invaluable support. And finally, advocate for yourself and others, as your voice is essential in shaping an inclusive and equitable future for AI. Nonnecke believes that unique perspectives and experiences enrich the field and drive innovation.
As AI continues to evolve, there are pressing issues that need to be addressed. Nonnecke believes that it’s important not to get caught up in the latest hype cycles. While generative AI may be grabbing headlines, other forms of machine learning are already making decisions that affect everyone’s ability to exercise their rights. Instead of focusing solely on the latest advancements, it’s crucial to examine how and where machine learning is being applied.
AI users should also be aware of certain issues. Data privacy and security, potential bias in AI decision-making, and transparency in how AI systems operate are all key concerns. Understanding these issues empowers users to demand more accountable and equitable AI systems.
To responsibly build AI, Nonnecke emphasizes the integration of ethical considerations at every stage of development and deployment. This includes diverse stakeholder engagement, transparent methodologies, bias management strategies, and ongoing impact assessments. Prioritizing the public good and ensuring AI technologies are developed with human rights, fairness, and inclusivity at their core are fundamental.
Investors also have a crucial role to play in pushing for responsible AI. Nonnecke believes that investors can shape the industry’s direction by making responsible AI practices a critical factor in their investment decisions. This includes supporting initiatives that address social challenges through AI, promoting diversity and inclusion within the AI workforce, and advocating for strong governance and technical strategies that benefit society as a whole.
Brandie Nonnecke is just one example of the remarkable women who have contributed to the AI revolution. As the field continues to advance, it’s vital that these women receive the recognition they deserve. By highlighting their work and pushing for responsible AI practices, we can ensure that AI benefits society as a whole.