TechCrunch Showcases Remarkable Women in AI
In an effort to shine a spotlight on the often-unrecognized contributions of women in the AI revolution, TechCrunch is launching a series of interviews with remarkable female academics and professionals in the field. As the AI boom continues, we aim to bring attention to the key work of AI-focused women across the globe.
Meet Irene Solaiman: Head of Global Policy at Hugging Face
Irene Solaiman began her career in AI as a researcher and public policy manager at OpenAI, where she made significant contributions to the release of GPT-2, a predecessor to ChatGPT. With nearly a year of experience as an AI policy manager at Zillow, she is currently the head of global policy at Hugging Face. In addition to her work at Hugging Face, Solaiman advises the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) on AI issues and serves as a recognized AI expert at the intergovernmental Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
Q&A with Irene Solaiman
Q: How did you get your start in AI and what attracted you to the field?
A: My interest in AI began with a passion for sci-fi media, prompting her to pursue computer science courses alongside studies in human rights policy. She found the potential of AI to work on human rights and contribute to building a better future very compelling.
Q: What work are you most proud of in the AI field?
A: I take pride in her expertise resonating with fellow AI professionals, particularly her writing on AI system releases and openness, and her work on cultural value alignment to ensure systems are aligned with the cultures in which they are deployed.
Q: How do you navigate the challenges of the male-dominated tech and AI industries?
A: I emphasize the importance of finding support and building community through affinity groups, and highlights the significance of intersectionality in her experiences as a Muslim woman in AI.
Q: What advice would you give to women entering the AI field?
A: I recommend forming a support group and emphasizes the importance of collaborating with like-minded individuals to navigate the AI field.
Q: What are the most pressing issues facing the evolution of AI?
A: [She] points to the need for international coordination to ensure safer systems for all peoples, emphasizing that safety priorities and capabilities differ regionally.
Q: What are some issues AI users should be aware of?
A: [She] highlights the need for users to invest in a multitude of safeguards for evolving risks, and suggests coordinated policymaker guidance on generated content distribution.
Q: What is the best way to responsibly build AI?
A: The responsible building of AI involves constant re-evaluation of methods and collaborative examination of AI safety measures within the field.
Q: How can investors better push for responsible AI?
A: The active engagement of investors in safety and policy conversations and looks forward to hearing more from them about stimulating small businesses and AI use in diverse industries.