1. TechCrunch is launching a series of interviews focusing on remarkable women who’ve contributed to the AI revolution to give them well-deserved recognition.
2. Kristine Gloria leads the Aspen Institute’s Emergent and Intelligent Technologies Initiative and has a background in cognitive science and media studies.
3. Gloria’s work in surfacing AI’s impact on marginalized communities and developing an AI emotional support companion for youth reflects her focus on responsible AI practices.
TechCrunch is launching a series of interviews focusing on remarkable women who have contributed to the AI revolution to give AI-focused women academics and others their well-deserved time in the spotlight. Kristine Gloria leads the Aspen Institute’s Emergent and Intelligent Technologies Initiative, holding a PhD in cognitive science and a Master’s in media studies with past research experience at various institutions.
Gloria did not originally pursue a career in AI but became interested in the field while working on her Master’s in media studies in Washington, D.C. She furthered her education with a doctorate in cognitive science, focusing on semantic technologies and online consumer privacy. As the director of AI at the Aspen Institute, she works with leading thinkers in AI and focuses on the impact of AI on day-to-day life.
Gloria is most proud of her work in surfacing the tensions and effects of AI on marginalized communities and her design and development of Blue, the first AI emotional support companion at Blue Fever. She navigates the challenges of the male-dominated tech industry by following her curiosity and being critically optimistic about the field.
In terms of responsible AI building, Gloria emphasizes the importance of considering design, governance, policies, and business models. Investors can push for responsible AI by requiring an AI model card during diligence, evaluating the system’s capacity to be built responsibly, and collaborating with other investors on funding opportunities. Overall, Gloria believes that responsible AI building is essential for the future of technology.