To shine a spotlight on deserving women in the AI domain, TechCrunch is initiating a series of interviews that highlight the significant contributions of women to the AI revolution. This series aims to showcase the remarkable work of these women who have often been overlooked. More profiles can be found here.
Lee Tiedrich, a prominent figure in the AI realm, serves as an AI expert at the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the Global Partnership on AI (GPAI). She is actively involved in developing strategies for AI that focus on risk assessment, aligning legal frameworks, policies, and practices with scientific advancements. Tiedrich has a rich background, having been associated with Duke University, various companies, and as a former partner at Covington & Burling LLP.
As a tech transactions and intellectual property attorney, Tiedrich’s expertise extends to her involvement in the Biden Campaign Policy Committee and her registration to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
Lee Tiedrich, Global Partnership on AI
Inception into AI and Motivation:
Tiedrich’s journey into AI stems from her extensive experience at the crossroads of technology, law, and policy over the years. Her passion lies in assisting organizations in maximizing the benefits of emerging technologies while navigating the associated risks within a dynamic legal landscape. Tiedrich’s involvement in AI predates its current widespread recognition, dating back to her tenure at Covington & Burling LLP. Recognizing the surge in commercial AI applications and the ensuing legal complexities in 2018, she took on the role of co-chair for Covington’s global Artificial Intelligence Initiative. This shift in focus led her to delve deeper into AI governance, compliance, transactions, and government relations.
Proudest Achievements in AI:
Tiedrich takes immense pride in her collaborative efforts that transcend geographical and disciplinary boundaries to address the multifaceted challenges in AI governance and related areas. Her work, spanning across various sectors, involves tackling high-stakes issues such as responsible AI data sharing, climate considerations, intellectual property, and privacy in the AI landscape. Noteworthy is her leadership in the GPAI Intellectual Property Committee and the Responsible AI Strategy for the Environment (RAISE) Committee, underscoring her commitment to fostering responsible AI practices.
Navigating Male-Dominated Industries:
Throughout her career, Tiedrich has navigated male-dominated spheres, leveraging her innovative work and establishing strong professional relationships within the AI ecosystem. She emphasizes the importance of showcasing one’s expertise, fostering meaningful connections, and actively seeking opportunities for growth and knowledge expansion. Tiedrich advocates for women to invest in their professional development by setting clear goals and leveraging available resources and networks to advance in AI and related fields.
Advice for Women Venturing into AI:
Encouraging women to explore the diverse opportunities in AI, Tiedrich underscores the significance of pursuing areas of interest within the field. She highlights the value of continuous learning, active participation in professional associations, and seizing opportunities to become subject matter experts in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. By proactively engaging with industry networks and honing their skills, women can position themselves as key contributors in the AI domain.
Key Challenges and Considerations in AI Evolution:
While AI presents immense potential for societal advancement, Tiedrich acknowledges the critical need to address associated risks and challenges. She emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in developing frameworks that harness the benefits of AI while mitigating potential risks. International harmonization of laws and standards is essential to navigate the complexities of AI deployment across different jurisdictions and sectors.
Awareness and Governance for AI Users:
Tiedrich underscores the growing regulatory landscape surrounding AI and the need for users to be well-informed about the benefits and risks associated with AI applications. Establishing proactive AI governance and compliance programs is crucial for managing potential liabilities and ensuring responsible AI deployment. Users should conduct thorough due diligence on third-party AI systems to mitigate risks effectively.
Building AI Responsibly:
Building and deploying AI responsibly necessitates the adoption of ethical AI principles and the implementation of robust governance frameworks that facilitate collaboration among diverse experts. Organizations must stay abreast of evolving legal and technological landscapes to adapt swiftly to changes and ensure compliance with relevant laws and guidelines.
Investor Influence on Responsible AI Practices:
Investors play a crucial role in promoting responsible AI practices within their portfolio companies by prioritizing ethical considerations and overseeing AI governance. By advocating for responsible AI and supporting the integration of ethical practices, investors can enhance the profitability and sustainability of their investments. Encouraging portfolio companies to engage with responsible AI initiatives and providing access to relevant expertise can further drive the adoption of ethical AI practices.
