Debra Lam

Debra Lam is the Founding Executive Director of the Partnership for Inclusive Innovation, a statewide public-private partnership in Georgia dedicated to investing in innovative solutions for shared economic prosperity.12 She is a prominent figure in the field of smart communities and urban innovation, continuing to lead related work at Georgia Tech.1

Professional Background

Prior to her current role, Debra Lam served as Pittsburgh's inaugural Chief of Innovation & Performance, overseeing technology, sustainability, performance, and innovation functions of the city government.1 She also has experience as a management consultant at Arup, a global engineering and design firm.1

Achievements and Recognition

Debra Lam has received various accolades for her work, including being named one of the top 100 most influential people in digital government by Apolitcal.1 Her expertise is widely recognized, as evidenced by her appointment to the Internet of Things Advisory Board by the U.S. Department of Commerce.1

Education and International Experience

She holds degrees from Georgetown University and the University of California, Berkeley.1 Debra's international experience is extensive, having worked and lived in the United Kingdom, China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.1

Current Initiatives

At the Partnership for Inclusive Innovation, Debra Lam leads various initiatives:

• Smart Community Corps: Overseeing a diverse group of innovators, designers, and entrepreneurs.5
• Georgia Smart Community Challenge: Founded on the principle that all communities can be smart, regardless of size or geography.7
• Expanding Internship Programs: Growing from 5 Georgia Tech interns to a broader program involving multiple universities and projects.8

Advocacy and Leadership

Debra Lam is actively involved in promoting innovation and inclusive development:

• She has represented Georgia Tech and the Partnership for Inclusive Innovation at a full House Committee hearing on AI in transportation.6
• She emphasizes the importance of tailored approaches to urban development, noting that cities like Atlanta should focus on their unique strengths rather than emulating others.4
• Lam is involved in collaborative efforts such as the Atlanta Civic Collaboratory, which fosters mutual aid and collective impact.3

Through her leadership, Debra Lam continues to drive innovation and inclusive development across Georgia and beyond, leveraging technology and partnerships to create shared prosperity.