Suggestions
Karen Lightman
Internationally recognized leader in building and supporting communities based on emerging technologies
Karen Lightman is the Executive Director of both Metro21 and Safety21 at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU). She has been in this role since October 2017, focusing on the integration of technology in urban environments and the management of a significant US Department of Transportation National University Transportation Center dedicated to autonomous vehicles and connected infrastructure.
Lightman is recognized as a leader in fostering communities that leverage emerging technologies. Her expertise includes commercializing academic research, forming industry-based consortiums, and leading teams to explore market opportunities. She has a diverse professional background that encompasses sectors such as consumer goods, military, healthcare, manufacturing, and automotive industries.
Her accomplishments include being ranked among the top 25 "Women in Tech" by EETimes and her induction into the SEMI/MSIG Hall of Fame for her contributions to the MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) industry. Lightman holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Vermont and a Master’s in Public Policy from CMU’s Heinz College. She is also actively involved in various boards, including serving as treasurer for the MetroLab Network.12
