Usha Jagannathan, PhD

Dr. Usha Jagannathan is the Associate Director of AI Products at the IEEE Standards Association (IEEE SA). With over 20 years of experience in digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI), she has held significant roles in various organizations, including McKinsey & Company, where she served as a Principal Engineer prior to her current position at IEEE.12

Professional Background

• Leadership in AI: At IEEE SA, Dr. Jagannathan leads initiatives focused on developing ethical and customer-centric AI products. Her work emphasizes the importance of responsible AI practices and the integration of AI ethics into product development.13
• Advisory Roles: She advises AI startups and engages in training future leaders in academia, particularly through partnerships with institutions like Arizona State University (ASU). Her outreach efforts have notably helped secure internships and job placements for diverse students, especially women in STEM fields.12
• Recognition: Dr. Jagannathan has been recognized for her contributions to the field, receiving the Responsible AI Leader Award from Women in AI for North America and being featured as one of the "Most Iconic Women Leaders" by CIOTimes magazine.1

Academic Contributions

Dr. Jagannathan holds a PhD in Technology & E-learning from Arizona State University, where she also served as the Graduate Program Chair for the Information Technology department. She has been instrumental in pioneering online education initiatives and promoting diversity within tech.23

Advocacy and Community Engagement

A passionate advocate for diversity in technology, Dr. Jagannathan actively participates in various forums aimed at increasing representation within the tech industry. She has contributed to discussions on AI ethics, governance, and sustainability, focusing on how technology can be leveraged to address climate change and promote social good.23

In summary, Dr. Usha Jagannathan is a prominent figure in the AI landscape, known for her leadership at IEEE SA, her commitment to ethical AI practices, and her dedication to fostering diversity within technology sectors.