An expert in artificial intelligence has become the first Indian national to hold the presidency of the Institution of Engineering & Technology (IET).
Dr Gopichand Katragadda became the organisation’s 142nd president this month; he succeeded previous incumbent professor Bob Cryan CBE, vice chancellor and chief executive of the University of Huddersfield in West Yorkshire.
Katragadda, a seasoned technologist and executive leader, is the founder of Myelin Foundry – an AI company with a vision to transform human experiences and industry outcomes.
He is also an independent director of Bosch India Limited, and ICICI Securities. As well as a member of the NASSCOM governing council for the Centre of Excellence for Data Science & AI.
Katragadda said he is “deeply honoured” and “excited” to become the IET’s latest president.
“The role is a natural continuum to my volunteering for the IET, and I am looking forward to working with the trustees to give advice and support as the IET ramps up its digitalisation strategy,” he added.
The theme of his inaugural address – due to take place next month – will focus on his field of expertise.
On that, he added:“We are at a point in time for AI similar to what the early 1990s were to the internet. Everything around us will be reinvented and engineers can lead the way in delivering a resilient future by embracing innovation and technical advancements and dispelling myths about AI.
“Engineers must also lead the way in understanding AI’s positive and negative impacts and work with policymakers to define guardrails and frameworks for ethical data and ethical AI.”
During his presidential year, Katragadda will work closely with the IET to shape the organisation’s directives and strategise the advancement of engineering and technology in society. He will represent the IET at various events and conferences, advocating for its interests in society.
He will also play a pivotal role in supporting the continuous professional development of IET members, and participate in initiatives aimed at advancing innovation and research in the engineering community, especially in the AI space.
Ed Almond, the IET’s chief executive and secretary, said: “The influence and impact of the IET has grown significantly over the past few years, with our past presidents leaving a fantastic legacy of determination and expert leadership.
It is indeed a momentous occasion to have Dr Gopichand Katragadda taking over the reins as a highly respected thought leader in the field of artificial intelligence, and our first Indian president.
“With an illustrious career to his credit, I am certain that he will play a key role in steering the IET towards our vision of engineering a better world.”
Main image: Dr Gopichand Katragadda, president of the IET
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