Keynotes - Kathryn Guarini
Navigating Technology Acceleration: Ensuring Safe Passage to AI-Powered Digital Business
Wednesday July 10, 10:15 - 11:30
Location: Aula Magna, Universita' degli Studi di Milano
Abstract
Technology advancements are accelerating, creating new opportunities for industry transformation and business growth. Artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain have emerged as key disruptors. This talk will describe the rapid progress of these advanced technologies, highlight the unique requirements for enterprise deployment, and showcase compelling use cases across different industries.
Brief Biography
Kathryn Guarini is Vice President, IBM Industry Research, where she leads IBM's global research programs focused on applying advanced technologies to solve the hardest problems across different industries. Her team focuses particularly on artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and internet of things (IoT) solutions in industries including Healthcare and Life Sciences, Financial Services, and Industrials.
Prior Kathryn was Vice President of IBM Research Strategy, where she drove technology strategy for the global research community at IBM. Her focus included forward-looking technology vision as well as cross-research strategic initiatives, including IBM's Global Technology Outlook. Previously, Kathryn was IBM Vice President, Offering Management for z Systems and LinuxONE, where she drove mainframe platform growth focus areas including Cloud, Analytics, Mobile, Security, Linux, and Industry Solutions. In 2015 her team launched LinuxONE, a trusted, efficient, and powerful platform for enterprise-grade Linux.
Kathryn has held various technical, management, and executive positions in research, development, and business. She has led large global teams to deliver complex solutions that meet the ever-changing needs of IT customers. From requirements gathering through innovative design implementation to customer support, Kathryn has played important product development leadership roles including enterprise microprocessor design and systems technology development. She is also experienced in technical strategy and leadership development.
Kathryn's innovative technical research in semiconductor device integration and nanotechnology has been recognized with various industry awards. She holds more than 63 U.S. patents and she is a prolific writer with over 60 technical publications. Kathryn received a Ph.D. from Stanford University and a B.S. degree from Yale University, both in applied physics. Kathryn is active in mentoring, inspiring, and recruiting scientists and engineers of all ages, especially women.