In a series of profiles celebrating women’s contributions to the AI revolution, TechCrunch highlights Catherine Breslin, an AI scientist with over two decades of experience. Breslin’s journey from academia to entrepreneurship offers valuable insights into navigating the male-dominated tech industry.

• Catherine Breslin, founder of Kingfisher Labs, leads AI strategy for companies.
• Breslin emphasizes the importance of niche expertise and balanced energy for women entering AI.
• Responsible AI development requires diversity, thorough testing, and transparent communication.

Catherine Breslin’s journey into the realm of artificial intelligence began with a passion for mathematics and physics, eventually leading her to the field of engineering. During her academic pursuits, she became captivated by the potential of computers to process speech and language—a fascination that paved the way for her groundbreaking contributions to AI.

After completing her master’s and PhD at the University of Cambridge, Breslin embarked on a remarkable career trajectory, including roles at Cambridge University, Toshiba Research, and Amazon Alexa. In 2020, amid the challenges of the pandemic, she founded Kingfisher Labs, a consulting firm aimed at providing organizations with real-world AI expertise and leadership.

Navigating Male-Dominated Terrain

As a prominent figure in a predominantly male industry, Breslin recognizes the importance of building supportive networks and judiciously allocating her energy. With around 20% representation of women in AI, she underscores the significance of women’s advancement into senior and leadership positions to drive lasting change.

Breslin’s advice for aspiring women in AI emphasizes the significance of finding a niche, acquiring in-depth knowledge, and tackling problems that resonate personally. She stresses the need for responsible AI development, emphasizing diversity in perspectives, rigorous testing, and transparent communication about capabilities and limitations.

In the ever-evolving landscape of AI startups, Breslin urges investors to prioritize responsible AI initiatives. By vocalizing a vision for a future where responsible AI is central, investors can contribute to shaping an ethical and inclusive AI ecosystem.