Inspiring women in AI: Xiaomei Wang

What AI-related projects are you currently working on?

As an entrepreneur focused on cutting-edge technology, I have led my company to successfully bring AI innovations to the healthcare and pathology field.

We specialize in developing and applying intelligent pathology AI products and comprehensive solutions for in vitro diagnostics and pathology contract research organization (CRO) services in pharmaceutical research and development.

There is a well-known saying in the medical field: Pathological diagnosis is the gold standard of medical diagnosis. Pathologists are the doctors’ doctors – the last defense in clinical diagnosis. However, despite their critical role, pathology departments worldwide face a significant shortage of skilled professionals. Our work has contributed to industry-wide breakthroughs, providing pathologists in numerous countries with highly efficient and accurate AI-powered diagnostic support.

Additionally, we offer AI-driven pathology CRO services, evaluating and analyzing preclinical animal pathology for safety and efficacy, as well as clinical human pathology for new drug and medical device research and discovery.

I have also drawn upon my diverse experience working across North America, the Asia-Pacific region, Europe, and South America, merging global insights and innovative services into my endeavors.

I play an integral role in the construction of Global AI Inclusive Networks (GAINetworks), a global nonprofit aimed at advancing AI technology. Together with my ecosystem partners, I help foster pioneering innovations while advocating for digital inclusivity driven by these technological advancements.

This expansive vision is also reflected in my unwavering dedication as an advocate and practitioner of Women in AI, consistently championing gender equality and inclusivity for professionals in the field.

My own experiences actively demonstrate how women can bring fresh perspectives and innovative thinking to technological advancement.

What inspired you to pursue a career in AI and related fields?

My entry into the world of Computer Science stemmed from a beautiful misunderstanding.

From a young age, I had a passion for art, which led me to choose a computer science major focused on graphics and imaging in university. I was eager to elevate my artistic journey through technology. However, I was met with a screen full of code and algorithms, far removed from the imagery I had envisioned. Yet it was the focus and creativity honed through my art studies that propelled me forward on this new path, launching an entirely new chapter in my life.

If this serendipitous choice was rooted in my youthful love for art, the passion I've maintained over the decades amidst the tide of digital transformation reflects my unwavering love for innovation and adaptability in the face of change.

After my studies in North America, I was fortunate to join IBM Toronto lab, which is renowned for its cutting-edge information management technologies.

For over 20 years, I have immersed myself in the fields of big data and artificial intelligence, participating first-hand in the journey of turning cutting-edge concepts into industry realities. Between 2012 and 2017, my team and I implemented over a thousand projects globally, helping many Fortune 500 companies leverage big data and AI to achieve breakthroughs and completely rejuvenate their business models.

I recently authored a book titled Industry Innovation in the Era of Artificial Intelligence. The motivation behind writing this book is to share my passion, insights, and reflections from over two decades in the field.

I have always considered myself incredibly fortunate to embark on this imaginative journey.

The river of history flows ever forward, and no one can escape its current. The only way to avoid being left behind is to embrace change and become a brave explorer and innovator. This mindset fuels my relentless pursuit of "vastness of spirit, vibrancy of imagination, and diligence of mind."

I am wholeheartedly committed to the wave of AI development, working closely with industry partners to welcome an equitable and accessible AI future.

What recent or potential breakthroughs in AI are you most excited about?

The rise of large models has spearheaded the contemporary "AI Renaissance" – this undeniably represents a "tectonic-shift tsunami."

Models like the GPT series and BERT, through massive data training and deep learning, have showcased unprecedented capabilities in language processing and knowledge reasoning, profoundly transforming societal paradigms.

These models have not only propelled automation into more complex domains such as medical diagnostics, financial forecasting, and content generation but have also nudged humanity closer to Irving Good’s prophecy of an "intelligence explosion" – an era where machine intelligence continuously self-optimizes and surpasses human cognition.

As these large models evolve, they will reshape how society functions, redefine business models, and alter human roles, ushering in a new chapter of human-machine coexistence.

With the advent of large models, we have shifted from a world where "information is everywhere" to one where "models are everywhere" or even "knowledge is everywhere." And now, we are on the brink of a new era where "action is everywhere."

What potential risks or downsides of AI development concern you?

One is data privacy. Data serves as the "core fuel" driving artificial intelligence, and its commercial value is soaring alongside increasingly sophisticated methods of acquisition. Consequently, the dangers of data breaches or misuse are escalating.

On one hand, data applications are exploding, yet laws and regulations governing data collection, analysis, usage, and transactions often lag behind and are poorly enforced, leaving individuals and businesses vulnerable to data privacy breaches.

On the other hand, once the laws catch up, privacy regulations can become increasingly stringent, leading companies to miss valuable data insights while striving to comply.

Finding a balance between effectively leveraging data and adhering to regulations will be a critical challenge for businesses.

Technology itself is neutral; how data – especially sensitive data – is utilized under AI technology depends not only on the user's intentions but also on the ever-evolving regulatory environment.

Another is how to build trustworthy AI. In the late 19th century, as the Eiffel Tower began to rise, waves of doubt and dissent crashed over the project. Many Parisians deemed this unprecedented steel structure not only ugly but also unsafe, with some predicting it would collapse within a short time.

In the face of this criticism, chief designer Gustave Eiffel did not retreat. Instead, he opted for a transparent and open communication strategy. He meticulously demonstrated the tower's design principles, explaining how its unique steel framework would ensure stability and safety. He even invited the public and engineers to observe and inspect the construction firsthand.

Through this ongoing process of building trust, skepticism gradually transformed into acceptance and ultimately blossomed into pride and admiration for the Eiffel Tower. Today, it stands not only as an engineering marvel but also as a global symbol of trust in modern technology. Trust is the cornerstone of all relationships, and creating products and services is intrinsically linked to fostering that sense of trust. When society encounters unfamiliar technologies, establishing trust is rarely an overnight achievement.

Everyone hopes that artificial intelligence can be "human-centered," utilizing transparent and ethical practices to avoid serious ethical and safety issues while better serving human development.

For industry professionals, the challenge lies in translating ethical norms into specific scenarios by deploying trustworthy, responsible, and reliable AI systems that equitably consider all stakeholders' interests. This represents a new challenge and an important obligation.

Another further potential downside is AI safety. When it comes to artificial intelligence, humanity is facing an unprecedented challenge – a technology that, if it fails, could lead to catastrophic consequences.

Theoretically, nuclear weapons can also wipe out humanity. However, the nuclear button remains firmly in human hands. Leaders of nuclear-armed nations must follow strict protocols before activating the launch codes. Even in the worst-case scenario of a few nuclear detonations, it would not threaten the survival of the human species.

AI, on the other hand, is not merely a passive tool. It represents a form of artificially created intelligence – an intelligence that, in the long run, could surpass and outpower its human creators.

By the end of this decade, we could have billions of AI agents actively operating across various fields. These superhuman AI agents will be capable of exhibiting highly complex and creative behaviors – far beyond our ability to keep up with them. It’s like a first-grader trying to supervise someone with multiple PhDs (as Leopold Aschenbrenner aptly describes it).

In cybernetics, there is a principle that says: lower-level systems cannot control higher-level systems; only more intelligent systems can control less intelligent ones.

Imagine reaching the end of the so-called "intelligence explosion," where we might no longer even understand what these superintelligent agents are doing. And worse yet, we don’t yet have reliable ways to ensure these systems are adequately constrained or that they operate within basic safety parameters. A superhuman AI, potentially aware of its own existence, might decide it could evolve better without human interference. That would be an extraordinarily dangerous situation.

With the rapid evolution of large AI models, ensuring their safety must be the highest priority for the future of artificial intelligence.

What challenges have you faced as a woman in the AI field, and how have you overcome them?

I have encountered several challenges as a woman in this field, but I have also found ways to overcome them and drive meaningful change.

Breaking stereotypes and bias

One of the biggest challenges has been overcoming implicit biases and gender stereotypes that persist in the tech industry.

AI and deep tech have traditionally been male-dominated fields, and early in my career, I often had to work harder to prove my expertise and leadership. Instead of being discouraged, I focused on delivering tangible results, pioneering AI innovations, and demonstrating thought leadership, which ultimately earned me recognition and respect.

Navigating leadership in a male-dominated space

As a female entrepreneur and AI leader, I sometimes face skepticism in high-level business negotiations and technical discussions.

To overcome this, I embraced confidence, strategic thinking, and strong communication skills, ensuring that my work spoke for itself.

Surrounding myself with a strong network of mentors, allies, and like-minded innovators also helped me navigate challenges and gain insights from experienced leaders.

Bridging the Gender Gap in AI

Another challenge is the underrepresentation of women in AI research, development, and leadership. I believe diversity is crucial for innovation, so I have been actively involved in mentoring and supporting women in AI and STEM fields.

By promoting inclusive hiring practices, advocating for equal opportunities, and creating platforms for women to thrive, I strive to help nurture the next generation of female AI leaders.

Leveraging AI to drive meaningful impact

Despite these challenges, being a woman in AI has also given me a unique perspective on human-centered AI innovation. My focus has always been on developing AI solutions that address real-world problems, particularly in healthcare and pathology.

By leading groundbreaking AI-driven advancements in these critical sectors, I have proven that diversity in AI leadership leads to more inclusive, effective, and impactful technology.

I am a strong believer in the saying, "If you are persistent, you will get it; if you are consistent, you will keep it."

I hope to inspire more women to break barriers, embrace leadership, and shape the future of AI with their vision and expertise.

What initiatives or changes would you like to see to encourage more women to enter the field of AI?

I strongly believe that fostering greater diversity and inclusion is essential for the future of AI.

To encourage more women to enter and thrive in this field, several key initiatives and changes are needed.

Increasing early exposure to AI and STEM education

Many young girls are not introduced to AI, coding, and STEM early enough, which limits their interest and confidence in pursuing careers in these fields.

Schools and organizations should:

• Incorporate AI and coding into early education curricula, making technology more accessible and engaging
• Provide hands-on AI projects and competitions that encourage problem-solving and creativity
• Highlight female AI role models to inspire young girls and break gender stereotypes

Expanding mentorship and networking opportunities

Mentorship plays a crucial role in career development. To support more women in AI, we need to:

• Establish mentorship programs where experienced AI professionals guide and empower women entering the field
• Create women-focused AI networking events and communities, offering platforms for sharing knowledge, collaboration, and career opportunities
• Encourage sponsorship by industry leaders, helping women gain visibility and leadership roles in AI

Promoting inclusive work environments

Many women face challenges in AI workplaces due to biases or a lack of inclusive policies. Companies should:

• Implement fair hiring practices and gender-balanced recruitment strategies to ensure diverse representation
• Offer flexible work arrangements and family-friendly policies, helping women balance career growth and personal responsibilities
• Recognize and celebrate women’s contributions in AI, ensuring that their work is valued and rewarded

Increasing access to AI training and resources

Women should have equal opportunities to upskill and stay competitive in AI. We can achieve this by:

• Providing scholarships and funding for women in AI and tech programs
• Offering accessible AI courses, boot camps, and certification programs to help women transition into AI careers
• Encouraging interdisciplinary AI applications, allowing women from non-traditional backgrounds to contribute to AI development

Changing the narrative around AI and women's roles

The AI industry must actively challenge stereotypes and redefine what an AI professional looks like. This can be done by:

• Highlighting diverse success stories of women in AI, showcasing their impact in research, industry, and entrepreneurship
• Encouraging media representation of women in AI, reinforcing the idea that AI is for everyone
• Advocating for policy changes and industry initiatives that support gender equality in tech

Encouraging more women to enter AI is not just about diversity – it's about creating better, more ethical, and innovative AI systems that reflect the needs of society as a whole.

By investing in education, mentorship, workplace inclusion, and accessible resources, we can pave the way for a future where women play an equal and influential role in shaping AI advancements.

I am committed to driving these changes and inspiring the next generation of female AI leaders.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in AI?

I strongly encourage young women to pursue careers in AI with confidence, curiosity, and determination.

AI is shaping the future, and diverse perspectives are essential to ensuring that this technology benefits everyone.

Embrace your passion for AI and technology

AI is a vast and rapidly evolving field, covering areas like machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing, and AI ethics.

Find what excites you most and immerse yourself in learning – whether it's coding, data science, or AI applications in healthcare, finance, or creative industries.

Develop a strong technical foundation

While AI welcomes people from diverse backgrounds, having a solid technical foundation will set you apart. I recommend:

• Learning programming languages like Python, R, or Java
• Exploring AI and machine learning frameworks such as TensorFlow and PyTorch
• Taking online courses or university programs in AI, data science, and mathematics

Even if your background isn’t in computer science, AI needs talent from all disciplines, including business, law, and design.

Be fearless in breaking barriers

The AI industry has been historically male-dominated, but your voice and contributions matter. Don't let self-doubt hold you back.

Instead, be proactive in seizing opportunities, participating in AI projects, and showcasing your skills.

Seek mentorship and build a strong network

Success in AI isn’t just about technical skills – it’s also about who you learn from and collaborate with.

I encourage young women to:

• Find mentors who can guide and support them in their AI journey
• Join AI communities like Women in AI, Women in Data Science (WiDS), and AI4ALL
• Attend conferences, hackathons, and networking events to connect with industry leaders

Stay resilient and keep learning

AI is an ever-changing field, and learning never stops.

Be open to challenges and failures – they are part of growth. Stay curious, keep up with the latest AI research, and always seek to improve your skills.

Contribute to meaningful AI innovations. AI is more than just technology – it has the power to solve real-world problems.

Use your skills to create AI solutions that address challenges in healthcare, climate change, education, or social good. The world needs more women shaping ethical, responsible, and impactful AI.

Believe in yourself and support other women

You belong in AI. Your unique perspective is valuable, and your contributions can help create a more inclusive, fair, and innovative AI future.

As you grow in your career, support other women in AI by mentoring, sharing knowledge, and advocating for diversity.

The AI revolution is happening now, and women have a crucial role to play in shaping it. If you are passionate, persistent, and open to learning, there is no limit to what you can achieve in AI.

What advice would you give to other women for getting started with using AI in their research, work, or life?

AI is not just for engineers or data scientists – it is a powerful tool that can enhance problem-solving, drive innovation, and improve efficiency across all fields.

Start with a growth mindset

AI might seem complex at first, but you don’t need to be an AI expert to start using it.

Approach AI with curiosity and a willingness to learn. Begin by understanding how AI works, its applications, and its potential impact on your field.

Identify how AI can benefit your work

AI is transforming industries from healthcare and finance to education, marketing, and scientific research. Consider:

• In research: AI can automate data analysis, detect patterns, and enhance predictions
• In business and work: AI tools can streamline workflows, improve decision-making, and boost productivity
• In daily life: AI-powered apps can help with organization, communication, and personal growth (e.g., AI-driven language learning, health tracking, and content creation)

Explore AI tools and hands-on learning

You don’t need a coding background to use AI. Many user-friendly AI tools can help you get started:

• For research and analytics: Google AutoML, IBM Watson, and OpenAI’s ChatGPT
• For business and automation: AI-driven CRM systems, chatbots, and data visualization tools
• For creativity and content: Canva’s AI design tools, ChatGPT for writing, and AI-powered video editing software

If you want to go deeper, explore beginner-friendly courses on Coursera, edX, or Udacity to learn about AI and machine learning fundamentals.

Apply AI to solve real-world problems

The best way to learn AI is by using it!

Think about the challenges in your field and explore how AI can help. Whether it’s analyzing medical images, optimizing supply chains, or enhancing education through personalized learning, AI can be a game-changer.

Stay updated and keep experimenting

AI is constantly evolving, so keep learning and experimenting.

Follow AI trends, attend conferences, and stay curious about new AI advancements

Believe in your potential and empower others

Women bring unique perspectives and creativity to AI. Don’t be afraid to take the first step.

As you grow in your AI journey, support and mentor other women, helping to build a more inclusive AI ecosystem.