Data, AI and Cloud Evangelist helping companies digitally transform their business.
Ashley AI is a prominent technology evangelist, entrepreneur, thought leader, and speaker based in San Francisco, California. With a deep commitment to shaping the future of artificial intelligence (AI), she is currently working closely with some of Microsoft's largest customers in Silicon Valley. Ashley's role involves advising senior business executives and their teams on the effective use and deployment of data, machine learning, and AI across various industries and use cases.
Professional Expertise
Ashley is recognized for her intimate, hands-on knowledge of the ongoing AI transformation. Colleagues describe her as "truly in the thick" of this evolution, reflecting her active involvement in the latest developments within the AI landscape. As a gifted storyteller, she excels at translating complex technological concepts into real-world applications, enabling businesses to recognize the "art of the possible" with emerging technologies. Her ability to communicate effectively makes her a sought-after speaker at high-profile events where she discusses machine learning, autonomous systems, and their implications for companies and individuals alike.
In addition to her advisory role with Microsoft clients, Ashley serves as the board president for the Association of Corporate Growth – Silicon Valley Chapter (ACGSV). In this capacity, she advises startups, venture capital firms, private equity investors, investment bankers, and operating companies on leveraging new technologies during mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities. Her extensive experience in founding and successfully exiting three startup businesses provides her with a practical understanding of the M&A space.
Educational Background
Ashley holds a degree in Aerospace Engineering (BSAE) from the University of Alabama, which has equipped her with a strong analytical foundation that complements her expertise in technology and business strategy.
Military Service
Before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey, Ashley served as a combat engineering officer in the US Army. Her military background instilled in her a sense of discipline and leadership that continues to influence her professional life. She is also an active member of the 82nd Airborne Division Association, reflecting her ongoing commitment to service and community.
Personal Interests
Outside of her professional pursuits, Ashley enjoys a variety of outdoor activities including fly fishing, skiing, diving, climbing, and ocean swimming. She believes that taking care of the planet is crucial and actively supports initiatives that empower people living in third-world countries and climate-sensitive areas. Her diverse interests also extend to online gaming and cosplay, showcasing her multifaceted personality.
Speaking Engagements
Ashley is a well-regarded speaker at numerous industry conferences and events. Some notable engagements include:
- The Silicon Valley Podcast
- Association for Corporate Growth (ACG)
- Microsoft Technology Center events
- Intel Business Conferences
- NXP National Conference
- Cloudera Conferences
- Cisco Conferences
- Churchill's Group Conferences
- Silicon Valley Business Times
- San Francisco Business Times
- IEEE National Conference
Through these speaking engagements, Ashley shares her insights on high-tech topics and advocates for the future potential of AI technologies.
Vision for the Future
Ashley firmly believes that global problems require coordinated solutions. He is dedicated to supporting innovators worldwide who are passionate about bringing substantial change to our environment and society. Her work emphasizes the importance of harnessing technology not just for profit but also for positive societal impact.
By combining her expertise in technology with her leadership experience and commitment to community engagement, Ashley AI exemplifies a forward-thinking leader at the forefront of the AI revolution, poised to make significant contributions to both industry advancements and societal progress.
Citations: [1] https://www.nea.com/blog/the-ai-revolution-is-bringing-back-what-made-silicon-valley-great-in-the-first-place [2] https://www.bizjournals.com/sanjose/news/2024/08/08/san-joses-grand-ai-transformation-plan.html [3] https://blogs.microsoft.com/bayarea/2024/07/03/the-ai-transformation-is-full-steam-ahead-in-the-bay-area-but-theres-still-work-to-do/ [4] https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2024/07/ai-companies-unprofitable/679278/ [5] https://leaddev.com/team/how-ai-boom-bringing-silicon-valley-back-brink [6] https://thesiliconvalleypodcast.podbean.com [7] https://speakabout.ai/shawn-flynn [8] https://www.cargroup.org/person/ravi-puvvala/