In an era marked by climate change and energy challenges, the intersection of technology and sustainability has become more crucial than ever. This is where the contributions of women in leadership roles, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), prove to be significant. One exemplary figure in this narrative is Marissa Hummon, the Chief Technology Officer at Utilidata. As part of the ongoing ‘Women in AI’ series, her insights shed light on the importance of diversity in tech and how AI can reshape the energy sector for a more sustainable future.
Hummon’s work is more than just a career move; it embodies a mission to disrupt conservative utility practices and transition toward cleaner energy solutions. “The work that I’m doing at Utilidata is pushing against the status quo of the utility industry,” she asserts. Her advocacy for AI illustrates its potential to revolutionize how utilities operate, promising enhanced efficiency and sustainability. At Utilidata, the commitment to transitioning energy systems toward modern, clean grids that serve both communities and businesses is palpable.
From Academia to Industry: A Journey of Innovation
Beginning her career at the National Renewable Energy Lab, Hummon focused on converting the energy sector from carbon-heavy practices to sustainable alternatives. Her professional journey underscores the necessity of innovation—a theme prevalent in the AI field. Ten years ago, Hummon encountered technical limitations that traditional analytics couldn’t solve, which propelled her toward adopting numerical methods and machine learning. This transition symbolizes the evolving landscape of energy management and highlights the critical role of AI in enhancing traditional approaches.
Her rise through the ranks—from working at Tendril to her current role as CTO at Utilidata—showcases her resilience and commitment. Yet her journey is not without its challenges. Noticing a stark decrease in female representation as she moved from academia to engineering, Hummon has become an advocate for gender equity in STEM fields. “I’ve felt the pressure of being held to a higher standard compared to my male peers,” she reveals, emphasizing the need for systemic changes.
In her leadership role, Hummon recognizes the importance of setting an example and actively fostering an environment that champions women’s advancement. She believes that the responsibility for change must also lie with men, who are capable of creating spaces conducive to female participation and growth. Hummon articulates a vision where equitable practices in recruitment, mentoring, and recognition become the norm, championing a workplace that is both safe and inclusive.
Her personal experience underscores the belief that unique perspectives lead to breakthroughs in technology. As she advises women entering the AI domain, Hummon emphasizes the advantage of their insights and encourages them to seek organizations that exhibit genuine commitment to diversity. It is essential, according to her, that potential employers are evaluated not just by their policies but by their actions during the interview process.
Hummon also brings an important perspective on AI’s limitations. AI, she suggests, should not be perceived as a cure-all; instead, it serves best as an expert assistant—enhancing operations while requiring due diligence about its limitations. Acknowledging this complexity is essential for those working with AI, as the quality of outcomes relies heavily on the data used to train these systems.
Understanding the origins and training of generative AI models is crucial for mitigating biases. Hummon argues that having this knowledge empowers professionals to leverage AI responsibly, emphasizing that “AI is only as good as the data and information it was trained on.” Moreover, her insights extend to building secure AI systems; Utilidata’s decision to keep data local serves as a method to safeguard against potential security breaches and privacy violations. The company’s approach exemplifies how conscientious infrastructural design can support responsible AI use.
As the energy sector navigates the complexities of modern challenges, Hummon’s perspective is vital for future growth. Investors, too, must consider the intentions behind AI implementation across industries, as responsible AI can take various forms. Hummon’s voice is a clarion call for a balanced understanding and integration of AI that considers ethical implications while maximizing technological potential.
Women like Marissa Hummon are essential not only for their pioneering contributions but also for fostering a culture that embraces diversity in technological innovation. By advocating for systemic changes and mentoring the next generation, they will continue to reshape the future landscape of AI and energy.
As we move forward, it becomes increasingly clear that empowering women in AI is not just a matter of equality; it is crucial for sustainable progress in technology and energy management.