use,this,text,as,reference,same,question,as,before,The Tokyo native’s uphill challenge came with the
responsibility of leading the development of an AI risk
assessment framework for AI Ethics within IBM Japan.
According to her bio, this delicate framework, based
on the five principles of Transparency, Explainability,
Fairness, Robustness, and Privacy, was more than just
a technical endeavor. It represented a larger mission to
safeguard society from the potential dangers of AI—a
responsibility that echoes across every corner of our
increasingly technology-driven world.
Kawatsu’s work conducting AI risk analysis and
providing guidance on how to use AI ethically for IBM’s
key customers has been both pivotal and fruitful. Her
expressive speech modeling efforts have contributed
immensely to the company, even garnering her two
prestigious technology awards at the firm in 2024.
Despite the persisting challenges of
how AI models work and what they
do, Kawatsu has stayed the course,
determined to find the answers.
With 15 years of experience delivering data science
solutions and research in speech modeling, she authored
the AI Risk Textbook: Avoid Crises and Accelerate
Business with Proactive Guardrails in 2023, a testament
to her expertise and commitment to AI’s evolving
technology. The book’s success
led to a second printing
and a circulation of
5,000 copies,
reflecting the
impact of
her work.
Hiromi Kawatsu Paves the Way for Ethical
AI Innovation
Hiromi Kawatsu, Ph.D.
Data Science Manager
IBM Japan, Ltd.
Her personal motto,
“seize fortune by
the forelock,” has seen
her through international
volunteer work and
the transition to a
managerial role shortly
after maternity leave.
WOMENOFCOLOR
In the heart of IBM Japan’s technology
hub in bustling Tokyo, Hiromi Kawatsu
stands out as an innovative thought leader,
leaving no opportunity to chance.
As the manager of data science services, Kawatsu
has intentionally carved a niche in the complex
world of artificial intelligence (AI) ethics, a journey that
has earned her the Outstanding Technical Contribution
accolade at this year’s 2024 Women of Color STEM
Awards. With an impressive portfolio of groundbreaking
achievements, Kawatsu’s journey is a quest of sheer
resilience, continuous learning, and unwavering
determination.
For Kawatsu, technical challenges were only part
of the equation of success. Ethical leadership and
mentorship are equally crucial as ethical AI use,
which is the foundation of her professional ethos.
Since becoming the manager of the Data Science
Service team, she has focused on nurturing her
team’s growth, leading by example, and fostering
collaborations across departments. Her moral
mentorship has guided several emerging data
scientists to patents, promotions, and even career
transformations.
Outside of her professional life, the data scientist
leads a similarly dynamic personal one. A mother
of two young children, she has masterfully balanced
her family responsibilities with her career aspirations.
Her personal motto, “seize fortune by the forelock,” has
seen her through international volunteer work and the
transition to a managerial role shortly after maternity
leave. Her growth mindset and time management skills
have been her allies in overcoming challenges.
Reflecting on her achievements, Kawatsu acknowledges
the personal and professional growth she has
experienced. Overcoming challenges has shaped her into
a stronger leader and a more empathetic mentor. The
lessons learned are invaluable, and she is keen on sharing
her insights, hoping to inspire others to pursue their
passions with courage and resilience.
Her contributions to AI ethics have
not only helped mitigate risks but
also enhanced the broader technical
community and the future of synthetic
speech.
Furthermore, Kawatsu’s inner compass is a powerful
indicator that with the right mindset, support, and
dedication, any challenge can be transformed into an
opportunity for growth and success.
As we celebrate Kawatsu’s accomplishments, we are
reminded of the perseverance and the importance of
ethical leadership in technology