AI, Ethics, & the Future of Edge Computing: Meet the tinyML Foundation

Key Insights & Timestamps:

• [00:00]: Podcast begins
• [01:05]: Community & computing at tinyMl Foundation
• [06:00]: Edge computing & the challenges of fast-paced change
• [13:13]: Safety & security concerns with the rise of AI
• [20:20]: Responsible AI & the importance of ethical computing
• [24:08]: October’s gen AI on the edge virtual event
• [31:11]: Take on tinyML course on edge AI & new technology

Guest Spotlight:
Pete Bernard, Executive Director at tinyML Foundation
Pete Bernard has an extensive background in edge computing, with 14 years of experience in Silicon Valley and 18 years at Microsoft. After earning a B.S. in Computer Engineering from Boston University, Pete began his career at Phoenix Technologies as a BIOS Developer and Product Leader. He then served as the VP of Products at E-Color and the Chief Product Officer at Insignia Solutions before he transitioned to Microsoft, where he played a pivotal role in planning, strategy, partner engagement, and product management for disruptive products. In 2023, he founded EDGECELSIOR, a new type of "Technology Practice" at the intersection of semiconductors, 5G, and AI. Since April 2024, Pete has served as the Executive Director of the tinyML Foundation.

Key Takeaways:

• Edge computing has significant challenges when it comes to the rapid pace of technology changes, including the struggle between implementation and obsolete tech. Pete explains that in his experience, there is a constant need for learning and adapting in the tech industry, and tinyML aims to support the tech community through these tech transitions to prevent delays in development and deployment of advancements.
• At tinyML, Pete works with computing experts to support the edge AI community with collaborations between solution providers, the development of high quality community resources, and an emphasis on knowledge building. The Foundation also works to promote safe and responsible AI usage, improving security and privacy efforts in AI tech implementation.
• Embracing the world of edge AI will take a lot of purposeful education, collaboration, and connectivity between new technology and its users. Pete is very optimistic about the future of AI, and wants people to feel confident leaning into new technology that will better their lives. However, Pete also acknowledges that different industries require very different approaches from AI and that there will have to be tough conversations about the purpose of AI in each application.

Resources Mentioned:
tinyML Foundation | www.tinyml.org