Today, some of the most exciting developments in software engineering and AI are happening in autonomous vehicles. Engineers, scientists, and researchers are tackling some of the most significant challenges of our generation and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. AI transforms how self-driving cars perceive and interact with the world. Modern software engineering enables new platforms and capabilities that ensure autonomous vehicles operate safely, reliably, and securely. Evolutions in AI-centric compute platforms and systems are providing engineers with more and better options that maximize the benefits we can get from software and AI. This talk will explore the pivotal role of software engineering in creating AI systems for autonomous driving, offering some insights into challenges, technology directions, and what lies ahead for AI engineers creating the next generation of autonomous vehicles.

Bio Ken Power is an AI software engineer and researcher developing software systems for autonomous vehicles. He is currently Director of Engineering with Motional, an international leader in robotaxis and driverless technology that’s changing how the world moves. Motional is behind the world’s first robotaxi pilot and longest-standing commercial service and became one of the first companies to operate driverless vehicles on public roads. Ken leads the Advanced Projects team at Motional, a team of engineers and researchers working at the intersection of architecture, software engineering, machine learning, and compute platforms to make driverless vehicles a safe, reliable, and accessible reality. Ken holds a B.Eng. in Software Engineering, M.Sc. in Artificial Intelligence, and a Ph.D. in Information Systems.

Ken Power is an AI software engineer and researcher developing software systems for autonomous vehicles. He is currently Director of Engineering with Motional, an international leader in robotaxis and driverless technology that’s changing how the world moves. Ken leads the Advanced Projects team at Motional, a team of engineers and researchers working at the intersection of architecture, software engineering, machine learning, and compute platforms to make driverless vehicles a safe, reliable, and accessible reality. Ken holds a B.Eng. in Software Engineering, M.Sc. in Artificial Intelligence, and a Ph.D. in Information Systems.