Dr Gopichand Katragadda, an Indian AI expert, has been appointed as the 142nd President of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), making him the first Indian to lead the global engineering body. Dr Katragadda, the Founder and CEO of AI company Myelin Foundry, assumed office on October 1, 2023, and will be spearheading the IET from India. In his new role, he will prioritize the digitalization strategy of the IET and focus on the role of engineers in the field of Artificial Intelligence.
Dr Katragadda expressed his excitement and honor at taking on the role, highlighting that engineers have the opportunity to lead the way in embracing innovation and dispelling myths about AI. He emphasized the need for engineers to understand the positive and negative impacts of AI and work with policymakers to define ethical frameworks for data and AI.
As a highly respected thought-leader in AI, Dr Katragadda’s appointment signifies a significant moment for the IET. The organization aims to further advance engineering and technology in society, and Dr Katragadda will play a pivotal role in shaping its directives and strategies. He will also represent the IET at various events and conferences, advocating for the interests of engineers.
Shekhar Sanyal, Country Head and Director of IET India, expressed his confidence in Dr Katragadda’s expertise and vision, anticipating a future filled with innovation and transformative change within the engineering community.
The IET, with over 168,000 members in 150 countries, is one of the world’s largest engineering institutions. Its mission is to inspire, inform, and influence its members, engineers, technicians, and those impacted by engineering work. As the first Indian president, Dr Katragadda’s appointment reflects the increasing global importance of India as an engineering hub.
The Indian chapter of the IET was established in Bangalore in 2006. Its focus is to enhance the competency and skill levels within the Indian engineering community, partner with industry and academia, and contribute to technology innovation and problem-solving in high-impact sectors.
Dr Katragadda takes over the presidency from Professor Bob Cryan CBE, Vice Chancellor and CEO of the University of Huddersfield. He joins a distinguished list of past IET presidents, including leaders such as Sir Robin Saxby, Founder and Ex-CEO of ARM Holdings, and Naomi Climer CBE, former Vice-President of Sony Professional Solutions Europe.
With Dr Gopichand Katragadda at the helm, the IET looks forward to a future guided by innovation, progress, and transformative change within the engineering community.
