The head of Google Canada on regulating AI, a sometimes frightening future and earning users’ trust
Having witnessed firsthand the monumental shifts brought about by technological advancements, Sabrina Geremia, Google Canada Vice-President and Managing Director, shares her insights into the ever-evolving landscape of the tech industry. With nearly 25 years of experience, Geremia offers a unique perspective on the social changes driven by technology, from the rise of the internet to the current AI revolution.
Growing up in Puslinch, Ontario, Geremia’s journey into the tech realm began with her exploration of the burgeoning internet era. After an enriching tenure at Procter & Gamble in Europe, she found herself drawn to the dynamic world of technology, ultimately leading her to Google in 2006. Back then, Google was still in its early stages, buzzing with startup energy and potential.
Fast forward to today, Google has transformed into a global leader, influencing internet traffic and offering a plethora of services such as Google Maps, Gmail, and Chrome. Its parent company, Alphabet, manages diverse platforms like YouTube and Fitbit. Despite its vast reach, the company faces regulatory scrutiny, highlighting the complex landscape in which it operates.
Recently, Google Canada was granted an exemption from Canada’s online news law, allowing it to support the nation’s struggling news sector financially. This move underscores Google’s intricate relationship with regulatory bodies and its commitment to navigating these frameworks responsibly.
Sabrina Geremia’s return to Canada in 2007 marked a new chapter in her career. In Toronto, she played an instrumental role in aligning Google’s services with the objectives of Canadian businesses, resulting in significant economic activity and growth for local enterprises. This success, she attributes, in part, to the vibrant partnerships and collaborations within Google’s ecosystem.
Keeping pace with rapid technological shifts has been central to Geremia’s career. With AI poised to revolutionize industries, she emphasizes the importance of embracing change while nurturing a mindset geared toward continuous learning and collaboration. AI, she notes, holds the potential to address substantial societal challenges, particularly in areas like healthcare and environmental conservation.
For businesses, Geremia outlines the “ABCs of AI adoption” as a roadmap to harness the technology’s potential effectively. A collaborative approach involving all teams is essential, alongside setting bold goals for innovation and cultivating a culture that embraces change. These elements are paramount for organizations to thrive in the evolving AI landscape.
Despite the apprehension surrounding AI, Geremia believes in the power of education to dispel fears. Programs like Google’s Grow with Google aim to equip individuals with the skills to navigate the digital age confidently. As adoption increases, she anticipates a more optimistic outlook toward AI, particularly in Canada.
On the topic of regulation, Geremia advocates for thoughtful regulatory frameworks that balance innovation with public safety. She underscores the importance of collaboration with policymakers to establish guidelines that facilitate seamless global operations while addressing risks accordingly.
Canada’s role in Google’s global network is significant, with its contribution spanning innovative product development and business commercialization. The country’s engineering hubs in Waterloo, Montreal, and Toronto anchor this effort, fostering advancements that resonate worldwide. Within Canada, Google’s teams also focus on catering to local business needs, especially in the context of AI advancements.
Reflecting on public perceptions amid ongoing scrutiny, Geremia emphasizes the necessity of earning users’ trust through innovation and helpfulness. Navigating this once-in-a-lifetime moment for AI, Google’s commitment remains steadfast in delivering products people choose to incorporate into their lives.
