Amber Ivey Interview Published on: 01, Feb 2024
Can you tell us about your journey in the public sector and how you developed a passion for data-driven decision-making and innovation?
My journey in the public sector began at Maryland StateStat, where data-driven decision-making first captured my interest. Seeing the tangible impact of data on government efficiency solidified my passion. This experience laid the foundation for my career, where I've consistently used data to drive innovation and effective governance.
You've had diverse experiences in both the public and private sectors. How have these different experiences shaped your approach to leadership and problem-solving?My experiences in both sectors have been instrumental in shaping my leadership style. The efficiency and productivity focus from my time in the private sector, particularly at Target Corporation, combined with the public sector's emphasis on policy and governance, have allowed me to develop a balanced, data-driven approach to leadership and problem-solving.
Could you share a specific project or initiative from your career that you're particularly proud of, and what impact it had on the community or organization you were working with?I am particularly proud of leading the Bloomberg Philanthropies City Data Alliance program. This initiative impacted communities by empowering leaders to use data effectively, enhancing the quality of life for residents and leading to more informed decision-making at the governmental level.
As the Vice President at a non-profit, you lead a team that assists governments in driving impact. Can you tell us more about the work your team does and some of the key challenges you address?In my role as Vice President, I lead a team dedicated to assisting governments in maximizing their impact through data-driven strategies. Our key challenges include aligning diverse stakeholder needs, ensuring equitable service delivery, and transforming complex data into practical, impactful strategies.
You are the founder of Ivey Collective and co-founder of AuraSense, both of which offer data-driven solutions to public sector organizations and focus on providing equitable healthcare through technology. Can you elaborate on the goals and impact of these initiatives?Ivey Collective was founded to ignite positive change and improve outcomes for public sector and impact organizations through our data-driver solutions, customized consulting, training, and coaching. AuraSense was founded with the goal of leveraging data to enhance healthcare accessibility and efficiency, especially in underserved communities. Through both we aim to bridge gaps and provide insightful, data-driven solutions to improve services in the public sector.
Your podcast, "AI: Decodes the System," and your children's book, "AI... Meets... AI," are unique ways to engage and educate a wider audience about data, technology, and law. What inspired you to take these creative approaches to promoting data literacy?I was inspired to create these platforms to make data and technology concepts accessible and engaging to a broader audience. "AI: Decodes the System" and "AI... Meets... AI" are my efforts to democratize data literacy, reaching both adults and children and sparking an interest in these crucial areas.
Your book, "AI... Meets... AI," is quite intriguing. Can you share what inspired you to write this book, and what message or themes you hope readers take away from it?"AI... Meets... AI" was inspired by my family, particularly my nieces and nephew. I wrote it with the aim to show kids of all groups that they can participate in STEM fields. I hope readers take away the message that humans paired with technology can change lives, and the importance of seeing oneself as a future leader in these fields.
The title of your book suggests an exciting tale of connection and adventure. Could you provide a brief overview of the story and its main characters?The story revolves around Addy, a young girl, and Jaz, a learning AI entity. Set in Baltimore, it's a tale of friendship and adventure, exploring daily life and challenges through the lens of technology. The narrative focuses on human emotions and the evolving role of AI in our lives.
"AI... Meets... AI" seems to touch on the interaction between artificial intelligence and human experiences. How do you envision the future of AI and its impact on our society and government?I envision AI playing a transformative role in society and government. Its future should be shaped by inclusive development to ensure equitable benefits for all. It's vital that we embrace differing perspectives in AI to maximize its positive impact.
Writing a book while holding a demanding position as a Vice President must be challenging. Could you share some insights into your writing process and how you managed to balance your career and writing?Balancing writing "AI... Meets... AI" with my role as Vice President was indeed challenging. It required strict time management and a deep commitment to the book's message. I found that having a clear vision and passion for the subject greatly helped in maintaining this balance.
In your book, did you draw inspiration from any real-life experiences or individuals that have influenced your views on technology, connection, or adventure?Yes, the characters in "AI... Meets... AI" are inspired by real-life individuals, specifically my nieces and nephew. Their personalities and experiences significantly influenced the book's themes of technology, connection, and adventure.
Can you provide a glimpse into your writing style and the way you engage readers in your narrative? What sets your book apart from others in the same genre?My writing style is engaging and accessible, especially aimed at young readers. "AI... Meets... AI" stands out for its focus on people of all backgrounds contributing to tech and empowering young readers to envision themselves as future tech leaders.
What advice would you give to aspiring authors who also have demanding professional careers and dreams of writing a book?For aspiring authors with demanding careers, my advice is to be passionate about your subject and disciplined with your time. Set achievable goals and maintain a balance between your professional responsibilities and your writing aspirations.
Finally, what's next for Amber Ivey? Are there any upcoming projects or endeavors you'd like to share with your readers and the public?Looking ahead, I'm excited about continuing to advance data literacy and equitable technology use. I am exploring taking AiDigiTales books and making them into workshops and an online series.
How did you first come across the AllAuthor website? What do you like or dislike about the site?I discovered AllAuthor as a platform for connecting authors with their readers. I appreciate its user-friendly interface and the community it fosters among authors and readers. It's an excellent resource for both promoting books and engaging with the literary community.
