6. What is the future of mobility? Discussing transportation tech and supporting women in STEM with Prachi Vakharia from the MBTA and Womanium

How Tech Becomes Law

What is the future of mobility? In this episode, we speak with Prachi Vakharia from the MBTA and co-founder of Womanium. Prachi discusses her meandering path towards transportation tech and innovation as well as her work in guiding electrification and autonomous vehicle development. Prachi tells us more about how policy has to lay the groundwork for investment in the electric vehicle space, and raises hot takes on the current state of self-driving vehicles. Prachi also notes major limitations around innovation and competition here in the US. Prachi also outlines her vision of the future of urbanism and how it aligns with the 15 minute city model. Finally, Prachi highlights her incredible work at Womanium, an organization she co-founded to inspire young women to jump into STEM fields and apply what they've learned to drive innovation, relating to her own experience as a pioneering woman in STEM.

Guest bio:

Prachi Vakharia works on autonomous vehicles safety standards, digital and shared mobility projects, and electric mobility services and infrastructure. Today she leads the implementation of AI/ML technologies at the MBTA, and also builds safety protocols for SafeAI, an automation firm. Previously, she led product and innovation at AES, a Fortune 100 energy firm, in the E-Mobility division and also developed EV standards for Workplaces and Fleets at Forth. Prior to that, Prachi worked with the World Bank on urban transport projects in Latin America, Africa and Asia. Beyond work, Prachi serves on the Board of mobility startups and leads committees at TRB and SAE. She also co-founded Womanium an organization that advances young women in the STEM domain.