Keynote Speaker at the Mexican AI Conference (MICAI)

Caption: My father, me, and Mexican Professor Beto Ochoa-Ruiz (chair of the Mexican AI Conference) at MICAI in Puebla.

It was an incredible honor to be the keynote speaker at the Mexican AI Conference, a prestigious event with over 40 years of history organized by the Mexican Society for Artificial intelligence. I had the privilege of being a keynote speaker and presenting my research on designing worker-centric AI tools, and it was truly inspiring to see such a vibrant and thriving AI community in Mexico.

Conference Highlights

The conference itself was filled with fascinating talks and discussions. I especially enjoyed the presentation by Professor XX from the University of Toronto, who is pioneering AI systems to quantify and understand smell—an area of AI that I had not previously considered but found fascinating.

I also appreciated reconnecting with Professor Ricardo Baeza Yates, a distinguished researcher at Northeastern University. His work in establishing impactful AI labs in both industry and academia has been transformative, particularly in Latin America. His efforts with Yahoo Research have opened new pathways for research and innovation in the region, creating opportunities for countless researchers.

INAOE: A Unique Setting

The conference took place at the National Institute of Astrophysics, Optics, and Electronics (INAOE), a premier research institution in Mexico. Situated in a serene wooded area, INAOE is home to some stunning telescopes, blending cutting-edge technology with natural beauty. This unique setting added a special touch to the conference, enhancing the overall experience.

Caption: An overview of the speakers, participants, and organizers of the conference.

Special Moments with My Father

One of the most memorable aspects of this experience was attending the conference with my father, who has dedicated much of his career to AI and robotics. We drove together from Mexico City to Puebla, where the conference was held, and this journey gave us the unique opportunity to spend rich quality time together. Our conversations ranged from AI to personal reflections, making this trip a deeply meaningful experience for both of us.

Exploring the City of Puebla

Puebla is an impressive city, renowned for its rich history and architectural beauty. During our visit, I was particularly captivated by its churches, which showcase the Churrigueresque style. This ornate style is a fusion of local Indigenous art and Spanish Baroque, characterized by its elaborate decorations and intricate details. It stands as a testament to the cultural confluence that shaped Puebla’s identity.

Final Reflections

Overall, it was a privilege to be part of such a dynamic and supportive AI research community. The Mexican AI Conference not only provided a platform to share my research but also allowed me to engage with brilliant minds and immerse myself in the rich cultural and scientific landscape of Puebla.