Alum Ensures AI Transparency and Responsibility at NVIDIA
Michael Boone (MSM ‘14), Manager, Trustworthy AI Product, NVIDIA
NVIDIA is a multinational technology corporation headquartered in California technology company specializing in high-performance computer chips and related software, particularly known for graphics processing units (GPUs). NVIDIA provides the essential hardware and software for many of today’s most advanced technologies, especially in the growing fields of gaming and artificial intelligence.
Let’s start with your current role. What does it mean to manage “Trustworthy AI Products” at NVIDIA?
I lead a small, dynamic team that works in two critical areas. First, we oversee transparency in our software releases, ensuring we consistently deliver on our commitments. Second, we develop innovative tools and products that empower us and the ecosystem to develop Trustworthy AI. I bring solid, public-facing experience to the role, having started my career as a civil engineer and transitioning after Wake Forest to a product marketer and product manager before advancing to my current role.
How do you define “trust” in the context of artificial intelligence, and how does that shape your work?
Trust is built by demonstrating a clear commitment to a defined framework and consistently delivering on promises. As a licensed civil engineer, I see myself as a strategic mediator, focusing on two critical questions: First, do we fully understand what is being built? And second, do we grasp the capabilities within the present state to help those for whom the product is built to move forward? It’s essential that we effectively communicate across the ecosystem to those who are not directly involved in the build process. Many stakeholders seek confidence during the evaluation phase. Others want to understand risk and control; it is our responsibility to provide them with the information and assurance they need to advance and deploy the solution.
What was your path to this role, and how did your earlier experiences, including those at Wake Forest, prepare you for it?
I earned my BS in Civil Engineering from the University of Virginia before completing an MSM from Wake Forest. Then, I returned to the Virginia Department of Transportation (where I interned), where I planned to advance my career. I loved cars and wanted to be where we helped move them. Working alongside construction crews on complex projects, I began to explore the technologies integrated into our roadways. In Virginia, I got in at the ground-level of toll road expansion. My work experience on the Virginia toll roads fueled my passion and equipped me with a deeper understanding of the technical aspects. Following my time at the department, I spent four years with a consulting firm, where I successfully helped implement toll technologies for regional authorities.
During the pandemic, I had a lot of time to think about new opportunities and discovered an exciting role at NVIDIA. There, I learned the fundamental algorithms related to computer vision imaging, allowing me to position and identify requirements for multiple core computer vision products.
Having domain expertise, I took on a side project internally, which led to my current role. My focus has been on helping advance robust models that prioritize safety, security, privacy and nondiscrimination. My background as a public servant, combined with my education from Wake Forest, has empowered me to communicate effectively across teams and cultivate strong professional credibility.
Did you always imagine yourself working in tech, or did your career take unexpected turns?
From the beginning, I envisioned a career in public service because I sought stability. While the perception of government work may be shifting now, it was a reliable environment that contrasted with my life growing up as an Army brat. My time there, along with the guidance of inspiring women leaders and mentors, shaped my understanding of delivering value in the workplace. The career development resources at Wake Forest played a crucial role in preparing me for the job market, honing my skills and confidence. I learned the importance of not just interviewing for a specific position but also the art of exploring industry and opportunity. This approach empowered me to take charge of my career journey and seek out the best fit for my skills and aspirations.
What’s one misconception people have about AI or Trustworthy AI that you often find yourself correcting?
“AI functions as a black box.” It does not. It is imperative to recognize that AI often tries to mirror human processing – how we think, see, sense and reason. How a model or agentic system processes parallels to our own data analysis. If you are unsure, ask for the model card. Just like you scrutinize the ingredients on a label of a food product, model cards should provide clear and precise information for your understanding.
How do you stay current in such a fast-moving field, and what resources would you recommend to others?
NVIDIA releases models from across the ecosystem – ours and others, and I take the initiative to read their model cards and experiment with them via our build.nvidia.com platform. I also invest time in reading conference papers and LinkedIn articles to stay ahead in my field. I regularly watch YouTube videos that explore adjacent industries, which I find extremely helpful. Also, CNBC has an outstanding series that I recommend.
What advice would you give to students or recent graduates interested in working in ethical tech or AI product management – and, in general?
To excel in your career, focus on asking thoughtful questions, conducting research through Google searches, and mastering the art of prompting large language models. Leveraging tools like Gemini can enhance your work. Establishing a strong framework for ethical technology is essential. Many individuals are eager to build but often lack the necessary context – understanding your operational sandbox is key to your success. Embrace the pivots in your career as opportunities to gain experience. Always analyze the job description critically and know your skill set inside and out. Craft a detailed resume that directly addresses the questions being posed.
Are there any faculty, courses, or moments from your time in the MSM program that continue to influence you today?
Professor Herbst was instrumental in pushing me to unleash my creativity as my marketing professor. He and Professor Reahm helped me get up-to-speed on my first role in product marketing before I started the role. Additionally, Professor Baker expertly taught quite a bit about topology – in a really fun way. Dean Steve Reinemund offered his time and guidance before and after the program. Lastly, I had the privilege of being a Corporate Fellow for Don Flow, a prominent business leader and community figure in Winston-Salem. As the Chairman and CEO of Flow Automotive Companies, we connected on our love for cars and giving back.
Spotlight interview conducted by Alumni Council member Greg Easley (MBA ’08).
