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When Rachel Gutierrez '09 talks about artificial intelligence, she doesn't focus on robots replacing humans or the latest technological breakthrough. Instead, she asks a different question: Who is helping shape the future of AI?

As programs and operations director at , a United Kingdom-based global organization, Rachel oversees international conferences, executive education programs and the organization's flagship annual Global Awards, which recognize women from different industries and geographies using artificial intelligence to solve real-world challenges responsibly.

"Women make up just 22% of the AI workforce," Rachel said. "We are already seeing gaps that exist, and with AI, those gaps are only going to widen."

Founded in 2024, She Shapes AI works to increase women's representation in AI while promoting ethical, transparent and human-centered innovation. Through leadership training, global events and partnerships with universities, policymakers and industry leaders, the organization helps women gain the knowledge and confidence to influence how AI is developed and adopted.

For Rachel, the work is the latest chapter in a career dedicated to solving complex global challenges.

"I am a relentless problem solver," she said. "Over the years, I have accumulated different tools that work across a variety of sectors and contexts. I have become skilled at understanding how to take complex challenges and develop them into structured, human-centered initiatives that respond to real needs."

That approach has taken her across continents and industries. Before joining She Shapes AI, Rachel led public health initiatives in Ghana, managed international health programs funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development in Washington, D.C., and later earned a master's degree in public policy in Berlin, where she now lives with her family.

She traces the beginning of that global journey back to Mount Saint Mary's University.

"The Mount had a very big role in kicking off my international career," she said.

As a political science student, Rachel participated in an international study program in South Africa and Namibia in 2008 led by Professor Lia Roberts, PhD, chair of the Department of History and Political Science and director of the Center for Global Initiatives. Meeting with government officials, nonprofit leaders and community organizations transformed what she had only studied in textbooks into lived experience.

"That was when I decided that I wanted to pursue a career in international development," she said.

Professor Roberts also encouraged Rachel to pursue internships, helping her secure an opportunity with the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO). Those early experiences, along with mentorship from Professor Roberts and professor emerita and former director of the pre-law program Helen Boutros, PhD, JD, gave her both direction and confidence.

"My parents did not go to college," Rachel said. "Having somebody who is championing these opportunities for you and giving you this exposure makes all the difference. The Mount has been instrumental in shaping my trajectory."

Today, Rachel continues to draw on the research, critical thinking and global perspective she developed as a student. She believes those same skills are essential as artificial intelligence rapidly transforms the workplace.

Rather than fearing AI, she encourages students to understand it.

"AI is a tool, not a blanket solution in itself," she said. "Educate yourself. Think critically about how you use it and remember that you still have agency."

She also believes universities have an important role to play in preparing graduates for an AI-driven future by teaching not only how to use the technology, but also how to think critically about bias, ethics and responsible implementation.

At the same time, Rachel hopes more women will help lead those conversations. "When we decide what gets funded, we also decide which problems get solved, whose perspectives get included and ultimately who benefits," she said.

Looking back on a career that has taken her from Los Angeles to Ghana, Washington, D.C., and Berlin, Rachel encourages today's Mount students to stay curious, embrace new opportunities and lead with purpose.

"Your values don't have to come second," she said. "Lead with those because they are going to bring you so much more joy and satisfaction. It doesn't have to be a trade-off."