Sandra Rohner recently took over the position of Managing Director of the KI-Allianz Baden-Württemberg. With many years of experience in the German innovation system, she brings new impetus to the alliance. In this interview, she gives us an insight into her vision and explains how she wants to shape access to artificial intelligence in Baden-Württemberg in a sustainable way.
Welcome, Ms. Rohner! Can you give us a brief outline of your professional career?
Thank you! I studied political science and then gained many years of experience at the VDI/VDE-IT project management organization. There I supervised funding programs and strengthened the link between research and practice.
You have been Managing Director of the AI Alliance for a few months now. What motivated you to take on this role?
SMEs in Baden-Württemberg have enormous potential that can be further developed through AI. As a central point of contact, the AI Alliance enables precisely this access - and this vision inspired me. When I was given the opportunity to take on an active role here, I was immediately on board.
What are your main goals for the AI Alliance and what priorities would you like to set?
The AI Alliance is already an important authority in the region today, and I see my main goal as expanding this influence even further. I want to turn the Alliance into a platform that not only provides information, but also forms a strong community. Here in Baden-Württemberg, we have the opportunity to establish AI in such a way that it brings long-term benefits to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This includes the targeted development of networks and the transfer of knowledge, which is promoted by the Alliance. My focus is therefore on strengthening networking and ensuring that the solutions offered are always practical and quality-assured.
What does artificial intelligence mean to you personally?
For me, AI is the key to making the economy and society fit for the future. It not only opens up technological opportunities, but also social and economic ones. I am fascinated by how AI solutions can improve the everyday lives of companies and I look forward to bringing this potential to SMEs. Above all, responsibility and ethical principles are key issues for us at the AI Alliance. We stand for AI use that is transparent, comprehensible and ethically sound.
What special challenges and opportunities do you see for SMEs in the use of AI?
For many SMEs, AI is still unfamiliar territory that raises uncertainty and questions. This is understandable, as AI is often perceived as complicated and cost-intensive. The biggest challenge is to allay companies' fears and show them that AI is also feasible for smaller companies - without the need for large resources. The opportunities, on the other hand, are enormous: AI can help companies to optimize their processes, become more efficient and secure their competitiveness. My team and I therefore attach particular importance to responding individually to the needs of each company and offering customized support.
How can companies and public institutions benefit specifically from the work of the AI Alliance?
The AI Alliance offers a wide range of opportunities that make it easier for SMEs and public institutions to access AI technologies. Our network consists of experts who provide companies with targeted advice and bring them together with the right partners. This enables companies and institutions to find exactly the expertise and support they need. In addition, our workshops and events enable direct networking and offer a valuable space for exchange. Our role is to act as a hub and provide companies with the best possible support on their journey into the digital future.
Ms. Rohner, what are your hopes for the future of the AI Alliance?
I hope that the Baden-Württemberg AI Alliance will be perceived as a firmly established partner for companies and public institutions that not only supports them in technical matters, but also acts as a companion throughout the entire process. Our work aims to raise awareness that AI is an opportunity for everyone - regardless of the size of the company. Together with our partners, we want to shape technological change in such a way that it brings real added value to society and the economy.
