Under US President-elect Donald Trump, Sriram Krishnan, an entrepreneur of Indian descent, has been named Senior White House Policy Advisor on Artificial Intelligence. This noteworthy accomplishment demonstrates Krishnan’s remarkable transformation from an Indian blogger who focused on programming to a well-known figure influencing AI policy internationally. Let’s explore the history of this amazing climb.
Credits: Hindustan Times
A Journey Rooted in Passion for Technology
After graduating from SRM University in India in 2004, Sriram Krishnan was already causing a stir in the computer world with his blog about programming. One of the first and most perceptive programming blogs from India at the time, Krishnan’s blog had a lasting impression on Zoho CEO Sridhar Vembu. The computer behemoth Microsoft snatched him up for its Windows Azure team, defeating Vembu’s attempts to attract him for Zoho.
Vembu wasn’t the only person who noticed Krishnan’s blog. It encouraged many aspiring Indian programmers to choose professions in technology. According to one user, Krishnan’s work was crucial in igniting their interest in technology when they first came across it in a school magazine in 2002.
Making Waves in Silicon Valley
After starting his career at Microsoft, Krishnan moved to Silicon Valley, where he continued to innovate and establish himself as a leading voice in the tech industry. Over the years, he co-founded successful ventures and became a sought-after expert in artificial intelligence and technology policy.
Krishnan’s achievements extend beyond the professional realm. Alongside his wife, Aarthi Ramamurthy, he hosts the popular podcast The Aarthi and Sriram Show, which delves into tech, entrepreneurship, and culture. Their platform has further solidified their influence as thought leaders in the tech community.
A Congratulatory Note from Zoho CEO Sridhar Vembu
Upon learning of Krishnan’s appointment, Sridhar Vembu took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his admiration and pride.
“Congratulations Sriram! Back in 2004, when Sriram was graduating from SRM University, I came across his blog—one of the early programming blogs from India at that time. I was so impressed I wanted to recruit him but Microsoft already had recruited him. We have been in touch on and off as he later moved to Silicon Valley and became an entrepreneur. President Trump has found a great talent for his technology team!” wrote Vembu.
Krishnan’s gracious response to Vembu’s post reflected his deep respect for the Zoho CEO. “Thank you, Sridhar. You’ve been an inspiration to Aarthi Ramamurthy and me (and countless others) for over 20 years,” he wrote.
Sriram Krishnan’s New Role in the White House
President-elect Donald Trump, in his announcement, outlined Krishnan’s responsibilities as Senior Policy Advisor for Artificial Intelligence at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Working closely with David Sacks, Krishnan will focus on ensuring continued American leadership in AI. His work will involve shaping and coordinating AI policy across the government and collaborating with the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.
“Sriram started his career at Microsoft as a founding member of Windows Azure,” Trump’s statement read. This underscores Krishnan’s longstanding expertise in cloud computing and AI, which makes him well-suited to steer America’s AI strategy.
The Internet Reacts
The tech community has celebrated Krishnan’s achievement with enthusiasm. Social media platforms have been abuzz with congratulatory messages. One user lauded Vembu’s recognition of Krishnan’s talent, writing, “It takes one talent to spot another talent.” Another reminisced about being inspired by Krishnan’s blog during their school days.
Credits: Latestly
What’s Next for Sriram Krishnan?
Krishnan’s influence on US policy will be crucial as AI continues to transform economies and industries throughout the globe. At a time when countries are vying for supremacy in AI development, he is taking on this role. His knowledge and foresight will surely be essential to keeping America at the forefront of this game-changing technology.
