As artificial intelligence continues to transform how we work, learn and live, two of computing’s leading voices returned to the University of Wisconsin–Madison to discuss how we can shape AI’s future for the better.
UW–Madison Computer Sciences alumnus Andy Konwinski ’07, co-founder of Databricks, Perplexity, and Laude Ventures, joined computing luminary Dave Patterson, UC Berkeley Professor Emeritus and co-inventor of RISC architecture, for a standing-room-only lecture that drew over 100 students from across campus who were eager to hear firsthand how leaders at the forefront of AI are thinking about its next chapter.
Their talk, grounded in the vision outlined in their recent paper, Shaping AI’s Impact on Billions of Lives, emphasized how purposeful investment, thoughtful policy, and rigorous research can ensure AI becomes a force for good.
The lecture marked a significant moment in a broader movement placing UW–Madison—and the School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences (CDIS) in particular—at the heart of global conversations around AI’s development and impact.
“Welcoming back leaders like Andy, who are shaping the future of AI at the highest levels, is about more than celebrating our alumni,” said CDIS Director Remzi Arpaci-Dusseau. “It’s about ensuring our students are not just learning about the future—they’re helping to define it. Events like this position CDIS as a hub where ideas, industry, and innovation collide.”
Konwinski and Patterson’s lecture offered insights from dozens of interviews with global experts—from Nobel laureates like John Jumper to former National Security Advisor Susan Rice and President Barack Obama. Their research produced 18 concrete milestones designed to steer AI toward societal good.
“A recent National Academy study said that hitting these milestones could double the gross domestic product growth rate. This could mean reduced poverty, better healthcare, reduced environmental impact, and stronger national security,” said Patterson. “It is as big a mistake to ignore the potential gains of AI as it is to ignore the risks.”
Konwinski also reflected on the lab model pioneered by Patterson, noting how it profoundly influenced not only his own career path but also that of many others.
“The Patterson Model has impacted every part of my career,” said Konwinski. “From my academic work and open source contributions to the companies I’ve started, the Berkeley course I teach on startups, and most recently, my work at Laude.”
Through Laude Ventures, Konwinski continues to back mission-driven entrepreneurs focused on shaping AI with intention and integrity.
“Bringing visionary computer scientists like Andy Konwinski and Dave Patterson to CDIS is about exposing our students to the ideas—and the people—that are shaping the future of technology,” said Arpaci-Dusseau. “These conversations inspire students to think bigger, challenge assumptions, and see themselves as part of the innovation that drives our field forward.”
Events like this are part of a growing effort by CDIS to position itself at the center of critical conversations about AI and data-driven technologies — ensuring UW–Madison students are not just witnessing the future of computing, but helping to define it.
Explore their full vision for AI’s future in Konwinski and Patterson’s recent paper, Shaping AI’s Impact on Billions of Lives.