Table Of Contents
Early Career and Educational Background
Sandra Rivera, a name synonymous with innovation and leadership in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) and data center technologies, currently serves as the Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Datacenter and AI Group at Intel Corporation. With a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Pennsylvania State University, Rivera’s academic foundation set the stage for her groundbreaking career.
Journey at Intel
Rivera’s career at Intel began in 2000 when she joined the tech giant following its acquisition of Dialogic Corp. Over the past 23 years, she has ascended through various pivotal roles, each contributing to Intel’s evolution and market positioning.
Chief People Officer (2019-2021)
In her role as Chief People Officer, Rivera led Intel’s Human Resources organization globally. She championed initiatives aimed at fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion, significantly enhancing the company’s business outcomes through a more engaged and diverse workforce.
General Manager of Network Platforms Group (2017-2019)
Sandra Rivera previously spearheaded Intel’s Network Platforms Group, where she directed efforts to transform network infrastructure using Intel-based solutions. Her leadership in this role was instrumental in driving the adoption of Intel technologies in network platforms, setting the stage for further innovations.
Current Role: Leading Datacenter and AI Group
Since 2021, Rivera has been at the helm of Intel’s Datacenter and AI Group. In this capacity, she oversees the development of cutting-edge data center products designed for a cloud-centric world. Her portfolio includes the Intel® Xeon® processors and field-programmable gate array (FPGA) products, essential components in modern data infrastructure.
Rivera is also a key architect of Intel’s AI strategy, steering the company’s roadmap for AI innovations. Under her leadership, Intel has introduced AI accelerator chips like Gaudi, aimed at competing with industry heavyweights such as Nvidia. These advancements are central to Intel’s ambition to dominate the AI chip market, offering scalable solutions that cater to the burgeoning demands of AI applications.
Recognition and Influence
Rivera’s contributions to AI and technology have not gone unnoticed. In 2023, TIME Magazine honored her as one of the 100 most influential people in AI, a testament to her impact and visionary leadership in a highly competitive industry.
Board Memberships and Advisory Roles
Beyond her operational responsibilities at Intel, Rivera extends her expertise through various board memberships. She sits on the board of directors at Equinix and serves as a member of the engineering advisory board at UC Berkeley, contributing her insights to broader industry and academic advancements.
Conclusion
Sandra Rivera’s journey from an electrical engineering graduate to a formidable leader at Intel Corporation underscores her pivotal role in shaping the future of AI and data center technologies. Her strategic vision and leadership continue to drive Intel’s innovations, positioning the company as a key player in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
