Women in Greater Phoenix are driving innovation forward — here's how

Jasmine Parker

Submitted photo

My path into the tech industry was unexpected, but it has been deeply rewarding. Being part of a company that values inclusive design and innovation has been the best gift.”

Six years ago, I never imagined I would find myself in the tech world — my background was in marketing.

Then, an opportunity came along that I couldn’t pass up. I was hired as a temporary contractor to help test, launch and support the world's most advanced autonomous vehicle technology right here in the Valley. It was then known as the Google Self-Driving Car Project. Today, the world knows it as Waymo.

Initially, it was a one-year contract, but as the testing progressed successfully, the ride-hailing expanded. When it opened an official testing depot in Chandler, I was thrilled to come on board full-time.

Reflecting on my personal journey in tech at a company of this size and influence, I can proudly say Waymo celebrates and supports women, fostering an environment where our perspectives are valued. I feel comfortable bringing insights that reflect my own varied experiences and viewpoints.

Having been with the company since its early days, I have seen change happening in real time. In my day-to-day as a program manager on the operations team, I take the feedback we receive from the public and champion ways to improve the product.

It’s incredible to be the only commercially available AV ride-hailing service available in the U.S. presently, and to be at the forefront of this burgeoning industry. Our mission is to be the world’s most trusted driver, one that never gets drowsy, drunk or distracted, and is designed to obey the rules of the road.

Growing up, I never considered a career in STEM because I didn’t view it as an option. Now, it’s increasingly common to see women in this industry. When I talk to kids about my job, I always tell them that if something interests them, they should pursue it. It’s humbling and an honor to be an example to a young person who may not have seen themselves in this light.

Our co-CEO, Tekedra Mawakana, is a great example of a woman leader who has broken through barriers and glass ceilings. Through her example, I am reminded every day about what is possible. It’s inspiring. 

What is now the largest autonomous ride-hailing service in the world has made incredible strides since launching. It now covers 315 square miles in metro Phoenix and provides 200,000-plus rides weekly across our markets.

I’m proud to have played a part in making our roads safer. Compared to the average human driver, the Waymo driver has 83% fewer airbag deployment crashes and 81% fewer injury-causing crashes.

The company also is actively solving the safety concerns that women have historically experienced with transportation. Many female riders report feeling unsafe when getting into a vehicle with a stranger, and autonomous ride-hailing eradicates this fear. We’re also cognizant of specific user features and experiences that help women feel more secure, including prioritizing pickups and drop-offs in safe, well-lit areas.

My path into the tech industry was unexpected, but it has been deeply rewarding. Being part of a company that values inclusive design and innovation has been the best gift.

I’m excited to see what the future holds for autonomous technology and the people driving it forward. 

Editor’s note: Jasmine Parker is a strategic projects program manager at Waymo. She has been with the company since 2017. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.