From Startups to Zapier: The AI Journey of Ankit Gordhandas

Who are you?

I’m Ankit Gordhandas, a Staff Engineer at Zapier with over a decade of experience in machine learning and artificial intelligence. I have a passion for exploring new applications of AI and pushing the boundaries of what this technology can achieve.

Biz Category

Expert

Country

United States

City

Currently residing in San Francisco, California

Little about you

I hold a degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) from MIT and have dedicated my career to advancing machine learning and artificial intelligence. Before joining Zapier, I founded and ran a successful startup focused on democratizing machine learning, making sophisticated data analysis accessible to non-technical users. At Zapier, I continue to explore innovative AI applications, leveraging my expertise to drive cutting-edge projects. When I’m not immersed in technology, I enjoy reading, cooking, and spending time with my 1-year-old son.

Your biggest achievements

One of my proudest achievements is founding a startup that democratized machine learning. By creating tools that enabled non-technical users to perform sophisticated data analysis, we made AI more accessible and useful to a broader audience. This venture was a significant step in my career, combining my technical skills with entrepreneurial spirit. At Zapier, I’ve been able to further my impact by contributing to projects that enhance automation and productivity for users worldwide.

Top 3 motivations

Innovation: The limitless potential of AI and machine learning to solve complex problems and create new opportunities drives me.
Empowerment:SMaking advanced technology accessible to everyone, regardless of their technical background, is a core motivation.
Exploration:The continuous journey of discovering new applications and possibilities within AI keeps me engaged and inspired.

Biggest biz lesson

The most significant business lesson I’ve learned is the importance of user-centric design. No matter how advanced the technology, its success hinges on how well it meets the needs and solves the problems of its users.

Biggest life lesson

In life, the most valuable lesson I’ve learned is the importance of balance. Balancing professional aspirations with personal well-being and family time is crucial for sustained success and happiness.

Do you provide Shortcuts?

Yes, I offer coaching sessions where I share insights on machine learning and AI, focusing on practical applications and user-centric design. My Shortcut lesson is about making AI accessible: I guide clients through developing user-friendly AI tools and understanding the practicalities of implementing machine learning solutions. These sessions are designed to impart knowledge that took years to gather in just a few calls, accelerating the learning process.

Where can people find you?

Last thoughts

Embrace the power of AI and machine learning, but always keep the end user in mind. Technology should simplify and enhance lives, not complicate them. By focusing on creating accessible and practical solutions, we can unlock the true potential of AI for everyone. Stay curious, keep learning, and never stop exploring the possibilities.