At the invitation of Prof. Dr. Ingrid Bauer-Hänsel, leading women from the IT world discussed current developments, challenges and visions for the future related to GenAI. The exchange provided a space for honest insights, critical reflections and concrete experiences from corporate practice.

This time, the focus was on the following topics:

• GenAI in consumer financing – Sandra Babylon, Cembra Money Bank
• Practical applications of AI tools at EM – Ingrid Knott, Elektro Material AG
• Redefining the remit of knowledge workers in the age of generative AI – Olivia Bruhin & Lena Grimm, IWI-HSG
• (Automated) testing of GenAI & Agentic AI – Ingrid Bauer-Hänsel, IWI-HSG
• ‘We build an agent ourselves’ – Diana Kozachek, IWI-HSG
• Operating AI Agents @Scale – Eva Ritz, IBM
• AI governance – Christina Gröger, Roland Berger
• Data governance as a success factor for open ecosystems – Mena Teebken-Glade, IWI-HSG 

The roundtable not only provided a wide range of ideas, but also inspiring insights into current projects and research approaches. The mix of use cases, evidence, critical reflections and pragmatic recommendations once again highlighted the value of the connection between business and academia.

The roundtable is part of an ongoing series that takes place twice a year and has three objectives:

1.    Strengthening the bridge between research and practice
2.    Promote mutual learning
3.    Intensify exchange and visibility of women in IT

A big thank you goes to all participants who contributed to the success of this meeting with their energy, openness and expertise. We are already looking forward to the next meeting in 2026.

Thinking honestly, reflectively and courageously – that remains our goal.

Contact: Prof. Dr. Ingrid Bauer (ingrid.bauer@unisg.ch)