The finalists for WashingtonExec’s 2024 Pinnacle Awards were announced Sept. 20, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person Nov. 21.
Next is Amy Jones, a principal at Ernst & Young LLP, and finalist in the Artificial Intelligence Executive of the Year, Private Company, category. Here, she talks about recent achievements, shares career advice and more.
What key achievements did you have in 2024?
2024 was a pivotal year for me, both professionally and personally. I had the honor of being promoted to Partner, and offered the opportunity to lead EY’s Public Sector AI efforts, helping government agencies make sense of the rapidly changing world of AI. It’s a field that’s evolving faster than ever, and I’m proud to have been at the forefront, guiding our clients through the challenges and opportunities this technology brings. One of the achievements I’m most proud of was helping state agencies transform how they identify and secure critical funding. Using AI, we were able to unlock new possibilities that made a real difference in how communities get the support they need.
What are your primary focus areas going forward, and why are those so important to the mission?
My primary focus remains upskilling individuals to meet the growing demand for AI and emerging technologies. Whether it’s enhancing the skills of the federal workforce or helping communities adopt AI for problem-solving, my goal is to ensure that people are equipped to thrive in a tech-driven world. Investing in human capital ensures that we’re not only leveraging the best tools but also empowering people to lead the charge in innovation. Near term, we continue to solve hard problems at the intersection of AI and national defense, areas are critical to maintaining the U.S.’s technological edge. I remain passionate and excited about fostering innovation in AI ethics and safety, particularly in highly regulated sectors, ensuring that we balance opportunity and risk.
What is your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
My best advice for those looking to follow a similar path is to embrace continuous learning and to remain fearless when facing ambiguity. The fields of AI and data science are constantly evolving, and those who can stay curious, adapt quickly, and apply new knowledge creatively will find the most success. Seek out mentors who challenge you to think differently, and don’t be afraid to pivot when needed—whether it’s a new role, new technology, or a new way of solving problems.
