Celebrating Colin Parris

I am excited to share that Dr. Colin Parris, Senior Vice President, GE and Chief Technology Officer, GE Digital has been named the 2023 Black Engineer of the Year (BEYA). This distinguished honor is awarded to one person annually who is recognized as one of the United States’ best and brightest leaders in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

Anyone who has worked with Colin knows how deserving he is of this recognition. I remember meeting Colin for the first time on my first trip to GE Research in Niskayuna, NY. At that time Colin was the Vice President of Software and Analytics Research leading GRC’s work on industrial analytics, AI, machine learning, and software systems research. During our first meeting Colin simply and clearly explained to me his team’s work on GE’s Digital Twin – a living, learning digital model of an industrial product, manufacturing process, service, or entire system – which continues to be a leading digital innovation for the Company. I remember being simultaneously wowed by both the innovation itself as well as how clearly, passionately, and thoughtfully Colin explained it.

Since that time at GE Research, Colin went on to lead our Lean + Digital framework, where he has been responsible for integrating lean principles with AI and software automation. In addition, Colin serves as Chief Technology Officer of GE Digital leading the creation of breakthrough technologies. For example, currently, his focus is on the energy transition and how we move toward more sustainable energy systems.

He will be presented with the award at the BEYA STEM Conference in Washington, D.C. early next year, but we were able to share the news with him in person at the GE Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Symposium last week.

Colin’s career has been one marked by a constant pursuit of innovation for the greater good. He is an authentic and respected leader and has become a trusted advisor to me and to other GE leaders. I hope you will join me in celebrating Colin on this remarkable achievement.