What drives the appliedAI Institute in 2025? A conversation with Dr. Frauke Goll, Managing Director of the appliedAI Institute

In this insightful interview, we sat down with Dr. Frauke Goll , Managing Director of the appliedAI Institute, to explore her vision for the organization, leadership philosophy, and what drives her in her demanding yet rewarding role. As we step into 2025, Dr. Frauke Goll shares her aspirations and plans to make a meaningful impact in the field of artificial intelligence and beyond. Here’s her perspective:

What inspires your approach to leadership?

Frauke: What truly inspires my leadership approach is the opportunity to drive innovations that not only push the boundaries of what’s possible but also have a meaningful, positive impact on people’s lives and address our major societal challenges. Additionally, I strive to create an environment where creativity, curiosity, learning, and interdisciplinary collaboration are at the forefront, allowing us to develop solutions that challenge the status quo and advance the field. I am deeply convinced that the major challenges we face can only be addressed together. That’s why it’s important for me to focus on the strengths of each individual, creating a flow where everyone can contribute to their fullest potential.

What do you find most fulfilling about leading the organization, especially in light of the innovative projects and collaborations you’ve been part of?

Frauke: A passion of mine for a long time has been exploring the intersection between innovation, technology, and human impact. As Managing Director of the appliedAI Institute, I am excited to foster innovation collaboratively, create high-quality content, empower people to develop and use trustworthy AI technologies, and nurture an open, honest, creative, and interdisciplinary work environment while working with amazing people.

At this point, I also want to highlight our fantastic environment and the incredible partners we are privileged to work with, like the IPAI , the Heilbronn Ecosystem, as well as the UnternehmerTUM and the Munich Ecosystem.

What are your goals for the organization in 2025?

Frauke: The last year was really amazing. Together with a great team, I set up the Institute, navigated many challenges, celebrated significant milestones, grew closer together as a team of 35 people, and successfully implemented remarkable offerings.

In 2025, my focus lies on preparing fertile ground for Trustworthy AI Development, Deployment, and Governance with our focus areas. We aim to empower the European AI Innovation Ecosystem through our offerings, and professionalize our own structure and processes. As a non-profit organization, it is essential for us to create impact and remain mission-driven in our work. Therefore, it is crucial to advance our development of impact strategy, goals, and indicators.

Our new Compass Document highlights our key achievements to date, outlines our focus areas for the coming year, and provides an overview of our current state of the impact-oriented strategy. It details the roles we’ve defined and how we plan to measure our impact in the future.

The Compass Document sounds like a valuable resource. Could you share more about its development and purpose?

Frauke: Absolutely. The Compass Document is more than just a strategic outline; it’s a tool to align our team, partners, and stakeholders around a shared vision. The document not only highlights our key achievements and focus areas but also provides a clear roadmap for how we aim to measure and increase our impact in the years to come. It serves as a living guide, ensuring that we stay mission-driven and adapt to new challenges and opportunities.

How does the Compass Document influence your daily decision-making?

Frauke: The Compass Document acts as a guiding framework for our priorities and actions. In daily decision-making, it helps us evaluate whether our initiatives and projects align with our strategic goals and the impact we want to create. It’s a constant reminder of our mission and the values we stand for. Having this clarity not only keeps us focused but also empowers the team to take ownership of their work, knowing how it contributes to the bigger picture.

How do you stay motivated and manage challenges in such a demanding role?

Frauke: In my opinion, it is really important to stay calm and sometimes take a step back. Especially when the workload is high, it is crucial to celebrate special moments. For me, these moments are with my family and friends, our dog, and while engaging in sports.

Thank you, Frauke, for sharing such valuable perspectives. We always like to end with a personal touch. Is there a quote that inspires you in your work?

Frauke: With great power comes great responsibility ??

This quote beautifully captures the essence of Frauke Goll's leadership at the appliedAI Institute, emphasizing the responsibility and impact that come with her mission. As the appliedAI Institute charts its course through 2025, it’s clear that the focus on trust, empowerment, and interdisciplinary collaboration will continue to shape the future of trustworthy AI development and deployment.