Dr. Lynne Parker, the Deputy U.S. Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and director of the White House’s National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Initiative Office within the White House, announced on Aug. 15 that she will be stepping down from her posts after six years of public service.
“With gratitude for the opportunity to have served our Nation, I am this week concluding my 6-year service in the U.S. Government – four years in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (2018-2022) and two years at the National Science Foundation (2015-2016),” Parker wrote in her announcement via LinkedIn.
Parker was named deputy CTO in November 2019 and previously served as assistant director for AI during the Trump administration. She also served at the National Science Foundation as Division Director of Information and Intelligent Systems.
She began her career at Oak Ridge National Laboratory as a distinguished research and development staff member. Before joining the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, Parker spent 20 years in several professional academic roles at the University of Tennessee, including multiple top leadership roles within the Tickle College of Engineering.
“My goal has always been to advance AI initiatives and policy to the benefit of the American people, and indeed our world. I am proud of the accomplishments we have made over three Administrations, together with colleagues from across government, academia, and industry,” she wrote.
Parker also encouraged those “with a heart for America to consider Federal service. Each of us can make a difference. The Volunteer Creed of my Tennessee alma mater says it well – ‘One that beareth a torch shadoweth oneself to give light to others. Many of you are demonstrating this creed. May others be so inspired,” she added.
The White House has yet to name a replacement.
