This is the second episode of What About AI, Georgia Tech’s podcast on how artificial intelligence is transforming research, industry, education and society. Hosted by Pascal Van Hentenryck and Breon Martin, this episode focuses on the future of mobility and the role AI plays in reshaping cities.

Pascal and Breon are joined by Srinivas Peeta, Frederick R. Dickerson Chair and professor in Georgia Tech’s School of Civil and Environmental Engineering and H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering, and principal research faculty at the Georgia Tech Research Institute.

Peeta shares his perspective on the deployment of autonomous vehicles in Atlanta and beyond, noting both the promise and current limitations of driverless cars and stressing the importance of extensive on-road testing before they can be fully integrated into transportation systems.

The episode also highlights Georgia Tech’s latest investment in AI infrastructure, including a $20 million national AI supercomputer, which will accelerate breakthroughs across disciplines and expand research opportunities.

Key topics include:

• How AI, autonomy and data are transforming urban mobility
• The challenges of deploying autonomous vehicles in cities such as Atlanta
• Why real-world testing is critical for building public trust and safety
• The importance of human-like driving behaviors in autonomous systems
• Georgia Tech’s new national AI supercomputer and its impact on research

Powered by Tech AI, the AI hub at Georgia Tech

Powered by Tech AI, the AI hub at Georgia Tech

Welcome to the first episode of What About AI, Georgia Tech’s new podcast exploring how artificial intelligence is transforming research, industry, education, and society. Hosted by AI expert Pascal Van Hentenryck and Breon Martin, this episode introduces Tech AI—Georgia Tech’s ambitious AI hub—and its mission to make AI’s impact real and meaningful.

Pascal explains the NSF's involvement in fueling Tech AI, a platform connecting academic innovation with real-world challenges in government and industry. This episode also unpacks how Georgia Tech leads three AI institutes working towards AI solutions from healthcare and adult learning to supply chains and manufacturing.

Key topics include:

• The importance of ethical safeguards in generative AI
• Partnerships with OpenAI, NVIDIA, and Google
• The launch of Tech AI Fest, fostering collaboration among academia, government, and industry
• Educating not only students but also parents, professionals, and policymakers
• Why universities must help society harness fast-moving AI technology for positive change

Whether you’re an AI enthusiast, policymaker, or simply curious about AI’s future, this episode lays the foundation for a podcast that’s both insightful and inspiring.

Powered by Tech AI, the AI hub at Georgia Tech