Hi! I’m Irene Rogan Shaffer. I’m a technology leader with experience in computer and data science, product management, and people leadership. Growing up as a child of Deaf adults shaped my passion for communication, accessibility, and technology that connects people. I enjoy building innovative products, developing high-performing teams, and creating meaningful impact. Outside of work, I’m an avid runner, triathlete, and member of Park Street Church.
Education
- M.S. in Information and Data Science, University of California, Berkeley
- M.S. in Computer Science, Boston University
- B.A. in Economics, Grove City College
Industry Experience
- PM Manager, AI Development Acceleration Program, Microsoft
- Program Manager, Machine Learning, Microsoft
- Associate, Booz Allen Hamilton
Research Interests
- Machine learning
- Accessibility
- Human-computer interaction
Research Importance
Machine learning models are becoming more embedded in our everyday lives. Without a diverse and inclusive dataset, models will be inaccurate for people on the edges of the population, including those with disabilities. However, researchers are motivated by general success of their model, and it has not been demonstrated that including representative data from the edges of the population improve overall performance on the general population. Therefore, representation in datasets remains a significant challenge.
Theoretical Lenses
My research draws from the intersection of several theoretical lenses:
Native Languages
- American Sign Language (native)
- English (native)