HELPING WOMEN EXCEL WITH TECH
Marketing head Alicia Lim-Rohner of Qualcomm Technologies shares the ways that new technology is changing how the world connects, computes and communicates, as female visionaries drive digital transformation.
Putting the “smart” in smartphones is Qualcomm Technologies, which has been making breakthroughs in 3G, 4G and 5G communications systems to boost robust ecosystems, and enable everyone and everything to be intelligently connected. The company also actively fosters greater diversity, inclusivity and innovation within the technology landscape.
In the earlier days of her career, Alicia Lim-Rohner, Qualcomm’s head of marketing, was part of a primarily male-dominated tech industry. Though she had to grapple with a steep learning curve, she succeeded with hard work and a determination to thrive.
Now, Qualcomm is taking the lead to make a difference in creating equal opportunities for all, and drive advancements in AI and 5G technology to empower working professionals – especially women – to maximise their potential.
We speak to Alicia about how Qualcomm’s innovations and partnerships are creating more opportunities for women to excel in the era of AI.
What role does Qualcomm play in the transformation of the digital landscape – from laying the foundation for the 3G revolution to driving AI and 5G advancements today?
Our technology has enabled the creation of new industries, business models and experiences, thus transforming economies and altering the competitive landscape. Services such as ride hailing, sharing content on social media, video streaming, high-precision GPS, chat services, and crowdsourced directions depend on Qualcomm.
As a leader in on-device AI and 5G, we are in a unique position to make hybrid AI a reality. Our hardware and software solutions bring cutting-edge AI capabilities to billions of devices. But what truly sets us apart is our commitment to democratising AI's benefits, levelling the playing field for women and under-represented groups in tech.
How is Qualcomm empowering women to thrive at work and enrich their lives today?
We’ve elevated the hybrid work experience. Our Always Connect PCs with 4G/5G, such as the Lenovo
ThinkPad X13s and Microsoft Surface Pro 9 5G, offer multiday battery life, multitasking, and AI capabilities for remote work. With a secure connection and long battery life (13 to 20 hours), this empowers working professionals, particularly women balancing work and family.
On the mobile front, Samsung’s latest flagship devices, like the Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy Z Flip 5, and Fold 5, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, showcase groundbreaking AI capabilities, and enhance speed and efficiency for working women on the go.
What are you most proud of as a changemaker at Qualcomm?
I’ve had the privilege of spearheading initiatives supporting women entrepreneurs and diversity in STEM education. One notable effort is HerVenture, an app that has provided crucial business skills to over 80,000 women across South-east Asia.
We’ve also expanded support for FIRST Lego League to Singapore, with a global emphasis on empowering girls in STEM education.
What does the future hold for women as they take greater strides in the traditionally male-dominated technological industry?
Today, the tech landscape places a significant emphasis on diversity, and more women have entered – and succeeded – in this industry, contributing to a more dynamic sector rich with innovations. I’m confident that women will continue to make remarkable strides, shaping the future of tech in unimaginable ways.