Rutuja Surve is a BITS Pilani (Goa, ’17) graduate in B.E. Computer Science and a postgraduate in M.Sc. Mathematics. She has had a vibrant career ranging from growing AI startups to FAANG giants like Google and Amazon. Her journey into the tech world and passion for AI and ML has been truly extraordinary. She boasts a vivid profile studded with diverse professional experiences.

What inspired you to pursue a career in AI and machine learning, and how did your time at BITS Pilani shape your interest in these fields?

My interest in AI and Machine Learning stemmed from my dual degree in Mathematics and Computer Science at BITS Pilani. The analytical skills I developed through courses like discrete math, graph theory, and data structures were essential in tackling AI challenges. I became fascinated by AI’s ability to make decisions, driven purely by data and the humongous impact that has in the real world - from assistant chatbots to self-driving cars. BITS played a crucial role in laying the theoretical foundation and nurturing a problem-solving mindset, helping me approach both technical and real-world challenges from diverse perspectives.

How has being a BITS Pilani graduate influenced your career trajectory? What role has the BITS alumni network played in connecting you with opportunities at companies like Google, Amazon, and AI startups?

Being a BITS graduate has had a significant impact on my career in manifold ways. The open-source software culture at BITS inspired me to keep learning and contributing to key open-source industry frameworks, which landed me summer internships with Mozilla and Linux Foundation. The Practice School program at BITS exposed me to projects and work cultures at Nvidia and Amazon very early on in my career, helping me develop the right mindset. The tech interview skills that I focused on coupled with the supporting environment from BITS have all truly shaped my journey. While alumni networks can provide helpful connections - expertise, solid preparation for interviews and a strong portfolio of software projects with tech complexity and business impact are crucial for landing roles. Networking on platforms like LinkedIn and engaging in open-source communities also played key roles in connecting me with opportunities at companies like Google. Persistence, active communication, and discoverability are critical in connecting with recruiters and succeeding in interviews.

Having worked at both established companies like Google and Amazon, as well as AI-focused startups like Jina AI and Unbox AI, what is the difference in the approach to AI development and innovation between these environments?

Startups like Jina AI and Unbox AI prioritize agility, learning and adapting quickly to specific technology and production skillset, shipping software to production with speed, with a focus on B2B software and cloud tech for scaling. In contrast, big tech companies like Google and Amazon have a more structured process for project execution, a bedrock of strong cultural principles, and a collaborative inter-team and people-driven approach, with a strong focus on the customer. With all the inter-dependencies, business impact, and complexities, projects are hence spaced out in timelines, following a meticulous process from inception to production. While startups offer quicker growth in terms of developing skillsets and flexibility, big tech companies offer stability, higher compensation, and long-term career growth up to critical leadership positions. Both environments offer valuable opportunities, depending on one’s career stage and priorities.

If you weren’t involved in Tech and AI, what would you be doing instead?

If not for tech, I’d likely be pursuing a career in journalism or writing. Writing has always been a way for me to express myself, and journalism excites me due to its focus on storytelling and uncovering truths. I’m also passionate about travel and have visited 18 countries, the majority solo. If I had an unlimited budget, I’d spend even more time exploring the world, broadening my perspective through both travel and reading.

Balancing intense work schedules at companies like Google and Amazon with personal life can be challenging. How do you manage to maintain that balance? Are there any habits or routines you’ve developed over the years to keep your life in harmony?

I rely on effective time management by planning in 15-day increments while staying adaptable to daily tasks. I follow 50-minute focused work cycles to prioritize high-impact tasks followed by consistent short breaks to stay energetic. Regular physical exercise and sleep routine are key to my well-being. I also find that spending a few hours alone every day to learn, process new information and practice helps build confidence and mental clarity, ensuring I stay balanced and productive.

What advice would you give to current BITS Pilani students aspiring to pursue careers in AI, Machine Learning, or Software Engineering, especially given the pace of innovation in these fields?

My advice is to stay curious and develop a resilient mindset while embracing the uncertainty of the future. The AI and software fields evolve rapidly, but with a passion for knowledge and consistent learning, you’ll navigate all challenges successfully. There are multiple paths to achieving success, hence keep learning while being open to trying diverse perspectives, and trust that your efforts will eventually lead to growth and achievement in the long run.