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In the Spotlight - Meet Caroline Vandenplas
At Women in AI, we like to inspire by showcasing female role models who are making a difference in AI. By celebrating their successes, we aim to empower women in the AI community, and motivate more girls and women to get into STEM-related fields. In our series In the Spotlight, we shine a light on experts in the field. Today, we’d like you to meet Caroline Vandenplas.
Author: Johanna Mvumbi.
Who is Caroline?
With over a decade of experience working with data and machine learning in diverse sectors, Caroline’s path through AI and data science is nothing short of inspiring.
Joining B12 Consulting in 2019 as a Senior Data Scientist, she quickly distinguished herself by taking on increasingly complex roles, advancing to Project Manager by 2020, and eventually becoming a Managing Partner in 2022. Her expertise spans over 15 years, touching various sectors like education, social sciences, energy, and clinical trials, with a particular focus on data quality. “I’ve always been driven by a curiosity to understand data deeply,” Caroline explains, “and to use that understanding to make impactful decisions.” This dedication to data quality and accuracy is the foundation of her work, allowing her to navigate complex challenges while also ensuring high standards of ethics and precision.
A unique journey
Caroline’s academic achievements further highlight her commitment to thorough analysis and cross-disciplinary research. With a master’s in Mathematics and a PhD in Quantum Information Physics from KU Leuven, she initially focused on the natural sciences. Her journey, however, took a transformative turn when she shifted to human sciences, taking roles as a Sampling Expert and Data Analyst, and later achieving her second PhD in Sociology. “Transitioning to sociology and survey methodology allowed me to look at data through a different lens—one that considers both people and numbers,” she reflects. These varied experiences enrich her role at B12, where she seamlessly blends technical expertise with human-centred perspectives, tackling projects with both analytical and ethical insight.
"Transitioning to sociology and survey methodology allowed me to look at data through a different lens."
Advancing AI Responsibly and Inclusively
In her current role, Caroline not only manages high-stakes AI projects but also champions initiatives to encourage diversity, equity, and inclusion. As a member of the Belgian Federal Advisory Committee on Ethics in Data and AI, she contributes to crucial discussions on the responsible use of AI in society. “Ensuring AI is beneficial and trustworthy is essential for its future,” she says, emphasising her commitment to ethical AI development. Her leadership extends to programs like Stem4Her, where she encourages young girls to explore STEM careers, and to collaborations with different AI players in Belgium. Caroline’s goal at B12 is clear: making progress in artificial intelligence in a way that ensures both innovation and ethical responsibility.
Being Part of the WAI Awards
Due to her amazing efforts, Caroline has become a part of the top 5 Nominees of AI Diversity Leader Award of the Women in AI Benelux Awards. The Women in AI Awards celebrates remarkable women who contribute to shaping the future of AI. Their expertise and unique perspectives are driving innovation.
Women like Caroline are committed to leading the future of AI. Would you like to learn more about the Award nominees and what they have done? Join us on November 15 from 13:30 to 20:00 at the Women in AI Summit, where our Top 5 nominees will, officially, be presented. The event will celebrate 30 outstanding women in AI who are making a significant impact across the Benelux region.