Emmanuel Aboah Boateng

 

After Emmanuel Aboah Boateng graduated with top honors from the University of Mines and Technology in Ghana, West Africa, he headed to Tennessee Tech University to earn his Ph.D. in computer engineering. That decision, he says, helped launch him into the start of his career in artificial intelligence (AI) with Microsoft.

“I was impressed by the expertise and research interests of the faculty members in the electrical and computer engineering department,” he said. “Knowing that I would have the opportunity to work closely with experts in my area of interest, especially in machine learning for anomaly detection in cyber-physical systems, played a significant role in my decision (to attend Tennessee Tech).”

The university’s location was also a big draw.

“I believe Cookeville provided a comfortable and friendly atmosphere for studying and living,” he said. “It was a place where I felt I could focus on my research and academic pursuits while also enjoying a balanced lifestyle.”

Aboah is now an applied scientist through the highly selective Microsoft AI Development Acceleration Program, where he collaborates with various teams to integrate AI into Microsoft's products. He credits his time at Tech for providing him with the academic foundation, research opportunities and personal development experiences that have been instrumental in his success.

While working on his Ph.D., he participated in research that sharpened his expertise in the field of AI and cyber-physical systems security. He acquired skills and knowledge through internships with tech firms such as Apple Inc. and Meta Platforms Inc. He collaborated on multidisciplinary research projects and took on leadership roles within his research domain.

“The cutting-edge experiences and research skills I acquired during my time at Tennessee Tech have played a pivotal role in preparing me for success in this role,” Aboah said. “Tech provided me with a strong foundation in research, problem-solving abilities and a collaborative mindset that are vital in the dynamic and innovative field of AI development at Microsoft.”

In addition to his academic studies, Aboah also made lasting friendships and valuable connections through student-led organizations such as the African Student's Union (ASU) and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). These groups, he says, not only connected him with fellow students who shared similar cultural backgrounds and interests but also provided resources and opportunities tailored to his academic and career goals.

Aboah has many people at the university who helped him succeed. He especially thanked his research advisor, J.W. Bruce, Ph.D., for his invaluable guidance, expertise and unwavering support. He also thanked Alice Camuti, Ph.D., associate dean of the College of Graduate Studies and her family for their support and commitment to his academic and personal growth.

“During my time at Tech, I had the opportunity to collaborate on multidisciplinary research projects and take on leadership roles within my research domain. These experiences enhanced my teamwork and leadership skills, which are crucial in both academia and industry,” Aboah said. “In a nutshell, my journey at Tennessee Tech was transformative. It was a period of substantial growth that prepared me for the challenges and opportunities in both academia and industry.”