Through research, innovation and determination, these six women demonstrate success in the Industry 4.0 space.
If you are in Industry 4.0 work you know how fast the sector can change and change. Among the ways people often stay informed can be making an effort to attend industry events, engaging in online learning opportunities, seeking out more experienced colleagues and doing personal research and projects to improve skills.
Another useful and very effective way, designed to keep you informed about the area is to follow the works of talented, skilled and recognized experts who have been part of making the ecosystem what it is, with their contributions and insights.
If you intend to step into the role of Industry 4.0, or want to better understand the opportunities for volunteering in this area, be sure to follow the careers of these six women.
Jennifer Kelly
With over 20 years of experience as an international director and senior manager in various international companies and industries, Jennifer Kelly is the founder and COO of WrxFlo, an Irish SaaS platform designed for manufacturing and logistics operations. He has significant experience working in a global supply chain environment, with large groups, multinationals and SMEs. He has worked internationally across Europe and the US in procurement and procurement of complex projects and has a valuable understanding of the key challenges and opportunities that often arise in the industry.
Cynthia Breazeal
Considered by many to be a pioneer of social robotics and human-robot interaction, Cynthia Breazeal is a professor of media arts and sciences at MIT and the founder and director of the Personal Robotics group at MIT’s Media Lab. He is the principal of digital studies and in this role he has extensive experience in the use of emerging digital technologies, business, research and strategic initiatives. With a strong interest in AI learning, he is the founding director of MIT’s Initiative on Responsible AI for Social Empowerment and Education, a research and outreach effort aimed at improving opportunities and education in AI for young and old in the workforce. His AI Day program has brought AI literacy education to over 1m students in 170 countries. He also founded the consumer social robotics company Jibo, where he served as chief scientist and chief experience officer.
The recipient of multiple accolades for his work, he is also an author, has sat on several high-profile boards and has extensive experience speaking at key industry events such as TED, the World Economic Forum, the UN, SXSW, CES and top academic conferences.
Dr. Sabina Jeschke
Dr Sabina Jeschke is the CEO of KI Park, a Berlin-based organization that aims to accelerate AI innovation across Germany and wider Europe, with the ultimate goal of making the continent a global leader in AI by 2030. Jeschke’s main focus is in the areas of cutting-edge technologies such as AI, digital twins and 6Gntums computing software. He is a consultant and non-executive board member of several organizations that support companies in their digital transformation. He develops automation techniques for robots and cobots, in a changing global environment. Jeschke has also been recognized by his peers and has been the recipient of numerous commendations and awards, including from the German Informatics Society and the International Society for Engineering Education.
Dr. Tara McGuire
An emerging figure in the Industry 4.0 space, Dr Tara McGuire is one of the postdoctoral students at University College Dublin. He was involved with a research team from the RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences who recently developed a new 3D implant solution to help heal spinal cord injuries. At the time, McGuire was a member of TERG, RCSI’s Tissue Engineering Research Group. Currently, as a postdoctoral researcher in the neuromuscular systems and neural engineering group, his work is focused on the computerization of deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s disease, with the aim of creating better simulations and treatment strategies. McGuire’s work has led to high-impact publications in the areas of bioinformatics and bioengineering and has been recognized for his insights at both national and international conferences.
Bronagh Riordan
AI and data partner at EY, Bronagh Riordan helps deliver data, analytics and AI-powered strategies and solutions to help users meet global business needs. Prior to joining the organization he held senior roles across the industry, where he was primarily responsible for developing strategy, transforming data, analytics and AI capabilities and delivering impactful technology products. In 2023 and 2024 she was recognized as a Global Data Power Woman, acknowledging the recipient as an accomplished woman holding a leadership position in a prominent global organization. She was featured in the Top 100 Influential Women in Irish Tech in 2025 and was named Analytics & AI Data Leader of the Year in 2023. Riordan speaks regularly at industry events and is passionate about serving as a role model for other women in the space. She was the first female board chair of any technology institution in Ireland, currently sits on the Industry Steering Board at CeADAR Ireland and is a member of the Irish Government’s Intelligence Advisory Council.
Emma McKenna
Head of sustainable manufacturing at the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre, Emma McKenna specializes in innovation and innovation. He has diverse experience working in the public and private sectors with the aim of accelerating the transition to a circular economy, working towards zero and addressing real-world challenges to achieve a sustainable and inclusive future. His previous experience includes work as head of net zero at Innovate UK Business Connect, circular economy business consultant at ReLondon and Sustainable Cities Engagement Project Officer for Peterborough Environment City Trust. In 2025 she, along with her colleague Dr Lauren McGarry, was recognized at the 2025 Northern Ireland Women in Tech Awards for her work and leadership in innovation.
So if you’re looking to follow the career of an Industry 4.0 genius, consider the paths taken by these six women and indeed others who are making real, impactful change in the space.
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