With a background in electrical engineering and law and a passion for creating impact, Kathi Vidal is brilliantly suited to her role as the Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

During this episode, you will hear about Kathi’s career trajectory, the organizations that she is involved with, and the factors that motivate her to do what she does.

The USPTO is focused on fostering innovation, particularly in key technology areas such as NFTs, AI, and emerging technologies. Kathi explains their approach to helping turn ideas into businesses and how they enhance diversity and equity, and inclusion within and outside their organization!

In This Episode:

[00:33] Introducing today’s guest, Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office, Kathi Vidal.

[02:05] How Kathi ended up at university at the age of 16 and why she chose to study electrical engineering. 

[03:43] Where Kathi has drawn her inspiration from throughout her career in the private and public sectors. 

[04:04] The various organizations that Kathi is involved with. 

[05:58] Kathi explains the importance of enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

[07:22] The process of developing the USPTO’s action-packed 2022-2026 Strategic Plan.

[09:42] Focal areas for the USPTO’s innovation-fostering efforts. 

[12:06] An overview of the USPTO’s Legal Experience and Advancement Program (LEAP).

[15:00] The two overlapping pro bono services offered by the USPTO that help entrepreneurs turn their ideas into products and businesses.

Resources:

Kathi Vidal