Her Story
About Alyssa
Alyssa Ofstein is a Senior Technical Program Manager for Generative AI Safety and Security at Microsoft, where Alyssa focuses on building scalable systems that help organizations develop safer, more responsible AI technologies. With nearly three years at Microsoft, Alyssa works at the intersection of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, privacy, and human rights—translating complex policies and emerging risks into practical engineering practices. Alyssa’s mission is to reduce harm earlier in the AI development process by embedding safety, security, and responsible decision-making directly into how products are designed and deployed.
Alyssa’s career has centered on creating solutions in areas where established practices do not yet exist. Before Microsoft, Alyssa founded Cisco’s Responsible AI Program, developing governance frameworks, impact assessments, and processes that integrated human rights considerations into product development. Earlier in her career at Article One Advisors, Alyssa advised Fortune 500 companies on human rights policies, ESG strategy, and technology-related risks. Alyssa has also built influential communities and educational initiatives, including a network of more than 800 engineers focused on AI safety and the creation of an interactive video game designed to teach AI security concepts such as threat modeling, red teaming, and incident response.
Alyssa holds dual bachelor’s degrees from the University of California, Berkeley, earning a Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Social Corporate Responsibility and a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature in 2019. Beyond her professional work, Alyssa is passionate about weightlifting, video games, plant care, and caring for her pets, viewing nurturing and personal growth as important parts of her life. Alyssa is also actively involved in supporting LGBTQ+ initiatives and human rights efforts. Alyssa attributes her success to curiosity, preparation, continuous learning, and a commitment to creating a more equitable and responsible future through technology.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Alyssa
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my love for learning, strong work ethic, and commitment to creating a more equitable world. I enjoy gaining new knowledge, embracing challenges, and continuously improving through preparation and practice. Beyond my personal drive, I am motivated by the belief that I have a responsibility to help create opportunities for others. When you care deeply about your work and purpose, success naturally follows.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to question the expectations they feel pressured to follow and be intentional about what they are optimizing for. Early in my career, I learned that I didn’t need to minimize myself or adopt behaviors traditionally associated with men to succeed. The skills often viewed as feminine—building relationships, emotional intelligence, and collaboration—are valuable strengths that can help create trust and open opportunities. I encourage women to embrace their authentic strengths, challenge assumptions, and make choices based on what truly aligns with their goals rather than simply following expectations.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
A major challenge in my field right now is the rapid evolution of AI and how it is transforming the future of work. Organizations and individuals are expected to adopt these technologies quickly, but the tools are still new and constantly changing, making it difficult to establish clear standards and best practices. At the same time, I see a tremendous opportunity, especially for women and others who have historically felt excluded from technical fields. AI tools can help people learn, build skills, and gain confidence in areas they may have previously felt were out of reach. While these technologies are not a replacement for expertise, they can help more people enter the conversation, develop ideas, and participate in shaping the future of work.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me are honest communication and consistency. I believe that being open and direct about challenges, goals, and expectations creates stronger relationships and more effective solutions, both at work and in my personal life. I also value consistency because it builds trust and creates a foundation for growth, creativity, and overall well-being. Whether it is delivering high-quality work or maintaining healthy personal habits, showing up consistently helps me build meaningful connections and achieve long-term success.
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