Women Applying AI launches in Boston to bridge gender gap through hands-on learning

Women Applying AI (WAAI), a new Boston-based nonprofit, officially launched during Boston AI Week with an inaugural event at Microsoft’s New England Research and Development (NERD) Center on September 26. The organization aims to empower women across industries to actively use and lead with artificial intelligence in their careers and communities, addressing the gender gap in AI adoption and leadership through hands-on application rather than theoretical learning.

What you should know: WAAI welcomes women from all industries and career stages, from AI-curious beginners to C-suite executives who want to integrate AI innovation into their daily work.

• Members gain access to live and virtual hands-on programs, interactive forums, and practical toolkits designed to make AI usable at work, home, and in communities.
• The organization emphasizes peer-to-peer learning, allowing experienced members to share their expertise with the broader community.
• The approach focuses on practical application through virtual labs, hands-on programs, and accessible toolkits rather than lectures or theoretical discussions.

What they’re saying: Co-founder Luda Kopeikina, a tech executive and entrepreneur, positioned the launch as more than just community building.

• “Women Applying AI is not just a community. It’s a movement,” Kopeikina said. “We are here to embolden women to apply AI. This is how we put women at the forefront of AI. Not through theory, but through immersion, application, and peer-to-peer community.”
• “This isn’t about lectures or hype. It’s about real application,” she added. “At Women Applying AI, members learn by doing. Whether through virtual labs, hands-on programs, or simple toolkits, there’s an entry point for everyone to start applying AI right away.”

The launch event: The September 26 kickoff featured panel discussions, stories from founding members, and networking opportunities focused on making AI more inclusive and impactful.

• The event was open to prospective members, allies, and sponsors, signaling expansion plans beyond Boston.
• The timing during Boston AI Week positioned the organization within the city’s broader AI ecosystem and innovation community.

Why this matters: The nonprofit addresses a critical gap in AI adoption by focusing on practical application rather than theoretical knowledge, potentially accelerating women’s participation in AI leadership roles across industries.