Amine Chigani '11

Global Head of Enterprise Technologists, Amazon Web Services

Today, I'm the global head of enterprise technologists at Amazon Web Services (AWS). In this role, I get to lead a senior team of former Chief Information Officers and Chief Technology Officers who work with c-level executives from AWS most strategic customers and partners to share experiences and strategies on cloud adoption, agile organizations, and innovation through artificial intelligence/machine learning. I bring the best of AWS cloud platform and programs to help my customers drive product quality, reduce technology risk, and deliver digital transformation value. Prior to AWS, I held senior technology leadership roles at Sentient Science, General Electric, and SEI. I earned a masters and Ph.D. in computer science from Virginia Tech.

Where you've been in your career and where you are going...

I've always been in the software world with a keen interest in how to build the 'best' software systems (i.e, resilient, scalable, and secure). In recent years, I'm more focused on using software and innovation (e.g., cloud, machine learning, internet of things) to build the 'best' digital organizations within global enterprises. I feel lucky to be in this space and at this time during the digital transformation taking place around our global economy.

The work project/initiative you're most excited about...
There's an increased focused at Amazon today on building diverse future leaders and I'm super excited about the ability to dedicate a good portion of my time/resources to mentor junior colleagues and connect them with opportunities to grow.

How would you capture the essence of your work in a newspaper headline...
I'm a match-maker between business problems and 'battle tested' technology solutions

Fondest Virginia Tech memory or tradition...

My wife and I are both Hokies. We got married while at Virginia Tech and our first son was born in Blacksburg. My wife works for Virginia Tech, which is a big part of our family.

A person who has inspired me...
My mother has accomplished way more than the world expected or made possible for her. She inspires me everyday to challenge myself to produce and achieve more than what's expected or made possible for me.

My hidden talent...
Backup Singer

How Virginia Tech equipped me for the 'real world'...

I learned rigor, depth, and hands-on experimentation. These learnings continue to anchor everything I do on a daily basis.

Best part of being a Virginia Tech alum...
Friendships: 80% of my true, family friends today I have made when I was at Virginia Tech.

Words of encouragement to a current Virginia Tech student...

You've made a great choice coming to Virginia Tech and becoming part of this global family. Don't be surprised to get a random 'Go Hokies' anywhere around the world if you wear Virginia Tech gear.

This excites me the most about the future of my industry...
We are at the early beginnings of how society and economy are using cloud (single digit). The potential for impact and innovation is yet to be imagined.

Biggest misconception about my job or industry...
That I can fix any and all issues with the internet, websites, and computers (I can do most but not all).

The most formative experience I've had...

My graduate research was inspired by the April 16th tragedy. It re-oriented me to often try to align my professional work with a mission I deeply care about.

Favorite way to end the day...
A pot of Moroccan mint tea and a comedy show.