The CDAIT family is in profound sadness following the untimely passing of CDAIT’s Chief Operating Officer Dr. Paul Baker on Thursday, December 14, 2023, after an unexpected medical emergency a few days before.

Since the launch of CDAIT in 2013, Paul was a steadfast supporter of the Center’s vision and generously contributed his time, expertise, and wisdom, first, as the Vice Chair of CDAIT’s IoT Thought Leadership Working Group, and later, as CDAIT’s COO.

His move to operations was fitting since it arrived at a time when the Internet of Things was being reshaped by Artificial Intelligence and increasing demands from around the world for inclusion and sustainability. As a policy expert, Paul thoroughly understood these forces and concerns as well as the related need for integrating them in strategy and policy.

He was a true renaissance man as demonstrated by his intellectual journey, which he started studying psychology at William & Mary. He held a Ph.D. in Public Policy from George Mason University, a Master’s degree in Theological Studies from Emory University, an M.P. in Urban Planning from the University of Virginia, an M.A. in International Commerce and Policy from George Mason University and a B.S. in Zoology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He served on many national boards, panels, editorial boards, and journal reviewing committees.

He was very much engaged in the international scientific community. As a typical example of Paul’s research interests, he, with co-author Professor Cassidy Sugimoto, recently presented a paper setting out characteristics and conditions of innovation networks, the associated demand for STEM related work and workforces, and potential policy opportunities to enhance workforce inclusivity and agility at the International Political Science Association (IPSA) 27th World Congress of Political Science held 15-19 July 2023, in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Paul will be missed as a friend, collaborator and energetic visionary who was passionately committed to helping and encouraging the Georgia Tech student community, and addressing advanced communications policy issues especially focused on accessible technology design and use for people with disabilities.

Alain Louchez

CDAIT’s co-founder & Director Emeritus,

on behalf of the entire CDAIT Team

December 15, 2023