Core Values
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide accessible and practical AI education that sparks curiosity, fosters creativity, and builds critical thinking skills. We aim to break down complex AI concepts into digestible lessons and ensure that every student feels confident in applying these ideas through hands-on projects. We envision a future where students from all backgrounds are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to explore and contribute to the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence.
Meet the Board of Directors
Adi Guiter Kundu – Founder & President
Adi brings deep expertise in AI strategy, machine learning, and data science leadership, with a proven record of driving innovation and delivering impactful solutions across startups and global enterprises. He holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science and currently serves as a Senior Data Scientist at General Mills, where he leads AI initiatives that bridge machine learning solutions with business outcomes. As Founder and President of Youth AI Lab, he leads the organization’s strategic direction, operations, and partnerships—helping create equitable access to AI education for future leaders. Adi combines technical depth with organizational vision to ensure sustainable growth and mission alignment.
Myriah Hrdlicka – Director of Finances
Myriah brings a strong background in financial strategy, product ownership, and data-driven decision-making through her leadership experience at General Mills, where she leads trade ROI optimization initiatives as Senior Manager. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration from the Wisconsin School of Business, including a year abroad at Universidad de Sevilla where she gained global experience and volunteered with youth programs. As Director of Finances at Youth AI Lab, Myriah oversees budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance—ensuring transparency and sustainability across all operations. She leverages her strategic mindset and analytical skills to guide the organization’s financial health and support its long-term mission.
Rachel Klassen – Director of Internal Communications
Rachel brings a strong foundation in data analysis, business strategy, and cross-functional team leadership, shaped by her experience as a Solutions Manager at General Mills. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Brigham Young University and is passionate about promoting inclusion and mentorship. As Director of Internal Communications at Youth AI Lab, she supports the organization’s governance and transparency by managing board communications, maintaining official records, and coordinating internal processes. With a detail-oriented and collaborative approach, Rachel ensures smooth communication and operational alignment across the organization.
Eric Hall – Director of Ethics and Governance
Eric is a Principal Machine Learning Engineer at General Mills, where he leads initiatives that connect applied machine learning with business impact across the enterprise. With a PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Duke University and deep expertise in statistical learning, Eric brings a strong analytical lens to ethics and governance. At Youth AI Lab, he serves as Director of Ethics and Governance, guiding the organization’s risk management, compliance, and integrity frameworks. Eric’s blend of technical depth, research experience, and principled leadership helps ensure the organization remains accountable and mission-aligned as it grows.
Karsten Maurer – Director of Content and Curriculum Development
Karsten is a Principal Data Scientist at General Mills with a PhD in Statistics from Iowa State University. Before joining industry, he spent five years as an Assistant Professor of Statistics at Miami University, where he taught and conducted research in machine learning, data visualization, and statistical programming. At Youth AI Lab, Karsten serves as Director of Content and Curriculum Development, where he leads the design of accessible, engaging educational materials in AI and data science. Drawing on his academic and industry experience, Karsten is passionate about making complex concepts approachable for students and empowering the next generation of tech leaders.
Advisory Board
Dan Atkins
President, MinneAnalytics | Community Catalyst | Data Enthusiast | Real-World Learning Advocate
Dan Atkins is a community builder, analytics evangelist, and the driving force behind MinneAnalytics—a nonprofit that has connected over 18,000 data professionals across Minnesota since 2009. As President and widely regarded “Chief Community Entanglement Particle,” Dan has spent the last 15+ years creating immersive learning experiences that bring together students, startups, enterprises, and academia through conferences, challenges, and mentorship-driven events.
With prior roles spanning predictive healthcare analytics, customer behavior modeling, and real estate entrepreneurship, Dan blends a practical command of data science with an instinct for ecosystem design. His influence spans advisory roles at institutions like the University of Minnesota and St. Thomas, and decades of consulting for companies like UnitedHealth Group, Prime Therapeutics, and Northwest Airlines.
Whether he’s organizing pitch events that connect founders with Fortune 500s or crafting hilariously accurate taglines like “where all the data is strong, all the graphs good looking, and the engagement above average,” Dan is always focused on one thing: building communities where data-driven ideas can thrive.
John Hogue
AI, Data & Analytics Strategy Advisor | Innovation Catalyst | Business-Technologist Bridge
John Hogue is a strategic advisor and technologist dedicated to helping organizations unlock the full potential of AI, data, and analytics. As founder of Rogue Hogue, LLC, he leverages over 20 years of experience to guide businesses through the complexities of digital transformation and data strategy. John’s expertise spans building scalable AI solutions, driving analytics adoption, and aligning technology initiatives with core business objectives.
Known for his ability to bridge the gap between technical teams and executive leadership, John has worked across industries including finance, healthcare, and technology to deliver actionable insights and foster innovation. His advisory roles and consulting engagements emphasize practical impact, focusing on solving real-world challenges with cutting-edge data-driven approaches.
John is passionate about creating ecosystems where data science thrives, mentoring emerging leaders, and helping organizations navigate the fast-evolving AI landscape with confidence and clarity.
Rahul Luthra
Senior Software Engineer, Apple | Front-End Leader | Media Experience Architect
Rahul Luthra is a lead engineer at Apple Services Engineering, specializing in building dynamic web media experiences with Svelte, ReactJS, and TypeScript. He plays a key role in advancing Apple Music’s live global radio and interactive features.
With over a decade in software engineering, Rahul has held senior roles at WHOOP, CarGurus, and CVS Health, leading teams to deliver innovative digital products that enhance user engagement. His background spans front-end architecture, technical leadership, and cross-functional collaboration across tech and enterprise sectors.
Passionate about user-centric design and mentoring, Rahul drives innovation at the intersection of media and technology.
