Automation is often discussed in terms of potential—to revolutionize industries, streamline efficiencies, and reshape economies.
But for Janna Katan, a Strategic Product Leader at Abu Dhabi-based SteerAI, which provides autonomous technology for the logistics and defense sectors, the question isn’t if automation will take hold, but when and how. Excitement is growing across the industry.
“No one knows exactly when and how this technology will be fully realized,” she says. “But we do know it is no longer a new field. We see robotaxis, autonomous trucks, buses, and shuttles on the roads. I’m very confident that we’re taking good strides and steering forward.”
At SteerAI, Janna plays a key role in this transformation. She focuses on identifying users’ pain points and works closely with the technology team to translate them into product requirements that bring value and address customer needs.
Her product strategies are guided by three key objectives: improving efficiency (for example, by using autonomous vehicle fleets around the clock), reducing costs by increasing productivity, and enhancing safety by taking human drivers out of risky situations.
"Efficiency and safety are vital for operational success, profitability, and scalability,” Janna says. “Autonomous fleets are proven to enhance all three, making autonomous technology highly sought after."
Janna’s journey into AI and automation has been anything but conventional. With a Ph.D. in biomedical engineering, she began her career in medical technology and digital health, developing AI-powered healthcare products across several companies. Motivated to apply her skills in the emerging autonomous mobility industry, she later transitioned to a Product Manager role at Motional in Singapore.
She was ultimately drawn to SteerAI, and to Abu Dhabi, because of the opportunity she saw to truly innovate. “The entire ecosystem in the emirate is an inspiring environment to develop new technologies,” she says, adding that she sees a clear vision for autonomous technology, strong government support, and significant investment in research and development.
Janna is also deeply committed to reshaping how the industry nurtures talent, particularly for women. As a woman in leadership in a male-dominated sector, she understands the significance of visibility and advocacy.
“It’s really about leading by example and inspiring other women,” she says.
Janna was initially drawn to STEM because of her passion for problem-solving and innovation, as well as her desire to make a tangible, positive impacts on people’s lives through technology.
She regularly hosts events to spotlight the role of women in tech and has led employee resource groups to elevate women’s voices. For her, diversity is a business imperative.
“Research shows companies benefit from varied perspectives, which enable them to better address real, complex challenges,” she says.
“In particular, having more women in STEM translates into business benefits and better performance. But it also ensures that companies are more responsive to customers’ needs and demands, including those of women. Inclusion—considering all perspectives—is vital to product development.”
By pairing technological ambition with her inclusive vision for the future, Janna exemplifies the kind of leadership the automation era demands: one that balances innovation with empowering people.
With leaders like her, the industry’s future looks promising—for everyone.
Contact
Make the move
SteerAI is designed to turn standard industrial and defense vehicles into autonomous machines that can handle complex operations.
