Google is honoring Dr.Marian Croak with a new documentary that explores her incredible journey as trailblazer in STEM.
“The Art of Possible” documentary was released during Women’s History Month, observed March 1 through March 31 under the theme “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future” — a fitting backdrop for a story about a woman who refused to accept limitations.
The nearly 10-minute film features Dr.Croak’s family members, collaborators and colleagues who share stories about the scientists’ journey.
“Marian kind of wanted different types of toys and things to expand on her curiosity and her experimental ways,” her sister Rita shared on Dr.Croak’s childhood curiosity into science.
“So my dad got her this chemistry set, and whatever she did, it resulted in a small fire. Didn’t burn the house down, but it did some damage.,” Rita recounted about the concern she had with Dr.Croak’s seemingly dangerous explorations.
Dr. Croak added, “I remember that so vividly. But my father said, “Don’t worry about it. Just tell me what happened and next time don’t try to hide it.”
She credits her father for prompting her sense of curiosity, which has led to her acquiring more than 200 patents.
“Mom didn’t just teach us what to think. She taught us how to wonder and how to trust our instincts, how to lead with integrity,” her daughter mentions in the documentary.
Dr. Croak is the architect behind Voice over Internet Protocol, better known as VoIP, the foundational technology that powers every internet-based call made today. Every Zoom meeting, WhatsApp voice note, and FaceTime conversation traces its roots back to her work.
Dr. Croak currently leads Google’s Research Center for Responsible AI and Human Centered Technology, which is responsible for ensuring Google develops artificial intelligence responsibly and that it has a positive impact.