Ashwini Sarvepalli, AI Platform Engineer II

Name (pronouns)
Ashwini Sarvepalli (she/her)
Department/Division
EIA PLATFORM & COMPLIANCE
Years at UCSF
2
Role in technology
AI Platform Engineer II
Ashwini is looking at the sunset at the beach
What technology project(s) have you worked on that you are most proud of?

Since joining UCSF I’ve had the pleasure to work on a multitude of projects including Versa Chat, Versa Mobile, and ChatGPT Enterprise. However, one of the projects I am most proud of is the Versa Chat iOS Mobile App. Starting from researching development approaches and building the basic chat interface all the way to successfully submitting the first version to the Apple App Store and then later incorporating Versa Assistants and Models into an updated release. Seeing something go from a concept to an application available on the App Store is incredibly rewarding and I couldn't have done it without the support of my teammates. 

How has technology helped you achieve a goal within your role or department?

Technology has been central to nearly every goal I’ve pursued in my role. Tools like ServiceNow have allowed me to streamline workflows such as the Versa Chat Provisioning process, migrating requests from REDCap and improving the overall user experience. React Native enabled me to bring a mobile AI experience to UCSF staff through the Versa Chat app. More recently, leveraging MCPs and AI Agents has allowed me to automate tasks like daily Incident Ticket reviews, saving time and improving team efficiency. Technology has not only helped me accomplish individual goals but has also allowed me to contribute to broader departmental objectives around AI adoption and operational health. 

What’s your favorite aspect of your role at UCSF and why?

My favorite aspect of my role at UCSF is the opportunity to work at the intersection of cutting-edge technology and meaningful impact. Whether it’s helping staff gain access to AI tools through Versa Chat, presenting at the AI & Education Summit, or exploring emerging technologies like MCPs and AI Agents, every project feels purposeful. I genuinely enjoy being a resource for others and knowing that the work I do helps UCSF students and faculty be more productive and informed. 

What’s one ‘fun fact’ about you that not many people know?

I am a part of a Classical Indian fusion dance team! Where we incorporate elements of classical dances like Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak with modern dance like Jazz and Contemporary. We have several performances a year and it's been a lovely community to join. 

What do you like to do when you’re not at work?

While not at work I love walking or biking around San Francisco and exploring all the different neighborhoods and what they have to offer. There is so much culture within each that it's always easy to find a hidden gem everywhere. And the different microclimates help keep the walks interesting as well! 

If you could learn anything, what would that be?

I would love to learn how to play the violin! I've grown up learning the piano and recently picked up the guitar and ukulele and I adore the sound of the string instruments and would love to be able to play more.