Thanh Quach: A Journey of Innovation in AI at P&G

January 24, 2025

Hanh Quach’s journey into the world of technology has been anything but straightforward. Growing up in hashtag#Vietnam, he attended the High School for Gifted Students, Hanoi National University of Education, majoring in English. However, his fascination with technology drew him to math and science. Without much internet access at home, he spent hours at internet cafes, immersing himself in the captivating world of computing and coding.

Despite excelling in math and physics, applying for a computer science degree at Nanyang Technological University Singapore was a leap of faith, as he had no formal coding experience. “I could use Microsoft Office, but that was about the extent of my computer skills,” he recalls. Nevertheless, his love for problem-solving and his ability to focus deeply pulled him into programming.

In 2007, an internship at a bank left him yearning for more technical depth, prompting him to pursue a master’s degree in machine learning theory. This abstract field posed significant challenges, and it took him some time to publish his first research paper. He questioned his path but now reflects, “Sometimes setbacks are blessings.” The solid foundation he built has been invaluable amid the rapid advancements in hashtag#AI.

His desire for new challenges led him to the P&G Singapore Innovation Center (SgIC). As one of the first data engineers at the SgIC, he was in a unique position to pioneer new approaches. A notable project involved converting a groundbreaking skin analysis algorithm into a consumer-facing app. Despite numerous hurdles, his sense of responsibility and belief in learning through failure drove him to succeed, leading to the project’s implementation.

Thanh has also spearheaded efforts to integrate multiple data forms and democratize access to cutting-edge methodologies, all aimed at delivering sharper consumer insights and innovations. Recently, he received the prestigious John G. Smale award for his groundbreaking work. He humbly attributes his success to being in the right place at the right time. "I don’t think I’m super good or smart, but I love working, learning, and creating new things," he says, adding with a grin, "Coding is my entertainment."

Congratulations Thanh, for your breakthrough work!

#AI #MachineLearning #Algorithms #Coding #Singapore #TheFutureMakers