Self-driving cars have long been touted as “around the corner,” but the reality of bringing them into the streets is far from simple. October 27-29, 2025 at TechCrunch – at Moscone West, San Francisco – Waymo Co-Ceo Tekedra Mawakana joins the confusion stage for a wide range of conversations about the true state of AVS and where the industry goes from here.
Within the reality check of autonomous driving
Headlines often highlight crashes, controversy, or exaggerated promises, but Mawakana has been navigating the real world path to autonomous mobility for years. Confusing, she delves into what’s really needed to expand her AV deployment, from rider safety and public trust to regulations, operations and competitive pressures from Tesla and others.
This session is not about obscure timelines or flashy demos. It’s about what’s working, what still needs work, and what it means to bring autonomy to life on a massive scale. Whether you’re a founder, investor or simply interested in the path ahead, you don’t want to miss it.
Meet the leader behind the steering wheel
Tekedra Mawakana brings over 20 years of experience shaping global strategies for leading tech companies. As Waymo co-CEO, she will bring Waymo drivers to the masses and guide the company’s mission to lead the next generation of autonomous innovation. She also serves on Intuit’s board of directors and advises several technology and social impact ventures.
The future of mobility is confusing
Waymo’s story is a central chapter in the future of transportation, and in this session you can see the unusual interior of the journey behind the headlines. Join TechCrunch in 2025. Gather together over 10,000 startups and VC leaders to shape: Sign up now and save up to $650 before your rates rise.
