Although autonomous vehicles have frequently been described as being on the verge of mainstream adoption, the journey to putting self-driving cars on public roads is complex. At TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 — happening October 27–29 at Moscone West in San Francisco — Waymo’s co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana will appear on the Disrupt Stage for an in-depth discussion about the real status of autonomous vehicles and the future trajectory of this field.
A closer look at the self-driving landscape
Media coverage often focuses on accidents, controversies, or inflated expectations, but Mawakana has dedicated years to navigating the practical challenges of autonomous mobility. During her appearance at Disrupt, she will explore what is truly required to expand AV operations — covering everything from passenger safety and gaining public confidence, to regulatory challenges, operational hurdles, and the competitive landscape shaped by Tesla and other companies.
This conversation will move beyond ambiguous predictions or impressive showcases. It will address the tangible progress, the remaining obstacles, and the broader implications of deploying autonomous technology at scale. Regardless of whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or simply interested in the future of transportation, this session is not to be missed.
Image Credits:Waymo
Introducing the visionary at the helm
With over twenty years of experience driving global strategy at leading tech firms, Tekedra Mawakana, as co-CEO of Waymo, steers the company’s efforts to make the Waymo Driver accessible on a large scale and to spearhead innovation in autonomous technology. In addition, she sits on Intuit’s board and provides guidance to various technology and social impact organizations.
Experience the next chapter of transportation live at Disrupt
Waymo’s evolution is a key part of the narrative shaping tomorrow’s mobility, and this session provides a unique opportunity to see what’s happening behind the scenes. Be part of TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, where over 10,000 founders and venture capitalists connect to influence the future. Sign up today and enjoy savings of up to $650 before prices increase.
Image Credits:Kimberly White / Getty Images
