The next time you seamlessly connect with loved ones on FaceTime or collaborate with colleagues on Zoom, consider the quiet revolution driven by Dr. Marian Rogers Croak. Her pioneering perform in Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) laid the foundation for these everyday technologies, yet for years, her contributions remained largely unacknowledged. As Women’s History Month highlights the achievements of women in STEM, Dr. Croak’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the often-overlooked innovators who shape our digital world. Her journey, from a childhood fascination with chemistry to leading cutting-edge work in artificial intelligence at Google, is a testament to perseverance and the transformative power of technology.
Dr. Croak’s impact extends far beyond the convenience of video calls. Her innovations in VoIP fundamentally changed how voice communication travels across the internet, making it more efficient and accessible. She holds over 200 patents, primarily in IP and VoIP technologies, and has managed more than 2,000 engineers and computer scientists throughout her career. Now, as a leader at Google, she’s focused on human-centered AI and machine learning, continuing to push the boundaries of what’s possible. A recent Google documentary, “The Art of Possible,” offers a rare glimpse into her life and work, allowing her to share her story on her own terms.
‘The Art of Possible’
The documentary wasn’t a straightforward career retrospective. Dr. Croak initially hesitated at the idea, but was ultimately moved by the opportunity to use new creative tools – powered by Google’s AI – to visualize personal memories. “What really moved me was the opportunity to tell my story by using these new creative tools to visualize moments that were never captured on film—especially the memories of my father and our family home,” she explained in an interview with The Root. “It wasn’t about the technology for the sake of it. it was about using these tools to bring pieces of my journey to life.”
The film delves into Dr. Croak’s formative years, tracing her passion for science back to a childhood love of chemistry. A particularly poignant moment recreated using AI depicts a childhood experiment gone awry – a small fire started in her family’s kitchen. The recreation wasn’t about reliving a mishap, but about honoring the supportive environment her father provided. “Seeing my father enacted through AI was incredibly moving,” she told The Root. “It reminded me that my sense of curiosity was a gift from him. He never discouraged my experiments, even when they went wrong; he just wanted to understand what I had learned.”
Dr. Croak’s story is part of a larger, often-untold narrative of Black innovation. Throughout history, Black inventors have made groundbreaking contributions to society, from Garrett Morgan’s traffic signal – patented in 1923, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation – to Marie Van Brittan Brown’s home security system, patented in 1969, as detailed by the Wireless Infrastructure Association. However, these contributions have often been overlooked or undervalued. Dr. Croak acknowledges this history, but focuses on the positive impact of her work.
“I appear at it a little differently,” she said. “I’ve never measured my career by public recognition; I measure it by the intimate, one-on-one connections technology enables. Whether it’s someone being able to video call a loved one or a young researcher I’m mentoring today, those are the moments that experience like the real story to me.”
A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation
Dr. Croak’s career trajectory is remarkable. After a distinguished tenure at AT&T/Bell Labs, where she served as Senior Vice President overseeing advanced research and innovation, she joined Google in 2014. During her time at AT&T, she played a key role in designing the world’s largest wireless and broadband networks. Her accolades include the 2013 and 2014 Edison Patent Awards and induction into the Women in Technology International Hall of Fame in 2013. She has also been inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame, the National Academy of Engineering, and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Most recently, she was selected to receive the 2026 IEEE Founders Medal, recognizing her leadership in packet voice networking and her commitment to promoting STEM participation.
For young Black women considering careers in STEM, Dr. Croak offers a simple but powerful message: believe in your potential. “Be bold, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to be the outlier in the room,” she advises. “Most importantly, I desire them to inherit the belief that they can change the world for the better. Anything is possible if you keep asking ‘why.’”
Dr. Croak’s work continues to evolve as she leads Google’s efforts in human-centered AI. Her focus remains on leveraging technology to create meaningful connections and empower individuals. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our lives, her emphasis on ethical and inclusive design will be crucial. The IEEE Founders Medal ceremony, scheduled for 2026, will formally recognize her contributions and further amplify her message of innovation and inclusivity.
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