Why NYC is the Ultimate Tech Playground—Insights from Software Engineer Lily Ke

New York City: a concrete jungle where dreams are made, a cultural melting pot, and, increasingly, a thriving hub for technological innovation. But is it truly the "ultimate tech playground," as some claim? To find out, we spoke with Lily Ke, a seasoned software engineer who has worked at some of the biggest names in the industry and traversed the landscapes of both Silicon Valley and the Big Apple.

Her journey in the software industry began with a strong academic foundation. She chose to attend the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) for its renowned Computer Science program. "UIUC wasn’t just about learning—it was about solving real problems, turning research into impact, and seeing how far technology could go. That mindset still drives me today," Ke explained. During her time there, she delved into the diverse fields of computer vision, astrophysics, and distributed systems. The future software engineer even published a paper on machine learning (ML) in distributed systems which later influenced her work at Meta.

Ke’s work eventually led her to the esteemed halls of Harvard University, where she further explored AI from a multidisciplinary perspective. Her master’s research focused on differential privacy in AI systems, a topic that remains crucial in today’s conversations about AI ethics and transparency. "This experience shaped my approach to building AI systems that are both effective and ethical, ensuring that user privacy remains a top priority," Ke stated.

But what was it that eventually drew her to New York City? It was after her time in school that Ke uprooted herself from Cambridge making the “thrilling” move to the Big Apple. Looking for a faster pace the software engineer was drawn to the break neck speed of industry in New York which marked a sharp contrast to her academic research. The move also offered the opportunity for her to apply her knowledge in real-world scenarios.

"Working in cities like New York and the Bay Area isn’t just about location—it’s about being at the center of innovation," Ke emphasized. Each city has its unique advantages within her industry. "In New York, I was in the heart of the ads revolution, helping to redefine how brands connect with customers through ads. NYC’s unique mix of tech, finance, and media gave me a front-row seat to the future of digital engagement."

While Silicon Valley boasts cutting-edge ideas and rapid product development, Ke argues that New York offers something unique: a convergence of technology, business, and culture. "Unlike Silicon Valley, where tech exists in a bubble, New York is where tech meets the real world," she explains. "Here, I work at the intersection of technology, business, and culture, building products that impact finance, media, fashion, and commerce—industries that shape how the world moves."

This intersection is a major draw for Ke, who appreciates the ability to work on projects that bridge multiple sectors. But New York’s benefits stretch far beyond this, offering unparalleled networking opportunities."Whether it’s a coffee meeting with a founder, a policy discussion on AI ethics, or a late-night debate with engineers solving the next big challenge, NYC is a city where ideas collide, talent rises, and innovation happens in real time," she says.

When not working, Ke is drawn to New York’s vibrant cultural scene. "Beyond tech, NYC is an endless source of inspiration—from the diversity of people to the energy of the streets," she says. "If there’s one place where ambition meets action, it’s here." From attending AI research talks to discovering hidden gems throughout the city the Harvard graduate embraces the endless possibilities the city has to offer. "It’s fast-paced, constantly evolving, and full of opportunities," she says. "One moment you’re sitting in a café, and the next, you’re in a room with top AI researchers, startup founders, or Fortune 500 executives discussing the next big trend in tech."

So, is New York the ultimate tech playground? According to Ke, it certainly has a compelling case. The components are in place with the fast paced industry the city offers the ability for advancements to happen rapidly. This combined with its seemingly endless opportunities makes it suitable for anyone trying to make a name for themselves.

Ultimately for Lily Ke it comes down to following her heart. While she remains open to the possibility it will lead her elsewhere, for now, her heart belongs to the city that never sleeps. It is a place where technology, business and culture converge to create a truly unique environment for innovation and growth. Ke sums it up perfectly saying, "I go where opportunity and innovation thrive—but New York has my heart."