Kathi Vidal Interviewed by World Intellectual Property Review

Winston & Strawn partner Kathi Vidal was featured in a World Intellectual Property Review article where she discussed her return to the firm following her government service as Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Kathi shares insights on the policies she advanced while at the USPTO, the future of AI, her advocacy for equality in the IP profession, and why the diversity rollback ‘is a mistake.’ She reflects on how her early childhood experiences helped shape the views she holds today on the importance of being heard, fairness, and diversity.

“I’m re-energised, I see a greater purpose in everything that I do,” said Kathi. Regarding her overall record at the USPTO, she says, “We advanced a lot of policies that were extremely balanced, including a package that we’re setting up for the next administration on discretionary denial with the PTAB. [It was] very pro-innovation but didn’t have an agenda that was favoring one industry over others.”

Kathi also discussed AI, describing it as “a terribly important opportunity,” noting that it is a critical topic as she reconnects with former and prospective clients. She can explore ways to help them “shape the law, shape the policy.”

“I now have the skill set of having been a judge and knowing what judges are looking for, of being a diplomat and dealing across government and internationally. And I just want to bring that to my clients.” Kathi said.