Dr. John Beieler, the Assistant Director of National Intelligence (ADNI) for Science and Technology (S&T) at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), emphasized a fundamental message during his morning keynote at the INSA’s 2024 Spring Symposium: the imperative to strive for improvement. The recent executive order mandates that federal agencies designate a Chief AI Officer, a development Dr. Beieler has actively championed since assuming his ADNI role in June 2019, now expanding his responsibilities to include the Chief AI Officer position.
A central focus for Dr. Beieler is aligning science and technology to bridge mission gaps effectively. He underscores the significance of defining a clear end vision and specifying the necessary levels of enhancement. While the Intelligence Community (IC) already undertakes this practice, Dr. Beieler advocates for further advancements in this area. Collaborations within the IC and with industry partners are pivotal in achieving greater outcomes in S&T.
AI Council and Collaboration
The Honorable Sue Gordon’s “Augmenting Intelligence using Machines” (AIM) initiative in 2018 laid the foundation for the current landscape. Dr. Beieler highlighted the evolution, stating, “A significant transformation has occurred with the establishment of a governing body on AI.” He announced ODNI’s recruitment of a group chief dedicated to AI and emphasized the formation of a chief AI council across the IC to ensure cohesive coordination.
Effective governance and technological advancements necessitate robust collaboration within the IC. Encompassing policy, standards, responsible practices, governmental requirements, and industry engagements, the council addresses a broad spectrum of responsibilities.
Partnership with DIU
In pursuit of accelerated adoption and leveraging evolving capabilities, ODNI recently forged a partnership with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). The agreement was formalized during a live panel at South by Southwest 2024. This collaboration aims to expedite the deployment of state-of-the-art solutions for intelligence collection and analysis.
Dr. Beieler expressed the significance of this partnership, stating, “Collaborating with the Defense Innovation Unit enables us to access a diverse range of innovative solutions and capabilities that can enhance our operational efficiency and bolster national security.” He cited this collaboration as a prime example of actively seeking opportunities to push the boundaries of AI within ODNI.
Cultivating the AI Workforce
Securing the right talent is paramount in achieving AI objectives and fulfilling requirements. Dr. Beieler underscored the critical nature of both upskilling and recruitment. Understanding the intricacies of the tools employed, particularly the intuitive aspects of models, is essential for analysts. While upskilling existing talent can address current mission gaps, the influx of new talent remains equally crucial. The scarcity of STEM talent in the national security sector poses a significant challenge for the IC, often leading agencies to compete for talent internally.
Despite the high demand for STEM qualifications, Dr. Beieler encourages individuals with backgrounds in social sciences and liberal arts to consider roles within the IC. He emphasized, “As a fundamentally human organization, comprehending technology is pivotal. We must harmonize both aspects.” Various resources are available to facilitate upskilling and augmenting knowledge in AI and technology.
Emphasizing Partnerships
Establishing partnerships with industry stakeholders plays a pivotal role in bridging mission gaps. Collaborative efforts enhance comprehension of AI technology and ensure appropriate safeguards within the IC. Dr. Beieler stressed, “It transcends mere procurement; it involves partnering with industry throughout the process.” The IC is in the process of updating its acquisition and procurement policies and capabilities to facilitate swift engagements with entities of varying sizes.
Amidst ongoing breakthroughs, Dr. Beieler advocates for adaptability at the strategic level to navigate evolving landscapes effectively. He remarked, “While the future may be uncertain, maintaining flexibility allows us to pivot and adapt as circumstances evolve.”
