Agenda
Navigate the AI Expo and Ash Carter Exchange with our
comprehensive agenda. Check back daily as we add and
update new, amazing programming ahead of May 7th.
Attendees will be able to build their own agenda on our app.
Preview below.
Ash Carter Exchange Welcome & Video
May 7th 08:00 ~ 08:15 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
- Ylber Bajraktari Senior Advisor - Special Competitive Studies Project
The Future of Homeland Defenses
May 7th 08:30 ~ 08:45 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
Dr. Liz Sherwood-Randall will deliver remarks on the opportunities and challenges for national security and public safety emerging from the rise of AI and emerging technologies.
- The Honorable Dr. Liz Sherwood-Randall
The World By 2050
May 7th 08:45 ~ 09:45 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
This panel will try and map out what the world may look like by 2050, assess the main drivers of change, and identify any potential inflection points.
- Dr. Meghan O'Sullivan Director - Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs
- Michael Collins Acting Chairman - National Intelligence Council
- Hamish McRae
- Bina Venkataraman Columnist - The Washington Post
The Future of American Military Power
May 7th 09:45 ~ 10:45 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
This panel will discern Service perspectives on Man, Train, and Equip imperatives to transform to the changing character of warfare and how Joint Force teaming may need to evolve to meet enduring Great Power Competition requirements.
- Dr. Nadia Schadlow Senior Fellow - Hudson Institue
- Gen Eric Smith Commandant - U.S. Marine Corps
- Gen David Allvin Chief of Staff - U.S. Air Force
- Gen James Rainey Commanding General - Army Futures Command
- Admiral James M. Kilby Vice Chief of Naval Operations - U.S. Navy
Future of Compute for AI Advancement
May 7th 10:00 ~ 10:40 (East Stage)
Panelists will explore the transformative potential of generative AI and how it shapes the trajectory of the coming decade. From breakthroughs in chip design to the implementation strategies of real-time AI infrastructure, they will delve into the evolving landscape of generative AI and Large Language Models to explore the profound impacts on supply chain security, national defense, workforce productivity, and global climate challenges.
- Dr. Whitney Mason Director, Microsystems Technology Office (MTO) - Defense Advanced Research Project Agency (DARPA)
- Ziad Asghar Senior Vice President of Product Management and Head of Artificial Intelligence - Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
- Jonathan Ross CEO and Founder - Groq
- Keith Strier Vice President of Worldwide AI Initiatives and Global Head of Public Sector - NVIDIA
State Department – Diplomatic Technology Officer
May 7th 10:00 ~ 10:30 (Talent Marketplace)
Don’t miss this discussion on the exciting role of a Diplomatic Technology Officer at the U.S. Department of State, supporting global diplomacy in over 180 countries. Find out how your IT skills can contribute to international relations and diplomacy on a worldwide stage. Ideal for tech enthusiasts with a passion for global challenges and continuous learning.
Governing in the Know: The Importance of Understanding the Tech You Legislate
May 7th 10:40 ~ 10:55 (East Stage)
Join Congressman Don Beyer, member of the House AI Task Force and House AI Caucus, as he describes his personal journey back to school to delve into the inner workings of AI technology. Through his experience and expertise, he will illuminate the critical role of informed decision-making in shaping AI policies and ensuring a future where innovation and regulation harmonize seamlessly.
- Congressman Don Beyer
Transforming Decision Making in the Intelligence Community with Real-time AI Solutions
May 7th 10:45 ~ 11:00 (West Stage)
Presented by Groq
Groq, the AI infrastructure company that builds the entire stack from silicon to cloud, will share a live demo focused on public sector use cases, powered by its LPU™ Inference Engine. The LPU is the world's fastest low latency chip for inference solutions.
- Jonathan Ross CEO and Founder - Groq
The Future of Geopolitics and the Role of Innovation and Technology
May 7th 11:00 ~ 12:00 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
Examine the rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape and explore how nations are leveraging innovation and emerging technologies to pursue their objectives.
- Dr. Alex Karp Cofounder and CEO - Palantir
- The Honorable David S. Cohen Deputy Director - Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)
- Dr. Eric Schmidt Chair - Special Competitive Studies Project
- Andrew Ross Sorkin Anchor of Squawk Box - CNBC
Venture Capital Perspectives on the Technologies That Will Drive the 21st Century
May 7th 12:00 ~ 12:35 (West Stage)
A panel discussion on how venture capitalists horizon scan and the technologies that will define the 21st century.
- Katie Rae CEO & Managing Partner - Engine Ventures
- Scott Phoenix Partner - Fifty Years
- August Cole
Navigating the New Normal: AI-Driven Strategies for Supply Chain Resilience
May 7th 12:00 ~ 12:45 (East Stage)
In an era marked by unprecedented geopolitical shifts and economic turbulence, this panel convenes leaders of innovative AI firms revolutionizing how governments and companies understand and fortify supply chains. Amid the backdrop of challenges such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, US-China economic de-risking, and disturbances to global shipping lanes, this discussion will explore the intersection of geoeconomics and the transformative power of artificial intelligence. The moderator – a leading expert at the nexus of finance, geopolitics, and economics – will set the stage and guide a discussion on leveraging the power of AI to navigate the evolving landscape of global supply chain security. This panel is an essential for anyone interested in increasing transparency and resilience in the face of global supply chain disruptions.
- Isaac Harris Vice President of Government Strategy - Exiger
- Ram Ben Tzion Founder and CEO - Ultra Information Solutions
- Erik Britton Managing Director and CEO - Fathom Consulting
NatSec Tech Live: A conversation on Biotech with Renee Wegrzyn and host Jeanne Meserve
May 7th 12:00 ~ 12:30 (Media Stage)
Renee Wegrzyn joins NatSec Tech host, Jeanne Meserve for a conversation on biotech.
- Dr. Renee Wegrzyn Director - Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H)
- Jeanne Meserve Host of NatSec Tech Podcast - Special Competitive Studies Project
Skydio X10D: Redefining Aerial Intelligence with AI
May 7th 12:20 ~ 12:50 (South Stage)
Presented by Skydio
Witness firsthand, Skydio X10D's AI-driven flight, a small, smart, and survivable sUAS that revolutionizes aerial intelligence. Experience its ability to enhance comprehensive insights across vast areas through seamless data integration. Discover its practical applications from command center strategies to frontline awareness in our interactive demos. Join us for a leap forward in technology.
- Jim Cox Sr. Solutions Manager - Skydio
The Future of Emerging Tech and National Security
May 7th 12:30 ~ 13:00 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
- Anne Neuberger Deputy National Security Advisor for Cyber and Emerging Technology - National Security Council, The White House
- David Sanger White House and National Security Correspondant - The New York Times
NatSec Tech Live: A conversation on Fusion with Jackie Siebens and Trent Bauserman and host Jeanne Meserve
May 7th 12:30 ~ 13:00 (Media Stage)
Jackie Siebens and Trent Bauserman join NatSec Tech host Jeanne Meserve for a conversation on fusion.
Advancing New Frontiers: How the DOE is Driving AI for Science, Energy, and Security
May 7th 12:30 ~ 12:45 (Center Stage)
The role of the Department of Energy in advancing emerging technologies and innovation.
- David Turk Deputy Secretary - U.S. Department of Energy
The Power of Industry Immersion Research
May 7th 12:45 ~ 13:00 (East Stage)
Learn how AI-focused industry immersion research brings opportunities for students while fostering new innovations in sectors such as autonomous vehicles, agriculture, and more.
- Brent Van Aartsen Chief Technology Officer - Dakota State University
Where Does the U.S. Robotics Industry Stand Globally?
May 7th 13:00 ~ 14:00 (Room 206)
Hosted by the Information Technology & Innovation Foundation (ITIF).
Robotics might be the least hyped advanced technology these days, at least compared to the buzz around technologies like AI, quantum, and synthetic biology. But there is a case to be made that robotics—and autonomy more generally—is the most important emerging technology for economic growth and national security, because of its dual potential to spur productivity in key industries and its potential military applications. So, how competitive is the United States in the high-stakes field of robotics and automation, and what can the U.S. government do to support a strong, vibrant U.S. robotics industry?
- Dr. Robert Atkinson President - Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF)
- Col. Thomas (TX) Hammes Colonel (Ret.) - U.S. Marine Corps
- Brendan Schulman Vice President of Policy and Government Relations - Boston Dynamics
- Megan Zimmerman Computer Scientist, Manipulation and Mobility Systems Group, Intelligent Systems Division - National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
How AI is Making Virtual Face-to-Face Engagement a Reality
May 7th 13:00 ~ 13:15 (East Stage)
Presented by Apira Technologies
A demonstration of leading edge technology enabling law enforcement and national security customers the ability to build and manage virtual personas online in real-time.
- Matt Scott President - Apira Federal
- Jeff Smeraglinolo CEO - Apira Technologies
The Future of Defense Innovation
May 7th 13:00 ~ 13:30 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
- Doug Beck Director - Defense Innovation Unit
- DJ Patil General Partner - GreatPoint Ventures
Beyond Words: Large Language Models for Sensor-Driven Applications
May 7th 13:00 ~ 13:15 (South Stage)
Presented by the Defense Digital Service
Join the Defense Digital Service as we present a groundbreaking framework enabling Large Language Models (LLMs) to interface and control sensors and physical systems safely, demonstrated through Combee, a robot, showcasing the seamless integration of LLMs into sensor-driven applications.
- Dr. James (Nick) Ashworth Hacker and Senior Engineer - Defense Digital Service
- Glenn Parham Software Engineer and Data Scientist - Defense Digital Service
National Science Foundation: STEM Fellowship and Scholarship Opportunities
May 7th 13:00 ~ 13:30 (Talent Marketplace)
The National Science Foundation will provide an overview of STEM fellowship and scholarship opportunities available to undergraduate and graduate students. Come by to learn about programs that support AI-related student research opportunities and fund degree programs.
Fast Track to the Future of Commercial Fusion Energy
May 7th 13:10 ~ 13:30 (West Stage)
Presented by Commonwealth Fusion Systems
The future of fusion energy through CFS’ eyes.
- Brandon Sorbom Co-Founder and Chief Science Officer - Commonwealth Fusion Systems
Demonstration of Datenna’s Platform for Techno-Economic Intelligence on China
May 7th 13:15 ~ 13:30 (East Stage)
Presented by Datenna
Datenna's CEO will provide a demo of the company's capabilities that provide unparalleled insights into China's techno-economic landscape.
- Jaap van Etten CEO and Founder - Datenna
Skydio X10D: Redefining Aerial Intelligence with AI
May 7th 13:25 ~ 13:55 (South Stage)
Presented by Skydio
Witness firsthand, Skydio X10D's AI-driven flight, a small, smart, and survivable sUAS that revolutionizes aerial intelligence. Experience its ability to enhance comprehensive insights across vast areas through seamless data integration. Discover its practical applications from command center strategies to frontline awareness in our interactive demos. Join us for a leap forward in technology.
- Jim Cox Sr. Solutions Manager - Skydio
Scaling Up Research Security and Detecting Malign Influence Networks with AI Toolsets
May 7th 13:30 ~ 13:45 (West Stage)
Presented by Exiger
Exiger will walk through its Bibliometric Illumination capability, a toolset and research product aimed at improving research security, safeguarding vital IP, and helping companies and agencies understand with whom they are conducting vital research, rapidly, and at scale. Levering Exiger’s AI solutions, the Bibliometric toolsets illuminate the networks of institutions publishing and patenting vital information, as well as ultimate sources of funding and sponsorship, so that governments and institutions can understand where their IP may be exposed to potential bad actors, as well as produce exhaustive risk assessments on each node in the research network. Exiger tracks over 5,000 potential bad and risky research actors (including talent-recruitment programs) from over 140 countries.
Exiger will be demonstrating this capability via an open analysis of specific key research networks. Exiger will look at where various countries, institutions, and labs are doing research, and will walk through some examples of high-risk weapons-science research relationships that can be rapidly surfaced in-platform.
- Scott Lafoy Vice President of Nuclear and Technology Security Programs - Exiger
The Future of Defense R&D and A&S
May 7th 13:30 ~ 14:20 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
- Alan Estevez Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security - Department of Commerce
- Dr. William LaPlante Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment - Department of Defense
- Heidi Shyu Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering - U.S. Department of Defense
- The Honorable Christine Fox Senior Fellow - John Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU APL)
Breaking In: Early Career Experiences in Tech
May 7th 13:35 ~ 14:15 (East Stage)
Early career professionals will share their experiences working in technology companies and provide advice for others interested in the tech sector.
- Madeline Zimmerman Defense & Space Lead - Palantir
- Noah Sheinbaum Founder - National Interest Talent Network
- Donia Elmansy Business Program Manager - Microsoft
AI and Intellectual Property: Can AI Generated Creations and Inventions be Protected?
May 7th 13:50 ~ 14:20 (West Stage)
To explore the implications of AI on patents and copyrights, and ultimately on U.S. innovation and competitiveness.
- Andrei Iancu Partner - Sullivan & Cromwell LLP
- Shira Perlmutter Register of Copyrights and Director - U.S. Copyright Office
- Rama Elluru Senior Director for Society and Intellectual Property - Special Competitive Studies Project
NatSecTech Live: A Conversation on XR Technology with Joan O’Hara and host Jeanne Meserve
May 7th 14:00 ~ 14:30 (Media Stage)
- Jeanne Meserve Host of NatSec Tech Podcast - Special Competitive Studies Project
- Joan O'Hara Senior Vice President for Public Policy - XR Association
American Prosperity is National Security
May 7th 14:05 ~ 14:55 (Center Stage)
Artificial Intelligence is the next American birthright. American industry is mobilizing.
For the U.S. Government, wielding AI to increase readiness and mobilize the industrial base requires building solutions that scale to meet the context of the mission. But the AI revolution is not something you can think your way through: you have to actually do. In this session, learn how frontline builders are moving beyond chat to realize results.
- Shyam Sankar Chief Technology Officer - Palantir Technologies
Cities of Tomorrow: How Emerging Technologies Will Reshape Local Innovation
May 7th 14:20 ~ 14:40 (East Stage)
Discuss how tech can be harnessed to drive innovation, further economic development, and improve the lives of residents.
- Mayor Tim Kelly
- Nyah Stewart Associate Director for Future Technology Platforms - Special Competitive Studies Project
The Future of Advanced Research
May 7th 14:20 ~ 15:10 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
- Dr. Renee Wegrzyn Director - Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H)
- Dr. Stefanie Tompkins Director - Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA)
- Dr. Richard Muller Director - Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity
- Dr. Evelyn Wang Director - Advanced Research Projects Agency for Energy (ARPA-E)
- Eric Rosenbach Senior Lecturer - Harvard University
Advanced AI in Action
May 7th 15:00 ~ 15:30 (Center Stage)
Presented by Microsoft
Explore how advanced AI is being applied to enhance productivity, augment human cognition and advance discovery in powerful applications from breakthroughs in scientific discovery to utilizing a planetary computer to unlock powerful insights from the world around us.
Beyond the Hype. AI is Now.
May 7th 15:25 ~ 15:55 (West Stage)
Presented by Rhombus
Rhombus Guardian's capability empowers national security enterprises with predictive abilities for anticipation and warning, in keeping with Dr. Roy's arguments in Foreign Policy Magazine, "AI Has Entered The Situation Room."
- Dr. Anshu Roy Founder & CEO - Rhombus Power
From Pixels to Policy: Defending Against AI-Generated Threats
May 7th 15:30 ~ 16:30 (Room 202B)
Hosted by Truepic.
Generating a future of authenticity and provenance in an AI world.
- Ziad Asghar Senior Vice President of Product Management and Head of Artificial Intelligence - Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
- Jeffrey McGregor Chief Executive Officer - Truepic
- Isobel Coleman Deputy Administrator for Policy and Programming - United States Agency for International Development (USAID)
- Michael Chertoff Co-Founder and Executive Chairman - Chertoff Group
- Vivian Salama National Politics Reporter - The Wall Street Journal
Tech Diplomacy, AUKUS and the Indo-Pacific
May 7th 15:30 ~ 16:30 (Room 201)
The Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI DC) hosts a special event on accelerating critical technology diplomacy through AUKUS, the Quad, and other strategic dialogues.
- Arthur Sinodinos
- Philip T. Reeker Former Acting Assistant Secretary - Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs, Department of State
- Bruno Munro Analyst - Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) DC
Keynote: Accelerate Change or Lose
May 7th 15:30 ~ 16:15 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
- Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr.
- Ylli Bajraktari President & CEO - Special Competitive Studies Project
Girl Security: The Importance of Mentoring and Networking in A.I.
May 7th 16:00 ~ 16:30 (Talent Marketplace)
We will frame the different types of career pathways, where there is an urgent need, and how the pathways intersect in national security. We will then more narrowly discuss how to leverage resources for the purposes of mentorship and networking. And of course, we will share information on our program.
- Lauren Buitta Founder and CEO - Girl Security
AI-Powered Discovery: Revolutionizing Drug Discovery with Digital Twins and Automated Workflows
May 7th 16:15 ~ 16:40 (East Stage)
Presented by Artificial
Connect Lab Data to AIs for AI-driven Scientific Discovery Digitize an end-to-end scientific process related to drug discovery with full digital twins of the lab, digital guides for the operators, and a complete workflow purpose built to close the loop with an AI. Demonstrate how LLMs and purpose trained models can combine to propose better and more efficient designs of scientific processes in a fully automated system.
- David Fuller CEO - Artificial
Women Powering Innovation
May 7th 16:15 ~ 17:00 (Center Stage)
Showcase how women are powering innovation across the ecosystem including government, industry, and academia and across the AI lifecycle from designing, building, and governing. Explore their journeys and current roles, and discuss how women are at the forefront of innovation and shaping the future of emerging technologies.
- The Honorable Christine Fox Senior Fellow - John Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU APL)
- Jeanne Meserve Host of NatSec Tech Podcast - Special Competitive Studies Project
- Maithra Raghu CEO & Cofounder - Samaya AI
- Prof. Anima Anandkumar Bren Professor - Caltech
Beyond Words: Large Language Models for Sensor-Driven Applications
May 7th 16:50 ~ 17:05 (South Stage)
Presented by the Defense Digital Service
Join the Defense Digital Service as we present a groundbreaking framework enabling Large Language Models (LLMs) to interface and control sensors and physical systems safely, demonstrated through Combee, a robot, showcasing the seamless integration of LLMs into sensor-driven applications.
- Dr. James (Nick) Ashworth Hacker and Senior Engineer - Defense Digital Service
- Glenn Parham Software Engineer and Data Scientist - Defense Digital Service
Porcelain War Documentary
May 7th 17:00 ~ 18:30 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
Sundance Film Festival Winner Porcelain War. The documentary is an inspiring story of three Ukrainian artists defending their culture and their country and to bring awareness to the ongoing war.
Building Our Energy Future With The World’s First Fusion Power Plant
May 7th 17:25 ~ 17:40 (West Stage)
Presented by Helion
Future of fusion energy through Helion’s eyes, including a virtual tour of Helion’s campus and an overview of the company’s mission, supply chain, and distinctives.
- Jackie Siebens Director of Public Affairs - Helion Energy
Keynote: The Future of Allied Defenses
May 8th 08:30 ~ 09:00 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
- Admiral Sir Tony Radakin KCB ADC Chief of the Defence Staff - UK
The Future of Air and Space Power
May 8th 09:30 ~ 10:00 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
- Secretary Frank Kendall Secretary of the Air Force - U.S. Air Force
Cyber and Emerging Technologies in Current Conflicts
May 8th 10:00 ~ 11:30 (Room 207B)
The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) presents: exploring cyber (including cyber-enabled information operations) and emerging technology in the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Gaza conflicts.
- Eyal Hulata Senior International Fellow - Foundation for Defense of Democracies
- Borys Kremenetskyi Defense Attaché - Embassy of Ukraine to the United States
- Miriam Marwick Senior Vice President for Emerging Technologies - Palantir
- Marcus Willett Senior Advisor for Cyber - IISS
Fireside Chat with U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Director Kathi Vidal on AI and Intellectual Property
May 8th 10:00 ~ 10:20 (West Stage)
AI is one of the greatest emerging technologies with the potential for disruption, including the application of intellectual property law. Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office Kathi Vidal will speak to what the USPTO is doing to incentivize the responsible and safe development and use of AI models and implement the USPTO requirements in the White House's Executive Order on the Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of AI.
- Director Kathi Vidal Under Secretary of Commerce for IP and Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office - U.S. Department of Commerce
- Mohar Chatterjee Artificial Intelligence & Special Projects Reporter - Politico
Innovation Talk 1: GEN James Rainey
May 8th 10:00 ~ 10:20 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
- Gen James Rainey Commanding General - Army Futures Command
Tech Perspectives: The Future of National Cyber Defense
May 8th 10:00 ~ 10:20 (Center Stage)
The promise and perils of AI from the White House perspective.
- Anne Neuberger Deputy National Security Advisor for Cyber and Emerging Technology - National Security Council, The White House
Disruptor or Enabler: Preparing the American Workforce for AI Transformation
May 8th 10:10 ~ 10:30 (East Stage)
How AI transformation is accelerating the need to invest in our public sector workforce as well as our citizen workforce for national competitiveness.
- Brynt Parmeter Chief Talent Management Officer - U.S. Department of Defense
- Jeff Maggioncalda CEO - Coursera
Innovation Talk 2: LtGen Karsten Hackl
May 8th 10:20 ~ 10:40 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
- Lt Gen Karsten Heckl Deputy Commandant - U.S. Marine Corps
Countering Adversarial Use of AI
May 8th 10:25 ~ 10:55 (West Stage)
Experts will delve into the anticipated use-cases of AI-driven technologies by U.S. adversaries during potential conflicts. Our panelists will discuss recent developments in the maturation of AI systems for targeting and the future implications of integrating these technologies into military strategy.
Skydio X10D: Redefining Aerial Intelligence with AI
May 8th 10:25 ~ 10:55 (South Stage)
Presented by Skydio
Witness firsthand, Skydio X10D's AI-driven flight, a small, smart, and survivable sUAS that revolutionizes aerial intelligence. Experience its ability to enhance comprehensive insights across vast areas through seamless data integration. Discover its practical applications from command center strategies to frontline awareness in our interactive demos. Join us for a leap forward in technology.
- Jim Cox Sr. Solutions Manager - Skydio
D.C. Army National Guard
May 8th 10:30 ~ 11:00 (Talent Marketplace)
We will give a general overview of the D.C. Army National Guard and our current job opportunities and educational benefits. We will also leave time for Q&A.
Responsible AI Innovation
May 8th 10:30 ~ 11:30 (Room 207A)
Hosted by SCSP and Equal AI
The panel will showcase the progress made by diverse organizations building and integrating AI in furthering responsible AI innovation. The discussion will focus on the different responsible AI approaches and challenges organizations face.
- Rama Elluru Senior Director for Society and Intellectual Property - Special Competitive Studies Project
- Miriam Vogel President & CEO - EqualAI
- Cathy O'Neil CEO - O'Neil Risk Consulting & Algorithmic Auditing (ORCAA)
- Navrina Singh Founder & CEO - Credo AI
- Russell Wald Deputy Director - Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI)
Public Service to Private Innovation: Insights from Leading in Both Gov and Tech
May 8th 10:30 ~ 11:15 (Center Stage)
The movement of talent in and out of government is vital for driving innovation and keeping the United States competitive globally. Bringing unique experiences across sectors, from tech to gov and gov to tech, builds trust, changes perspectives, and ultimately makes our country stronger. This panel profiles former public servants who served in some of the highest places in government and now lead at the cutting edge of the tech sector. Conversation will focus on their leadership lessons, biggest challenges, most inspiring moments, and hard-earned counsel for the next generation.
- Joshua Marcuse Director of Strategic Initiatives - Google Public Sector
- Michael Sellitto Head of Global Affairs - Anthropic
- Anna Makanju Vice President of Global Affairs - OpenAI
- Benjamin Bain Director for Future Tech Platforms - Special Competitive Studies Project
AI Sensemaking Platform
May 8th 10:35 ~ 10:55 (East Stage)
Presented by ST Engineering
Demonstration of purpose built AI Sensemaking platform with multi-modal analysis capabilities across speech, video and unstructured text to support time critical operation.
- Tan Boon Leong Vice President and Head of DeepBrain - ST Engineering
Innovation Talk 3: RADM Kurt Rothenhaus
May 8th 10:40 ~ 11:00 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
- Rear Adm. Kurt Rothenhaus Chief, Office of Naval Research - U.S. Navy
Beyond Words: Large Language Models for Sensor-Driven Applications
May 8th 11:00 ~ 11:15 (South Stage)
Presented by the Defense Digital Service
Join the Defense Digital Service as we present a groundbreaking framework enabling Large Language Models (LLMs) to interface and control sensors and physical systems safely, demonstrated through Combee, a robot, showcasing the seamless integration of LLMs into sensor-driven applications.
- Dr. James (Nick) Ashworth Hacker and Senior Engineer - Defense Digital Service
- Glenn Parham Software Engineer and Data Scientist - Defense Digital Service
The Future Character of War and Deterrence
May 8th 11:10 ~ 11:35 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
- Gen. Anthony Cotton Commander - U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOMM)
Synthetic or Authentic? Content Authenticity Through Smartphone Innovations
May 8th 11:20 ~ 11:35 (East Stage)
Presented by Truepic and Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
Smartphones generate over 80% of digital images globally and are rapidly becoming the primary platforms for generative AI. Addressing the need for authenticity on devices, Truepic and Qualcomm have developed the first global chipset to ensure content transparency on smartphones. Discover how a Qualcomm and Truepic collaboration is shaping a more transparent future.
- Ziad Asghar Senior Vice President of Product Management and Head of Artificial Intelligence - Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
- Jeffrey McGregor Chief Executive Officer - Truepic
Fireside Chat with Rhombus CEO Dr. Anshu Roy and Michèle Flournoy: Smarter Decisions at the Speed of Relevance
May 8th 11:25 ~ 11:55 (Center Stage)
- Michèle Flournoy Co-Founder and Managing Partner - WestExec Advisors
- Ylli Bajraktari President & CEO - Special Competitive Studies Project
- Dr. Anshu Roy Founder & CEO - Rhombus Power
The Future Character of Way and Cyber Operations
May 8th 11:35 ~ 12:00 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
Cyber AI via DarkLabs Detect
May 8th 11:40 ~ 11:55 (East Stage)
Presented by Booz Allen Hamilton
Operational networks are harder to secure than ever before, as organizations are forced to defend systems and networks against more sophisticated, targeted, and frequent attacks. To combat the ever evolving threat landscape, Booz Allen integrates its defensive cyber operations and artificial intelligence (AI) businesses to empower federal and commercial clients to operationalize novel, advanced detection capabilities, often harnessing the power of AI and machine learning (ML) to effectively and sustainably defend against nation-state threats.
- Aaron Sant-Miller Director of Artificial Intelligence - Booz Allen Hamilton
Importance of STEM Education on National Competitiveness
May 8th 12:10 ~ 12:25 (West Stage)
Lily K. Donaldson, software engineer and PhD candidate, former Miss United States, and STEM education advocate, will share her personal story and insights on the future of STEM pathways.
- Dr. Lily K. Donaldson Founder - Art Technically
The Future of Biotechnology and Defense
May 8th 12:25 ~ 12:50 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
- Dr. Jason Kelly Chair - National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology
- Dr. Luciana Borio Venture Partner - ARCH Ventures
The Future of AI: Where Are We Now and the Next Wave
May 8th 12:30 ~ 13:10 (Center Stage)
A discussion on the most important trends in AI and what can we expect for the next stage of AI innovation and applications.
- Daniel Kurtz-Phelan Editor - Foreign Affairs
- Dr. Eric Schmidt Chair - Special Competitive Studies Project
The Future of Advanced Tech in National Security
May 8th 12:50 ~ 13:50 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
- Nand Mulchandani Chief Technology Officer - Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)
- Gil Herrera Director of Research - National Security Agency (NSA)
- Margie Palmieri
- David Van Weel Assistant Secretary General for Innovation, Hybrid, and Cyber - NATO
- Suzanne Kelly CEO and Publisher - The Cipher Brief
A New Age of AI Security
May 8th 13:00 ~ 13:30 (East Stage)
Forecasting the Frontier: Global Perspectives on Tech Horizon Scanning
May 8th 13:40 ~ 14:20 (West Stage)
Looking at the future of technology and how to innovate to get there.
Beyond Words: Large Language Models for Sensor-Driven Applications
May 8th 13:50 ~ 14:05 (South Stage)
Presented by the Defense Digital Service
Join the Defense Digital Service as we present a groundbreaking framework enabling Large Language Models (LLMs) to interface and control sensors and physical systems safely, demonstrated through Combee, a robot, showcasing the seamless integration of LLMs into sensor-driven applications.
- Dr. James (Nick) Ashworth Hacker and Senior Engineer - Defense Digital Service
- Glenn Parham Software Engineer and Data Scientist - Defense Digital Service
The Future of Best Defense Advice
May 8th 14:00 ~ 14:40 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
- Gen. (Ret.) Joseph Dunford 19th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff - Joint Chiefs of Staff
- Michèle Flournoy Co-Founder and Managing Partner - WestExec Advisors
- Representative Elissa Slotkin Representative (D-MI) - House of Representatives
- Jeremy Bash Founder and Managing Director - Beacon Global Strategies
NatSec Tech Live: A conversation on the Next 125 Years of Tech with Mat Honan and host Jeanne Meserve
May 8th 14:30 ~ 15:00 (Media Stage)
Mat Honan joins NatSec Tech host Jeanne Meserve for a conversation on the next 125 years of technology.
The Future of Advanced Tech and National Security: The View from the Private Sector Leaders
May 8th 14:40 ~ 15:20 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
- Dr. Anshu Roy Founder & CEO - Rhombus Power
- Leigh Palmer Vice President - Google Public Sector
- Dr. Steven Walker Vice President & CTO - Lockheed Martin
- Will Carter
Shooting for the Stars: Unleashing American Innovation through USG Moonshot Missions
May 8th 15:00 ~ 16:00 (Room 207A)
Hosted by the Special Competitive Studies Project
Assessment of where USG moonshot technologies stand today, and their trajectory going forward.
ClearanceJobs: Mastering Security Clearance Career Hiring and Networking
May 8th 15:00 ~ 15:30 (Talent Marketplace)
ClearanceJobs is the largest career network for job seekers with security clearance and defense contractors / federal agencies seeking cleared talent to staff their programs. Learn more about the do’s and don’t’s of networking in this space and how ClearanceJobs can help solve your cleared hiring challenges. Those interested in breaking into the DoD / IC, security clearance holders, cleared recruiters / HR / hiring managers should attend.
America Builds: Ensuring U.S. Leadership in Advanced Manufacturing
May 8th 15:00 ~ 17:00 (Room 206)
Hosted by the Special Competitive Studies Project.
Join SCSP for a discussion with technologists and national policy leaders on how the United States can leverage advanced manufacturing technologies to build the future.
- Dr. Elisabeth Reynolds Lecturer and Principal Research Scientist - Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Mike Molnar Director, Office of Advanced Manufacturing - National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST)
- Aidan Madigan-Curtis Partner - Eclipse Ventures
- Dr. Steve Hoover CEO - Impossible Objects
- Sviat Dulianinov Chief Strategy Officer - Bright Machines
Skydio X10D: Redefining Aerial Intelligence with AI
May 8th 15:20 ~ 15:50 (South Stage)
Presented by Skydio
Witness firsthand, Skydio X10D's AI-driven flight, a small, smart, and survivable sUAS that revolutionizes aerial intelligence. Experience its ability to enhance comprehensive insights across vast areas through seamless data integration. Discover its practical applications from command center strategies to frontline awareness in our interactive demos. Join us for a leap forward in technology.
- Jim Cox Sr. Solutions Manager - Skydio
The Future Role of Private Capital for National Security
May 8th 15:20 ~ 16:20 (Ash Carter Exchange Stage)
- Josh Baer Founder and CEO - Capital Factory
- Dr. Jason Rathje Director, Office of Strategic Capital - Department of Defense
- Nick Beim Partner - Venrock
- Stephanie Carter
Tech to Gov: Recruiting Technologists for Public Service
May 8th 15:25 ~ 16:10 (East Stage)
A moderated discussion about technology careers in the federal government and associated career pathways.
- Dr. Diana Gehlhaus Director for Economy - Special Competitive Studies Project
- Jennifer Hay Director - Defense Digital Service
- Kyleigh Russ Senior Advisor - U.S. Office of Personnel Management
- Rachel Dodell Co-Founder and Executive Director - Coding it Forward
- Michael Boyce Director, AI Corps - U.S. Department of Homeland Security
National Science Foundation: STEM Fellowship and Scholarship Opportunities
May 8th 15:30 ~ 16:00 (Talent Marketplace)
The National Science Foundation will provide an overview of STEM fellowship and scholarship opportunities available to undergraduate and graduate students. Come by to learn about programs that support AI-related student research opportunities and fund degree programs.
AI for Threat Intelligence
May 8th 16:10 ~ 16:30 (East Stage)
Large scale internet based threat intelligence requires AI to organize data, to efficiently consume and analyze at scale, and to provide real-time automated threat response.
- Staffan Truvé Co-Founder and CEO - Recorded Future
Adapting Intelligence for An Era of Techno-Economic Competition
May 8th 16:35 ~ 17:20 (West Stage)
Intelligence experts discuss the "how" of techno-economic intelligence and the role of technology.
- Sir Jeremy Fleming
- Beth Sanner Former Deputy Director of National Intelligence for Mission Integration - Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI)
- Casey Blackburn Assistant Director for National Intelligence for Economic Security and Emerging Technology - Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI)
- Michael Madsen Vice President of National Security Solutions - Strider Technologies
The Future of Autonomous Drones and Their Impact on National Security
May 8th 17:00 ~ 17:15 (South Stage)
Presented by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Dr. Sertac Karaman Director of the Laboratory for Information and Decision Systems (LIDS) - Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Mapping Cryptography and AI Horizons: AI-Enabled Tech Trees and the Future of Foresight
May 8th 17:10 ~ 17:25 (East Stage)
Presented by the Foresight Institute
Since 2021, Foresight Institute’s Tech Tree project has mapped opportunities at the intersection of cryptography, security, and AI to help new talent and funders understand how they can help advance those fields. Users can explore the current status quo and futures of the fields, pinpoint key actors, and understand technical bottlenecks and impact areas. For grant makers and private funders, our technology trees highlight areas ripe for acceleration.
Since 2023, we have received access to a new AI-backed graph tool that not only automates a substantial amount of the tech tree creation process but crucially makes the tech tree queryable, enabling users to explore the tree in a self-guided interactive way that is tailored to their expertise and interest area. The goal is to provide an intuitive understanding of promising opportunities in the cryptography, security, and AI domain to accelerate progress in relevant areas, many of which are directly conducive to US defense and competitiveness.
SCSP’s summit will be the first time that the new AI-queryable tree will be presented to a select audience.
- Dr. Matjaž Leonardis Fellow - Foresight Institute
Arming Our Allies to Circumvent the Valley of Death
May 8th 17:25 ~ 17:45 (East Stage)
The Apollo Defense Group will speak about their experience leading a defense technology hackathon in February that focused on counter-UAS problem sets sourced directly from the frontlines in Ukraine, and describe their exciting plans for the future.
- Catarina Buchatskiy
- Rasmus Dey Meyer
- Nathaniel Salander
- Tommy Tietjen
Pyrra Tech: Deploying AI to ID and Track Threats Across Alt-Social Networks
May 8th 17:45 ~ 18:00 (East Stage)
Presented by Pyrra Technologies
During this demo, Pyrra's CTO will quickly build a project on a trending topic and showcase results from across 38 social media platforms. Eric will deploy AI filters to quickly and efficiently identify concerning posts, use Gen-AI to create PoI reports, and track mentions of locations and dates.
- Eric Curwin CTO & Co-Founder - Pyrra Technologies
Washington, D.C.
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Located downtown in the heart of our nation’s capital.
