Coffee & Conversation with CIA and SCSP

On Thursday, February 8, INSA held a virtual Coffee and Conversation with Dr. Kyle Rector, Deputy Director, Office of Artificial Intelligence, CIA, and Chip Usher, Senior Director for Intelligence, Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP). The dialogue touched upon the focus of SCSP efforts, challenges posed by generative AI, disinformation mitigation strategies, global competition implications, and the impact of AI on the intelligence community.

Session recording courtesy of Host Sponsor, Microsoft!

The conversation emphasized the escalating threat of disinformation with the rise of generative AI. Mr. Usher acknowledged the democratization of content creation but also pointed out AI's positive aspects for U.S. national security. Dr. Rector then discussed the CIA's approach to countering disinformation, with Mr. Usher proposing the idea of a fusion center for swift action against foreign influence activities. The discussion also delved into the global competition between the U.S. and China in generative AI, noting China's proactive approach and the need for a comprehensive strategy. 

Workforce development in the AI era was a key focus, with both Mr. Usher and Dr. Rector stressing the importance of creative training approaches, on-the-job learning, and collaboration with external partners. Both speakers highlighted the multifaceted nature of AI work within the intelligence community, underscoring the need for diverse skill sets. The session provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by generative AI, emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and a proactive stance in navigating the evolving landscape of intelligence in the digital age.