The U.S. Department of the Air Force (DAF) has introduced a new plan aimed at increasing its ability to recruit, train, and retain professionals skilled in artificial intelligence (AI).
The strategy, named the Total Force plan, was developed in accordance with the Department of the Army’s (DoW) AI Strategic Directive and supports the DAF’s goal of advancing the nation’s position in AI.
Discover effective B2B marketing
We combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach passionate professionals across 36 major media platforms.
learn more
Immediate measures include streamlining recruitment practices for critical AI roles, identifying financial incentives, and applying a “mission matching strategy” to place recruits on projects deemed critical to defense.
The department is also aiming to address internal mobility by supporting existing staff with AI expertise, aiming to reduce the exodus of talent from DAFs to the private sector.
The plan proposes introducing a dual-track career model that would allow AI professionals to advance technologically without being forced to move into management positions.
It is expected to target personnel with military and civilian professional experience, including members of the Guard and Reserves.
In terms of training, the strategy outlines the establishment of basic AI literacy and shifts the focus from course completion to demonstrated skills and competencies for staff with current or future AI-related responsibilities.
The department aims to develop a “universally informed and responsibly engaged workforce for an AI-integrated future.”
“Successful implementation of this plan will ensure the Department attracts, retains, and develops the AI talent it needs at industry speed, directly enhancing national security and maintaining a critical competitive advantage in the global AI landscape,” said Susan Davenport, DAF Chief Data and AI Officer.
The DAF AI Employment and Talent Development Plan was developed by the Department’s Chief Office of Data and AI in collaboration with relevant stakeholders at DAF.
This approval release follows the recent announcement of a DAF data and AI strategy focused on improving responsiveness and operational efficiency through upskilling and strategic HR initiatives.
