Distinguished Speakers Series
The Distinguished Speakers Series (DSS) are short, deep-dive events that are held in partnership with premier institutions of higher learning and organizations committed to advancing informed leadership. The DSS brings together our partners’ mutual commitments to promote women’s leadership in a diverse world, research, critical thinking and innovative problem-solving regarding the evolving world of women’s leadership in critical disciplines.
These events gather leaders from the military, veteran, government and civilian communities, who are regarded as problem-solvers and thought leaders, to collectively tackle challenges, spark innovations, and inspire positive change. Distinguished women leaders, and our supporters, from around the world are expected to attend.
TESTIMONIALS
I appreciated the thoughtful approach and design of the event. All speakers were top-notch and possessed relevant and varied expertise regarding the subject. This DSS should have been a must-attend event for all leaders needing more knowledge about how AI is impacting their team members and organizations. (US Army, Veteran) |
The DSS was a thought-provoking event for both leadership and the rank and file. The program provided background technical and environmental context in language that could be understood by individuals without specialized technical knowledge or experience. It also introduced concepts that can be used to build a path forward for adapting to and adopting evolving technology into daily operations and functioning. (Civilian) |
My most significant takeaway from the DSS is the statement from Sania Kahn that by 2030, 65% of people’s current work skills will be irrelevant due to the prevlence of AI. Part of my role is Workforce Development and AI is not something we’re really thinking about at the deckplate level. (US Coast Guard, Active Duty) |
My most significant takeaway from the DSS is that AI is a topic that needs to be discussed by everyone. Even if you think there is no impact on your daily life, the reality is that there are already effects, and they will continue to emerge. As one speaker mentioned, educating people on digital literacy is critical to ensuring they make informed decisions about AI, rather than emotional ones. (US Air Force, Veteran) |
The DSS exceeded my expectations in every way. I attended after being invited by a colleague, and I was genuinely impressed. The caliber of the speakers and the quality of the content were outstanding. (US Army, Veteran) |
Four hours of my focused attention well spent! (Civilian) |
I had some reservations about the topic beforehand and the presentations definitely made it a less intimidating topic and actually wished my mom and others could have watched at the same time. The different discussions highlighted the work, education, and training to be done, especially in the trust arena. I realized how little I know about AI uses and potential uses and look forward to future discussions. Understanding the 2nd and 3rd order effects – and not just the seemingly quick benefits of AI – are really key. (US Air Force, Veteran) |
It was refreshing to see the very respectful way differing opinions were acknowledged in the room. I believe this speaks to the credibility of the sponsoring hosts and the staff leading the event. Thank you. (US Marine Corps, Civilian) |
I truly appreciated observing the convergence of perspectives from the Department of Defense, government agencies, corporate sectors, and nonprofits throughout the DSS. It was humbling to witness such distinguished thought leaders share their expertise. I’m still a bit star-struck that the Chief Human Resources Officer from Leidos took the time to speak. A big thank you to all the speakers—each and every one was exceptional! (US Navy, Veteran) |
My most significant takeaway from the DSS was the importance of adaptive leadership in navigating the evolving intersection of AI and the workforce. Leaders must embrace AI as a tool to enhance productivity, drive innovation, and foster collaboration; while also ensuring they prioritize ethical considerations, reskilling opportunities, and employee well-being. (US Army, Veteran) |
I am truly grateful for the variety of professional experts that were featured to speak on the pressing current events affecting our workforce and its future. I specifically enjoyed the different perspectives shared from well-researched and experienced leaders. (US Marine Corps, Civilian) |
I appreciated the variety of backgrounds among the panelists. Their differing perspectives were eye opening and insightful. I benefited from hearing from such a broad cross-section of individuals. This event really opened my eyes about AI and allowed me to see it in a more positive light. (Civilian) |
What I appreciated most about the DSS was the diversity of thought in the opening presentation, introductory remarks, fireside chat, workshop, panel, and discussion points, as well as the practicality and simplification of the information shared. The insights were tremendous. (Civilian) |
The primary topic, AI in the workplace, is something that I have only a rudimentary understanding of, so this event was very informative. The speakers were top notch and, for the most part, very relevant to my professional role. (US Coast Guard, Active Duty) |
The caliber of expertise on stage during the Fireside Chat was nothing short of exceptional. Liz Chirico, Rob Gordon and Tifani O’Brien offered invaluable insights on how to ensure technology enhances—rather than diminishes—the human experience, both in national defense and the broader workplace. Their perspectives were truly unique and cannot be easily found (in one room) elsewhere. (US Army, Veteran) |
Nina Jain and Elisa Basnight delivered a masterclass in moderating discussions, skillfully allowing the brilliance and expertise of each featured speaker to shine through. Well done! (US Navy, Veteran) |
The panel members were amazing, and the topics discussed were highly relevant to today’s world. (US Navy, Active Duty) |
I appreciated how each panelist shared insightful use cases on AI’s impact on our workforce. The diverse perspectives – from defense and national security to corporate and socially responsible AI – offered by Garry Floyd, Sania Khan, Dr. Cara La Pointe, Eric Moore, Dr. Valerie Nelson, and Alka Patel, made the panel discussion truly unique. I especially valued the leadership-focused approach, which went beyond just technological or IT concerns. (US Army, Veteran) |
What I appreciated most about the DSS were Ms. Khan’s by-the-numbers statistical analysis and forecast, and Mr. Neeb’s challenge to think of AI with a different (i.e., less scary) perspective. Ms. Khan’s opening overview and Mr. Neeb’s workshop were fantastic and the highlights of this event for me. (US Navy, Civilian) |
Overall phenomenal event and kudos to Academy Women and Leidos. It was nice to see so many Leidos employees in the room and on the panels. I’m not a Leidos employee and attended virtually, but it was noticeable how much the company supported the event. Definitely looking forward to future DSS. (US Air Force, Veteran) |
I am grateful to have connected with other professional leaders this DSS facilitated, and I look forward to the networking opportunities and continued discussions and learnings from one another. (US Marine Corps, Civilian) |
More like these please. Every seat in the room should have been filled. (US Army, Veteran) |
Exceptional event! Kudos to the DSS planning team and Leidos for making this event possible. (US Army, Veteran) |
6 DEC 2024: AI and the Future of Work: Leadership Strategies for a Changing Workforce
Past Events Below:
2024: AI and The Future of Work
The 2024 Distinguished Speakers Series (DSS) – AI and the Future of Work: Leadership Strategies for a Changing Workforce was a hybrid event hosted in partnership with AcademyWomen and Leidos at the Leidos global headquarters in Reston, VA. This event examined how AI is changing the workforce and offered strategies to better equip leaders with the knowledge and tools required to effectively navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.
- Rated 4.7 stars by attendees out of a 5-star rating
- Pictures, video recordings and testimonials of the day’s events follow below.
- Links to recommended resources can be found by visiting the ‘Resources‘ tab on the toolbar above.
- A detailed agenda and speaker bios can be found here.
Welcome and By-the-Numbers Overview: Fact or Hype? Our Changing Workforce in the Age of AI featuring: Jacqueline Stennett – DSS Co-Chair, U.S. Army Veteran and Vice President, AcademyWomen | Alex Verhulst – DSS Co-Chair and Corporate Talent Acquisition Military Program Manager, Leidos | Sania Khan – Chief Economist and Founder, Inflection Point Strategy |
Introductory Remarks: Charting a Course for the Future of Work Leslie Fautsch, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Leidos, offers insights into the transformative impact of AI on the future of work, highlighting the critical balance between innovation and humanity in shaping tomorrow’s workforce. These remarks set the stage for the fireside chat that follows, Keeping Technology Human. Fireside Chat: Keeping Technology Human This intimate conversation explores what is required of leaders to ensure that technology, particularly artificial intelligence and automation, remains aligned with human values and needs. Thought leaders share their insights regarding the importance of maintaining a human focus in technology, designing advancements that serve to enhance human lives and uphold ethical standards, building strategic collaborations, and designing balanced approaches where innovation and human values coexist harmoniously to shape a more responsible and empathetic technological future. featuring: Liz Chirico – Principal Director, Mission Analytics, Department of Defense Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office (CDAO) | Rob Gordon – Senior Strategic Leader for AI and Digital Innovation, DSS Inc.; Colonel, U.S. Army Retired | Tifani O’Brien – Vice President and Director, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning Accelerator, Leidos moderated by: Nina Jain – Vice President of HR Systems and Analytics, Leidos |
Panel Discussion: The Future of Work – Global Challenges & Opportunities of AI This discussion explores how artificial intelligence is transforming the workplace and the global labor market. Thought leaders take a deep dive into the implications of AI for national defense, employment, productivity, and organizational dynamics, addressing both the challenges and opportunities presented by this technology. Global challenges such as job displacement and creation, skills requirements, workplace transformation, training and upskilling, ethical and social implications, and the digital divide – are examined against the backdrop of emerging trends and the infinite promise AI brings to enhance productivity, create new industries, and revolutionize the status quo. Actionable insights are shared to inform and guide leaders in the responsible development, deployment and utilization of AI technologies to maximize the transformative potential of AI while addressing potential risks. featuring: Garry ‘Pink’ Floyd – Colonel, U.S. Air Force Retired; Senior Staff, Tactical Intelligence Systems Group, Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab | Sania Khan – Chief Economist and Founder, Inflection Point Strategy | Dr. Cara LaPointe, PhD – U.S. Navy Veteran; Director, Office of Strategic Assessment, U.S. Department of the Navy | Eric Moore – Senior Vice President, Digital Modernization Chief Technology Officer, Leidos | Dr. Valerie Nelson, PhD – Applied Research Mathematician and Data Scientist; Principal Software Engineer, Peterson Technologies; Founder & CEO, Training Keys LLC | Alka Patel – Director, Technology Strategy Policy, Bureau of Cyberspace & Digital Policy, U.S. Department of State; Former Chief of Responsible AI, U.S. Department of Defense moderated by: Elisa Basnight, Esq. – U.S. Army Veteran; Supply Chain Executive; Board Director; STEM Innovator; Founder, StrategyServe and Girls Action Network |
2023: Women as Allies – Nurturing the Tallest Poppies
(held in partnership with the USC Marshall School of Business Master of Business for Veterans (MBV) Program)
View the video recordings at the links below:
2022: Leading Change in a MULTI Pandemic World
(held in partnership with Purpose Linked Consulting and the Howard University Center for Women, Gender & Global Leadership)
2020: Women’s Leadership in Policy and Government – Unraveling Unconscious Bias in the Workplace and Public Sphere: Definition, Identification, Implications, and Antidotes
(held in partnership with the Gender and Policy (GAP) Center at the GMU Schar School of Policy & Government)
- View the video recordings at the links below:
2016: Women’s Leadership in Women’s Health
(held in partnership with the International Women’s Think Tank and Georgia Tech Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts)
Overview:
2015: Women’s Leadership in the Cyber World – Emerging Trends and Issues in Cybersecurity
(held in partnership with the International Women’s Think Tank and Georgia Tech Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts)
Overview:
To partner or sponsor a future DSS event, contact the DSS Team for more information.
Want even more amazing content? Join AcademyWomen (free) for members only event recordings and opportunities.
The Distinguished Speakers Series was launched as a collective vision between AcademyWomen, the International Women’s Think Tank and the Georgia Tech Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts. This event series is made possible thanks to our strategic partnerships and sponsors.
Upcoming February 3rd speakers are:
Past event speakers included:
