Powering Defense with Transparent AI

Dr. Prithviraj (Raj) Dasgupta is a research scientist in the Distributed Intelligent Systems Section, Information Technology Division at the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, DC. His research is in the areas of adversarial artificial intelligence, machine learning, game-playing AI and game theory. He has led several large projects in these areas involving multi-agent and multi-robot systems, and has published over 150 research papers in premier journals and conferences. His research has resulted in several best paper and commendation awards. He is a senior member of IEEE; he serves as the editor of IEEE Intelligent Systems and on the program committees of top-tier AI conferences including IJCAI, AAAI and AAMAS. Prior to joining the Naval Research Laboratory, he was a full professor (tenured) with the Computer Science department at the University of Nebraska, Omaha. He received his Ph.D. in Computer Engineering from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2001.

Keith Howard is the General Manager, Federal at Pryon, where he specializes in developing and implementing advanced AI solutions for federal and Department of Defense clients. As a Navy veteran and former aviator, Keith brings a unique perspective to his work, combining operational experience with technological innovation. His military background provides invaluable insights into the practical applications of AI in defense and federal contexts.

With an active Top Secret/SCI clearance, Keith navigates the complex landscape of AI implementation within government agencies with exceptional skill. His expertise encompasses developing AI strategies that align with federal guidelines and national objectives, implementing large language models (LLMs), leveraging cloud platforms for scalable AI solutions, and ensuring compliance and security in federal AI projects.
Keith’s experience managing product deliveries for major companies, coupled with his background in engineering and analytics, positions him as a key innovator in applying AI to address national issues. His unique blend of technical acumen, strategic leadership, and military experience makes him well-equipped to discuss U.S. strategies for current and future AI applications in the federal sector, as well as mechanisms to meet evolving national needs through AI innovation.

Lt. Col. Hans Jagow is the director at ARCWERX.

Deepak Seth is a chief engineer at the Defense Information Systems Agency. As technical lead for Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Quantum Resistant Cryptography, he guides DISA’s strategic engagement with these critical technologies.

Previously, he served as chief of the Architecture Branch, responsible for DISA’s enterprise architecture. His extensive experience spans both technical and managerial roles at prominent organizations including Opnet Technologies, Booz Allen Hamilton, and Nortel.

Seth holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Northeastern University, a master’s degree in engineering and management from the MIT Sloan School of Management, and a master’s degree from National Defense University.

James Miervaldis is the Digital OnRamp Project Manager at Defense Innovation Unit (DIU).