Defense Mavericks

Fostering Transformative Thinking in Defense with Lt. Gen. Michael Groen (Ret.)

Mar 26, 2024

Former Director of the Joint AI Center, Lt. Gen. Michael Groen, discusses transformative thinking in defense. Topics include the importance of imagination, pushing boundaries with experimentation, integrated data environments, and balancing industry partnerships. Tune in for insights on crafting the next generation of defense capabilities.

29:58

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Episode guests

Lt. Gen. Michael Groen

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Quick takeaways

Imaginative thinking is crucial in transforming defense capabilities with AI.

Establishing integrated data environments and partnerships is vital for revolutionizing defense processes.

Deep dives

Transformation and Vision in Building the Jake

Initially, the podcast delves into the early days of the Jake, highlighting the novelty and excitement of being part of a transformative initiative. General Grown emphasizes the significance of imagining a department transformed by technological advancements like artificial intelligence and related technologies. He discusses the shift in mindset required to navigate through departmental processes and cultural norms to pave the way for innovative changes.

Introduction

2min

Envisioning Transformation in the Defense Sector

18min

Embracing Transformational Thinking in Defense

5min

Exploring the Role of Large Language Models in Defense Operations and Responsible AI Work

2min

Transforming Defense Through Integrated Data Environments and Industry Partnership

4min

This week, Bonnie is joined by Lieutenant General Michael Groen (Ret.), former director of the Joint Artificial Intelligence Center, to talk about the importance of transformative thinking in the DoD. General Groen shares his insights on transforming military capabilities with AI, the significance of a communal drive for change, and the need for and lack of imagination in defense. Tune in for an engaging conversation on innovation, experimentation, and what it truly takes to craft the next generation of defense capabilities.

TIMESTAMPS:

(3:42) What does it mean to “transform”?

(8:12) The importance of stimulating thought within department

(11:11) Why vitamin “I” deficiency is killing progress

(13:35) Describing problems vs. prescribing solutions

(17:25) How to push boundaries with experimentation

(20:06) Striving for uncomfortable relevance

(23:20) The key to making AI transformative

(26:23) Why we need integrated data environments for decision-making

(27:22) Fining the balance between industry and DoD partnerships

LINKS:

Follow General Groen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-s-groen/