The Department of the Air Force (DAF) announced on Tuesday that it appointed Susan Davenport to serve as the department’s new chief data and artificial intelligence officer (CDAO).
“Her expertise driving innovation and managing complex programs will be instrumental in shaping the future of Data and AI for the Air Force and the Space Force,” the department stated in their LinkedIn announcement.
As the new CDAO for the DAF, Davenport will lead the development and implementation of strategies focused on analytics, digital transformation, enterprise data management, and the responsible use of AI.
Among the initiatives Davenport will oversee is the DAF’s ambitious goal to become “AI ready” by 2025 and “AI competitive” by 2027.
Davenport brings over 30 years of experience in intelligence, cyber, space, and advanced technology across various positions within the DAF, Defense Department (DoD), and intelligence community.
Most recently, she was the senior adviser for defense innovation within a DAF office focused on concepts development and management. Prior to that, Davenport served as the deputy chief engineer for the National Reconnaissance Office, where she led both the research ground group and the customer group.
Davenport will succeed Chandra Donelson, who has served as the acting CDAO for the DAF since April. Before Donelson, Eileen Vidrine held the position, and prior to her, the role was filled by Gen. John Olson, the DAF’s inaugural CDAO.
