DAF unveils strategy to grow the AI workforce

The Department of the Air Force has approved a new, service-wide plan to recruit, train, and retain artificial intelligence specialists, part of a push to speed AI adoption and preserve the United States’ military edge amid fast-moving technological change.

Developed to align with what the release calls the Department of War’s AI Strategy directive, the initiative emphasizes building a pipeline of AI talent across the Total Force. “AI professionals have the skills, knowledge and ability to convert data into operational advantage,” said Susan Davenport, the DAF’s chief data and artificial intelligence officer.

The strategy centers on three lines of effort that Davenport described as mutually reinforcing. “To ensure the department is poised to meet the escalating demand for these skill sets, we are launching a comprehensive strategy built upon three mutually reinforcing key result areas: recruiting top-tier talent; retaining our seasoned experts; and training our personnel for the future fight,” Davenport said.

On the recruiting front, the plan calls for streamlining hiring and accessions, removing bottlenecks, and accelerating fills for critical AI roles. It also points to competitive financial incentives and a “Mission Matching Strategy” intended to pair candidates with high-impact defense projects.

To keep experienced practitioners in uniform or government service, the DAF aims to tap underused talent within its ranks and curb departures to the private sector. A key proposal would create a Dual-Track Career Model, allowing AI professionals—including Guard and Reserve members with specialized civilian expertise—to advance as technical experts without being pushed into traditional management paths.

Training efforts will move beyond course completion toward proof-of-skill requirements for AI-aligned roles, while raising baseline AI literacy across the force. The department frames these steps as essential to national security and to maintaining a competitive edge against global rivals.

“The successful implementation of this plan will ensure the department can attract, sustain and develop the necessary AI talent at the speed of industry, directly bolstering national security and maintaining a decisive competitive advantage in the global AI landscape,” Davenport said.

The Department of the Air Force AI Hiring and Talent Development Plan, issued by the Chief Data and AI Office and coordinated with stakeholders across the department, outlines a multi-pronged approach to building an AI-ready workforce and accelerating deployment of new capabilities. Its approval follows the recent release of newly signed DAF Data and AI strategies that prioritize warfighter readiness and training.