Ireland Degges
Today, threats against the United States are characterized by the forces of great power competition, emerging technologies and evolving global conflicts. Both the Intelligence Community and Department of Defense are working to realign their priorities to address these challenges, and a shared goal of ensuring national security has tied these organizations together.
Successfully coordinating activities across these large entities requires a collaborative spirit, and both the DOD and IC are committed to building an integrated information ecosystem.
A panel discussion at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2024 Intel Summit on Sept. 19 will offer you a look into the ways in which the two organizations have joined forces to carry out their missions. Titled “IC and DOD Integration for Decision Advantage,” this conversation will feature experts representing the Pentagon and IC. Keep reading for a glimpse into each panelist’s background and a preview of what they may discuss during the event.
Get to Know the “IC and DOD Integration for Decision Advantage” Panelists
Dr. Timothy Wood
As deputy program manager of the Defense Intelligence Agency’s MARS Program Management Office, Dr. Timothy Wood leads the development of DIA’s Machine-assisted Analytic Rapid-repository System, a cloud-based technology that uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to automate tedious processes and quickly break down important military intelligence data.
Wood joined DIA in 2008 and has held a variety of roles across the agency. Prior to assuming his current position in early 2022, Wood served as deputy director of the Directorate of Analysis within DIA’s National Center for Medical Intelligence, and earlier, he was the senior defense analyst for cyber supporting the U.S. Cyber Command’s J2 and Joint Intelligence Operations Center.
Jock Padgett
Jock Padgett was appointed to his role as deputy chief digital and AI officer for advanced C2 acceleration in May as part of a major hiring effort within the DOD’s Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office.
Padgett has gained extensive experience in military leadership positions throughout his career. He previously served as chief technology officer of the XVIII Airborne Corps, and earlier, he was chief technology officer of the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division. He has also held positions within the Joint Special Operations Command, Joint Communications Unit, U.S. Special Operations Command and U.S. Marine Corps.
Recent Developments in IC-DOD Collaboration
ODNI and DIU Team Up
In March, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and Defense Innovation Unit entered into a strategic partnership to drive the adoption of modern technologies that could progress national security goals. The joint project is focused on technologies related to intelligence collection, analysis and operational capabilities, and the team will work together to engage with industry to more efficiently develop and deploy new tools.
IC and Space Force Embrace Shared Mission
The IC and U.S. Space Force have begun to encounter modern space-based threats that require both intelligence and military capabilities to address, Breaking Defense reported in February. One of these needs is the ability to track moving targets from space in real-time and quickly move this data to tactical decision makers.
Chief of Space Operations Chance Saltzman, a 2024 Wash100 Award winner, said this project isn’t dominated by either organization, but is a “combination” of both Space Force and IC mission responsibilities.
Space is also noted in ODNI’s 2024 Annual Threat Assessment of the U.S. Intelligence Community, specifically in relation to competition with Russia and China.
How You Can Learn More
The current national security environment is fast-paced, and constant shifts in today’s threat landscape have launched the IC and DOD into action. New priorities are continuously emerging as these organizations adapt to accelerated global change, and leaders in the field are working to ensure the U.S. is equipped to combat modern national security threats.
The Potomac Officers Club’s 2024 Intel Summit will give you the chance to hear directly from individuals driving transformation across the IC and military forces. To gain access to the insights of these intelligence experts, visit the Potomac Officers Club website and register to attend the event.
