APRIL 29, 2026 – The Department of the Air Force approved a comprehensive strategy this month to aggressively recruit, train and retain top-tier artificial intelligence professionals, aiming to operationalize AI and maintain a decisive competitive advantage in an era of rapid technological change.
This Total Force plan was developed in accordance with the Department of War’s AI Strategy directive and aligns with the department’s goal to enhance America’s AI dominance.
“AI professionals have the skills, knowledge and ability to convert data into operational advantage,” said Susan Davenport, DAF chief data and artificial intelligence officer.
This expertise is crucial for ensuring the department is equipped with the necessary AI speed and capabilities to improve national security and maintain a global competitive advantage.
“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.
To attract new talent, the plan directs the Department of the Air Force to streamline its hiring and accessions processes, remove bottlenecks and expedite hiring for essential AI positions. The initiative also includes identifying competitive financial incentives and a “Mission Matching Strategy” to align candidates with high-impact defense projects.
On retention, the department aims to combat workforce complacency and minimize departure to industry by capitalizing on untapped talent already within the ranks. A key proposal is the creation of a Department of the Air Force Dual-Track Career Model which will pave the way for AI professionals, including those in the Guard and Reserve with specialized civilian experience, to advance as technical experts without being forced into traditional management roles.
The training component of the strategy seeks to establish a baseline of AI literacy for all personnel, creating a “universally informed and responsibly engaged workforce prepared for an AI-integrated future.” The plan calls for a shift from simple course completion to a model that requires validation or proof of skill depending on whether you are in or vying for an AI-aligned role.
The plan frames the initiative as essential for national security in a competitive global environment.
“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.
Through these efforts, the department will establish itself as a premier force in AI talent management, accelerating the deployment of game-changing capabilities of artificial intelligence in service of the mission.
The Department of the Air Force AI Hiring and Talent Development Plan issued by the department’s Chief Data and AI Office, and in coordination with related stakeholders across the DAF, details a multi-faceted approach to building a skilled workforce capable of harnessing AI for military superiority. The approval of the plan follows closely with the release of the newly signed DAF Data and AI Strategies which prioritize warfighter readiness and training for operational success.
By the Office of the Chief Data and AI Officer